I also use 2003
when I save a template witrh custom formatting it is there when I open it.
Have you reinstalled Excel?
I can't duplicate your problem

"Richardb" wrote:

The custom format shows: 000000 (six zeros). After I close Excell and open
it again it disappears.

"bj" wrote:

what does the custom format show before you save it and after you save it?

"Richardb" wrote:

I am using Excel 2003 and trying to customize the cells with leading zeros.
It works in the current workbook but when I try to save the woorkbook as an
xlt file it disappears. I have tried to save as Book.xlt, Book1.xlt and
Sheet.xlt. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Richard