Cool. I should mention there is also now the AEV rack, which attaches to the hardtop. If you like a neater install without the surrounding cage supports, you should check it out. Not certain about weight, but if it's lighter, that's an advantage--that weight high up changes the roll characteristics of the vehicle. I feel it when driving, even unloaded.

 

I have been doing research since making the decision. The key points are good mounts for lifting, weight capacity, and use with soft top. Gobi checks all three. Plus the ladder is cool for loading.

 

I've had my gobi ranger for a year now and it's been great. My only complaint is the noise at highway speeds with my soft top on. On a windy day on the highway, it has really gotten on my nerves. You have to yell to talk to anyone.

To fix the problem, I installed the skid row soft top bows and put a foam kayak pad on one of the rear bars to keep the top from flapping against the rack. I also put a foam mattress pad in between my spiderweb shade and the soft top. It has helped a lot. Just FYI about running a soft top with a roof rack.

I think if i put one more foam pad, I might be equal to the hard top in regards to wind noise.

Also, it's a pain to take the top off, even with the quick disconnects. Might be easy for a 2 door, but not as easy for me with the 4 door. But I do love removing the windows, and soon I'll give the doors a try too. You can do it easy with 2 people.

EAD is where I got my rack from and I noticed the other day they are running a nice special. I got 5% off too by contacting them through the JKO forum. Downside, it took about 4 weeks to get. Northridge supposedly keeps them in stock.

 

Some pics would be grate if you can. I can't seem to picture it in my head.
t.i.a

 

horrocks007,

Is there a particular aspect that is giving you trouble? Maybe I could provide some advice. I don't have the quick disconnects so I can't speak to them but I do have the Ranger and a JKU.

 

It's the size of and weight of the rack, height of the jeep, etc. Do you have the extra insert up front? Possibly that adds to my pain. It's not that it isn't possible for me to do, a lot more difficult than I expected. I am afraid of damaging the jeep by myself as I can't fully control the thing going up or down. If the rack slams down, it could tear my soft top.

 

I've left the insert in thus far. When I'm tilting mine, I use one hand to hold on to the jeep and one for the rack. I then step from my rocker guard to my rear tire to control the weight while tilting the rack back to rest on my spare.

 

Do you have the sutap that it comes with to hold it in place it works great!

 

Strap. Damn fat fingers on Iphone

 

I feel like the Front Runner racks don't get enough love on the forums... I love mine and wouldn't have gotten anything else. Plus, free shipping and I got mine the next day.... Can't be mad at that!