I have successfully used the copy and past special method to link data
between 2 .xls documents When I edit the data in document 1, any
changes are reflected in document 2. However, when I replace document
1 with a copy of document 1 and then open document 2 I receive a
dialog box 'unable to read file'.

The cell locations in the new document 1 are identical to the
original, the only difference is the values. If I then open, save as
(document 1) and close the document. I can then open document 2 and
any changes will be reflected in document 2.

Any advice?