Here's a quote from Okino software. (maker of Polytrans): "Please note that it is not possible to import or export .max files directly from inside the NuGraf or PolyTrans stand-alone software itself...The .max file format is not a pure 3D file format (as is the .3ds file format) but rather it contains a "state snapshot" of how the various plug-in modules with 3DS MAX interact with each other to produce the final displayed mesh model...In order to read/write .max files we must run PolyTrans directly inside 3DS MAX itself. This is because we need to have 3DS MAX evaluate its "stack" of plug-in modules that operate on the base mesh. The evaluated output mesh is then sent to PolyTrans." I think this is as good as any explaination of why a MAX file can't be converted without actually having a copy of 3D Studio MAX. -SMT

I'd rather stay in my lane than lay in my stain!