JDave, I wanted to check this post for any answers just to see how others are addressing this subject.
I don't have a direct answer because I don't know what you mean by "correct string", but any 3D sensor application must be implemented with a 3D rotation matrix concept. In a proper system, your sensor can be pretty much in any position (even inclined at weird angles from your horizontal reference), and there will always be a rotation matrix to bring the dynamic values into your preferred reference system.
On a separate subject, may I suggest that you include part numbers on your question? Nowhere in your post we know which sensor you are actually referring to.
Regards
Bruno