The answer is probably "the big side of the hole" and "it points forward" but could someone clarify for me which side of the base is forward and which direction the bar should point please?  I don't want to get this thing all put together just to realize I've messed up.

Thanks!

On top of that, how the eff do you get an ML cable down the pipe?!

In answer to the second question, you don't. The only connection is that between the head unit and the switch unit. The ML cable attaches to the switch unit.

Run the connecting cable down the pipe BEFORE fixing the top plate to the pole.

Opman

Hi, thanks for the answers.
I forgot to mention that I'm attaching a BS4 to it with an STB bracket.  And here's what I've learned:

If you pull the plastic casing off a premade ML cable, then it'll fit through the BC2 stand's tube.  However, it won't fit through the STB bracket because the slot is too small.  So I'll have to huff on down to the dealer at lunch and get them to make me a cable through the bracket.  *sigh*