We recently moved and my new garage isn’t as tall so I’m boxing up and selling the whole Hardtop and bike lift plus shelving. PM me if you’re around Little Rock and interested. Gonna miss it.
you all probably dont give a shit but does someone know a trick to get back into an Instagram account? I was dumb forgot the password. I would love any tricks you can offer me
After watching several hundred Rack Installs for Jeeps... YOU SIR have the Best Most Thorough and Comprehensive VIDEO AND Review... And What puts your video over the top is the Practical Applications of the Rack In Daily Use!! You answered my most pressing Question: Can I remove my Freedom Top? Not a single Manufacturer points to that question in descriptions of the Product, at least not that I've read across on their product specs. Awesome Video
Outstanding video. I installed the same hoist in my garage. On my hard top I installed fixed, polished SS closed loop attachment points. I have worked in mills and factories and think your gantry hoist travel system is excellent I wish I would have though of that.
The great lengths a man will go to, to remove the hard top. I also just bought a new house. These are my thoughts summed up into 1 video. If I want a roof rack this is exactly what I'll have to do. Thanks for the video!
this is the first detailed GOBI RACK video i have seen, Thank you for all the information, you answer my question before i even think to ask. i have been looking all over for this specific instructions. you got yourself a subscribers. BTW I like what you did with the hardtop and freedom panel storage you have in your garage, thinking of doing similar to that.
Great video. I always thought you had to drill into the Jeep to install one of these, good to know that's not needed. Awesome set up, I don't know anyone down here in Australia that has that much vertical room in their garage, usually just a few feet. It is definitely something I'd look at adding to my dream home for extra storage.
Thank you for rather instructional "step by step" video. I truly appreciate the details you put on. Also, your garage layout gave some ideas for mine. Thanks!!!
Great video! Got my Gobi Stealth rack today and went down to Home Depot to grab some Rust-O-lium flat black spray paint, some grease for the bushings and some Loctite for the bolts. Love the garage setup also!
Man that was the most AWESOME install video ever. Definitely a can do all dude. I'm planning on buying the Gobi stealth and this vid put it over the top for me. One thing tho' PLEASE post a time-lapse when you extend your garage door opening once you get a lift/wheels! That vid would be absolutely amazing. Thanks!
I was brought here for the roof rack install but you gave me several ideas / projects with the garage (primarily that winch set up). Very nice! I have ACE Engineering and Fab door hangers which I will mount to the walls into the studs (once I get some ceiling storage racks installed). My garage isn't nearly as big as yours (I got garage envy now). I like the way the roof rack looks with the top on, but I'm still unsure about it installed with the Jeep stripped down naked. Very nice video, thanks.
They are the 255/75/17 (32") BFG Mud-Terrain KM on the 17" Mopar Moab wheels. My jeep came with the silver version but I liked the black version on the Wrangler Arctic Edition so had my dealer do a special swap for me. I've since sold them and put on the black AEV Savegre wheels instead.
I haven't had any vibration issues. I have heard a thud like you described and swore it was the ladder hitting the side of my hard-top. But found out it was actually coming from my door latch when I go over bumps. I've heard nothing but good things and your post is the only one I've seen with a negative review. That stinks that you're not happy and they're not responding to your requests. I know they take forever to ship out orders, even rack accessories, but months doesn't sound right.
I just have a standard size garage door and it fits fine with about 5 inches to spare. I've loaded it up with luggage several times and plan on putting a kayak or canoe on it at some point. Should be fine for surfboard/snowboards. I did get my some pipe insulation from Home Depot to put on the bars when I carry long supplied like lumber. It helps keep from scratching the bars up.
The hoist system is home made. I used channel struts that you can get at Home Depot for most of it. The actual hoist was purchased at Harbor Freight and I got most of the pulleys, cable and other hardware at Tractor Supply or Home Depot. It was a lot of trial and error. Especially figuring out how to install the hoist on track so it would slide sideways the easiest. There's a link in the description above that shows the t-bar frame I made mine similar to. Hope this helps. Thanks!
Cool video, I have a 2 door and am thinking about getting a hard top and was looking for more information before I swapped from soft top. i should be pretty good in my garage with the shorter 2 door gobi rack to remove the hard top inside
Great video! Ive watched it two or three times now waiting for my custom Gobi to get here. Apparently, today is the day as I just got the call from Northridge4x4's shipper to be home around 1. Pretty amped. Of course, that meant I had to watch the install video...yet again :)
I used channel struts (Home Depot sells some) and made a custom T-Bar frame. I just pasted the link to info I used to make the frame back in the description above. I pretty much figured out what I needed as I went but made sure to lay it all out in my garage to make sure the hard top lift, hoist track and bike lift setup would all work together. Was a lot of trial and error but it all works great now.
Yes, it's fastened to other wires down the pillar and then across passenger side floor (next to bottom of door), up behind the glove box and over to the radio. I think I removed the glove box to get to it easier and then removed the dash to see and route it behind the radio. I ran mine out the driver side but you could run it out the passenger side firewall if you wanted.
Beautiful. I have the same problem, (small garage) so I have to be very creative when it comes to storage etc.... Just got a 2014 Rubicon and looking for innovative ideas for hard top removal and storage. Think I am going this route.
Bro thanks for the video. I was contemplating paying someone for the install of a roof rack but I see now this is definitely something me and my son can knock out easily.
Base on the symptom you have described...Try and loosen all your bolts/nuts thats connect to the basket itself and make sure all of the components sits flash with each other especially the rear rack support swing arm, retighten them take for a spin and see if it get any improvement. Feel free to contact me with any further questions. OP: Sorry, not trying to hijack the reply, just trying to help.
Dude! amazing video!! Just got myself a 2014 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 4 door...looking for a roof rack to transport a Kayak...think I just found it! Thanks!
Awesome video Chad, thanks for sharing. I like how you got your garage setup. I wanted to get the GOBI, but was a bit over pricey so I got the MBRP instead.
I'm sure there's a sweet spot you have to find for the deflector to work the best. I just installed according to their instructions and it seemed to help. I took the deflector off while working on installing lights and drove around a bit. There is a howl I hear when the deflector is off but none when it's installed. It works, just play around with the spacing a bit I guess. With the freedom panels off, it's very loud though.
ppl on jeep forums confirmed that AEV snorkel clears with GOBI roof rack. In fact it clears Rugged Ridge modulated snorkel as well, which I think I will get.
Those frame brackets he installs around 2:22-they eliminated those with the Gen 3 version of the rack. Gen 3 uses a Rube Goldberg like series of brackets that mount both as a clamp to the body and also to the floor of the body via an existing drain hole accessed by removing a tail-light. It seems totally inferior to the previous version shown here. Gobi still rates it the same though.
The instructions calls for putting Anti-Sieze Lubricant on the bolts prior to installing them. This is to prevent the bolts from getting stuck or siezing in the holes because of rust or other factors. My sons TJ bolts are completely stuck in his and the bolt head is worn down from trying to unscrew. Time and weather has caused it to be fused in place. The Anti-sieze will help keep that from happening should you ever need to unscrew the bolts for some reason.
I found myself wanting to know more about the bike lift system. I have all of my bikes hung the same way, but I have to lift them up. Could you make a video on that? Oh, and I’m probably ordering a GOBI based on your video alone. Good job
I didn't need to buy anything. The connection you see is the antenna plugged into a stock extension cable, which I was able to use when rerouting it to the cowl. The grey clip on the end comes off easily so I could push just the wire through the hole in the firewall, then clip it back together on the other side under the hood and connect it back to the yellow end. The only difficulty in the whole install is prying out / cutting off all the plastic attachment fasteners that are along the wire.
You'll love the rack, I'm adding light bars soon and hope I can find a video on how to do the wiring correctly. Hoping my garage opening will be okay for when I get a lift. I'm thinking of a 2.5" lift and bump up to 33", maybe 35s. I only have about 5 inches to work with so 33s may be my limit for this house. Thanks for the reply!
I made a T-Bar frame that is very similar to one I found online made out of channel struts. The frame has 3 hooks that grab the top and safely lift it up. I used the same channel strut material to built the tracks for the hoist. I can't post the link in the comments but you can grab the link above in the video description.
Here is a good question for you. How does this work with the soft top? I ask because the jeep that were looking at purchasing it comes with the Dual top group and because it gets very cold here in the winter time we would be using the hardtop in the winter and of course change over to the soft top in the spring.
Awesome video!! And by a fellow Arkansan too!! I think this is going to be my first aftermarket purchase. Thanks for doing such a great, innovative job on the installation and video.
I believe I remember seeing someone post info about doing that but can't remember what brand snorkel they used. I'm pretty sure the AEV one fits but you may want to reach out to Gobi or one of their distributors and find out for sure. Thanks for the comments!
I'm not sure, I'll try to measure it tonight. My ceiling is about 11' tall and my jeep is on 32" tires with no lift. I had to cut channels in the sheet- rock to allow the rack ends to pass through a couple inches. Thanks!
Would you be willing to share what you did for your winch? I have the same one but that track system is some ingenuity! Also I was curious how the install was and how top removal would be done. This video answers a lot of my questions. Thank you
Thank you for the video! Can you please answer the following: Is you Jeep lifted? If so then how much? What is your tire size? How high is the whole jeep with gobi rack? I have a rubicon and I want to lift it 3" with 33" tires and to add the gobi rack, I'm just worried it won't fit in my garage :-/ Than you in advance and I look forward to hearing from you!
the rear arm can't block the back rear window storage box they make NOW in 2020. Every 1 is doing overlanding roof top tents so that is reason for racks mostly.
Wow just wow. Great video. Literally answered all of my damn questions. One of them being "can he still take off his rack" another "if yes, how the eff will he?!?!" Lol
Awesome video! Whenever you lift your Jeep and put on some bigger tires, can you upload a video of your Sahara and how the hoist system works with a taller vehicle? Thanks
I am waiting on a Gobi for my JK. Your video is great! I am wondering if the tower mount on the passenger side is compatible with a Smittybilt SRC Gen 2 tire carrier frame mount. If you have a picture of the final mounting hardware of the tower without the bumper in the way that would be a great help.
I have an aftermarket soft top (Bestop Trektop NX). I can take off the back and windows without touching the rack but if I want to flip back or take off the top, I have to pivot the rack back to do so. Takes a couple minutes extra is all.
Great video you've made. I've been considering getting one of these and this clarified a few questions I had about them. Thanks for taking the time to make the video and share your lessons learned.
Great video... Very well done... Completely understand functionality over looks... But I think the Gobi stealth rack looks killer anyways. Now that you've had it on your jeep for well over a year is there anything you would do different or pay better attention to during the installation? Also do you have any current pictures of what your jeep looks like now? Thanks, Mike K.
Just received my Gobi rack for a 4d JK. I was going to have it professionally installed, but after seeing your video I was confident enough to do it my self. Thanks for taking the time to put together an exceptionally good video. How hard/ time consuming was it to move the satellite receiver from the roof to the hood? Did you have to pull out the stereo?
No whistle for me but probably a bit extra wind noise. Couldn't tell you how much more than without the rack. It's definitely noticeable with the freedom panels off.
Thanks for the video, Its a big help. One question, Where did you find the mirrors for when the doors are off and do you have any problems or complaints with them?
They are the Rugged Ridge Quick Release Mirrors. I like the look of them but they are a bit hard to see with because of their size. Also the passenger one is just a standard mirror instead of one of those 'objects in mirror, closer than they appear' kind that helps broaden the view. I'm happy with them. You can get them at Quadratec or direct from Rugged Ridge.
I'm so jealous you can tilt the Gobi all the way back while INSIDE the garage! I've got to figure out a way to remove my Gobi singlehandedly in order to back my Jeep into the garage and lift the top using the power Hoist-a-top. Singlehandedly being the operative word.
I looked at mine and did notice it vibrating more than normal. After further inspection, I noticed that the rubber isolator knob was loose. Once I tightened it, it was solid. Did you buy directly from GOBI or use a reseller? I used EAD Offroad and they reply to all requests usually within the same hour. I would go through the reseller you used and let them get in GOBI's ear about your problems. Hope it all gets resolved. Love the rack.
Hi there! Awesome video. Do you need any special "quick release" add-on in order to flip the rack back and remove the back part of the freedom top, or does the rack come as-is, easy to lift back?
Super video!! I am interested in the hoist system with the HF hoist. I think I get the T-Bar track that you posted the link but can you tell me how you constructed the rolling trolly attachment on the hoist to the t-bar? Thanks!
Hi, Chad, great work! Neighbor in Tennessee here. I have plans for the same type of set up with the winch, I just got one from Harbor Freight. My question is, what did you make the frame out of for the hard top hoist (I mean the piece that is like a giant capital "I" or "H" that you hooked the winch to and that attaches to the hard top)? It looks like unistrut, but maybe it's lighter pieces of aluminum channel? Thanks a lot.
BARDOG TAVERN I used SuperStrut from Home Depot I believe. It's pretty heavy duty stuff. I'd guess that T-bar probably weighs about 20 lbs. I put a link in the description above to a T-Bar write-up that is similar to mine. Good luck!
The top sits on a suspended shelf with about 8 lag bolts and 4 (4,500lb) chains so it would need a tornado to knock it down. But your point is taken, that's why no-one stands under the hoist and top as it's being lifted and moved to the shelf.
What is the size of the hex wrench to remove the bolts on the Jeep??? Mine is a 2014 4/dr Jeep Wrangler Unlimited I called my dealership and the parts guys didn't know the size!?! I am waiting on my new Gobi Rack to arrive next week and am going to do it myself... save $500... Awesome job Can you list the Tools & Sizes so I can check my list of things I need from Lowes.
Laurie Fryar You should be able to go on Gobi's website and print off the instructions. I believe they list what size tools you need. I don't recall exactly the sized for my 2012 but it was just standard socket wrenches mostly.
Nice job on the install. For the sat/gps re-routing, did you need to buy an extension cable or was the stock length long enough to install on the cowl? By the location of the yellow FAKRA connector in frame 9:33 it doesn't look that long. Any other difficulties removing it?
Chad, this is a great video. I was trying to find a rack that didn't cause me to cut or drill in the body. I have a 2015 Wrangler Unlimited, so I went to the gobi site and it has a Ranger unit and a Stealth unit. Which one is yours? It looks like the stealth, but wanted to confirm.
Chad - My engineer buddy and I just watched your video and thought it was quite helpful. Well thought out installation aides like the table and boards to hold the frame if you are installing alone, etc. Thanks for taking the time to do the video. I'm in Michigan so my tops go on and off often. Have you ever put your doors up on the rack and brought them with you? After a long day at the beach we like to put the Trektop up and doors on so everyone is warm on the 60 minute drive home at night.
I have not taken my doors with me. I bought some Ace Engineering Lava jackets and keep in the jeep when the doors are off. They're definitely nice to have on with the heater going when it's a bit chilly outside and the doors or top is off. I got the Trektop as well and usually keep the Trektop on from April through September and then switch back to the hardtop from October through March.
Nice video. Great use of pods, Tell us about your hoist system. Is this a factory or home build on your hoist system? Great to see a video and contacts on how and where you came up the the hoist system. Nice demonstration, thank you for sharing. Rack looks great on JKU by the way.
Ah ok. I didn't realize you reused the extension as well. Thanks. Does the extension line just follow the b-pillar down to the floor then up to the radio from behind the dash?
Great video, very informative. You have way too much patience man, lol. Looks like I have some work ahead of me, I do like the idea of painting the hardware black. Hows the wind noise? One thing though, if anyone is considering buying this rack, you WILL have to wait around 16 weeks for delivery. I called hoping to have it in a week or two tops for the end of May but was surprised with the wait time when I called in my order, seriously crushed my Memorial day weekend plans to use my rooftop tent.
I have this rack but I have terrible wind noise. This was installed by a 3rd party so I don't have any docs on to to properly install the deflector. I've watched your video several times (quite excellent) and it appears that you're measuring the distance from the deflector to the windshield at each corner. What should that be? I'm also quite curious about where you set your deflector brackets since there's quite a bit of flexibility - would be huge to see a closeup photo of the bracket-to-deflector connection.
Michael Wayfinder Found a thread on line that included the original installation PDF and the measurements so hopefully I'll soon have this issue resolved.
Wrap a piece of rope or twine around the front bar, space it out abt 2-3 inches from wrap to wrap. This should eliminate wind noise if u don't fix the deflector panel. Same concept as the antenna on ur jeep. Has a spiral wrap to make it not whistle. Hope it helps
Great video..i usually skim through install vids but not yours. Question... Step 8? It looks like you shoved somthing inbetween the frame to hold it in place...is that correct?
It's actually a 1" round black nylon adhesive backed wear plate that protects the paint from where the support tower touches the side. It comes with the rack.
Very nice job on the install. I am really liking this rack. I was looking for something I could mount a pop up tent on and this may be the ticket. What was your total install time?
I think my garage is a little over 11 feet. I'm out of town but I know I posted the exact measurement in another comment reply if you want to look through them. How high it needs to be depends on your lift and tire size. Mine was stock at the time of the video. It's now lifted with bigger tires so I do need a taller ceiling.
We recently moved and my new garage isn’t as tall so I’m boxing up and selling the whole Hardtop and bike lift plus shelving. PM me if you’re around Little Rock and interested. Gonna miss it.
I'm no where near Little Rock but I like the ceiling tracks. Where did you get the tracks and mounts? Nice video.
OC Run I can’t remember the brand but they are either Unistrut or Superstrut. I got them at a local dealer but I think they carry them at Home Depot
Chad Eichler do you still have rack system? I have sahara and live in Springfield MO. Am interested in buying one. Juliewarren422d@gmail.com
you all probably dont give a shit but does someone know a trick to get back into an Instagram account?
I was dumb forgot the password. I would love any tricks you can offer me
@Leonel Trenton Instablaster ;)
Great video on installing and options best I have seen on TH-cam.
Super late, but this is the only jeep video that I've been legitimately hyped after watching. The music choice and detail were perfect. Very nice.
Love the winch on rails system.
After watching several hundred Rack Installs for Jeeps... YOU SIR have the Best Most Thorough and Comprehensive VIDEO AND Review... And What puts your video over the top is the Practical Applications of the Rack In Daily Use!! You answered my most pressing Question: Can I remove my Freedom Top? Not a single Manufacturer points to that question in descriptions of the Product, at least not that I've read across on their product specs. Awesome Video
Outstanding video. I installed the same hoist in my garage.
On my hard top I installed fixed, polished SS closed loop attachment points.
I have worked in mills and factories and think your gantry hoist travel system is excellent I wish I would have though of that.
The great lengths a man will go to, to remove the hard top. I also just bought a new house. These are my thoughts summed up into 1 video. If I want a roof rack this is exactly what I'll have to do. Thanks for the video!
this is the first detailed GOBI RACK video i have seen, Thank you for all the information, you answer my question before i even think to ask. i have been looking all over for this specific instructions. you got yourself a subscribers. BTW I like what you did with the hardtop and freedom panel storage you have in your garage, thinking of doing similar to that.
Excellent, you are a person who thinks of everything. We are looking for the functionality to things. Bright.
Great video. I always thought you had to drill into the Jeep to install one of these, good to know that's not needed. Awesome set up, I don't know anyone down here in Australia that has that much vertical room in their garage, usually just a few feet. It is definitely something I'd look at adding to my dream home for extra storage.
Love the buckethead background music!
One of the best install videos I've seen👍 the garage hoist solution was "crazy inventive". Thanks for showing👍
You should have a video showing how you created your hoist system in your garage. That is an awesome setup!
I'll try and make one in the coming months.
+Kevin Robertson I totally agree!! I want to see it...it's amazing
Soooo - what happened with that vid? Lol
Can’t wait till Gobi releases JLU version......Also awesome choice of music.
THE BEST DETAILED VID I’VE SEEN IN YEARS!!!!
Thank you for rather instructional "step by step" video. I truly appreciate the details you put on. Also, your garage layout gave some ideas for mine. Thanks!!!
Great video! Got my Gobi Stealth rack today and went down to Home Depot to grab some Rust-O-lium flat black spray paint, some grease for the bushings and some Loctite for the bolts. Love the garage setup also!
Man that was the most AWESOME install video ever. Definitely a can do all dude. I'm planning on buying the Gobi stealth and this vid put it over the top for me. One thing tho' PLEASE post a time-lapse when you extend your garage door opening once you get a lift/wheels! That vid would be absolutely amazing. Thanks!
Wow every detail and tons of cool work with you lift and everything! Awesome
I was brought here for the roof rack install but you gave me several ideas / projects with the garage (primarily that winch set up). Very nice! I have ACE Engineering and Fab door hangers which I will mount to the walls into the studs (once I get some ceiling storage racks installed). My garage isn't nearly as big as yours (I got garage envy now). I like the way the roof rack looks with the top on, but I'm still unsure about it installed with the Jeep stripped down naked. Very nice video, thanks.
I have an Hummer H3.....But that said-------what u have done is AWESOME!
They are the 255/75/17 (32") BFG Mud-Terrain KM on the 17" Mopar Moab wheels. My jeep came with the silver version but I liked the black version on the Wrangler Arctic Edition so had my dealer do a special swap for me. I've since sold them and put on the black AEV Savegre wheels instead.
I haven't had any vibration issues. I have heard a thud like you described and swore it was the ladder hitting the side of my hard-top. But found out it was actually coming from my door latch when I go over bumps. I've heard nothing but good things and your post is the only one I've seen with a negative review. That stinks that you're not happy and they're not responding to your requests. I know they take forever to ship out orders, even rack accessories, but months doesn't sound right.
Lol! I wear the same safety toe flip flops much too often when doing this sort of thing! Cool rack!
I just have a standard size garage door and it fits fine with about 5 inches to spare. I've loaded it up with luggage several times and plan on putting a kayak or canoe on it at some point. Should be fine for surfboard/snowboards. I did get my some pipe insulation from Home Depot to put on the bars when I carry long supplied like lumber. It helps keep from scratching the bars up.
The hoist system is home made. I used channel struts that you can get at Home Depot for most of it. The actual hoist was purchased at Harbor Freight and I got most of the pulleys, cable and other hardware at Tractor Supply or Home Depot. It was a lot of trial and error. Especially figuring out how to install the hoist on track so it would slide sideways the easiest. There's a link in the description above that shows the t-bar frame I made mine similar to. Hope this helps. Thanks!
Cool video, I have a 2 door and am thinking about getting a hard top and was looking for more information before I swapped from soft top. i should be pretty good in my garage with the shorter 2 door gobi rack to remove the hard top inside
This video makes me love Wrangler. Thank you.
Great video! Ive watched it two or three times now waiting for my custom Gobi to get here. Apparently, today is the day as I just got the call from Northridge4x4's shipper to be home around 1. Pretty amped. Of course, that meant I had to watch the install video...yet again :)
I used channel struts (Home Depot sells some) and made a custom T-Bar frame. I just pasted the link to info I used to make the frame back in the description above.
I pretty much figured out what I needed as I went but made sure to lay it all out in my garage to make sure the hard top lift, hoist track and bike lift setup would all work together. Was a lot of trial and error but it all works great now.
Yes, it's fastened to other wires down the pillar and then across passenger side floor (next to bottom of door), up behind the glove box and over to the radio. I think I removed the glove box to get to it easier and then removed the dash to see and route it behind the radio. I ran mine out the driver side but you could run it out the passenger side firewall if you wanted.
Beautiful. I have the same problem, (small garage) so I have to be very creative when it comes to storage etc.... Just got a 2014 Rubicon and looking for innovative ideas for hard top removal and storage. Think I am going this route.
Bro thanks for the video. I was contemplating paying someone for the install of a roof rack but I see now this is definitely something me and my son can knock out easily.
Came to watch, stayed to rock. Buckethead is awesome!
Base on the symptom you have described...Try and loosen all your bolts/nuts thats connect to the basket itself and make sure all of the components sits flash with each other especially the rear rack support swing arm, retighten them take for a spin and see if it get any improvement. Feel free to contact me with any further questions.
OP: Sorry, not trying to hijack the reply, just trying to help.
Dude! amazing video!! Just got myself a 2014 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 4 door...looking for a roof rack to transport a Kayak...think I just found it! Thanks!
This is best rack I hve seen other then custom high dollar stuff at Sema. Looks v/strong.
great video! Was on the fence about the rack and will now be buying.
Thank you. This is one of the best videos I've seen on this subject.
Awesome video Chad, thanks for sharing. I like how you got your garage setup. I wanted to get the GOBI, but was a bit over pricey so I got the MBRP instead.
I'm sure there's a sweet spot you have to find for the deflector to work the best. I just installed according to their instructions and it seemed to help. I took the deflector off while working on installing lights and drove around a bit. There is a howl I hear when the deflector is off but none when it's installed. It works, just play around with the spacing a bit I guess. With the freedom panels off, it's very loud though.
ppl on jeep forums confirmed that AEV snorkel clears with GOBI roof rack. In fact it clears Rugged Ridge modulated snorkel as well, which I think I will get.
Those frame brackets he installs around 2:22-they eliminated those with the Gen 3 version of the rack. Gen 3 uses a Rube Goldberg like series of brackets that mount both as a clamp to the body and also to the floor of the body via an existing drain hole accessed by removing a tail-light. It seems totally inferior to the previous version shown here. Gobi still rates it the same though.
Well done .. really like your setup for removal and storage
The instructions calls for putting Anti-Sieze Lubricant on the bolts prior to installing them. This is to prevent the bolts from getting stuck or siezing in the holes because of rust or other factors. My sons TJ bolts are completely stuck in his and the bolt head is worn down from trying to unscrew. Time and weather has caused it to be fused in place. The Anti-sieze will help keep that from happening should you ever need to unscrew the bolts for some reason.
Nice, I love Buckethead.
First off GREAT video ! Love your setup at home and that rack is really nice, exactly what I`ll be lookin for...SECOND, The music is off the hook !
EPIC! Thanks for sharing. Ordering my Gobi Rack right now.
Thank you for sharing. Thinking about getting a Jeep and If I were to get one I would want a rack on top.
I found myself wanting to know more about the bike lift system. I have all of my bikes hung the same way, but I have to lift them up. Could you make a video on that?
Oh, and I’m probably ordering a GOBI based on your video alone. Good job
You really have a well thought out setup there sir.
I didn't need to buy anything. The connection you see is the antenna plugged into a stock extension cable, which I was able to use when rerouting it to the cowl. The grey clip on the end comes off easily so I could push just the wire through the hole in the firewall, then clip it back together on the other side under the hood and connect it back to the yellow end. The only difficulty in the whole install is prying out / cutting off all the plastic attachment fasteners that are along the wire.
You'll love the rack, I'm adding light bars soon and hope I can find a video on how to do the wiring correctly. Hoping my garage opening will be okay for when I get a lift. I'm thinking of a 2.5" lift and bump up to 33", maybe 35s. I only have about 5 inches to work with so 33s may be my limit for this house. Thanks for the reply!
I made a T-Bar frame that is very similar to one I found online made out of channel struts. The frame has 3 hooks that grab the top and safely lift it up. I used the same channel strut material to built the tracks for the hoist. I can't post the link in the comments but you can grab the link above in the video description.
Here is a good question for you. How does this work with the soft top? I ask because the jeep that were looking at purchasing it comes with the Dual top group and because it gets very cold here in the winter time we would be using the hardtop in the winter and of course change over to the soft top in the spring.
Awesome video!! And by a fellow Arkansan too!! I think this is going to be my first aftermarket purchase. Thanks for doing such a great, innovative job on the installation and video.
I believe I remember seeing someone post info about doing that but can't remember what brand snorkel they used. I'm pretty sure the AEV one fits but you may want to reach out to Gobi or one of their distributors and find out for sure. Thanks for the comments!
I'm not sure, I'll try to measure it tonight. My ceiling is about 11' tall and my jeep is on 32" tires with no lift. I had to cut channels in the sheet- rock to allow the rack ends to pass through a couple inches. Thanks!
Would you be willing to share what you did for your winch? I have the same one but that track system is some ingenuity! Also I was curious how the install was and how top removal would be done. This video answers a lot of my questions. Thank you
Thank you for the video! Can you please answer the following:
Is you Jeep lifted? If so then how much?
What is your tire size?
How high is the whole jeep with gobi rack?
I have a rubicon and I want to lift it 3" with 33" tires and to add the gobi rack, I'm just worried it won't fit in my garage :-/
Than you in advance and I look forward to hearing from you!
Great video , I learned a lot , I have a 2006 Jeep Unlimited , Will that rack go on my Jeep ?
the rear arm can't block the back rear window storage box they make NOW in 2020. Every 1 is doing overlanding roof top tents so that is reason for racks mostly.
Wow just wow. Great video. Literally answered all of my damn questions. One of them being "can he still take off his rack" another "if yes, how the eff will he?!?!" Lol
Awesome video! Whenever you lift your Jeep and put on some bigger tires, can you upload a video of your Sahara and how the hoist system works with a taller vehicle? Thanks
I am waiting on a Gobi for my JK. Your video is great! I am wondering if the tower mount on the passenger side is compatible with a Smittybilt SRC Gen 2 tire carrier frame mount. If you have a picture of the final mounting hardware of the tower without the bumper in the way that would be a great help.
I have an aftermarket soft top (Bestop Trektop NX). I can take off the back and windows without touching the rack but if I want to flip back or take off the top, I have to pivot the rack back to do so. Takes a couple minutes extra is all.
Great video you've made. I've been considering getting one of these and this clarified a few questions I had about them. Thanks for taking the time to make the video and share your lessons learned.
Very nice system!
That is great work, awesome idea on that track for the hoist system.
Dude that is a badass hardtop hoist setup!
Great video... Very well done... Completely understand functionality over looks... But I think the Gobi stealth rack looks killer anyways. Now that you've had it on your jeep for well over a year is there anything you would do different or pay better attention to during the installation? Also do you have any current pictures of what your jeep looks like now?
Thanks,
Mike K.
Great video! My Gobi will be here today!!
Thanks. It's an 880lb hoist that Harbor Freight carries. Probably Chicago Electric or other cheap brand. Works just fine for this application though.
Thanks for the video Chad. Great editing. Expecting this rack in the next week or so and this definitely will help out.
Just received my Gobi rack for a 4d JK. I was going to have it professionally installed, but after seeing your video I was confident enough to do it my self. Thanks for taking the time to put together an exceptionally good video. How hard/ time consuming was it to move the satellite receiver from the roof to the hood? Did you have to pull out the stereo?
No whistle for me but probably a bit extra wind noise. Couldn't tell you how much more than without the rack. It's definitely noticeable with the freedom panels off.
I'm sold...Ordering one now for my 2012 2dr. Great job.
Thanks for the video, Its a big help. One question, Where did you find the mirrors for when the doors are off and do you have any problems or complaints with them?
They are the Rugged Ridge Quick Release Mirrors. I like the look of them but they are a bit hard to see with because of their size. Also the passenger one is just a standard mirror instead of one of those 'objects in mirror, closer than they appear' kind that helps broaden the view. I'm happy with them. You can get them at Quadratec or direct from Rugged Ridge.
I'm so jealous you can tilt the Gobi all the way back while INSIDE the garage! I've got to figure out a way to remove my Gobi singlehandedly in order to back my Jeep into the garage and lift the top using the power Hoist-a-top. Singlehandedly being the operative word.
I looked at mine and did notice it vibrating more than normal. After further inspection, I noticed that the rubber isolator knob was loose. Once I tightened it, it was solid. Did you buy directly from GOBI or use a reseller? I used EAD Offroad and they reply to all requests usually within the same hour. I would go through the reseller you used and let them get in GOBI's ear about your problems. Hope it all gets resolved. Love the rack.
Hi there! Awesome video. Do you need any special "quick release" add-on in order to flip the rack back and remove the back part of the freedom top, or does the rack come as-is, easy to lift back?
Really well done video! Sick setup
Super video!! I am interested in the hoist system with the HF hoist. I think I get the T-Bar track that you posted the link but can you tell me how you constructed the rolling trolly attachment on the hoist to the t-bar? Thanks!
Great video! You sold me on this product I have been looking for the best rack and this is it!
Hi, Chad, great work! Neighbor in Tennessee here. I have plans for the same type of set up with the winch, I just got one from Harbor Freight. My question is, what did you make the frame out of for the hard top hoist (I mean the piece that is like a giant capital "I" or "H" that you hooked the winch to and that attaches to the hard top)? It looks like unistrut, but maybe it's lighter pieces of aluminum channel?
Thanks a lot.
BARDOG TAVERN I used SuperStrut from Home Depot I believe. It's pretty heavy duty stuff. I'd guess that T-bar probably weighs about 20 lbs. I put a link in the description above to a T-Bar write-up that is similar to mine. Good luck!
The top sits on a suspended shelf with about 8 lag bolts and 4 (4,500lb) chains so it would need a tornado to knock it down. But your point is taken, that's why no-one stands under the hoist and top as it's being lifted and moved to the shelf.
What is the size of the hex wrench to remove the bolts on the Jeep??? Mine is a 2014 4/dr Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
I called my dealership and the parts guys didn't know the size!?! I am waiting on my new Gobi Rack to arrive next week and am going to do it myself... save $500... Awesome job
Can you list the Tools & Sizes so I can check my list of things I need from Lowes.
Laurie Fryar You should be able to go on Gobi's website and print off the instructions. I believe they list what size tools you need. I don't recall exactly the sized for my 2012 but it was just standard socket wrenches mostly.
Nice job on the install. For the sat/gps re-routing, did you need to buy an extension cable or was the stock length long enough to install on the cowl? By the location of the yellow FAKRA connector in frame 9:33 it doesn't look that long. Any other difficulties removing it?
Chad, this is a great video. I was trying to find a rack that didn't cause me to cut or drill in the body. I have a 2015 Wrangler Unlimited, so I went to the gobi site and it has a Ranger unit and a Stealth unit. Which one is yours? It looks like the stealth, but wanted to confirm.
Thanks Bruce. It's the Stealth version.
Bruh I'm jealous of your vertical garage space
What a great setup!
Chad - My engineer buddy and I just watched your video and thought it was quite helpful. Well thought out installation aides like the table and boards to hold the frame if you are installing alone, etc. Thanks for taking the time to do the video. I'm in Michigan so my tops go on and off often. Have you ever put your doors up on the rack and brought them with you? After a long day at the beach we like to put the Trektop up and doors on so everyone is warm on the 60 minute drive home at night.
I have not taken my doors with me. I bought some Ace Engineering Lava jackets and keep in the jeep when the doors are off. They're definitely nice to have on with the heater going when it's a bit chilly outside and the doors or top is off. I got the Trektop as well and usually keep the Trektop on from April through September and then switch back to the hardtop from October through March.
Nice video. Great use of pods, Tell us about your hoist system. Is this a factory or home build on your hoist system? Great to see a video and contacts on how and where you came up the the hoist system. Nice demonstration, thank you for sharing. Rack looks great on JKU by the way.
Ah ok. I didn't realize you reused the extension as well. Thanks. Does the extension line just follow the b-pillar down to the floor then up to the radio from behind the dash?
Great video, very informative. You have way too much patience man, lol. Looks like I have some work ahead of me, I do like the idea of painting the hardware black. Hows the wind noise?
One thing though, if anyone is considering buying this rack, you WILL have to wait around 16 weeks for delivery. I called hoping to have it in a week or two tops for the end of May but was surprised with the wait time when I called in my order, seriously crushed my Memorial day weekend plans to use my rooftop tent.
I have this rack but I have terrible wind noise. This was installed by a 3rd party so I don't have any docs on to to properly install the deflector. I've watched your video several times (quite excellent) and it appears that you're measuring the distance from the deflector to the windshield at each corner. What should that be? I'm also quite curious about where you set your deflector brackets since there's quite a bit of flexibility - would be huge to see a closeup photo of the bracket-to-deflector connection.
Michael Wayfinder Found a thread on line that included the original installation PDF and the measurements so hopefully I'll soon have this issue resolved.
Wrap a piece of rope or twine around the front bar, space it out abt 2-3 inches from wrap to wrap. This should eliminate wind noise if u don't fix the deflector panel. Same concept as the antenna on ur jeep. Has a spiral wrap to make it not whistle. Hope it helps
Awesome video, thank you for posting. I have been thinking about the Gobi system and you answered all the question I had about install. Great video…….
Great video..i usually skim through install vids but not yours. Question... Step 8? It looks like you shoved somthing inbetween the frame to hold it in place...is that correct?
It's actually a 1" round black nylon adhesive backed wear plate that protects the paint from where the support tower touches the side. It comes with the rack.
Very nice job on the install. I am really liking this rack. I was looking for something I could mount a pop up tent on and this may be the ticket. What was your total install time?
How high is the ceiling in your garage? How high do you think it would need to be to not need tech the drywall? Thanks for the great video!
I think my garage is a little over 11 feet. I'm out of town but I know I posted the exact measurement in another comment reply if you want to look through them. How high it needs to be depends on your lift and tire size. Mine was stock at the time of the video. It's now lifted with bigger tires so I do need a taller ceiling.