Help I just got the Smittybilt GEAR overhead Console
05-02-2012, 07:18 PM
#12
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05-23-2012, 09:37 AM
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I just installed mine in my 2012. The only thing I don't like about it is how it's off center, given that the footman loop isn't centered. Not sure if that's a 2011+ thing but it sorta bothers me, almost enough to drill new holes and use the "bolt plate" they provided instead of the factory location of the footman loop.
06-01-2012, 07:20 AM
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I just installed mine in my 2012. The only thing I don't like about it is how it's off center, given that the footman loop isn't centered. Not sure if that's a 2011+ thing but it sorta bothers me, almost enough to drill new holes and use the "bolt plate" they provided instead of the factory location of the footman loop.
06-11-2012, 05:24 AM
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So after installing this thing and running it for a couple of weeks...I think it's going to go. It looks cool, but the fact that it's off center bothers me, since I'm frequently bumping into the pouches as I turn to shoulder check.
I'm 6'2, so it does obstruct my vision a little.
Another problem with the setup is a simple design failure...the metal bar that bridges the windshield and the sound bar is "ported", I imagine to reduce weight. This is good, but it could have been better if they'd put straps on the INSIDE of the gear panel so that you could tighten up the middle of the gear portion against the metal bar, and prevent pouches from sagging down and blocking the rear view.
Also, as has been pointed out, the 2011/2012 uses the footman loop to secure the freedom top front panels. So I'm thinking I won't be able to secure them fully.
All in all, I think I'll be replacing this with a Tuffy overhead console that I can bolt additional electronics and swithc banks to.
I'm 6'2, so it does obstruct my vision a little.
Another problem with the setup is a simple design failure...the metal bar that bridges the windshield and the sound bar is "ported", I imagine to reduce weight. This is good, but it could have been better if they'd put straps on the INSIDE of the gear panel so that you could tighten up the middle of the gear portion against the metal bar, and prevent pouches from sagging down and blocking the rear view.
Also, as has been pointed out, the 2011/2012 uses the footman loop to secure the freedom top front panels. So I'm thinking I won't be able to secure them fully.
All in all, I think I'll be replacing this with a Tuffy overhead console that I can bolt additional electronics and swithc banks to.
04-03-2014, 01:13 PM
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These guys are correct. The hardtop uses the two footman loops above your visors. The middle footman loop is useless in this scenario. I installed the Smittybilt GEAR Overhead Console two weeks ago and also had to drill out the middle footman loop in my 2008 JKU Sahara. The installation was super easy and the console looks awesome. I also am running it with my Freedom hardtop though it says it's made for use with Soft tops only. It fits perfectly fine with the hardtop. When taking off the Freedom Top, I merely have to open all the latches on the outsides first, then I have ample room to lift the top a bit and unlatch the middle two. When putting the Freedom Top back on, I do the reverse, middle two latches first and then the outside latches. To make a long story short, go ahead with your install, it will look awesome and will have absolutely no negative effects when you decide to put on your Hardtop.
Attachment 311448Attachment 311449Attachment 311450
As you can see in the first picture I posted, the front latches of the Hardtop attach to the visor footman loops, not the center. Drill that sucker right out and enjoy your extra storage space with a badass look!
Attachment 311448Attachment 311449Attachment 311450
As you can see in the first picture I posted, the front latches of the Hardtop attach to the visor footman loops, not the center. Drill that sucker right out and enjoy your extra storage space with a badass look!
anyone else figure something out?
04-03-2014, 03:29 PM
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