Hi I am currently looking for basic 3D models/meshes of anime chracters for use for 3Ds max 5. All I am after is just basic models (the body and the head) so that I can then work on it myself. If someone could lead me to some useful links it would help greatly as I need to create my 2D anime character into 3D for mu teams game project for university.

http://www.wings3d.com/hairtute.php

That is a tutorial (for Wings 3D - a free excelent low poly modeller suited for video games) to do hair, and I noticed it looked very similar to Manga hair. At least this should help with the hair.

Other than that, if you use the standard techniques for transfering a 2D drawing into a 3D model, it should be like anything else. Draw a front view and a side view of your char, and use them as templates to make the 3D model. There are lots of tutorials on various modelling sites that show you how to do this.