Abstract: A linear table includes a slide plate, a base, and pair of bearing assemblies. Each bearing assembly has an inner and outer bearing way, and a rolling element located between the bearing ways. The bearing ways are securely fixed to the slide plate and the base. A precision parallel device and preload fixture are used to align the bearing ways and provide a proper preload on the bearing assemblies without integral preload screws or other preload method, or integral bearing locating shoulders or other such geometry.