A method for aligning a cylinder support in an engraver includes a step of actuating a plurality of jaws to grip the cylinder support such that the cylinder support becomes automatically aligned in the engraver. The actuating step may further include the step of inserting the cylinder support a predetermined distance into a receiving cavity, where the predetermined distance may range from about 0-300 mm. The method is further characterized in that it may include steps of biasing the plurality of jaws to a predetermined position, energizing a cylinder to cause the plurality of jaws to move substantially simultaneously towards a rotating axis of the engraver; pivoting the pivot lever to cause the jaws to actuate toward and away from a rotational axis of the engraver; and/or lubricating the plurality of jaws with a lubricant and purging the lubricant associated with the plurality of jaws; and/or indexing each of the plurality of jaws to provide a desired travel range. In one embodiment, the cylinder support includes a support shaft located on an end of the cylinder, with the support shaft having a bearing journal thereon such that the actuating step may include the step of actuating the plurality of jaw members to clamp the bearing journal, thereby causing the cylinder to be aligned in the engraver.