Error message: “Disk write error”

System specs:
win98se
gateway 366
64 ram
Quantum fireball Hd

Blue screen error message
“Disk write error: unable to write to disk in drive C”

This message pops up after windows 98 se freezes up. There’s also a clanging sound emitted fromthe computer prior to the freeze up of windows.

I tried re-installing windows 98 se.

What is the problem and can I solve it without purchasing a new harddrive?