this invention relates to an improved process to produce metal imino / amino complexes having the formula r 1 n = m 3 where m is a pentavalent metal or 2 m ′ 2 where m ′ is a hexavalent metal . in the process mx 5 and two - equivalents of primary amine r 1 nh 2 or metal hexahalide , m ′ x 6 with seven - equivalents of primary amine h 2 nr 1 are reacted in the presence of excess pyridine . the resulting reaction product r 1 n ═ mx 3 2 or 2 m ′ x 2 ] 2 then is followed by the addition of linr 2 r 3 . the process provides the final product in high yield and in high purity as well as representing a simplified procedure for synthesizing r 1 n ═ m 3 or 2 m ′ 2 type complexes .