2003 GMC Sonoma

Cat in the Hat

The 2003 GMC Sonoma owned by Mike Smith is a stunning example of what customization can do to a vehicle. This truck, known as “Cat in the Hat,” is a perfect representation of Smith’s passion for cars, which has been with him since he was a child. This article will delve into the details of this beautifully customized truck, providing a comprehensive overview of its features and specifications.

Smith acquired the truck already built, and while he didn’t build it himself, he has made some significant improvements since then. The paint scheme and coloring of the truck are its most notable features, with a jagged line separating the white and red colors, accented with black jagged pinstriping. The Cat in the Hat hand-painted mural on the rear tailgate adds an extra touch of personality.

The truck’s exterior has undergone several modifications, including the bed being tubbed to accommodate the wheels and axle location. The bed is Rhino-lined, and the tailgate is welded shut with a shaved tailgate handle. The stock-style lower molding on the Sonoma sides and shaved door handles with remote entry door poppers make this truck stand out. The truck has no rear bumper, and the roll pan is color-matched to the lower white color.

The “Cat in the Hat” truck’s chassis has also undergone some notable changes, with a 2-inch drop on the spindles and air shocks on all four corners. Firestone bags in the front and sleeve style in the rear, eight valves, and two VIAIR compressors make up the air ride setup. The Monroe 32245 Monro-Matic front shocks and Monroe 32207 Monro-Matic rear shocks complete the chassis modifications.

The truck’s wheels and tires are also noteworthy, with Giovanna wheels measuring 20 X 8 in the front and 20 X 9 in the rear. The 245 / 35 ZR20 tires add a sporty touch to the vehicle’s overall look. The paint scheme is accentuated by the chrome or polished wheels, steering wheel, and mirrors.

Under the hood, the truck is powered by a Vortec 4300 4.3L V6 (L35) engine, with K and N cool air intake air conditioning removal. The yellow top battery and LED tail lights round out the engine modifications. The stock clutch flywheel and torque converter, transfer case, axle, and gears are unchanged.

Moving to the truck’s interior, the stock dashboard and gauges have been retained. The steering wheel has been replaced with a chromed billet flamed steering wheel. The Sony Double DIN head unit with Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth capabilities, Alpine and NVX speakers, and NVX amps complete the sound system. The custom sub box built by Paul Howard, housing the six NVX subs in the extended cab area, and the 20% tinted windows complete the interior modifications.

In conclusion, the “Cat in the Hat” 2003 GMC Sonoma is a beautiful example of a customized truck. Mike Smith’s passion for cars is evident in the modifications he has made to this vehicle, and the attention to detail is impressive. The exterior and chassis modifications, along with the unique paint scheme and wheels, make this truck stand out from the crowd. The interior modifications, especially the custom sub box, add an extra level of comfort and style to the vehicle.

Owned by: Michael Smith TR1

Photos by: Jason Carroll