Block won't redefine

[jpglisson]

I did a search but didn't find a similiar problem.
I want to insert an updated block into a dwg that already has that block name in it.
When I insert the block autocad never asks if I want to redefine it. Autocad allows me to insert the new block, but the new block gets changed into the old block.
Is there a system variable that sets this type of action? There are no error messages.
Thanks

[StDoodle]

No, this is one of those "working as intended" things. If you want to redefine it, you need to use the Design Center*, find a drawing with the updated version, and right-click on the block name. That will give you options to redefine.

* On the cli, I believe this is "adcenter"

[jpglisson]

Thanks, I'll try that.
The other 2 drafters get the option to redefine when they insert.
I guess I'm special.

[jaberwok]

I'm sure you know this but, just in case -
You must select the replacement block by browsing for it (as a separate file), not by picking from the list of blocks in the current file.

[cadtag]

or go old-skool at the commandline:

key-in
-insert
and when prompted for a block name, type in oldname=newname, where new name is the full path to the block dwg file on disk.

[jpglisson]

Jaberwok, thanks for the obvious. Some times the obvious is the answer. I have no problem people pointing out the obvious because it might not be to me at the moment. And yes I new that. Thanks

[cadtag]

check and see what EXPERT is set to. if not zero, try that -- sounds like yours may be set to 2 or higher...

[jpglisson]

Thanks StDoodle and cadtag, both are excellent ideas, but neither worked.
Last night I realized I forgot to mention I am also running AC Mech 12.

[jpglisson]

StDoodle, you are correct the Design Center does work to get the block to redefine.
I know (I think) in the past when I "insert" I would be asked to redefine, but not now.
Thanks again.

[cadtag]

Type in Expert -- what does it say?

[jpglisson]

It shows 0

[jpglisson]

Sorry cadtag. I had anwered your question minutes after you posted.
I thought I would go through the post this morning and see if I had missed anything and noticed my post didn't show up. ?
When I type in expert I get 0.

[arshiel88]

You are inserting by browsing the 'file' right?

This could be another 'obvious', but I'd say it anyway. :D

1. Make sure that file was created via WBLOCK and the source is Block not Objects.
2. Make sure the filename is the same as the name of the block.