Using physics to align props

[stevethepocket]

I remember that there's a way to do it — place some prop_physics_override objects just above or below the ground, let the physics engine "settle" them to a more natural location, use a console command to update the source file with their current location, and then change them back to prop_static. I just forget what the console command is.

Also, I haven't tried this yet, but could you combine this method with the physics gun in Garry's Mod?

[A Boojum Snark]

http://developer.valvesoftware.com/wiki/Map_edit#Using_map_edit_to_settle_physics_props

[stevethepocket]

Well, I've learned something from this experience: The simplified physics engine in TF2 is utterly useless for doing this. If I place the prop even a smidgimeter above the ground, it bounces off and falls over. If I clip it into the floor, it pops out violently and goes flying.

And sadly, my backup plan of using the physics gun in Garry's Mod to place things manually failed even worse, as it is not actually available in map_edit mode.