Sorry, but I'm really not experienced enough to answer all these questions. And I don't have Poser, so I can't say anything beyond what I've answered below. Perhaps someone more experienced will come by with more info for you.

Quote - but what i really need to know is why it doesnt show up as a default option from the get go.

Let's say you want a dress to fit to V4. You have to have her selected before you load the dress. What I don't know is whether you need to have saved the original dress mesh with smart propping - or how to do it if that's the case.

Wish I could have been more help. I probably should just not have answered at all. slaps self upside the head