A method for handling a bearingless machine into a driveline includes coaxially aligning a rotor subassembly and a stator subassembly such that first and second circumferential track portions define a substantially complete first circumferential track in communication with a first portal. A first fixture band is inserted into the first circumferential track via the first portal to substantially maintain axial and radial alignment of the rotor subassembly relative to the stator subassembly.