Corona, CA — March 30, 2026 — TMI Products proudly announces the second official winner of the 2026 TMI TRIM Road Tour: Shannon Gaither’s 1965 Chevrolet Suburban, affectionately known as “Papa Smurf.” The award was presented during the HotRods N’ Heroes Show benefiting The HBPD 42 Foundation in partnership with QruisinPCH, recognizing the build’s exceptional craftsmanship, innovative interior design, and commanding presence.

The Suburban was personally judged and selected by industry veterans Kevin, Oeste, Jason Mulligan, Marcel Venable, Sean Holman, and Theresa Contraras who evaluated an elite field of vehicles before choosing Papa Smurf for its flawless execution and cohesive design. From its meticulously crafted interior to its unmistakable stance, the build exemplifies the level of excellence the TMI TRIM Road Tour was created to celebrate.

Papa Smurf was prominently featured in the New Gen Wheels booth, where it served as the launch platform for the brand’s all-new custom wheel design, “The Ocho.” This modern interpretation of a classic hubcap immediately caught the judges’ attention. The 22×8.5” front and 22×10” rear wheels feature centers coated in Prismatic “Tuscan Sun,” perfectly color-matched to the TMI interior. The same Tuscan Sun finish carries throughout the engine bay—appearing on the valve covers, hardware, air intake, and carb hats—creating a cohesive, show-stopping presentation under the Huntington Beach, California sun.

Powering the Suburban is a custom-built 292 inline-six Chevrolet engine, topped with a prototype FiTech 2×2 fuel injection system and enhanced with a turbocharger—delivering performance that quite literally throws you back into the TMI seats.

Inside, the craftsmanship continues with TMI Pro Classic Bucket Seats upholstered in Premium Distressed Buck Tan Vinyl, paired with Sport R microsuede tan inserts and brown contrast stitching. The rear of the cab features matching 48-inch TMI bench seats, positioned back-to-back to cover a custom A-frame enclosure housing a Kicker speaker box with amplifiers.

The interior is further elevated by molded fiberglass door panels, a full-wrap steering wheel, and a thoughtfully executed custom center console whose side panels mirror the door panel design for a seamless, unified look. Custom kick panels and rear quarter panels, all wrapped in matching Premium Distressed Buck Tan vinyl, complete an interior that flows effortlessly from front to back.

“Papa Smurf” stands as a powerful example of what the TMI TRIM Road Tour represents: high-end design, exceptional craftsmanship, and interiors that continue to raise the bar. As the second winner of the 2026 season, Shannon’s Suburban continues to set a benchmark for the remaining tour stops still to come.

With its award-winning interior, bold stance, and meticulous attention to detail, Shannon Gaither’s 1965 Chevy Suburban is more than a show vehicle—it’s a statement on the elite level of builds competing in the 2026 TMI TRIM Road Tour.

Upcoming 2026 TMI TRIM Road Tour Stops:

• C10 Nationals — Fort Worth, TX | May 8–9, 2026
• TMI Cars & Clearance — Corona, CA | August 15, 2026
• Triple Crown of Rodding — Nashville, TN | September 11–12, 2026

If you believe your TMI-equipped ride has what it takes, don’t wait—sign up today and become part of the 2026 TMI TRIM Road Tour.