So I heard/read the a-arms aren't supposed to be under-load /hanging down on install.

So the question is... do you install them level without the wheel on?

Thanks

 

If you torque the bolts while they are hanging, the bushings will bind once you place a load on them. Nothing to do with wheel on/off. Install them, load the suspension, then torque the bolts.

 

Assuming the car is sat on 4 jack stands...

Jack the control arm up until the car comes off the jackstand on that corner.

This isn't safe, so don't put your body under the car.

Repeat for all 4 corners.

That should get you pretty close.