Past and present developments in the alignment procedures of the line shafting are discussed. It is shown that the effects of the propeller hydrodynamics and of the oil-films, built up in the journal bearings, can essentially change the static alignment. However, the inclusion of these phenomena in the alignment is not yet standard. Also the dynamic effects of natural frequencies and vibratory excitations are not yet accounted for in the general case, although also these aspects can influence the safe operation of the line shafting. Therefore a plea is made to develop a more complete and thus a more rational alignment procedure.