IIRC, the torque setting for lug nuts is 140 ft. lbs.; if not, please correct me. Is this a universal value? Meaning, does it make any difference if you have aluminum vs. steel wheels? Thanks.

140 ft lbs is correct for aluminum or steel.

Spin 140 is what is in my 98 manual for torque, also something I like doing going that high in torque is stage it, say 70', 100', then final to 140' using cross torque, to seat rim to hub evenly, I also don't like impacts on my wheels for same reason.

TD...good idea. I usually torque once, drive 50 miles and go at it again. Always open to new methods, though.