A method for adjusting a fluid gap in fluid film bearings comprising the steps of applying a load to the bearing, measuring fluid pressure of the fluid film, determining the fluid gap using a known relationship between the bearing load applied versus gap and corresponding fluid pressure and adjusting the gap to a desired width using the known relationship between the bearing load applied versus gap and corresponding fluid pressure. Predetermined measurements of film gage pressure, supply gage pressure and gap distance can be used to determine the ratio of absolute film pressure to absolute input pressure which, in turn, can be used to determine a formula for calculating unknown gap distances.