Mickey

The red bit is the torque setting, you should tighten them no tighter than 3. As for where to place them, you simply put them where the natural grooves are in the frame. When tightening just make sure the allen key is in straight else you will round it off, its pretty straight forward fitting them but any further questions you have i can answer. Many thanks for a really quick and helpful reply. On looking at the tool more closely I see the red plastic is marked as a Nm gauge, with the 3 being slightly highlighted from the other numbers, so all makes sense as presumably the point is the marker (for the gauge) and will move as the allen key twists slightly at the point of the nut becoming tight. As for the positioning, your comments are also noted.

Sorry can't help but thought it would be useful to share a similar experience on my '56 plate 220d. I get a clunking type of noise and vibration when at or near full left lock whilst reversing and right lock in forward. Tracking has recently been checked and not changed my tyres since last summer so doubt tyres are an issue.

I have a 220d and have bought some second hand (Lexus) roof bars, but without instructions. Although, they look quite easy to fit, I would welcome any official commentary, on precise positioning, etc. On the tool with the allen key, what is the purpose of the pointed bit and red plastic bit?