Thanks for the link, it didn't help, but thanks anyway. I have taken a break from searching for a good .x file viewer. it seems like everything I find are full fledged 3d modelers that can load .x files and cost hundreds of dollars. I don't have the funds to spend that kind of money on a 3d modeler just to be able to view .x files.
Overkill is the word that comes to mind.
anyway, if I do end up getting a 3d package that can read and view .x files etc it will probably be DarkBAsic and it's family of 3d tools that come in a bundled package. that way I'll be able to at least have some fun coding as well as fooling around with models.
Cheers!