i need to create a circuit using the LM3914 chip that will monitor a set of 4 batteries with a voltage range from 46 to 56 volts. id like each led to represent 1 volt with the chip set in bar mode. anyone think they can help?

 

Show us what you have so far.

 

If it were me, to keep it simple I'd use something to drop a constant 46 volts from the monitored Bat voltage, then send the result to the voltage divider network going to the input of the LM3914.
Think.... "Zener"......
Perhaps a little over voltage and reverse voltage protection also to that input if the batterys are constantly being changed etc.

 

http://usera.imagecave.com/bloodlust/48volts.JPG

Thats what i have so far but that will only work with less than 30 something volts because of the regulator limits. Would a voltage divider before the regulator work even though the load on the divider changes with each LED thats lit?

EDIT : I forgot to draw that i have pin 9 wired to pin 3 putting the chip in bar mode, which is necessary for my application. I also have a separate regular supplying the LEDs with 5 volts and a set of (10) 2N3906 transistors between the LED grounds and the chip to keep the LED drive current out of the chip.

 

im thinking a 1N4755. anyone agree?