without being able to render the model, what would  you use to verify that textures are in the correct place?

I know you can use DXTbmp to manipulate existing textures- but I did not try using it for a new aircraft...

wish_bear

There's no way to render a Gmax file by itself. By render I mean a high quality image of the 3d shape that shows the texture and light and shadow effect.

You have two options.
Export the shape into another 3d program and use the other programs render ability.

In the Gmax viewport, have the smooth+highlights mode selected. Make sure in the material that you are using to texture the object that the "little box with checkered squares" icon is selected, and in the preferences - make sure the settings under configure driver settings (under viewport preferences) has the box checked that says "Match Bitmap size as closely as possible"