Hi all,

I'm working to improve my modded game by adding a Wrye Bash patch. I'm using Nexus Mod Manager and have Wrye Bash installed. I've built my first patch and gotten some great support from the forum participants here - many thanks!

Now for a new issue:

As part of the patch creation process, Wrye Bash displays a window that lists certain mods and asks to de-activate them before building the patch. I just say ok. However, the one mod that Wrye Bash wants to de-activate is one I really want to use (http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/5203/?adds weight to gold coins and re-names them Septims in inventory).

2 questions:

1. Once the patch is installed, is there any reason not to simply activate this mod? it's not part of the patch, but it can still contribute its features to my game.

2. How does LOOT handle the load order when there's a bash patch? I'm guessing it just keeps the patch at the bottom and only arranges the plugins that are not covered by the patch.

Your input is much appreciated!

1. Typically, when Wrye Bash asks to deactivate an esp file it is because it is going to completely import or merge its functions into the bashed patch (thus saving you an esp slot that can be used for another mod before you hit the 255 limit) and there is no need to re-activate the esp in question.

2. Yes, LOOT should be keeping your bashed patch at the bottom of your load order, except for the rare mod that must load after the bashed patch (very rare but they do exist).

Ow - that's very interesting. Thanks - I can easily test this. All I have to do is either look for 'septims' in the inventory instead of 'gold' or just check for higher weight after picking up a couple thousand gold. Should have thought of that!

Best!

Just for info. You can recognize the merged esps by the plus (+) mark in the box before the mod's name and green text.

Just an update - I don't think I'm going to continue using the bash patch. Here's the reasoning:

* The tool generates a great report after it creates the patch and the report details all the issues with leveled lists. I didn't see anything particularly compelling given the current set of mods I have installed. In other words, there's no real problem with my leveled lists right now.

* I played with the patch for several days and had a rash of CTDs (including 3 within two hours Saturday morning). I dropped the patch and have played without a crash since.

* The issue I really want to fix (mods 'seeing' items added by other mods) won't be resolved with a Wrye Bash patch.

In hindsight, I'm glad I got this exercise under my belt. Many thanks for the tips and pointers folks!