TMI Products announced 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 on March 29. The Suburban build was recognized for its exceptional craftsmanship, innovative interior design and commanding presence, TMI officials stated in a press release.
The vehicle 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, noted the release.
“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,” a modern interpretation of a classic hubcap. 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 presentation.
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.
‘Papa Smurf’s’ Award-Winning Interior
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, company officials said.
Upcoming 2026 TMI TRIM Road Tour Stops
Here are the shows, locations and dates for the next three competitions:
- C10 Nationals – Fort Worth, Texas | May 8–9, 2026
- TMI Cars & Clearance – Corona, California | Aug. 15, 2026
- Triple Crown of Rodding – Nashville, Tennessee | Sept. 11–12, 2026
If you would like to enter a vehicle in any of the upcoming tour stops, you can sign up at 2026 TMI TRIM Road Tour.