Problems importing downloaded 3d models into 3ds max

[eliliaw]

Hi all, I'm currently working on a 3ds max scene and was trying to import some decorative 3d models I downloaded from some webistes. But somehow when I open the file and import/merge some of the models into my scene, the model loses its materials and just comes out grey. Any advice on how to keep the materials when I import the models?

 

Thanks

[Guest calumreid]

Did the models come with any maps? If so then max may not be able to find them if they are in a folder that max isn't pointed to. If you are using 2013 max then hit the max button and go to References > asset tracker to see if you have any missing maps.

[eliliaw]

Okay thanks, I'll try that. But some of the models in the .3ds format didn't come with any attached maps at all, so what then?

[Guest calumreid]

Oh right they are .3ds files...im not sure how to sort materials out with .3ds files, i think they can be preserved when exporting them but im really not sure...i try to stay away from .3ds files, really don't like dealing with them lol where did you get the models from? was there no option to download them in .max format?

[eliliaw]

Most of the models I downloaded were in .3ds format actually, and that was the only format available. Do you recommend any sites to download in max format then? Thanks so much.

[Guest calumreid]

Well there are the usual ones that you have probably heard of, I normally scout turbosquid, model+model and design connected.