Hello all, I'm fairly new to the modding scene as a whole, and especially when it comes to GTA IV. I've heard snippets of information here and there on how to make it moddable, but most of the tutorials are incredibly out of date, and I'm sure changes have been made since they were written. I need to know what exactly I must do in order to prep GTA IV for mods, such as LCPDFR. I've installed my copy from Steam and it is completely fresh. Any links will be greatly appreciated! :-D

Also, is there anything I should know about using the most current version of the game, or do I have to install an older version of a patch?

Download and install all of these, then install LCPDFR.

1.0.7.0 Patch

.NET Framework 4

Visual C++ 2010

Download and install all of these, then install LCPDFR.

1.0.7.0 Patch

.NET Framework 4

Visual C++ 2010

I will admit, your reply was quicker than expected and helpful as well. Thank you. Another question though; what is SparkIV used for, and are there any simple instructions or tutorials to guide me through that process? Won't I also need some sort of ASI loader?

Edited June 1, 201213 yr by FCV96

No problem, SparkIV is a tool to allow you to import custom vehicles into the game. If you don't like the default cars, that's fine. You can have a LAPD crown vic or a toronto pd tahoe. There are so many vehicles for you to choose from.

Here is a link on how to install cars, but first you'll need to find and download one that you like. Here is a few links to some to get you started.

Big list

Unmarked Crown Victoria

Marked Crown Victoria

Bxbugs123 (Well known creator, some very good models)

In all honesty, I would get LCPDFR installed and working before you install anything else because if you install a load of mods all at once, you'll end up crashing and we're only going to tell you to re-install. Make sure you backup any files that you change, though I do have links to the majority of all files if you need them.

Edited June 1, 201213 yr by Tom H

Spark IV is used to replace cars, trees, peds, etc. Even sirens. You can download it on the Google pages (search Spark IV) and there are a few tutorials on Youtube. But, if you need help, just post here, and we couldn't we happier to help! (As long as you don't get angry at others, that is.)

EDIT: Tom ninja'd me. Already.

Edited June 1, 201213 yr by theninja35

[Thanks for your help as well, theninja35. And I won't hesitate to ask if I need anything :D]

That just about clears it up for me concerning SparkIV. Thanks to you two once again! ^^ - Last question; concerning an asi loader, is one still necessary to switch the files in GTA IV out of read-only mode?

It's always suggested to turn off read-only mode before you install LCPDFR. The reason being that the installer modifies a few files and that can cause trouble if the files are set to read only. The folder you need to remove read-only from is (.../Grand Theft Auto IV/Common/Data)

After LCPDFR is installed and working, you don't need to touch anything regarding the files whatsoever. Make sure though, that you run the game as a admin, Right click, run as admin or enabling it permanently in the properties of the file.