Abstract: A system is disclosed for simultaneously and more efficiently setting the stroke position of a crankshaft on a crankshaft lathe and a method of using the system in combination with the lathe for regrinding, building-up by welding or other machining of journals of the crankshaft. The system includes slide blocks and slides in operable combination with rack and pinion gears means for simultaneously positioning the crankshaft from a zero loading position to an offset position transverse to the longitudinal axis of the lathe.