Expert: Paul Jordan - 4/26/2009

Question
Similar to a question to another expert, every now and
again when I go onto autoCAD there are only 3 menus - file,
window and help. Within these the options have also
changed, for example - file has options to print (instead
of all the different plotting options). I have tried typing
MENULOAD into the command bar but only got ones that
weren't on the menus before they disappeared. I chose
'document' to see what it would do and now file windows and
help have all gone - I only have document! This happened
before and to get it back I completely reinstalled my
autoCAD - but now about 4 days later the menus have gone
from it again!
What causes autoCAD's menus to disappear?
Is there an easier way to getting them back - other than
completely reinstalling it?

I am currently using a legal student download from their
website.

Answer
Rachel,

I have this problem once in a while on a copy of Autocad MEP that I'm using.  I move tool bars around and for the life of me I can't get them to stay put when I close and open it again.

Your best bet is to do a CLEAN uninstall of Autocad, there are directions at autodesk.com or just do a search on Google for clean uninstall of Autocad and follow the steps.  

You can also just try a repair but, it's never a guarantee that it will correct everything.  

I'd go for the clean uninstall and then a full install.

It's frustrating, I know, I've been dealing with these issues for a few years myself now.

One last thing, do NOT run a registry cleaner on your computer, they tend to wreak havoc with Autodesk programs.

Hope that helps,
Paul