Troy:
I am also in a situation where datum are not on the same level. The most effective way I have used is to measure points on the surfaces, construct move points to get them to where zero should be and then construct a plane from the moved points. I have also done it where you trig out the angles and belive me there can be a lot of errors this way and it is a HUGE PAIN! Here is an example of the move points I normally have to use.
Z+ is the working plane
A1 = 0.00
A2 = 15.22
A3 = -5.74
Measure A1 and translate Z to it. Measure A2 and construct a move point that moves -15.22 in the Z axis. Measure A3 and construct a move point that moves 5.74 in the Z axis. If it is built correct the points are all at 0.00 in the Z axis. Finish by constructing a plane from A1 and the two move points and setting the Z axis datum to the plane.
Regards,
Terry W. Prather
Metrologist
BOSCH
AIRFLOW SYSTEMS GROUP
1613 Progress Dr.
Albion, IN 46701
Phone: (219)636-4299
Fax: (219)636-1106
E-Mail: mailto:terry.prather@us.bosch.com