Replacing models

[Diggis]

Replacing a model with another model is a simple process.  It involves basic reader knowledge.  The idea is to change the model the prop exemplar points to by replacing the Resource Type Key 1 (RKT1) property.

Open the file containing the original prop exemplars.  These will have a Type ID of 0x6534284a and a Group ID of 0xcf94dbb8.  Sort the files by column to make sure you have all of them and select them all.  Right mouse click and select Copy Files.

Open a blank file and paste the files into it.  Save this file with the name you want.  This will form the basis for the replacement mod.  These files all currently refer to a model file from the original set.  This is outlined in the Resource Type Key 1 (RKT1) property. 

You need to find out what model each one references. Usually this will be obvious from the Exemplar Name but not always.  When it isn't the best bet is to open the LE with the files in your plugins and find the prop with the same name as the exemplar name.  Place this on a blank lot to see what it looks like. Now you need to find the new model that you wish to replace it with.  Note that if you are doing something like canals or ponds that are directional both models need to be rendered in the same direction. Otherwise the model will show up rotated incorrect in the lot.

Once you have found the model you need to get the Group ID of the model.  If the model is still in a SC4Model file this will be the 2nd set of numbers.  i.e. SG_Canal_Brick_BridgeRoad-0x5ad0e817_0x9961fb9b_0x30000.SC4Model would have a Group ID of 0x9961fb9b
If the model is part of a larger DAT file you need to open the DAT file and browse the S3D files for the correct model.  The Group ID of that is the one you want.

You now need to double click the RKT1 and replace the middle of the 3 numbers with the Group ID of the new model. Click apply and repeat this for every of one of the exemplars.  Click save and close.

Make sure that the models and the new exemplars are installed a folder that will load after the originals.  I usually use Z-Mods.  Open the game and check that the models have been replaced and that you haven't got any mixed up.

Note: I have done this quickly and not had time to do any pictures yet.  I will add some pictures in as soon as I can.

[RippleJet]

Resource Type Key 1 (RKT1)

Should be Resource Key Type 1 (RKT1)