I just received a Gobi roof rack today and began the install. According to Gobi's site the E1 bumper is compatable with the Gobi rack; does that mean compatable without any modifications? The brackets that go from the frame to the down tube that is connected to the pinch seam do not line up exaclty becuase a cross member on the bumper interferes. For anyone who has done this install is it necessary to notch the bracket? Would really appreciate your input

 

Anybody install an E1 bumper and Gobi rack?

 

I'm interested in this as well if anyone has any info.

 

I'm about to install the same setup... any update on your install?

 

I've been looking at different racks as well. What didn't you like about the Garvin?

 

Old thread, but someone else might want to know… These are not bolt on compatible. You have to make alterations to the Gobi brackets to get it to fit with the bumper.

I ended up swapping the brackets from side to side, which helps them line up a little better. Then you have to notch out the holes by about half an inch on the rear “rack side” of the bracket, the frame side will line up after swapping sides. Next step, cut off/grind down about an inch off the corner of the bracket that hits the Expedition One bumper. Cleaned that up and painted it. While waiting for multiple coats to dry, I cut down a couple oversized washers to fit since the new bolt locations are too close to the edge for round washers (the small washers are no longer big enough), they end up in a packman shape.

Overall not that big of a deal, but it turns an hour job into a 4 hour job when you have to figure it all out by yourself. The Gobi rack seems to sit directly on the bumper, so I think structurally it’s fine, but the brackets look like they are still needed to keep the “down tube” support centered on the body pinch seam. So far it’s working well.