Sanity check: When lower control arm pivot nut is torqued...

I just installed the first QA1 dynamic strut rod on the driver’s side. This of course requires disassembling the entire suspension.

Currently only the strut rod is connected to the arm. When indexing the strut rod and checking for binding (with everything loose), it all moves smoothly for the range of travel. All good so far.

So I started to tighten the pivot but on the LCA...and suddenly something seems wrong the more I tighten the nut, the more the arm binds. At just 80ft-lbs, there’s noticeable resistance. At 145ft-lbs, it’s going to be extremely tight. Is that right? The whole arm starts to move together with the pivot shaft?

I installed these QA1 LCAs last year and I don’t remember what it felt like as I tightened the pivot shaft nut. Maybe that’s how it feels when the weight of the car isn’t on the suspension??? I’m skeptical.

So if it is binding...what did I do wrong?

As always, any input is greatly appreciated!