AutoLISP tool for targeted xref reload with auto-save — XRL

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Sharing a tool I wrote to solve a workflow problem I kept running into on civil sheet files.

The routine every time you make an edit: switch to the sheet, QSAVE the working file, open the xref panel, find the xref, reload it. On a project with layered xrefs — existing conditions, proposed, striping, signage — this adds up fast.

XRL cuts it to one command. Type XRL in the sheet — it saves the working file if it has unsaved changes, then reloads the xref. No panel, no manual QSAVE, no hunting through a list.

USE CASES

Layered civil sheets — bouncing between working files and a plan sheet with multiple xrefs. XRL handles the save and reload in one shot every time you switch over.

Multi-user workflows — XRL checks if the xref file is open in another window with unsaved changes and saves it before reloading, so you're always pulling the latest version off disk.

Large drawing sets — same xref referenced across 10+ open sheets. Target it once, XRL handles the rest.

Repetitive reloads — define your target xrefs once, never pick them again. The saved set writes automatically beside the drawing and loads on open.

HOW IT WORKS

Run XRLCONFIG once to pick which xrefs to target. From there, XRL is the only command you need.

Modes: Saved (default, reloads your defined set) | Quick (reloads everything) | Select (pick from a numbered list)

Built on Visual LISP / ActiveX. AutoCAD 2000+.

github.com/drzkid96/xrl-xref-reload

Happy to answer questions or take suggestions.