Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 01-30-2019 –
SELLING ONE OF OUR PERSONAL CARS –
Over the years we have sold approximately 8 of our personal cars to our Turbo customers. One customer actually bought 3 different personal cars from us. I am referring to non-Turbo Regals. All our personal cars are top notch in condition, mechanics, and appearance. I spent a lot of time seeking out extremely well cared for cars to buy to replace any of our cars.
This is one such example. I am giving our readers first crack at this before I put it on the local car lot that I have a license with.
Car is a fully loaded top for the line Silver 2004 Honda Accord EX V6. I have all the records from the previous owner. Car has always been owner by a non-smoker. I just had the oil changed last week. Motor runs whisper quiet even when cold. Does not drip or leak or use oil period. Body has zero dents zero scratches in it.
Well optioned with black leather power buckets seats, sat radio, heated seats remote entry (2 keys) manuals in glove box, power seats, moon roof, steering wheel controls just to name some of the options. Silver exterior with all VIN decals on every panel no paint work and never hit. Major things I have done to the car. I put brand new alloy wheels on it with new Michelin tires. All new brakes, brand new factory floor mats, brand new headlights. Replace both front and rear bumpers do to cracks and flaking. So only the bumpers are not original due to paint flaking issues etc.
Here is how I rate the car. Body is a grade 9. Trunk is a 10. Interior is a grade 8.5, exterior is a grade 8.5. Engine compartment is a grade 9. Underside is a grade 9. It is a fine example no matter what angle you look at. The car has always been garaged while we owned it.
The actual miles are 190,000. If you are familiar with Hondas that mileage is nothing on a Honda that has had excellent care. It looks better and runs better than most cars with 90,000 miles on it. I’ve seen many of them at the 2 bid lots that don’t even come close to the condition our car is in with 190,000 miles. Back seat looks like it was never used. Rugs are perfect they have no stains no smells. Same goes for door panels zero wear on any of the door panels.
I am asking $4,495. I can provide other photos if you want. My direct email is [email protected]
Everything works perfectly. Car is inspected until June 2019. No smells no odors. Interesting partial trade considered. Even Buick parts considered in trade.
I got records with the car all the way back to 2009 when the Honda had 49,000 miles on it. The transmission was rebuilt at 146,000 miles. The timing belt was done at 102,000 miles. I have receipts to back that up. Oil changed every 5,000 miles. From the receipts I have it appears it was in the same family since 2009 until I bought it in 2016. (The last name is the same on the records back to 2009).
I purchased it in August of 2016 when it had 158,700 on the Honda. The car now has 190,000 miles on it.
PHOTO 1 & 2 – We show various photos of our 2004 Honda Accord Sedan EX model that we are selling. If you are interested email me direct [email protected] I can also send you other photos. This car is exactly as described with zero surprises for the next owner.
BREAKING NEWS - FOR SALE - 2013 INFINITI G37X MODEL -
The local country dealership I work with and have a sales license with has this extremely nice car for sale. Rare combination of black exterior with matching black leather. It is a G37X model with all-wheel drive and navigation.
Actual miles 54,800 and it’s been garaged. Zero accidents. a very elegant looking sedan that is quite powerful, non-smoker car. The price is $14,995. Email me [email protected] for photos. The lot is located about 10 minutes from our house.
1972 BUICK SKYLARK TURBO POWERED –
Brandon Chance out of Ohio sent me photos of a project he was working on with his Uncle. He had a 1972 Buick Skylark and a wrecked 1987 Grand National. Brandon’s idea was to put the Grand National interior and drive train in the 1972 Buick Skylark.
He even cut the bulge out of the Grand National hood and put it on the Skylark hood. Unfortunately, Brandon and his Uncle abandoned the project and it never got completed.
PHOTO 3 – Shows the photos that Brandon sent me showing the wrecked Grand National and the 1972 Skylark. The top left photo shows Brandon with his wife alongside the 1972 Buick Skylark. The top right photo shows the wrecked Grand National. The bottom left photo shows his Uncle dismantling the Grand National. The last photo was done on a computer. Unfortunately it was easily to do on a computer than make it a turnkey project!
GM DOOR VIN DECALS –
Last week’s Inner Circle we touched on the very early GM door VIN decal which was a single decal that started with the 1970 GM models in the fall of 1969. This VIN decal is a critical part of the cars DNA.
Every few years GM made subtle changes to the VIN door decals. GM started out with one single blue VIN decal which later expanded it to 2 decals. One decal had the VIN number on it with the data and other information. The additional decal pertained to the size tires, inflation, psi and the vehicle weight These later pair of door decals could not be removed and reused due to the paper they were printed on. They also were known to fade over a period of time. Some cleaning solvents would also make the type unreadable.
The 1984 through 1986 door decals were pretty much the same those 3 years. The years just prior to 1984 for example 1981 was a little different. The tire specs decal was slightly larger than the VIN info decal was.
PHOTO 4 – The top left shows the critical VIN decal for a 1981 GM car. The top right shows the matching 1981 door decal for the tire information. You can clearly see it is slightly larger. The bottom left and right decals show a typical 1986 GM VIN decal and the corresponding 1986 tire information decal. It is important to note that in the bottom right hand corner of each year decal is the GM part number which would be different for each year regardless if the font style and size of the decal was the same for certain years.
The good news is we can get you an excellent reproduction of your door decals. Of all the decals that are on your 1984-1987 Turbo Regal or any other GM car between 1970 and 1987 we can get them done for you through ECS Automotive Concepts. The turn-around is usually 5-7 days as they are sent directly to you. Our part numbers are #7900 through #7903. Call Christina if you have a GM vehicle older than the 1984 model. Those prices are slightly cheaper if it is a single decal.
SPEAKING OF RARE OPTIONS UPDATE –
In last week’s issue we pointed out a very are option on a late model GTO the tent option. We also noted on the mid 1950s Chevy the vacuum operated ash tray that would suck the ashes out of the ash tray. Neither option was probably popular when the cars were new. I know the tent option for the GTO was hardly a hit. GTO buyers wanted power not some pop up tent!
In the 1950s smoking was quite popular so smokers never saw the need to pay extra for something to remove the ashes. Most owners simply let the ashes spill on the floor. I put the question out there as to what two options do you think are rare to the Turbo Regals.
The clue in my question was Turbo Regals. This is because the two rarest options that I have seen or not seen in quantity are related to the 1987 Turbo Limited. One option was the Opera lights which were on the exterior sale panel behind the quarter glass.
Years ago I remember having in the GM wrapper all the parts for a pair of them. Cadillac may have had the same option. I had one Limited years ago that had that option it also had the two tone paint option. It was one of those cars that the original buyer or dealer ordered it with virtually every option.
Course as you know checking off every option ads additional weight and additional weight cuts down on your 0to60 times.
The other option that is equally as rare or rarer is the thicker padded roof. All these years I only seen one and it was at the GS Nationals. It is one of those options that don’t catch your eye immediately until you look closer at it as it wraps around the back window. It seems like a silly option that maybe Caddy buyers would go for.
We did hear from Mike Palmer and his guess was the Opera lights, He also thought chrome mirrors would be another one. It’s not like any answer is wrong as I based it on what I have seen over a 30 year span or owned in that 30 year span. Plus there can be countless combinations on a T-Type or Turbo-T featuring a tow tone paint job and maybe T-Tops and a padded roof. In other words there can be 3 major exterior options on the same car.
In case you’re wondering the regular padded roof option the SPID code is CB4 with a price tag of $200. The heavily padded optional one was code CO4 with a price tag of $260.
While most owners refer to the unique lights on the rear pillars as Opera Lights the GM wording is Electroluminescent Coach Lamps. The SPID code for that option is C93 with a price tag of $102. As for the two tone paint GM called it Designers Accent Paint which was limited to paint codes 115, 31, 62, or 79 matching color tops with pant 15, 31, or 79. The SPID code was D84 with a $205 price tag.
ON A SIMILAR NOTE –
I just realized there really is one rarer option than the few I have mentioned. Plus it was available every year (1984-1987) and the price each year was the same. It was also quite a bargain. What is your guess as to this super rare option? Email me at [email protected] if you think you know the answer. I will publish the answer next week!
HOME VOICE ACTIVATED SPEAKER BY GOOGLE -
For Christmas I bought Eileen the Home Voice Activated Speaker by Google. You ask it a question and it gives you the answer. It is possible to stump Google. I asked it “What does it take to get into Heaven”? Google had the right answer. You need to be saved. So, simply banking on good deeds or being a good citizen won’t do the trick. (I am not trying to be preachy).
I then asked Google “What was the fastest US production car in 1987?”
It answered quickly and stated in 1986 and 1987 the Buick Grand National was the fastest US Production car! No hesitation at all with the answer. Not something Corvette owners want to hear!
Then I asked it about Yugo production run. Turns out the lowly Yugo made it to 1992 before production stopped. Sales of course fell off every year. So, even though the Yugo was introduced during the Turbo Regal model years and saw production go past 1987 did nothing to make the Yugo collectible.
This Google Home would have been quite useful during test time in High School for slow learners like myself!
SPEAKING OF YUGOS –
Matt Proffitt sent me a link on barn finds and one of the barn finds is a 1986 Yugo with a mere 1,800 miles on it. The Yugo is sitting in a building with piles of junk around it. My guess is the motor died. It’s a shame they don’t call it what these vehicles really are and those words is Neglected Finds rather than Barn Finds.
I remember years ago when we still had our towing business I would buy dead cars. I can recall in more than one instance where the seller decided to dismantle his car to restore it in a single bay garage with no electric. A single bay garage in most of the older houses is not much wider than an actual car. Plus you have all your lawn equipment to keep out of the weather. Some car owners lack common sense.
Another time I member I got called out for a guy that had his car stuck in the mud at his home. I get there and he has the car backed up half way around his house on the lawn. His reasoning was he was getting traction going in reverse so he kept going which put him further and further away from the paved driveway. I charged him accordingly.
I JUST CAN’T MAKE THIS UP –
In San Diego the Humane Society had an unusual task. They rescued 84 Cockatiels. They were all freely flying around in the apartment of the owner. It did not say if it was a one bedroom or a two bedroom apartment. One can only visualize the stench and clean up that would be involved in order to re-rent that apartment again. Usually you read about people hoarding large numbers of cats in a confined living space.
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.
2018 TURBO BUICK RELATED CAR SHOWS EVENTS -
4th Annual South Florida Turbo Buick meet – February 17, 2019
This year it will be at Geronimo’s Bar and Grill in Davie, Florida on the corner of Stirling Rd and University Dr. Hope you all can make it. It starts at 10:45am and it’s over when the last person leaves. Great outdoor patio to sip down some cold ones. Facebook group is - Turbo Buick of South Florida. Please join the group
RELATED 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 –
If you’re looking for a excellent family car for under $4500 the 2004 Honda Accord is an excellent investment that we have for sale.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED –
POWERMASTER BRAKE UNITS. Unit 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.
TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $150 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
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 –
REPRODUCTION GM LICENSED - 1987 BUICK OWNER’S MANUAL
A must-have reference booklet for any 1987 Turbo Regal owner. This is a high-quality GM Licensed reproduction of the original Owner’s Manual.
This is a great addition to your reference material.
7843 - Reproduction GM Licensed 1987 Buick Owner’s Manual - $19.95
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
POWER ANTENNA HARDWARE (4 Nuts & 4 Bolts) KIT
NOTE - This kit is included if you purchase the Power Antenna Upgraded Steel Cable Repair Kit, part #7433.
You only need this kit if you do NOT purchase the upgraded steel cable repair kit and plan to replace the cable not using our kit, part #7433.
This kit comes with directions and the proper hardware to reassemble the power antenna housing.
It eliminates the need to hunt down the hardware to reassemble the power antenna motor assembly.
Step-by-step directions are included to make it easy to install.
We also recommend you purchase the "1984-1987 Turbo Regal Power Antenna Removal and Installation Guide" Book by Pete Serio, part #6976. The location of the original power antenna on the passenger fender makes removal a more difficult project than most locations. Or purchase the 1984-1987 Buck Turbo Regal Power Antenna Upgraded Steel Cable Repair Kit, part #7433, which includes this hardware kit.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7702 Rebuild Service for Original Power Antenna.
NOTE - We recommend you also purchase our Part #6976 - “1984-1987 Turbo Regal - Power Antenna Removal and Installation Guide” Book by Pete Serio
7433-Kit - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Power Antenna Hardware (4 Nuts & 4 Bolts) Kit - $4.95 / kit
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. These are 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.
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.
IN CLOSING – Like many of you can’t wait until Spring. The amount of rain we get breaks a record almost every month. Even the weather people get excited the few times it has not rained on a weekend in this area of the country.
SELLING ONE OF OUR PERSONAL CARS –
Over the years we have sold approximately 8 of our personal cars to our Turbo customers. One customer actually bought 3 different personal cars from us. I am referring to non-Turbo Regals. All our personal cars are top notch in condition, mechanics, and appearance. I spent a lot of time seeking out extremely well cared for cars to buy to replace any of our cars.
This is one such example. I am giving our readers first crack at this before I put it on the local car lot that I have a license with.
Car is a fully loaded top for the line Silver 2004 Honda Accord EX V6. I have all the records from the previous owner. Car has always been owner by a non-smoker. I just had the oil changed last week. Motor runs whisper quiet even when cold. Does not drip or leak or use oil period. Body has zero dents zero scratches in it.
Well optioned with black leather power buckets seats, sat radio, heated seats remote entry (2 keys) manuals in glove box, power seats, moon roof, steering wheel controls just to name some of the options. Silver exterior with all VIN decals on every panel no paint work and never hit. Major things I have done to the car. I put brand new alloy wheels on it with new Michelin tires. All new brakes, brand new factory floor mats, brand new headlights. Replace both front and rear bumpers do to cracks and flaking. So only the bumpers are not original due to paint flaking issues etc.
Here is how I rate the car. Body is a grade 9. Trunk is a 10. Interior is a grade 8.5, exterior is a grade 8.5. Engine compartment is a grade 9. Underside is a grade 9. It is a fine example no matter what angle you look at. The car has always been garaged while we owned it.
The actual miles are 190,000. If you are familiar with Hondas that mileage is nothing on a Honda that has had excellent care. It looks better and runs better than most cars with 90,000 miles on it. I’ve seen many of them at the 2 bid lots that don’t even come close to the condition our car is in with 190,000 miles. Back seat looks like it was never used. Rugs are perfect they have no stains no smells. Same goes for door panels zero wear on any of the door panels.
I am asking $4,495. I can provide other photos if you want. My direct email is [email protected]
Everything works perfectly. Car is inspected until June 2019. No smells no odors. Interesting partial trade considered. Even Buick parts considered in trade.
I got records with the car all the way back to 2009 when the Honda had 49,000 miles on it. The transmission was rebuilt at 146,000 miles. The timing belt was done at 102,000 miles. I have receipts to back that up. Oil changed every 5,000 miles. From the receipts I have it appears it was in the same family since 2009 until I bought it in 2016. (The last name is the same on the records back to 2009).
I purchased it in August of 2016 when it had 158,700 on the Honda. The car now has 190,000 miles on it.
PHOTO 1 & 2 – We show various photos of our 2004 Honda Accord Sedan EX model that we are selling. If you are interested email me direct [email protected] I can also send you other photos. This car is exactly as described with zero surprises for the next owner.
BREAKING NEWS - FOR SALE - 2013 INFINITI G37X MODEL -
The local country dealership I work with and have a sales license with has this extremely nice car for sale. Rare combination of black exterior with matching black leather. It is a G37X model with all-wheel drive and navigation.
Actual miles 54,800 and it’s been garaged. Zero accidents. a very elegant looking sedan that is quite powerful, non-smoker car. The price is $14,995. Email me [email protected] for photos. The lot is located about 10 minutes from our house.
1972 BUICK SKYLARK TURBO POWERED –
Brandon Chance out of Ohio sent me photos of a project he was working on with his Uncle. He had a 1972 Buick Skylark and a wrecked 1987 Grand National. Brandon’s idea was to put the Grand National interior and drive train in the 1972 Buick Skylark.
He even cut the bulge out of the Grand National hood and put it on the Skylark hood. Unfortunately, Brandon and his Uncle abandoned the project and it never got completed.
PHOTO 3 – Shows the photos that Brandon sent me showing the wrecked Grand National and the 1972 Skylark. The top left photo shows Brandon with his wife alongside the 1972 Buick Skylark. The top right photo shows the wrecked Grand National. The bottom left photo shows his Uncle dismantling the Grand National. The last photo was done on a computer. Unfortunately it was easily to do on a computer than make it a turnkey project!
GM DOOR VIN DECALS –
Last week’s Inner Circle we touched on the very early GM door VIN decal which was a single decal that started with the 1970 GM models in the fall of 1969. This VIN decal is a critical part of the cars DNA.
Every few years GM made subtle changes to the VIN door decals. GM started out with one single blue VIN decal which later expanded it to 2 decals. One decal had the VIN number on it with the data and other information. The additional decal pertained to the size tires, inflation, psi and the vehicle weight These later pair of door decals could not be removed and reused due to the paper they were printed on. They also were known to fade over a period of time. Some cleaning solvents would also make the type unreadable.
The 1984 through 1986 door decals were pretty much the same those 3 years. The years just prior to 1984 for example 1981 was a little different. The tire specs decal was slightly larger than the VIN info decal was.
PHOTO 4 – The top left shows the critical VIN decal for a 1981 GM car. The top right shows the matching 1981 door decal for the tire information. You can clearly see it is slightly larger. The bottom left and right decals show a typical 1986 GM VIN decal and the corresponding 1986 tire information decal. It is important to note that in the bottom right hand corner of each year decal is the GM part number which would be different for each year regardless if the font style and size of the decal was the same for certain years.
The good news is we can get you an excellent reproduction of your door decals. Of all the decals that are on your 1984-1987 Turbo Regal or any other GM car between 1970 and 1987 we can get them done for you through ECS Automotive Concepts. The turn-around is usually 5-7 days as they are sent directly to you. Our part numbers are #7900 through #7903. Call Christina if you have a GM vehicle older than the 1984 model. Those prices are slightly cheaper if it is a single decal.
SPEAKING OF RARE OPTIONS UPDATE –
In last week’s issue we pointed out a very are option on a late model GTO the tent option. We also noted on the mid 1950s Chevy the vacuum operated ash tray that would suck the ashes out of the ash tray. Neither option was probably popular when the cars were new. I know the tent option for the GTO was hardly a hit. GTO buyers wanted power not some pop up tent!
In the 1950s smoking was quite popular so smokers never saw the need to pay extra for something to remove the ashes. Most owners simply let the ashes spill on the floor. I put the question out there as to what two options do you think are rare to the Turbo Regals.
The clue in my question was Turbo Regals. This is because the two rarest options that I have seen or not seen in quantity are related to the 1987 Turbo Limited. One option was the Opera lights which were on the exterior sale panel behind the quarter glass.
Years ago I remember having in the GM wrapper all the parts for a pair of them. Cadillac may have had the same option. I had one Limited years ago that had that option it also had the two tone paint option. It was one of those cars that the original buyer or dealer ordered it with virtually every option.
Course as you know checking off every option ads additional weight and additional weight cuts down on your 0to60 times.
The other option that is equally as rare or rarer is the thicker padded roof. All these years I only seen one and it was at the GS Nationals. It is one of those options that don’t catch your eye immediately until you look closer at it as it wraps around the back window. It seems like a silly option that maybe Caddy buyers would go for.
We did hear from Mike Palmer and his guess was the Opera lights, He also thought chrome mirrors would be another one. It’s not like any answer is wrong as I based it on what I have seen over a 30 year span or owned in that 30 year span. Plus there can be countless combinations on a T-Type or Turbo-T featuring a tow tone paint job and maybe T-Tops and a padded roof. In other words there can be 3 major exterior options on the same car.
In case you’re wondering the regular padded roof option the SPID code is CB4 with a price tag of $200. The heavily padded optional one was code CO4 with a price tag of $260.
While most owners refer to the unique lights on the rear pillars as Opera Lights the GM wording is Electroluminescent Coach Lamps. The SPID code for that option is C93 with a price tag of $102. As for the two tone paint GM called it Designers Accent Paint which was limited to paint codes 115, 31, 62, or 79 matching color tops with pant 15, 31, or 79. The SPID code was D84 with a $205 price tag.
ON A SIMILAR NOTE –
I just realized there really is one rarer option than the few I have mentioned. Plus it was available every year (1984-1987) and the price each year was the same. It was also quite a bargain. What is your guess as to this super rare option? Email me at [email protected] if you think you know the answer. I will publish the answer next week!
HOME VOICE ACTIVATED SPEAKER BY GOOGLE -
For Christmas I bought Eileen the Home Voice Activated Speaker by Google. You ask it a question and it gives you the answer. It is possible to stump Google. I asked it “What does it take to get into Heaven”? Google had the right answer. You need to be saved. So, simply banking on good deeds or being a good citizen won’t do the trick. (I am not trying to be preachy).
I then asked Google “What was the fastest US production car in 1987?”
It answered quickly and stated in 1986 and 1987 the Buick Grand National was the fastest US Production car! No hesitation at all with the answer. Not something Corvette owners want to hear!
Then I asked it about Yugo production run. Turns out the lowly Yugo made it to 1992 before production stopped. Sales of course fell off every year. So, even though the Yugo was introduced during the Turbo Regal model years and saw production go past 1987 did nothing to make the Yugo collectible.
This Google Home would have been quite useful during test time in High School for slow learners like myself!
SPEAKING OF YUGOS –
Matt Proffitt sent me a link on barn finds and one of the barn finds is a 1986 Yugo with a mere 1,800 miles on it. The Yugo is sitting in a building with piles of junk around it. My guess is the motor died. It’s a shame they don’t call it what these vehicles really are and those words is Neglected Finds rather than Barn Finds.
I remember years ago when we still had our towing business I would buy dead cars. I can recall in more than one instance where the seller decided to dismantle his car to restore it in a single bay garage with no electric. A single bay garage in most of the older houses is not much wider than an actual car. Plus you have all your lawn equipment to keep out of the weather. Some car owners lack common sense.
Another time I member I got called out for a guy that had his car stuck in the mud at his home. I get there and he has the car backed up half way around his house on the lawn. His reasoning was he was getting traction going in reverse so he kept going which put him further and further away from the paved driveway. I charged him accordingly.
I JUST CAN’T MAKE THIS UP –
In San Diego the Humane Society had an unusual task. They rescued 84 Cockatiels. They were all freely flying around in the apartment of the owner. It did not say if it was a one bedroom or a two bedroom apartment. One can only visualize the stench and clean up that would be involved in order to re-rent that apartment again. Usually you read about people hoarding large numbers of cats in a confined living space.
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.
2018 TURBO BUICK RELATED CAR SHOWS EVENTS -
4th Annual South Florida Turbo Buick meet – February 17, 2019
This year it will be at Geronimo’s Bar and Grill in Davie, Florida on the corner of Stirling Rd and University Dr. Hope you all can make it. It starts at 10:45am and it’s over when the last person leaves. Great outdoor patio to sip down some cold ones. Facebook group is - Turbo Buick of South Florida. Please join the group
RELATED 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 –
If you’re looking for a excellent family car for under $4500 the 2004 Honda Accord is an excellent investment that we have for sale.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED –
POWERMASTER BRAKE UNITS. Unit 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.
TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $150 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
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 –
REPRODUCTION GM LICENSED - 1987 BUICK OWNER’S MANUAL
A must-have reference booklet for any 1987 Turbo Regal owner. This is a high-quality GM Licensed reproduction of the original Owner’s Manual.
This is a great addition to your reference material.
7843 - Reproduction GM Licensed 1987 Buick Owner’s Manual - $19.95
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
POWER ANTENNA HARDWARE (4 Nuts & 4 Bolts) KIT
NOTE - This kit is included if you purchase the Power Antenna Upgraded Steel Cable Repair Kit, part #7433.
You only need this kit if you do NOT purchase the upgraded steel cable repair kit and plan to replace the cable not using our kit, part #7433.
This kit comes with directions and the proper hardware to reassemble the power antenna housing.
It eliminates the need to hunt down the hardware to reassemble the power antenna motor assembly.
Step-by-step directions are included to make it easy to install.
We also recommend you purchase the "1984-1987 Turbo Regal Power Antenna Removal and Installation Guide" Book by Pete Serio, part #6976. The location of the original power antenna on the passenger fender makes removal a more difficult project than most locations. Or purchase the 1984-1987 Buck Turbo Regal Power Antenna Upgraded Steel Cable Repair Kit, part #7433, which includes this hardware kit.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7702 Rebuild Service for Original Power Antenna.
NOTE - We recommend you also purchase our Part #6976 - “1984-1987 Turbo Regal - Power Antenna Removal and Installation Guide” Book by Pete Serio
7433-Kit - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Power Antenna Hardware (4 Nuts & 4 Bolts) Kit - $4.95 / kit
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. These are 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.
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.
IN CLOSING – Like many of you can’t wait until Spring. The amount of rain we get breaks a record almost every month. Even the weather people get excited the few times it has not rained on a weekend in this area of the country.