Large model converted to proxies won't open, but will merge into new max file.

Had to keep my project opened on the computer because, if it crashed, the file would not re-open. The only way to have access to my model was by merging into a new max file.
The apparel in this retail store prototype was getting massive, so I converted them into several groups of proxies. It was after the conversions, the file would not open- directly.

Strangely, it would open in Max2017, but I’m using Max 2016.

Would have guessed it’s Max thing, but proxies are involved.