yes, the entities are exploded blocks and are recognizable. I am beginning to think that the file is corrupted. If I do a zoom all, the object dissappears not to be found. I have the same problems if I open the file directly as opposed to inserting as a block in another file. Anyway, I went ahead and scratchbuilt what I needed. It was quicker and less frustrating than dealing with a screwed up file. Thanks for the input guys.
B.L.