The sliding bearing consists of a bearing journal driven by an electrical motor and the freely moving bearing housing. The bearing is loaded with different, interchangeable weights. In order to view the shifting of the bearing journal in operation as clearly as possible, the model has a large gap and a transparent housing. The measurements are shown by means of 16 tube manometers mounted on a board. Both the radial and axial distribution of pressure can be recorded in the bearing gap at 12 measuring points around its perimeter and four along the length. The distribution of pressure and the carrying capacity can be determined on a sliding bearing model at different bearing loads and speeds. The system is mounted on a rolling support and is well suited for demonstration as well as for use in laboratory experiments. Journal bearing apparatus for investigating the distribution of pressure in slide bearings illustrates the principle of hydrodynamic lubrication.