You're right. The sequence of operations has nothing to do with final inspection. (In-process is another matter). If engineering or mfg says "that dim doesn't apply" tell them to issue an EO (engineering order) to remove the dim.

Oh and by the way, if you sign up for a training class for CMM ops, ask lots of questions:

1) Do you cover beginning concepts (or adv)?
2) How much DAILY experience do you have with this brand of software/hardware?
3) Do you guarantee training results?
4) Do you have a written course outline? (They should show you.)

And PLEASE, get referrals. I sent a couple my guys to a Mitutoyo training class; what a waste. My guys knew more than the schmuck teaching the class, and no we didn't get our money back.

Pat McSwain
www.qualityinspection.com