sorry to nick yer spot seth, but i thought i could help by answering one of the questions.:P
to import a model into a 3d modelling software, (for example, milkshape), you need a plugin called CMP importer. that way, you open up ms3d, go to file > import tab, and in the list that shows up in a new tab when you select import, find the 'Freelancer CMP importer *version number here*', and click it. then, you have to find the model you have (assuming its a model that is already in CMP format, like say all the ships for disco[ship models are in the Freelancer > Data > Ships directory]), and then import it into ms3d.
remember, it depends mostly on what plugins you have for your 3d modelling software, and what you are trying to import/export.
see Seth's help pack thing to find a CMP importer, or you could look at my tutorial on how to make custom hitboxes for all the tools i use to make em:)
for more help, night, i guess you could be more specific as to what model you are trying to import where.