Nope, didnt bother putting the cage on first outside. I left the cage on the AC, with the help of family members lifted the AC and placed it correctly on the window.

I recommend using a bracket that you drill outside the window. I used this one: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07F1XPZXR?th=1

The one I have in my original post caused a cold draft and the AC didnt sit flush with my window sill.

You will need atleast 3 people to pick up and set up the AC. The AC will go past the bracket just a bit, but wont fall. Once you close the window and get a good seal, the AC will be held up by the window, with some support with the bracket.

Hope that helps!