In a very personal interview with rocker Jim Malamatenios of Granite Bay, California, the concept behind this H2 build was simple: Break the mold of boring H2s lifted with wheels and tires. Stickers are cool, but paint is sick, and well, graphics are awesome. But, a rock star-style design screams rebel. Ten short months after scratching the custom Hummer surface, this reliable and totally trick H2 emerged as a Best of Show candidate.
No boring glam-rock or hair-band tunes here, we're talking bass-driving beats from a new generation of truck builders. Delivered to Rockstar Engineering in San Jose, California, the H2 was quickly lifted using a Fabtech front knuckle, custom shock hoops, and Fox Racing remote reservoir shocks. Cranking the torsion keys allowed the Hummer to clear 40-inch Irok Super Swampers protecting 20x10-inch Weld Racing Cheyenne wheels. For added good looks, the hoops, track bar, airbag hangers, and sway bar were chromed.
With the H2 up in the air and riding high, it was time to modify the exterior the only way Jim knew how-crazy. South Bay Body and Paint, in Los Gatos, California, warmed up the grinder and shaved the hood grille and filled the rear license plate holder and relocated the license plate to the driver side of the rear bumper. Rebel Designs, of Sacramento, took over from there with a paint theme that can only be described as wild and borderline insane. Veering away from the traditional ideas of luxury paint techniques, the crew created a design incorporating tribal flames, skulls, ghosts, Swiss patterns, and of course, rusted metal. Paint was not only applied to the doors and the hatch, but also to the hood, fenders, dash, doorjambs, and door panels. Speaking of the interior, Jim added some color to that as well.
T&N Upholstery, in San Jose, removed the seats, door pulls, and panels; added some Hot Rod Blue ultra-suede mixed with black alligator skin; and called it a day. Not quite satisfied, a Predator programmer was installed, along with a Volant cool-air intake, and Richmond 4.56 gears.
Before closing the book on this H2, Jim went to the pros at XTC Products to give the Hummer a unique, rugged look. On went a set of step bars, front and rear roof racks with integrated lights, and a host of billet accessories.
Now, riding in the Hummer was more like starring in your very own movie. Ah, the life of a star, it must be nice.