I have played around with the tools and practices of modeling with the provided package, and beyond as I found other tools as well. Even a few I think you disregarded, updates to the 3dz modeling program for example. I don't remember the specifics, but there was a later version, updated by one, that cured a few bugs that you workaround with the older modeling program. Anyhow that doesn't matter. I lost track with the tools, its been a few years since I worked with them, such as archiving, noting etc.......
It was Rotton that had some knowledge, but backed out, never replied to me....unfortunately Col. Gibbon had health issues, but he was able to get his files to me before it got super bad, some updated tools that where on the web shortly or whatever.....However, I'll let it go, for now, again unless help arrives ;) Its beyond me to do this alone.