I can relate to the change in readings the moment you touch the top nut.

The new procedure sounds promising. However, the capability of rotating that pair of nuts is dependent on how tightly they are locked together. If very tight, I can envision quite a struggle to rotate them.

But, I might just buy that lower wrench and give this procedure a try. My problematic lower back will thank me profusely if this procedure is successful. The factory procedure is definitely a 90 minute job........and no fun at all.