Hi does anybody know how to pick chain dimensions from a datum which then show the running dimensions vertically against the dimension leader? i did this before a few years ago but cant seem to find the info in the help.any responses would be appreciatedthanks.les

Might help if you post some sort of graphic.

ORDINATE Dimensions?  With your datum [temporarily, if you like] as the UCS origin, and in a Dimension Style with both Extension Lines suppressed if you don't want the connector line thingies.