The article describes a test stand with a spindle equipped with an active bearing preload system using piezoelectric actuators. The proper functioning of the spindle and the active system was associated with the correct alignment of the spindle shaft and the drive motor. The article presents two methods of shaft alignment. The use of commonly known shaft alignment methods with dial indicators is insufficient from the viewpoint of being able to control this preload. This work aims at making the readers aware that, for systems with active bearing preload, the latest measuring devices should be used to align the shaft. The use of commonly known methods of equalization with dial gauges is insufficient from the point of view of controlling this preload. Increasing the accuracy of shaft alignment from 0.1 to 0.01 mm made it possible to obtain a 50% reduction in the displacement of the outer bearing ring during spindle operation.