Can I just tighten the bolts of the suspension with the car on the ground (no jacks involved). I can reach under and tighten them. Ive done this before but is it the same effect as the four jack stands method?

 

Yes, pre-loading the suspension prior to torquing of the suspension bolts accomplishes that same function as the method that you mentioned. However will you have enough room with the car on the ground to generate the appropriate amount of torque to tighten the suspension bolts to specifications?

 

Yes plus you can still take off the wheel again to give the bolts that extra half turn when your done.

 

That sounds like too much work IMO. Just use two jack stands and do the front then the rear. If you have 4 jack stands even better.