Simviation Forums

Does ANYONE know a convertor/plugin for gmax that can convert .mdl to .gmax or .x etc?

I am new here so i don't know if this someone has posted a topic like this before .

There isn't on.

As you know, the MDL files are the compiled  model files, and there is no way (that I know of) to convert them to be used in a modelling program.

Depending on the aircraft you're trying to model/change, the a source file may be available.

You will find that the modelling community takes a dim view of converting mdl files, even if its just for  personal use.  You may have better luck contacting the original modeller for the source file.

Felix is right, it can't be done


the .MDL to GMAX converter is the white whale of FS design, many have searched for it but never to find it

some even say we're better off without it...

but you can always get your hands on a source file, there are even some half-started projects right here at SimV ready to be downloaded

or you can google for it

c ya

Moach

but you can always get your hands on a source file, there are even some half-started projects right here at SimV ready to be downloaded

or you can google for it

c ya

Moach

Or, you can get thee hence to Freeflight Design Shop (http://www.freeflightdesign.com) and browse our libraries of gmax (and other) source files.   If there's a source file and it's not in gmax format, asking (nicely) of the FFDS site caretaker  may get results, especially now that he's on the way to getting his head on straight after a not so pleasant year.

Nice! i found what i was looking for,

Someone over at Hovercontrol actually did that. Using a program called Mdl Disassembler (or Model Disassembler), he broke the *.MDL code into a code that he could use in GMAX and turned the default Bell 206 into a static scenery object.

I downloaded the program, but even I still couldn't figure out how it was done.

I'd for one love to be able to dismantle the *.mdl file and remap the Bell 206 - that way I can paint both sides of it and it show up the right way instead of having the textures mirrored on one side.

You're treading on dangerous ground there.  One thing to consider, though.  Even if you successfully "break down" the MDL code into a useable file you can import into a modelling program, you'll still have to completely re-texture the model, re-nimate everything, etc. etc.  It's almost easier just to build the model anew.

Additionally, if it becomes "easy" to decompile mdl files, you can be sure that the quality freeware content providers will dry up.