Try this:
Go into "User CP" in the top left. Then go to "Edit Options" on the left. Find the setting called "When sending private messages the forum can make a copy of the message in your Sent Items folder." and check the checkbox
Going from memory here. I think it can be inside the model itself but be specified in the 'user defined' area of the properties. OR it can be a separate model declared inside the .lods file.
Fun Fact:
That flat issue occurs when you have an animation assigned to a mesh that you added with the arg based controls. Any mesh without animation should appear fine. Glad its all working for you now.
2009 is a different plugin format than 2008 and 2010, so plugins would have to be specifically designed for 2009 and all others will not work with it. Sorry
Probably not since the creation of plugins would need access the source code. I would try requesting a license for an old version:
http://knowledge.autodesk.com/customer-service/account-management/software-downloads/previous-versions/request-previous-version-license
I know educational licenses give you the ability to go three version back. A standard one might grant you the same ability. Or like Joey mentioned, the only other option really right now is to give it to someone trustworthy to export for you.