Place a dimension, and it jumps to the "centered" position (which is unacceptable).   Attempted:

1)  Turned off "rapid dimensioning"

2)  unchecked "options-system options-drawings-"reduce spacing when dimensions are deleted or edited"

3)  unchecked "center between extension lines"

Might as well stick a steering wheel down my pants... 'cause this is drivin' me nuts!