new materials on imported 3d objects

[4dgraphics]

I've made a new material, and I've imported a 3d symbol.

The material does not apply to the objects, but it does apply to any "native" chief objects.

I got this to work exactly one time, but not since then, so I must be missing something.

I have tried importing both .3ds and .dwg files, and tried them in existing as well as new empty plans...same result.

Anyone have any ideas what I'm missing?....