I purchased and downloaded a 3d model that I want to use to assist in the design of a vehicle I'm working on. The download gave me the following file types (.3ds, .c4d, .fbx, .lwo, .lw, .lws, .ma, .mb, .obj, .max)

 

I'm looking for guidance regarding the best way to import this model and start designing from it. I was able to import the .3ds (16MB) and it did not come in at the correct scale (too large). And the size/detail seems to be too much for my system to be able to work with it. It hasn't crashed yet, but locks up for several (10-15) minutes everytime I click on the program window.

 

1) Is there a way to decrease the file size of models before/after they import?

 

2) What is the best file type to import and work from? 3ds, obj? If obj, what add-in is recommended for import?

 

3) I have access to AutoCAD, so I was wondering if I should try importing the model to cad and export it to SU as a DWG?

 

Any ideas out there?

 

Thanks for your time.