I could select elements in max but max is running slow so it's a bit of a chore. I could use pro optimize on each detached/exploded element but then I lose quality compared to the original model. I could potentially leave the pro optimize on there during all the work and then when it comes to baking turn it off for each…
I didn't think this out too much going into this. I'd just exported a single zbrush mesh into Max and started building a low poly around it. What I should be doing it re-export my zbrush mesh into different elements and make individual LP meshes for different elements? Because otherwise it's going to get confused when it…
"it's going to get confused when it comes to edges where different elements meet up? " I don't know what the problem here is ? just shift-select-move-explode your mesh piece by piece for baking and Voila! Its kinda what everyone would do in this case. Edge problem solved.