My source table has a vlookup field using general format that looks up
a value in a separate table also using general format. The data is
either alphanumeric or numeric (ie: TX1 or 4, or 5, etc.). I have
tried changing the formats to text with the following results.

When I run a pivot table using the source table, one of the row fields
(for grouping) is this lookup field. Excel displays the results that
resemble numeric data with two decimals and offers no formatting in
the pivot table options (like it does for data fields).

I can change the field format, but refreshing the pivot table always
goes back to two decimals. I have turned preserve formatting and
other options off & on with the same results.

Any ideas what I'm doing wrong?

Thanks!

Don S