it seems like everyone else here obviously knows how to do it, considering most releases don't even contain readme files, but i can't figure out where to install custom models.

I've just downloaded an allied 101st pack, and made a few attempts at putting the contents in various folders, but am having no luck in game.

I've tried search but couldn't get a definite answer. Where do i put the vtf files?
many thanks

C:\Steam\SteamApps\yourHost@host\day of defeat source\dod\materials\models

There should be the folders, containing the vtf-files. If not, create them. Here are some examples.

For player models:
...models\player\american
...models\player\german

For weapon models:
...models\weapons (sub-folders for the p_, v_, w_models)
Example:
C:\Steam\SteamApps\yourHost@host\day of defeat source\dod\materials\models\v_models\k98\v_k98.vtf

many thanks Der Landser for your clear and concise reply. I was dreading a 'search harder n00b' type responce ;)

i will give that a go and report back.

worked a treat. thanks

an advice: the structure off the steamgames is a bit complex. Where does any file go?
I have installed GCFscape (http://www.hl2world.com/wiki/index.php/GCFScape) on my computer. With that programm I can browse through the game-gcf and see the mapstructure. It's a big help to learn where customcontent should be put in the dod:s folder, because the structure should be the same then.