What to do first? Well, when it concerns motor alignment I d say first of all, make sure it s the right motor. Beyond that there are many firsts that could more accurately be called prerequisites that seem to evolve one by one until the motor is aligned.

Want a second first? Well, in addition to being sure you ve arrived at the right piece of equipment, it s smart to confirm said equipment is safely isolated from the applicable energy source. Personal injury or death are only two of the many probabilities if this is not done.

The following is at least a partial listing of precautions you may want to consider before, during, and after motor alignment. Some of the precautions will be presented in the form of questions. Some (if answered and explained) could entail anything from the writing of a sentence to a several page chapter.

Now, in no particular order of importance

Is the temperature a factor? And if so, what is #1 normal ambient temperature, #2 the running temperature of both driver and driven units, and #3 what metal(s) do the main frame of each unit consist of? Given an equal thermal change, different metals expand at different rates.

Know your indicator sag factor if applicable and be prepared to prove the sag factor if needed. (See the chapter on INDICATOR SAG AND THERMAL EXPANSION)

Have you checked for soft legs? Are the shims, motor base etc. clean?

VERY important: With all hold-down bolts in place, but not...