does a tool/plug-in like this exist?...

I'm looking for a tool/plug-in that will, much like impexpmdx, allow me to import MDX files into Max5, but with the animations.

Reason being, if I want to add say a sword or hat to a character, I don't want to have to re-animate it. I want to keep the default animation and model, add the extra vertices and such, and export it.

I am not aware of such a plugin, but what i know is that you can create a permanenet special effect, give it a model of a hat, sword etc etc and add them to one of character's attachment point, such as head or arms, like the way bloodlust effect is attached to arms of its target.

The game will then handle the animations for you.

At least that's how i think it works in all the maps that have done it before (e.g. campaigncreation's wanderers of sorceria in later episodes)

I think I know what you mean, but it sounds rather limited.

Is there any chance we will see a tool such as the one I suggested to come into existence anytime soon? I know I would code it up, if only I had the skill.

Well no I dont think it exists, but adding a permanent attachment would be much easier and its not as limited as you think. From what I understand you want to add some small items to the unit and have it animate the way it would if it were actually worn by the character.

By adding a model of a hat to the "head" attachment point of unit, it will wear the hat and it will move around when the character walks.

Unless theres a specific reason you need it to actually be right on the unit then I see no reason that this wont work. Also, you can add/remove the attachment aswell. So in the end it would be easier and more flexible, will it not?

Besides, adding somthing such as a hat to a model can easily be done with the MDL Editing tools. Its making major modifications to the model or changing the animations that becomes tricky.

MDL Editing? The only reliable way to edit I know of is to import into Max4/5 using impexpmdx and exporting using WCIII Tools. Is this what you are referring to?

I don't think Tim meant this, but I think he meant the tools made by oinkerwinkle. it's the "easyiest" way to add/remove/edit stuffs to/from a blizzard/custom model.

looks like every1 is blind, i think i will keep the secret of how to import a wc3 unit with anims to max 5. (Muhahaha)

Transfering animations is pretty simple with the pluggins found here. Sometimes they screw up however.

Do you use another meathod?