On a machine tool in which a first element intended to support a machining tool, and a second element intended to support a workpiece, are mutually movable, a special test arrangement may be placed between the first element and the second element. During a mutual displacement between the first and second elements, this test arrangement can apply a predetermined force between these elements while at the same time making it possible to record the resulting shift between them. The measured results may be used for analysis of the machine's condition.