For the one millionth time...

[Flight407]

I'm sure only 2 or 3 people have asked this question before...

How do I repaint?

I have gmax, but none of the default aircraft files are compatible, so how is it done??

[ajmitch]

You don't repaint in GMAX. Use Imagetool that came with FS2002, or DXT2bmp to load the extended bitmap file and save it as a 24 or 32 bit file ready for editing.
Use something like Paint Shop Pro or Adobe Photoshop to do your repaints.
Once you have your single layer 24/32 bit bitmap though, you will want to expand it into multiple layers for ease of dealing with all the separate parts such as body sections etc, shadows, lines, dirt and so on. Once you have created all your layers, done the repainting and saved it all, then you need to merge it all back into one layer. Take it back into DXT2bmp and create an 'alpha' layer for your reflections, chrome etc, apply that to the original then save it as an extended bitmap. Having done that you have to give the file the correct name for where you are using it, such as 'fuselage_left_t.bmp'
There are various articles on how to repaint, recent threads here list some of the more popular ones.

Tony

[Flight407]

Thanks Tony, I'll dig up the old FS2002 disc and see what I can do....