To Update a Block Definition

When you redefine block definitions in your current drawing, both previous and future insertions of the block in the drawing are affected.

There are two methods for redefining a block definition:

The method you choose depends on whether you want to make changes in the current drawing only or in a source drawing also.

To Modify a Block Definition in the Current Drawing

  1. Insert and explode an instance of the original block.
  2. Modify objects as needed.
  3. Click Drafting tab > Block panel > Block.
  4. Enter the name of the existing block definition and select the objects.

To Update a Block Definition That Originated from a Drawing File

Block definitions created in your current drawing by inserting a drawing file are not updated automatically when the original drawing is modified. You can insert a block to update a block definition from the drawing file.

  1. Open the original drawing file, modify as needed, and save the drawing file.
  2. If the Blocks palette isn't open, click Window menu > Blocks.
  3. Select to display the blocks in the current drawing.
  4. Click + to open the standard file selection dialog box where you can select the drawing file to insert.
  5. Select the drawing file and click Open.
    The Block - Redefine Block dialog box displays.
  6. Click Redefine Block.
  7. Insert an instance of the block. All instances of the block on the current drawing update.

To Update a Block Definition That Originated from a Library Drawing

  1. Open the library drawing and use the Block Editor to modify the block as needed, and save.
  2. If the Blocks palette isn't open, click Window menu > Blocks.
  3. Click Block Libraries.
  4. Select the library that you modified previously.
  5. Select the block you modified, right-click, and select Insert in Drawing.
  6. In the Block - Redefine Block dialog box, click Redefine Block.
  7. Insert an instance of the block. All instances of the block on the current drawing update.