I figured out how the columns and crossmembers were supposed to be assembled (Not even CLOSE to how the docs BARELY described it) after looking closely at all the parts. In a nutshell, lay the columns down, open side facing inward. Lay the crossmember down at the open end of the columns with the corner 'gussets' facing away from the column bases and oriented so the 'open' side of the I-beam will face 'inside' the lift when the columns are raised. Slide the crossmembers into the columns all the way to the bases. Slide the locking plates, threaded rod away from the column bases, into the slots on the nylon runners in the crossmember ends. Slip the column post caps over the the threaded rod on the locking plates and into the columns, then install the locking plate top nut and finger tighten. Stand the columns up and raise the crossmembers up to a comfortable working height for runway installation.

Here, I've got the runway with the ram in it positioned above the crossmembers and am ready to lower it into place. MAKE SURE the hydraulic fitting is towards the column with the power unit mounting bracket on it and the 'track' on the edge of the runway is facing 'inside' the lift. (This is for the rolling jack and oil drip trays to sit on)