[JohnGD]

If you reuse the old hardware then 145 lb/ft. You should be using 1/2"-drive sockets, breaker bar, and torque wrench for these nuts/bolts. If you have clunks then something is probably not tightened down properly. Have a mechanically inclined friend go over it with you. Did you torque down the mount nuts on top as well?

3/8"-drive sockets are only for lower than 80 lb/ft, that why the adapter broke. But that adapter has lifetime warranty.

The smaller bolts in the picture are for fastening sensor wiring and brake hose to the struts, they're not the cause of the noises. You can use "calibrated elbow" to tighten these. But if there are doubts about how calibrated they are then use a torque wrench ($15 on sale at Harbor Freight)

 

[JohnGD]

Recheck the mount nuts when the car is on the ground. Sometimes the weight of the suspension components can pull the mount away a bit.

Another problem with 3/8" drive, especially any extension bar, is that they twist and you won't achieve the correct torque.

Also, unless the dust shield is bent, it shouldn't have affected brake noise.

 

[JohnGD]

If you used a 3/8" extension bar to tighten the strut mounting nuts/bolts (or anything > 80 lb/ft), then there's a chance the correct torque wasn't reached. So I'd recommend a 1/2" set like the following. Or look into Sears' Black Friday sale and pick up a mechanics set. In the case of the strut-to-knuckle nuts/bolts, use 1/2" extension and socket.

Also, you shouldn't have to touch the brake system except remove the mounting clips (white arrows in your picture) that hold the hoses and wires so they won't get pinched/stretched. I'd use another trolley jack or wood blocks to support the knuckle, or tie a 12awg solid copper wire from a lug nut (put a couple back on) to the subframe, so the heavy knuckle with all the brake parts won't fall flat out once the strut bolts are removed.

http://www.harborfreight.com/16-piece-high-visibility-12-drive-metric-socket-set-67988.html

But was the knuckle bolts/nuts the cause of the noises? Dunno. My guess is more toward the mount areas but I can't be sure.

Or have an assistant help listen outside the car or ride in the back and listen to the mount area - exercise necessary precautions around a moving car of course.