What must be done to the prime mover hold down bolts before taking readings with a dial indicator?

Before taking readings with a dial indicator on machinery, it is crucial that the prime mover hold down bolts are tight. This ensures that the machine remains in a stable and secure position during the measurement process. If the hold down bolts are not tightened, any slight movement could lead to inaccurate readings, as the position of the machine or component being measured might shift. A solid, immovable foundation created by tightly secured bolts is essential for ensuring that the measurements reflect the true alignment and positioning of the equipment. This attention to detail helps prevent misalignments and operational issues, facilitating better accuracy in diagnostics and maintenance processes.