editing offsetting points using grips

In the past when creating a path for piping I use offsetting points on an axis.  To give them an offset distance from another point or surface I would create the point using an axis and another point on that axis and move the new point by clicking on the grip, it turns black, and then I drag it to a location I want it placed.  It worked fine until I opened a different assembly and for some reason the point grip turns black but it will not move making me use a specific value input to move the point to the location.  Is there a setting that toggles the ability to use the point's grip to move it?  I can use the grip in one assembly but in a different assembly I cannot.  Anyone know why?