Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 01-09-201
A ONE-OF-KIND CHRISTMAS PRESENT –
Our son Darrell, presented me one a one-of-kind Christmas present. Eileen had seen a photo of where someone had taken a car wheel and mounted it on an outside wall to hang a water hose on. Darrell took the idea one step further and took an original steel Grand National wheel complete with the factory center cap and made a 4-point metal stand so it would be free standing. (A good move as a 30-lb wheel anchored to the siding on the house would have been a problem).
He even went so far as to put the 3.8 SFI hood emblems on each side of the center support. A special thanks to Pete Hoffman for selling Darrell the Grand National wheel.
PHOTO 1 – We show various photos of the one-of-kind Grand National wheel water hose holder and its new place alongside our house. May be the best use for old Grand National wheels!
ORIGINAL BRAKE BOWL AND BRAKE SWITCH –
You seldom see now 30 years later an original solid black brake bowl and an original black brake switch. The black brake switch was a Buick recall item in 1990 so finding a black brake switch today is quite difficult. Almost equally as difficult is to find a solid black brake bowl which was replaced with a second design in the late 1990s.
PHOTO 2 – We show in the first photo a mint original solid black brake bowl and the black brake switch. Pictured alongside is the second design GM brake bowl. With it is the later grey brake switch. This entire display is offered for a bargain price in the Rare Parts section. (Only subscribers can view the rare Parts Section). In the second photo we show an original electric fan for the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal. The electric fan is also for sale in the Rare Parts section as well.
CHRISTMAS 1987 –
In my personal collection I have another unique gift my son Darrell made for me. In September of 1987 we acquired our first 1987 Grand National.
PHOTO 3 – We show this drawing that Darrell did for me for Christmas in 1987. Note the tag on the front says MR GTO. For many years that was my one license plate on one of our vehicles and as many of you know that is how we started way back in the early 1970s.
GM SHIFTER HANDLES AND TURBO REGALS –
I think most Turbo Regal owners would agree that the factory style plastic T style handle that Buick used on the floor shift models is very primitive when compared to later GM cars. They are also easy to break the internals.
You may wonder why doesn’t any of the other GM shifter handles from the F Body and Monte Carlo SS models fit the Buick chrome shifter? The answer is quite simple. If you have your handle off your chrome shifter you will notice it has two slots at the top of the stick. One slot is at 3 o’clock and the other slot is at 9 o’clock. Once the handle is installed the slots line up with the handle to keep it from twisting.
But most or perhaps all the other GM console shifter handles the slots are at 12 noon and 6 pm making it impossible to have another style GM handle seat correctly on your Turbo Regal chrome stick.
PHOTO 4 – The photo to the left shows the side view of the chrome stick in a Grand National minus the handle. You can see the one slot which would be at the 3 o’clock position. The photo to the right is a Camaro shifter assembly and you can clearly see the slot facing you at the 6 pm position. I think I removed this from a 1994 Camaro years ago. This explains why your choices are quite limited for a nicer handle modification.
JANUARY IS COLLECTOR CAR AUCTION MONTH IN THE SOUTHWEST –
January is collector car auction in the southwest part of the country. The biggest collector car auction in January is the Barrett-Jackson with over 1,700 cars scheduled to cross the auction block. These auctions feature a lot of hype backed up in some cases by ridiculous money paid for some of the collector cars.
I read somewhere where a restored 21 window VW van is expected to bring a bid of two hundred grand! This would be a new record for a 21 window VW van. If that bid is realized what bid would the pair of sequential pair of 1987 Grand Nationals bring? Most sane people would believe the 2 Grand Nationals is a far better value. Also a 26 original mile Grand National is on tap to be sold at the Barrett-Jackson auction.
I always wonder how many auction cars do nothing more than bounce from auction to auction year after year as sellers hope to make a profit while the hype is still at a high level. Or, they do it after they wake up the next morning realizing they made a huge error in judgement.
GRAND NATIONALS ON EBAY FOR SALE –
I seldom ever look at the Grand Nationals for sale on ebay. Recently I decided to check the 1986 and 1987 Grand Nationals on ebay. Most are in the hands of dealers either owned outright or consignment. I was amazed at the amount of inaccurate information some of them put in their descriptions. One of the first lines they use is the word original and then when you view the car you can see that in some cases they are not original by a long shot. In one case they list the engine size as 3.6 instead of the 3.8. Another case lists the digital dash as a rare option and states it is a full digital dash. Not exactly sure what the word full means in the description. It’s true the digital dash was an option, but they look very barren in the dash plus due to age could need extensive repairs. In other words, the analog dash is a better format and has fewer problems. Same goes for a manual antenna, true a power antenna is an option, but a manual antenna does not have the headaches a power antenna can have. Again this is my opinion based on the 325 plus Turbo Regals we have sold over the years.
Almost none of the ads I saw show a photo of the critical SPID decal or trunk ID decal as it is sometimes called. Again, I have nothing against slightly modified cars, but ads should state that.
Granted the values of these cars continue to increase, but if you are potential buyer you need to be very careful buying from a second party that is trying to sell the car and lacks critical details that you want to know before spending over 25 grand to own one.
Nothing beats seeing the car in person or hiring an expert to check the car out. Remember pictures are great, but it’s what you don’t see in the photos that can raise a concern when spending over 25 grand. It seems that it now takes about 25 grand or more to get a nice solid original 1986 or 1987 Grand National. Miles are a consideration, but condition is more important in my opinion.
As for the 1986-1987 T-Types, Turbo-Ts, WE4s, and Turbo Limiteds prices for an equally nice original car are somewhat less and in my opinion undervalued. In other words, these models may represent a good investment in years to come. It goes without saying that the real 547 GNX models are in another price bracket altogether.
I will pass on making my thoughts on the 1984-1985 Turbo Regals values as I don’t have much background on those models. I do know that some of the unique engine components are very hard to find today. In one area they were superior at is they did have the better seats the Lear Seiglar bucket seats as an option.
TEN YEARS AND THREE HUNDRED MILLION DOLLARS –
Of all the major sports baseball is probably the safest as far as injuries go. Football and hockey are probably the most dangerous sports in my opinion. Yet, long range contracts and big money seem to be only within reach of the elite baseball players. Translation, probably one major reason ticket prices rise each year. I only follow football, but the big money is in baseball if you got a son that is any good at that sport.
I never went out for any sports in High School I was too busy working for my Dad. I do recall during gym class that I had a strong arm and was quite accurate with throwing a ball.
Summers I would ride my bike to a friend’s house that had a huge yard and we had enough guys to play baseball. The property had no trees in the way. I usually played in the outfield.
LESS THAN 5 COPIES LEFT OF OUR SPID 60-PAGE BOOKLET –
The SPID 60-page booklet that we featured in photo 2 of the 12-5-18 issue of Grand News is almost all sold out. We have fewer than 5 copies left at just $18.95 which includes USPS to the 50 states. Payment is by paypal. Email me personally if you want a copy. My email is denniskirban@yahoocom We have no plans to make another print run of this informative booklet.
CARSMARTS RADIO IS ON THE AIR AND ON THE WEB! –
Turbo V6 enthusiast Steve Saffier (who produced “The Dennis Kirban Story” on YouTube last year) is producer and host of a new automotive radio program broadcasting live every Saturday from 11am – 12 noon on 610 ESPN radio (the old WIP 610 am for those in the area.) The show talks about different aspects of the car world and Steve’s affinity for Turbo Regals and Syclone/Typhoons often is expressed in nearly every show.
You can tune in live or livestream the show at http://www.610espn.com from anywhere in the world. See http://www/carsmartsradio.com for updates on future shows.
NON-BUICK PARTS - FOR SALE –
I have several items for sale this first week. In each case the price includes shipping to the basic 48 states. Perhaps you have a relative or a good friend with one of these cars. All these items are extremely nice and priced to sell. Again, Paypal is the preferred method of payment. You must email me direct - [email protected] to purchase or check if item(s) are still available. All these items are bargain priced and extremely nice otherwise I would not bother hauling them out of the junkyard.
C-2 – See photo 4 in 11-07-2018 issue. I have 4 of these Cadillac accessory trunk mats. I have them in the trunk of all our cars and use them in the pole building to keep any leaks from getting on the concrete floor. These trunk mats were a Cadillac option around the late 1980s. The mat is reversible rubber on the one side with the Caddy crest logo and grey cloth material on the other side. The trunk mat measures 33 inches by 36 inches, almost a perfect square. Mat is the perfect size for most trunks to protect your original trunk carpet. They are charcoal grey in color. Each one is almost like new with no stains. The price is just $34.95, which includes shipping to the basic 48 states. These mats are very high quality.
C-4 – For the Subaru Outback, a full set (4) embroidered with the word Outback factory carpet savers that are absolutely mint. Grey black color weave look They are probably 1990s vintage. The price is just $38.95 for the full set, which includes shipping to the basic 48 states.
C-5 – For any 2001-2004 Honda Civic with the grey/black interior I have a mint original factory passenger embroidered floor mat and a mint one piece rear carpeted factory floor mat. The price is just $29.95, which includes shipping to the basic 48 states.
NOTE - If requested we can supply photos of any item in this section if you are unsure as to whether it will fit your application.
GOOD NEWS - WE ARE ACCEPTING CLASSIFIED ADS -
Good news - We now accept Classified Ads in our weekly Inner Circle emails. Over the years several customers have asked about placing an ad in our weekly Inner Circle.
Here are the options and the costs.
Ads can be from any individual or company. It needs to be automotive related, meaning it does not need be specifically Turbo Regal related. It can be for something for sale or something wanted.
Maximum number of words is 125 words, which is about 7 to 9 lines of copy. No photos. You can list a website. We recommend you state your name, phone number or email, a price, and your location in your ad.
The cost for 2 consecutive weeks is $25. The cost for 4 consecutive weeks is $40. You save $10 with the 4-week plan. No changes can be made to your existing running ad. You can only run one ad at any given time. We will have a code system at the end of your ad, so we will know what week number your ad is to run - 2 or 4 weeks.
It can be an ad for something for sale or an ad for something you are looking for.
We have never missed a single week since we started the Inner Circle email format in 2009. It’s something I enjoy doing and I just always seem to have enough material to write about.
Our weekly Inner Circle reaches over 3,300 members every Wednesday direct to their inbox. The Inner Circle also appears every Wednesday on our website with the related photos. Your ad would be visible to both groups of readers. So, the exposure to your ad is well over 3,200 potential buyers.
Ads submitted properly by the previous Sunday would appear that next Wednesday in the weekly Inner Circle. Ads must be submitted by email to - [email protected]
Payment by credit card must be done by phone to our office 215-766-1611 x 0.
CLASSIFIED AD –
2019 Buick Grand National/GNX Calendar. The only Buick Grand National Calendar for sale today and it is comprised of the winners of the Grand National Facebook Group Calendar Contest winners. There is a small description of each car and its owner. Sales for the calendar are phenomenal and EVERYONE has been very happy with it as you can see by the comments in the Buick Grand National Facebook Group. Cost is $20 for one. If you order 3, I will send you the 4th free. They make perfect Christmas gifts too! Order here: http://buick-grand-national.webstarts.com/store/product/3 or email [email protected]
NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE BUICK RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the Buick Rare Parts section at the end of this Inner Circle, it is because you are not an Inner Circle member, but instead are reading this on the website. You must subscribe to see the Rare Parts section each week. It would go directly to your inbox every Wednesday afternoon. It is FREE, probably one reason why nobody complains about what I write about. Simply email - [email protected] to get on our weekly Inner Circle email.
The Buick Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!
EMAILS TO KIRBAN PERFORMANCE -
NOTE- If you email us and do NOT get a timely reply, be sure to check your “SPAM” folder. Some emails do not go thru.
If you need to email us, use - [email protected]
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If there are any tips or ideas you want to share with our readers, email me –[email protected]
TIP FROM KIRBAN –
With another year behind us it is getting tougher and tougher to locate any good used parts for the Turbo Regals. It pays to not put off any purchases for used parts you need.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED - Powermaster brake units. The must be complete. We will now issue you a Letter of Credit for $150 for each acceptable core. We currently will not buy any powermaster units outright, only Letter of Credit towards parts.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number. These are the only 2 items we are currently accepting as cores.
MAIL - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949
UPS - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
6201 Kellers Church Road
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949-1199
TECH CALLS -
If you need technical information, it’s best to email - [email protected] rather than call us. We will do our best to answer any technical questions within 24 hours. Please remember I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US –
GM LICENSED - BUICK BANNERS
These distinctive Buick high-quality vinyl banners feature Buick logos and color reproductions of popular ads from that time. The designs are on 13 oz vinyl with nylon scrim (mesh) reinforced with hems and grommets. Here are several distinctive banners we currently offer. We have more designs in the process of being licensed to include Buick GS models, Pontiac GTO, and Oldsmobile 442 models.
These banners make an excellent gift for any Buick enthusiast or mechanic. Ideal to hang in any garage, workshop, office or to display at a car show.
#8600 - GM Licensed - “GNX” A HIGH-PERFORMANCE INVESTMENT FOR THE FORTUNATE 547”-4'W x 2'H Black Vinyl Banner - $42.95
#8601 - GM Licensed - “GNX - AD from ASC” - 2'W x 3'H Vinyl Banner - $38.95
#8602 - GM Licensed - “1987 GRAND NATIONAL” with Hub Caps Background - 4'W x 2'HVinyl Banner - $42.95
#8603 - GM Licensed - “WE4” with Racing Checkered Flags Background - 3'W x 2'H Vinyl Banner - $38.95
#8604 - GM Licensed - “T-TYPE - A BOOST OF BUICK PERFORMANCE” - 4'W x 2'H Vinyl Banner-$42.95
#8605-GM Licensed - “TURBO-SIX - BUICK MOTORSPORTS” - 4'W x 2'H Vinyl Banner-$42.95
#8606 - GM Licensed - “1984 GRAND NATIONAL - The hottest Buick this side of a banked oval.” - 2'W x 3'H Vinyl Banner - $38.95
#8607 - GM Licensed - “1986 GRAND NATIONAL - It’s Bad. And that’s Good.” - 2'W x 3'H Vinyl Banner - $38.95
#8608 - GM Licensed - “BUICK 3.8 SFI TURBO ENGINE” - 2'W x 3'H Vinyl Banner - $38.95
#8609 - GM Licensed - “1987 Buick Regal Turbo-T WE4” - 3'W x 2'H Vinyl Banner - $38.95
Here is the link to all the banners on our website.
GM LICENSED “GRAND NATIONAL LOGO” T-SHIRTS
For the many Turbo Regal enthusiasts out there, we now carry this handsome GM licensed “GRAND NATIONAL” T-shirt in 3 different T-shirt colors - white - black - dark gray. Shirts are high-quality pre-shrunk 100% cotton. Design colors are red, orange, white, and black.
We only stock the popular sizes - LARGE, X LARGE, XX LARGE LARGE and XXX-LARGE.
This sharp design features the Grand National logo along with the Turbo-six logo on the front.
T-shirt makes a great statement at a car show and it also makes a great gift for that Turbo enthusiast or for your mechanic.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related items - #7671, #7672 and #7673 “TOP 10 REASONS I OWN A BUICK GRAND NATIONAL” T-Shirts in LARGE, X-LARGE, and XX-LARGE.
Here are the 12 options for these T-shirts.
7845-L - GM Licensed “GRAND NATIONAL LOGO” WHITE T-shirt - size LARGE - $18
7845-XL - GM Licensed “GRAND NATIONAL LOGO” WHITE T-shirt - size X-LARGE - $18
7845-XXL - GM Licensed “GRAND NATIONAL LOGO” WHITE T-shirt - size XX-LARGE - $18
7845-XXXL - GM Licensed “GRAND NATIONAL LOGO” WHITE T-shirt - size XX-LARGE - $20
7846-L - GM Licensed “GRAND NATIONAL LOGO” BLACK T-shirt - size LARGE - $18
7846-XL - GM Licensed “GRAND NATIONAL LOGO” BLACK T-shirt - size X-LARGE - $18
7846-XXL - GM Licensed “GRAND NATIONAL LOGO” BLACK T-shirt - size XX-LARGE - $18
7846-XXXL - GM Licensed “GRAND NATIONAL LOGO” BLACK T-shirt - size XX-LARGE - $20
7847-L - GM Licensed “GRAND NATIONAL LOGO” DARK GRAY T-shirt - size LARGE - $18
7847-XL - GM Licensed “GRAND NATIONAL LOGO” DARK GRAY T-shirt - size X-LARGE - $18
7847-XXL - GM Licensed “GRAND NATIONAL LOGO” DARK GRAY T-shirt - size XX-LARGE - $18
7847-XXXL - GM Licensed “GRAND NATIONAL LOGO” DARK GRAY T-shirt - size XX-LARGE - $20
Here is a link to these T-shirts on our website.
ALWAYS LOOKING FOR IDEAS -
If you have any product ideas that would fit our Turbo Buick market that you would like to see available, email me direct - [email protected]
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION FOR TURBO REGAL PARTS -
Got any Turbo Buick parts you are not using? Why not cash them in for parts you need with a Letter of Credit. We also may buy your new or used parts. 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 LINKS IN THE INNER CIRCLE -
We have heard from a couple people that have had problems with the links in our Inner Circle.
When we check the links, they work fine. However, if you are not able to be directed to the exact website page or internet site, you can "copy" and "paste" the link into the URL in your browser (such as Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
Most people having problems are using Internet Explorer. If you are having issues with links, try another browser to see if it works.
You may need to "UPDATE" your browser to be use you are using the current version.
NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE -
We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these must 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.
A ONE-OF-KIND CHRISTMAS PRESENT –
Our son Darrell, presented me one a one-of-kind Christmas present. Eileen had seen a photo of where someone had taken a car wheel and mounted it on an outside wall to hang a water hose on. Darrell took the idea one step further and took an original steel Grand National wheel complete with the factory center cap and made a 4-point metal stand so it would be free standing. (A good move as a 30-lb wheel anchored to the siding on the house would have been a problem).
He even went so far as to put the 3.8 SFI hood emblems on each side of the center support. A special thanks to Pete Hoffman for selling Darrell the Grand National wheel.
PHOTO 1 – We show various photos of the one-of-kind Grand National wheel water hose holder and its new place alongside our house. May be the best use for old Grand National wheels!
ORIGINAL BRAKE BOWL AND BRAKE SWITCH –
You seldom see now 30 years later an original solid black brake bowl and an original black brake switch. The black brake switch was a Buick recall item in 1990 so finding a black brake switch today is quite difficult. Almost equally as difficult is to find a solid black brake bowl which was replaced with a second design in the late 1990s.
PHOTO 2 – We show in the first photo a mint original solid black brake bowl and the black brake switch. Pictured alongside is the second design GM brake bowl. With it is the later grey brake switch. This entire display is offered for a bargain price in the Rare Parts section. (Only subscribers can view the rare Parts Section). In the second photo we show an original electric fan for the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal. The electric fan is also for sale in the Rare Parts section as well.
CHRISTMAS 1987 –
In my personal collection I have another unique gift my son Darrell made for me. In September of 1987 we acquired our first 1987 Grand National.
PHOTO 3 – We show this drawing that Darrell did for me for Christmas in 1987. Note the tag on the front says MR GTO. For many years that was my one license plate on one of our vehicles and as many of you know that is how we started way back in the early 1970s.
GM SHIFTER HANDLES AND TURBO REGALS –
I think most Turbo Regal owners would agree that the factory style plastic T style handle that Buick used on the floor shift models is very primitive when compared to later GM cars. They are also easy to break the internals.
You may wonder why doesn’t any of the other GM shifter handles from the F Body and Monte Carlo SS models fit the Buick chrome shifter? The answer is quite simple. If you have your handle off your chrome shifter you will notice it has two slots at the top of the stick. One slot is at 3 o’clock and the other slot is at 9 o’clock. Once the handle is installed the slots line up with the handle to keep it from twisting.
But most or perhaps all the other GM console shifter handles the slots are at 12 noon and 6 pm making it impossible to have another style GM handle seat correctly on your Turbo Regal chrome stick.
PHOTO 4 – The photo to the left shows the side view of the chrome stick in a Grand National minus the handle. You can see the one slot which would be at the 3 o’clock position. The photo to the right is a Camaro shifter assembly and you can clearly see the slot facing you at the 6 pm position. I think I removed this from a 1994 Camaro years ago. This explains why your choices are quite limited for a nicer handle modification.
JANUARY IS COLLECTOR CAR AUCTION MONTH IN THE SOUTHWEST –
January is collector car auction in the southwest part of the country. The biggest collector car auction in January is the Barrett-Jackson with over 1,700 cars scheduled to cross the auction block. These auctions feature a lot of hype backed up in some cases by ridiculous money paid for some of the collector cars.
I read somewhere where a restored 21 window VW van is expected to bring a bid of two hundred grand! This would be a new record for a 21 window VW van. If that bid is realized what bid would the pair of sequential pair of 1987 Grand Nationals bring? Most sane people would believe the 2 Grand Nationals is a far better value. Also a 26 original mile Grand National is on tap to be sold at the Barrett-Jackson auction.
I always wonder how many auction cars do nothing more than bounce from auction to auction year after year as sellers hope to make a profit while the hype is still at a high level. Or, they do it after they wake up the next morning realizing they made a huge error in judgement.
GRAND NATIONALS ON EBAY FOR SALE –
I seldom ever look at the Grand Nationals for sale on ebay. Recently I decided to check the 1986 and 1987 Grand Nationals on ebay. Most are in the hands of dealers either owned outright or consignment. I was amazed at the amount of inaccurate information some of them put in their descriptions. One of the first lines they use is the word original and then when you view the car you can see that in some cases they are not original by a long shot. In one case they list the engine size as 3.6 instead of the 3.8. Another case lists the digital dash as a rare option and states it is a full digital dash. Not exactly sure what the word full means in the description. It’s true the digital dash was an option, but they look very barren in the dash plus due to age could need extensive repairs. In other words, the analog dash is a better format and has fewer problems. Same goes for a manual antenna, true a power antenna is an option, but a manual antenna does not have the headaches a power antenna can have. Again this is my opinion based on the 325 plus Turbo Regals we have sold over the years.
Almost none of the ads I saw show a photo of the critical SPID decal or trunk ID decal as it is sometimes called. Again, I have nothing against slightly modified cars, but ads should state that.
Granted the values of these cars continue to increase, but if you are potential buyer you need to be very careful buying from a second party that is trying to sell the car and lacks critical details that you want to know before spending over 25 grand to own one.
Nothing beats seeing the car in person or hiring an expert to check the car out. Remember pictures are great, but it’s what you don’t see in the photos that can raise a concern when spending over 25 grand. It seems that it now takes about 25 grand or more to get a nice solid original 1986 or 1987 Grand National. Miles are a consideration, but condition is more important in my opinion.
As for the 1986-1987 T-Types, Turbo-Ts, WE4s, and Turbo Limiteds prices for an equally nice original car are somewhat less and in my opinion undervalued. In other words, these models may represent a good investment in years to come. It goes without saying that the real 547 GNX models are in another price bracket altogether.
I will pass on making my thoughts on the 1984-1985 Turbo Regals values as I don’t have much background on those models. I do know that some of the unique engine components are very hard to find today. In one area they were superior at is they did have the better seats the Lear Seiglar bucket seats as an option.
TEN YEARS AND THREE HUNDRED MILLION DOLLARS –
Of all the major sports baseball is probably the safest as far as injuries go. Football and hockey are probably the most dangerous sports in my opinion. Yet, long range contracts and big money seem to be only within reach of the elite baseball players. Translation, probably one major reason ticket prices rise each year. I only follow football, but the big money is in baseball if you got a son that is any good at that sport.
I never went out for any sports in High School I was too busy working for my Dad. I do recall during gym class that I had a strong arm and was quite accurate with throwing a ball.
Summers I would ride my bike to a friend’s house that had a huge yard and we had enough guys to play baseball. The property had no trees in the way. I usually played in the outfield.
LESS THAN 5 COPIES LEFT OF OUR SPID 60-PAGE BOOKLET –
The SPID 60-page booklet that we featured in photo 2 of the 12-5-18 issue of Grand News is almost all sold out. We have fewer than 5 copies left at just $18.95 which includes USPS to the 50 states. Payment is by paypal. Email me personally if you want a copy. My email is denniskirban@yahoocom We have no plans to make another print run of this informative booklet.
CARSMARTS RADIO IS ON THE AIR AND ON THE WEB! –
Turbo V6 enthusiast Steve Saffier (who produced “The Dennis Kirban Story” on YouTube last year) is producer and host of a new automotive radio program broadcasting live every Saturday from 11am – 12 noon on 610 ESPN radio (the old WIP 610 am for those in the area.) The show talks about different aspects of the car world and Steve’s affinity for Turbo Regals and Syclone/Typhoons often is expressed in nearly every show.
You can tune in live or livestream the show at http://www.610espn.com from anywhere in the world. See http://www/carsmartsradio.com for updates on future shows.
NON-BUICK PARTS - FOR SALE –
I have several items for sale this first week. In each case the price includes shipping to the basic 48 states. Perhaps you have a relative or a good friend with one of these cars. All these items are extremely nice and priced to sell. Again, Paypal is the preferred method of payment. You must email me direct - [email protected] to purchase or check if item(s) are still available. All these items are bargain priced and extremely nice otherwise I would not bother hauling them out of the junkyard.
C-2 – See photo 4 in 11-07-2018 issue. I have 4 of these Cadillac accessory trunk mats. I have them in the trunk of all our cars and use them in the pole building to keep any leaks from getting on the concrete floor. These trunk mats were a Cadillac option around the late 1980s. The mat is reversible rubber on the one side with the Caddy crest logo and grey cloth material on the other side. The trunk mat measures 33 inches by 36 inches, almost a perfect square. Mat is the perfect size for most trunks to protect your original trunk carpet. They are charcoal grey in color. Each one is almost like new with no stains. The price is just $34.95, which includes shipping to the basic 48 states. These mats are very high quality.
C-4 – For the Subaru Outback, a full set (4) embroidered with the word Outback factory carpet savers that are absolutely mint. Grey black color weave look They are probably 1990s vintage. The price is just $38.95 for the full set, which includes shipping to the basic 48 states.
C-5 – For any 2001-2004 Honda Civic with the grey/black interior I have a mint original factory passenger embroidered floor mat and a mint one piece rear carpeted factory floor mat. The price is just $29.95, which includes shipping to the basic 48 states.
NOTE - If requested we can supply photos of any item in this section if you are unsure as to whether it will fit your application.
GOOD NEWS - WE ARE ACCEPTING CLASSIFIED ADS -
Good news - We now accept Classified Ads in our weekly Inner Circle emails. Over the years several customers have asked about placing an ad in our weekly Inner Circle.
Here are the options and the costs.
Ads can be from any individual or company. It needs to be automotive related, meaning it does not need be specifically Turbo Regal related. It can be for something for sale or something wanted.
Maximum number of words is 125 words, which is about 7 to 9 lines of copy. No photos. You can list a website. We recommend you state your name, phone number or email, a price, and your location in your ad.
The cost for 2 consecutive weeks is $25. The cost for 4 consecutive weeks is $40. You save $10 with the 4-week plan. No changes can be made to your existing running ad. You can only run one ad at any given time. We will have a code system at the end of your ad, so we will know what week number your ad is to run - 2 or 4 weeks.
It can be an ad for something for sale or an ad for something you are looking for.
We have never missed a single week since we started the Inner Circle email format in 2009. It’s something I enjoy doing and I just always seem to have enough material to write about.
Our weekly Inner Circle reaches over 3,300 members every Wednesday direct to their inbox. The Inner Circle also appears every Wednesday on our website with the related photos. Your ad would be visible to both groups of readers. So, the exposure to your ad is well over 3,200 potential buyers.
Ads submitted properly by the previous Sunday would appear that next Wednesday in the weekly Inner Circle. Ads must be submitted by email to - [email protected]
Payment by credit card must be done by phone to our office 215-766-1611 x 0.
CLASSIFIED AD –
2019 Buick Grand National/GNX Calendar. The only Buick Grand National Calendar for sale today and it is comprised of the winners of the Grand National Facebook Group Calendar Contest winners. There is a small description of each car and its owner. Sales for the calendar are phenomenal and EVERYONE has been very happy with it as you can see by the comments in the Buick Grand National Facebook Group. Cost is $20 for one. If you order 3, I will send you the 4th free. They make perfect Christmas gifts too! Order here: http://buick-grand-national.webstarts.com/store/product/3 or email [email protected]
NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE BUICK RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the Buick Rare Parts section at the end of this Inner Circle, it is because you are not an Inner Circle member, but instead are reading this on the website. You must subscribe to see the Rare Parts section each week. It would go directly to your inbox every Wednesday afternoon. It is FREE, probably one reason why nobody complains about what I write about. Simply email - [email protected] to get on our weekly Inner Circle email.
The Buick Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!
EMAILS TO KIRBAN PERFORMANCE -
NOTE- If you email us and do NOT get a timely reply, be sure to check your “SPAM” folder. Some emails do not go thru.
If you need to email us, use - [email protected]
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If there are any tips or ideas you want to share with our readers, email me –[email protected]
TIP FROM KIRBAN –
With another year behind us it is getting tougher and tougher to locate any good used parts for the Turbo Regals. It pays to not put off any purchases for used parts you need.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED - Powermaster brake units. The must be complete. We will now issue you a Letter of Credit for $150 for each acceptable core. We currently will not buy any powermaster units outright, only Letter of Credit towards parts.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number. These are the only 2 items we are currently accepting as cores.
MAIL - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949
UPS - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
6201 Kellers Church Road
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949-1199
TECH CALLS -
If you need technical information, it’s best to email - [email protected] rather than call us. We will do our best to answer any technical questions within 24 hours. Please remember I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US –
GM LICENSED - BUICK BANNERS
These distinctive Buick high-quality vinyl banners feature Buick logos and color reproductions of popular ads from that time. The designs are on 13 oz vinyl with nylon scrim (mesh) reinforced with hems and grommets. Here are several distinctive banners we currently offer. We have more designs in the process of being licensed to include Buick GS models, Pontiac GTO, and Oldsmobile 442 models.
These banners make an excellent gift for any Buick enthusiast or mechanic. Ideal to hang in any garage, workshop, office or to display at a car show.
#8600 - GM Licensed - “GNX” A HIGH-PERFORMANCE INVESTMENT FOR THE FORTUNATE 547”-4'W x 2'H Black Vinyl Banner - $42.95
#8601 - GM Licensed - “GNX - AD from ASC” - 2'W x 3'H Vinyl Banner - $38.95
#8602 - GM Licensed - “1987 GRAND NATIONAL” with Hub Caps Background - 4'W x 2'HVinyl Banner - $42.95
#8603 - GM Licensed - “WE4” with Racing Checkered Flags Background - 3'W x 2'H Vinyl Banner - $38.95
#8604 - GM Licensed - “T-TYPE - A BOOST OF BUICK PERFORMANCE” - 4'W x 2'H Vinyl Banner-$42.95
#8605-GM Licensed - “TURBO-SIX - BUICK MOTORSPORTS” - 4'W x 2'H Vinyl Banner-$42.95
#8606 - GM Licensed - “1984 GRAND NATIONAL - The hottest Buick this side of a banked oval.” - 2'W x 3'H Vinyl Banner - $38.95
#8607 - GM Licensed - “1986 GRAND NATIONAL - It’s Bad. And that’s Good.” - 2'W x 3'H Vinyl Banner - $38.95
#8608 - GM Licensed - “BUICK 3.8 SFI TURBO ENGINE” - 2'W x 3'H Vinyl Banner - $38.95
#8609 - GM Licensed - “1987 Buick Regal Turbo-T WE4” - 3'W x 2'H Vinyl Banner - $38.95
Here is the link to all the banners on our website.
GM LICENSED “GRAND NATIONAL LOGO” T-SHIRTS
For the many Turbo Regal enthusiasts out there, we now carry this handsome GM licensed “GRAND NATIONAL” T-shirt in 3 different T-shirt colors - white - black - dark gray. Shirts are high-quality pre-shrunk 100% cotton. Design colors are red, orange, white, and black.
We only stock the popular sizes - LARGE, X LARGE, XX LARGE LARGE and XXX-LARGE.
This sharp design features the Grand National logo along with the Turbo-six logo on the front.
T-shirt makes a great statement at a car show and it also makes a great gift for that Turbo enthusiast or for your mechanic.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related items - #7671, #7672 and #7673 “TOP 10 REASONS I OWN A BUICK GRAND NATIONAL” T-Shirts in LARGE, X-LARGE, and XX-LARGE.
Here are the 12 options for these T-shirts.
7845-L - GM Licensed “GRAND NATIONAL LOGO” WHITE T-shirt - size LARGE - $18
7845-XL - GM Licensed “GRAND NATIONAL LOGO” WHITE T-shirt - size X-LARGE - $18
7845-XXL - GM Licensed “GRAND NATIONAL LOGO” WHITE T-shirt - size XX-LARGE - $18
7845-XXXL - GM Licensed “GRAND NATIONAL LOGO” WHITE T-shirt - size XX-LARGE - $20
7846-L - GM Licensed “GRAND NATIONAL LOGO” BLACK T-shirt - size LARGE - $18
7846-XL - GM Licensed “GRAND NATIONAL LOGO” BLACK T-shirt - size X-LARGE - $18
7846-XXL - GM Licensed “GRAND NATIONAL LOGO” BLACK T-shirt - size XX-LARGE - $18
7846-XXXL - GM Licensed “GRAND NATIONAL LOGO” BLACK T-shirt - size XX-LARGE - $20
7847-L - GM Licensed “GRAND NATIONAL LOGO” DARK GRAY T-shirt - size LARGE - $18
7847-XL - GM Licensed “GRAND NATIONAL LOGO” DARK GRAY T-shirt - size X-LARGE - $18
7847-XXL - GM Licensed “GRAND NATIONAL LOGO” DARK GRAY T-shirt - size XX-LARGE - $18
7847-XXXL - GM Licensed “GRAND NATIONAL LOGO” DARK GRAY T-shirt - size XX-LARGE - $20
Here is a link to these T-shirts on our website.
ALWAYS LOOKING FOR IDEAS -
If you have any product ideas that would fit our Turbo Buick market that you would like to see available, email me direct - [email protected]
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION FOR TURBO REGAL PARTS -
Got any Turbo Buick parts you are not using? Why not cash them in for parts you need with a Letter of Credit. We also may buy your new or used parts. 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 LINKS IN THE INNER CIRCLE -
We have heard from a couple people that have had problems with the links in our Inner Circle.
When we check the links, they work fine. However, if you are not able to be directed to the exact website page or internet site, you can "copy" and "paste" the link into the URL in your browser (such as Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
Most people having problems are using Internet Explorer. If you are having issues with links, try another browser to see if it works.
You may need to "UPDATE" your browser to be use you are using the current version.
NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE -
We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these must 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.