Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members - 01-09-2013
MOUNTAIN DEW BUICK DIECAST -
I recently purchased this 1:24 scale diecast bank on eBay. Based on the Buick Regal, it was made in 1995. The box says, "LIMITED EDITION 1995" and "Darrell Waltrip 1 of 5,000."
PHOTO 1 - The top photo shows the diecast Mountain Dew Buick and the box. The lower photo shows another view of the car. The hood is the only part that opens besides a small door on the underside to remove any coins. The back window has a slot to deposit your money. The car was manufactured by the Action Performance Company. It does have all the proper company logos on it. I would imagine the company made others in this series. Of course, in the real world, this little bank would never hold enough coins to finance any major work you would want to get done to your Turbo Regal.
These diecasts are still quite reasonable on eBay. I think I paid about $30 for this one, which is brand new.
The real Mountain Dew bargain can be seen in the second photo. I know it is over 40 years old and it is a lot more collectible.
I bought it in the 1970s for either $50 or $100 on one of my road trips through the south. In the 1970s I was on the road with my Dad about 10-14 days every month, as he would have speaking engagements throughout the country. It was on these trips I would purposely drive through small towns looking for neat display items or cars to buy and bring home. (I would usually have an empty car trailer with me).
PHOTO 2 - This is an original Mountain Dew display based on their Hillbilly trademark. He stands about 3-1/2 feet tall. I believe the Mountain Dew drink was more popular in the south, which is where I bought this years ago. It is in almost mint condition and all original. Once in awhile you see them on eBay priced between $600 and $1500, depending on condition.
So, in quick review, while the Mountain Dew diecast bank has value related to the Turbo Buick, if you see an original Mountain Dew Hillbilly display for only a few hundred dollars more, buy it!
MORE BUICK TURBO MEMORIES -
If I mention the words “Window Rattle Guy,” many of you instantly know who I am referring to - Pete Serio. He accompanied us on several trips to the GS Nationals, including the one time it was held in Ohio.
He had a unique skill that was in high demand the entire time he was at those events. He was one of the very few who mastered the art of making the door windows snug against the weatherstrips on these Buicks.
We used to call this "the dollar bill test." After his adjustments, Pete would take a dollar bill and test it along the entire door window edge with the door shut. The final result was the bill would be snug between the glass and the weatherstrip.
This is one of the annoying weaknesses of our cars. Of course, we now sell replacement door hinges, which are Part #7460, #7461, #7462, and #7463.
Our 1982-1987 Buick G-Body - Window Rattle Elimination Kit, Part #7170, along with Pete Serio's very instructive " How to Eliminate Window Rattles and Wind Noise” Book, Part #6739.
We also sell 1984-1987 Regal (All Models including Turbo) - BRAND NEW Power Window Motor Kit, Part #6949, which are superior and quicker than the original power window motors.
You can type in the word "window" in the search block on our website and find more information on these parts, as well as other items related to the doors and windows.
PHOTO 3 - When I was looking through our old cartoon artwork, I came across this one. I don’t believe we ever published it before. It was done in 1999 and shows me with my black hat and Pete Serio with a screw driver in his hand. This was done by Matt Blair.
We may soon have word on having a new well-known cartoonist do some work for us. Watch for updates.
DON’T OPEN YOUR DOOR TO STRANGERS -
Photo 4 - These photos show the 4 visitors that come up to our front door as part of their daily routine. Our one neighbor (a school teacher with two boys) raised these chickens from chicks and they wander up to our place every day. Usually we see them walking around our house in the morning when we leave for work. It's amazing that our 5 outside cats, who also reside in and around our house, don’t bother them at all. I took these pictures on Christmas morning. I imagine they would ring the door bell, if it was lower on the door jamb. The top picture shows them from the inside of the house looking in, and the lower photo shows them wanting to come in when we open the door.
JANUARY WINTER CONTEST -
See last week's issue (01-02-2013) for complete details on our Winter Contest.
There are still a few days left to enter your one single guess on the selling price of that 1990 Yugo convertible at next week's Barrett-Jackson Auction in Scottsdale, Arizona. I am also running this same contest on two forums as well. Contest ends January 11th, 2013, 12 midnight eastern time. We probably have more interest in the contest than there will be bidders on the actual Yugo convertible!
UPDATE ON THE ACCUMULATOR BRAKE BOWLS -
As you read this, all our back orders for the accumulator brake bowls have been filled.
We do not expect any future delays, as ample supplies are now on hand for us to purchase.
We also have rebuilt powermasters in stock, and have others in the system getting rebuilt to keep up with the demand.
URGENT REQUEST FOR STEERING WHEEL CORES -
We need original 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering wheel cores. Currently we will issue you a $50 Letter of Credit for any useable cores in any color you send us.
Please help us help others maintain their cars by cashing in your useable steering wheel core. The steering wheel can be any color, but it can't be bent.
NEW PRODUCTS AVAILABLE FROM US -
1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) - REBUILT WIPER MOTOR
Because of the age of these cars, the wiper motor may not be working properly or may have failed.
This rebuilt wiper motor is the correct setup, which will accept the original intermittent wiper option and washer pump assembly.
You will need to remove and re-install your original washer pump assembly and intermittent housing, since it does not come with this rebuilt unit. Unfortunately, we are not able to get the washer pump or the intermittent circuit at this time.
No core is required.
NOTE - We also offer the three Wiper Motor Bushings, Part #7467. These bushings are used to secure the wiper motor to the firewall.
Another nice engine restoration item.
7468 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Rebuilt Wiper Motor - $61.95
Here is a link to this Rebuilt Wiper Motor on our website.
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44030/REBUILT%E2%80%88WIPER+MOTOR+%237468.html
1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
WIPER MOTOR BUSHINGS (3) KIT
Because of the age of these cars, the three rubber bushings that secure the wiper motor to the firewall can be in bad shape or crushed.
This kit includes the three rubber bushings with the metal inserts, which secure the wiper motor to the firewall.
NOTE - We also offer a Rebuilt Wiper Motor bushings, Part #7468.
Another nice engine restoration item.
7467 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Wiper Motor Bushings (3) Kit - $7.95 / kit
Here is a link to this Wiper Motor Bushings Kit on the website.
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44031/WIPER+MOTOR+BUSHINGS+%283%29+KIT+%237467.html
UPCOMING EVENTS FOR 2013 -
GM AT CARLISLE - June 21st thru 23rd, 2012
This event is held at the Carlisle Fairgrounds, celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Turbo Regal.
I have signed on to conduct two seminars on Saturday, June 22nd. One seminar will be on Turbo Regals and the second one will be on Hurst. So, mark your calendar.
Carlisle, as many of you know, puts on some of the largest car shows and swap meets in the USA and has done so for over 25 years. It is centrally located in Pennsylvania, just west of Harrisburg, PA and minutes off the PA turnpike and Route 81. Click on the link below for more details.
http://www.carlisleevents.com/ce/events/gm-nationals/
If you know of an event that caters to the Turbo Regal, email me the details so we can post it in this section for the 2013 season – [email protected]
LOOKING FOR IDEAS -
If you have any product ideas that would fit our Turbo Buick market, email me direct [email protected]
It may be something we will consider.
REPRODUCTION GNX SUSPENSION - NOW AVAILABLE -
Pete Hoffman has a limited number of the reproduction GNX Suspension Systems available. These are the Richard Clark systems that he has had made locally.
They are nearly exact to the originals, down to the welds and material used. They come with complete detailed instructions.
Limited availability!
Call or email Pete 215-778-1036
[email protected]
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION WORKS -
Got any turbo parts you are not using? Why not cash them in for parts you need with a Letter of Credit. Simply email me a list - [email protected].
Also, we are still buying dead or partially dead 1984-1987 Turbo Regals under $4,000 that are within 250 to 350 miles of our location.
NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE - We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these have to be low-resolution photos to work on the Inner Circle segments on the website, any photos of text don't appear clear when enlarged. This is a problem when you are trying to see numbers, such as those on the VIN labels or pages from Options booklet. Also, because of photo reproduction and computer screen variations, the colors may not be true to the actual product or photo.
If you would like to have us email you any photo at the higher resolution for viewing, just email us and we will email them to you. Be sure to be specific on which pictures you want to see - Reference Inner Circle date and photo number 1, 2, 3 or 4 - [email protected].
ABOUT OUR EMAILS -
Any inquiries concerning used parts, you must email me direct - [email protected] - I will answer you. However, if I fail to answer you within 24 hours, please email us again. Since expanding into used parts, I get a lot of emails and sometimes I may forget your request or may not remember who requested the item.
IN CLOSING –
With a new year, I guess I will have to stock up on what will soon be obsolete - the standard-style light bulbs as I believe production has ceased.
MOUNTAIN DEW BUICK DIECAST -
I recently purchased this 1:24 scale diecast bank on eBay. Based on the Buick Regal, it was made in 1995. The box says, "LIMITED EDITION 1995" and "Darrell Waltrip 1 of 5,000."
PHOTO 1 - The top photo shows the diecast Mountain Dew Buick and the box. The lower photo shows another view of the car. The hood is the only part that opens besides a small door on the underside to remove any coins. The back window has a slot to deposit your money. The car was manufactured by the Action Performance Company. It does have all the proper company logos on it. I would imagine the company made others in this series. Of course, in the real world, this little bank would never hold enough coins to finance any major work you would want to get done to your Turbo Regal.
These diecasts are still quite reasonable on eBay. I think I paid about $30 for this one, which is brand new.
The real Mountain Dew bargain can be seen in the second photo. I know it is over 40 years old and it is a lot more collectible.
I bought it in the 1970s for either $50 or $100 on one of my road trips through the south. In the 1970s I was on the road with my Dad about 10-14 days every month, as he would have speaking engagements throughout the country. It was on these trips I would purposely drive through small towns looking for neat display items or cars to buy and bring home. (I would usually have an empty car trailer with me).
PHOTO 2 - This is an original Mountain Dew display based on their Hillbilly trademark. He stands about 3-1/2 feet tall. I believe the Mountain Dew drink was more popular in the south, which is where I bought this years ago. It is in almost mint condition and all original. Once in awhile you see them on eBay priced between $600 and $1500, depending on condition.
So, in quick review, while the Mountain Dew diecast bank has value related to the Turbo Buick, if you see an original Mountain Dew Hillbilly display for only a few hundred dollars more, buy it!
MORE BUICK TURBO MEMORIES -
If I mention the words “Window Rattle Guy,” many of you instantly know who I am referring to - Pete Serio. He accompanied us on several trips to the GS Nationals, including the one time it was held in Ohio.
He had a unique skill that was in high demand the entire time he was at those events. He was one of the very few who mastered the art of making the door windows snug against the weatherstrips on these Buicks.
We used to call this "the dollar bill test." After his adjustments, Pete would take a dollar bill and test it along the entire door window edge with the door shut. The final result was the bill would be snug between the glass and the weatherstrip.
This is one of the annoying weaknesses of our cars. Of course, we now sell replacement door hinges, which are Part #7460, #7461, #7462, and #7463.
Our 1982-1987 Buick G-Body - Window Rattle Elimination Kit, Part #7170, along with Pete Serio's very instructive " How to Eliminate Window Rattles and Wind Noise” Book, Part #6739.
We also sell 1984-1987 Regal (All Models including Turbo) - BRAND NEW Power Window Motor Kit, Part #6949, which are superior and quicker than the original power window motors.
You can type in the word "window" in the search block on our website and find more information on these parts, as well as other items related to the doors and windows.
PHOTO 3 - When I was looking through our old cartoon artwork, I came across this one. I don’t believe we ever published it before. It was done in 1999 and shows me with my black hat and Pete Serio with a screw driver in his hand. This was done by Matt Blair.
We may soon have word on having a new well-known cartoonist do some work for us. Watch for updates.
DON’T OPEN YOUR DOOR TO STRANGERS -
Photo 4 - These photos show the 4 visitors that come up to our front door as part of their daily routine. Our one neighbor (a school teacher with two boys) raised these chickens from chicks and they wander up to our place every day. Usually we see them walking around our house in the morning when we leave for work. It's amazing that our 5 outside cats, who also reside in and around our house, don’t bother them at all. I took these pictures on Christmas morning. I imagine they would ring the door bell, if it was lower on the door jamb. The top picture shows them from the inside of the house looking in, and the lower photo shows them wanting to come in when we open the door.
JANUARY WINTER CONTEST -
See last week's issue (01-02-2013) for complete details on our Winter Contest.
There are still a few days left to enter your one single guess on the selling price of that 1990 Yugo convertible at next week's Barrett-Jackson Auction in Scottsdale, Arizona. I am also running this same contest on two forums as well. Contest ends January 11th, 2013, 12 midnight eastern time. We probably have more interest in the contest than there will be bidders on the actual Yugo convertible!
UPDATE ON THE ACCUMULATOR BRAKE BOWLS -
As you read this, all our back orders for the accumulator brake bowls have been filled.
We do not expect any future delays, as ample supplies are now on hand for us to purchase.
We also have rebuilt powermasters in stock, and have others in the system getting rebuilt to keep up with the demand.
URGENT REQUEST FOR STEERING WHEEL CORES -
We need original 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering wheel cores. Currently we will issue you a $50 Letter of Credit for any useable cores in any color you send us.
Please help us help others maintain their cars by cashing in your useable steering wheel core. The steering wheel can be any color, but it can't be bent.
NEW PRODUCTS AVAILABLE FROM US -
1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) - REBUILT WIPER MOTOR
Because of the age of these cars, the wiper motor may not be working properly or may have failed.
This rebuilt wiper motor is the correct setup, which will accept the original intermittent wiper option and washer pump assembly.
You will need to remove and re-install your original washer pump assembly and intermittent housing, since it does not come with this rebuilt unit. Unfortunately, we are not able to get the washer pump or the intermittent circuit at this time.
No core is required.
NOTE - We also offer the three Wiper Motor Bushings, Part #7467. These bushings are used to secure the wiper motor to the firewall.
Another nice engine restoration item.
7468 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Rebuilt Wiper Motor - $61.95
Here is a link to this Rebuilt Wiper Motor on our website.
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44030/REBUILT%E2%80%88WIPER+MOTOR+%237468.html
1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
WIPER MOTOR BUSHINGS (3) KIT
Because of the age of these cars, the three rubber bushings that secure the wiper motor to the firewall can be in bad shape or crushed.
This kit includes the three rubber bushings with the metal inserts, which secure the wiper motor to the firewall.
NOTE - We also offer a Rebuilt Wiper Motor bushings, Part #7468.
Another nice engine restoration item.
7467 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Wiper Motor Bushings (3) Kit - $7.95 / kit
Here is a link to this Wiper Motor Bushings Kit on the website.
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44031/WIPER+MOTOR+BUSHINGS+%283%29+KIT+%237467.html
UPCOMING EVENTS FOR 2013 -
GM AT CARLISLE - June 21st thru 23rd, 2012
This event is held at the Carlisle Fairgrounds, celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Turbo Regal.
I have signed on to conduct two seminars on Saturday, June 22nd. One seminar will be on Turbo Regals and the second one will be on Hurst. So, mark your calendar.
Carlisle, as many of you know, puts on some of the largest car shows and swap meets in the USA and has done so for over 25 years. It is centrally located in Pennsylvania, just west of Harrisburg, PA and minutes off the PA turnpike and Route 81. Click on the link below for more details.
http://www.carlisleevents.com/ce/events/gm-nationals/
If you know of an event that caters to the Turbo Regal, email me the details so we can post it in this section for the 2013 season – [email protected]
LOOKING FOR IDEAS -
If you have any product ideas that would fit our Turbo Buick market, email me direct [email protected]
It may be something we will consider.
REPRODUCTION GNX SUSPENSION - NOW AVAILABLE -
Pete Hoffman has a limited number of the reproduction GNX Suspension Systems available. These are the Richard Clark systems that he has had made locally.
They are nearly exact to the originals, down to the welds and material used. They come with complete detailed instructions.
Limited availability!
Call or email Pete 215-778-1036
[email protected]
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION WORKS -
Got any turbo parts you are not using? Why not cash them in for parts you need with a Letter of Credit. Simply email me a list - [email protected].
Also, we are still buying dead or partially dead 1984-1987 Turbo Regals under $4,000 that are within 250 to 350 miles of our location.
NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE - We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these have to be low-resolution photos to work on the Inner Circle segments on the website, any photos of text don't appear clear when enlarged. This is a problem when you are trying to see numbers, such as those on the VIN labels or pages from Options booklet. Also, because of photo reproduction and computer screen variations, the colors may not be true to the actual product or photo.
If you would like to have us email you any photo at the higher resolution for viewing, just email us and we will email them to you. Be sure to be specific on which pictures you want to see - Reference Inner Circle date and photo number 1, 2, 3 or 4 - [email protected].
ABOUT OUR EMAILS -
Any inquiries concerning used parts, you must email me direct - [email protected] - I will answer you. However, if I fail to answer you within 24 hours, please email us again. Since expanding into used parts, I get a lot of emails and sometimes I may forget your request or may not remember who requested the item.
IN CLOSING –
With a new year, I guess I will have to stock up on what will soon be obsolete - the standard-style light bulbs as I believe production has ceased.