A week trying to install Linux Mint 13 (Ubuntu and Fedora too) on my old Amd 3000+ 64, but live CDs always freezes, so installation. How this get solved:

1. Start live CD in compatibility mode;

2. Since Linux Mint (I choose mate, don't know the results with cinnamom) has started, install the system to HD (with or without other systems, didn't make difference since installation from Windows was crashing too)

3. Remove live CD and restart;

4. First time you run the SO from HD you probably get a message about a X11 problem that makes the graphical interface not  start;

5. Restart system again from HD, but from recovery mode this time;

5. The system probably started normally  (or could ask for some options,I tryed "continue with boot" or similar and worked), them install Nvidia driver from "Control Center" >> "Aditional Drivers" and restart the system.

6. It's done.

Worked for me. I hope it works for you.

From newbie