what I was trying to say was this...

[TippeX]

Install direct x again to make sure
install latest video card drivers
reboot
install sims update patch
go to installation folder of the game
rename the exe
copy cracked exe into folder
run game and cross your fingers

if problems persist run dxdiag to troubleshoot direct x problems
also check if the uncracked exe works, if it does then there is a problem with the crack (try another)