expansion variables

[Lindz]

I'm a bit confused about the expansion variable and was hoping for some help. I have set the expansion variable on my database to 3 using Navicat, hoping to enable just classic, kunark and velious.

From my understanding, this does not turn off all expansion zones, but it should disable their features. However, with the variable set at 3, I am still able to create Vashir and beastlords, have new models, use things like the story window, etc. I am not able to create a Vashir in Sharvahl, which seems to be about the only thing that changed.

Am I doing something wrong here? I've searched through a ton of threads here and while there is a lot of talk about it, I haven't found anything confirming what changing the variable number actually does.

Oh I should also mention I am using PEQ database.