rec.autos.simulators

   Oops, that should read "patches".  Anyways, I am trying to use the decal
templates I found at theuspits.com (I think?) but I'm having trouble.  I
load my car pcx, resize it to 960x600, increase color depth to 16 mil,
but when I resize the decal template to 960x600, it becomes huge, or
it becomes very fat and extremely short.  What's up?  I've tried to simply
increase the color depth (along with loading a Nascar 2 palette) but I
get a "corrupted palette" when I import it into the game.
   Also, when it comes to new tire screech patches or smoke patches, does
it require you to unpack *.dat files to use them?

    Jp

Resizing the image like this is not a scaling factor, it is the absolute
size you want it to be.  You don't want to increase the decal to 960x600
(900x600?), because it would then be the same size as your entire car.  You
need to determine how big you want it based on your car size.  For example, if
you want it to fit on the hood, you need to determine what its maximum width
should be, and resize it accordingly.  Also, make sure when you resize it you
keep the "Maintain aspect ratio" option on.  This prevents it from becoming
out of scale in the X or Y axis.  (the "Fat and Short" problem you describe)

I don't have the URL available, but there's a page that should lead you
through most of this.  It's probably available as a link from The Pits.  It
also describes a workaround for the palette problem.

Yes.  Typically they come with a batch file and all .exe's to do this
automatically, and they should also maintain a backup of your old .dat file.  
This is a good idea anyway.

E-mail me directly if you have any questions.  I don't have as much
car-painting experience as some of the other guys in this NG, but I've been
pleased with the results I was able to get.