If you apply a jack or lift under the ball joints so the vehicle weight at the front is resting on this then the suspension will be compressed by the cars weight in the same way as if the wheels were fitted and sat on the ramp. 
I think this is the best explanation as to why it is ok to torque up by the wim method (especially for a techno retard like me!)
In addition when this is done the damper is not connected to the hub.
i think what we're interested in is weather the the wish bone bush is clamped in the subframe at the same position as when assembled and on the road.
i cant see how thats achieved with the shock removed from the hub ?
I will draw some pics and do some WIM reading tomorrow so I can get the theory straight in my mind.[/quote]
indeed, i've read the roll centre piece a couple of times and dont yet see the link between matching the ride hight of the wishbone to the clamped position of the bush.
...i.probably need the pictures.

and whats up with these quotes?