Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 02-01-2017 -
ECS AUTOMOTIVE CONCEPTS DOOR JAMB VIN DATA DECALS -
As a GM car owner, the Door Jamb VIN Data decal is one thing you need to make sure is in good readable condition on your car. Any VIN related decal on your GM car is very critical, if not for you the owner, it will be to the next owner!
Our cars are now collectible, not simply a used car.
Although our retail market centers on the 1984-1987 Turbo Regals, we can get any GM car door VIN decal(s) for any 1970 through 1989 GM car. The early cars took a single blue door VIN decal. The GM truck decals are different.
We have a program in place where we also offer these decals to any other GM suppliers. Gbodyparts and Corvette Central are two such companies that we work with to provide decals to their customers. What is nice about Corvette Central is that they have a post on their website where you can just type in your Corvette VIN number and it will tell you the month and year of production. It would have been nice if we had a similar program like that system for our cars!
The 1984 GM VIN decal was one year by itself. The 1985 and 1986 used the same door VIN decals and the 1987 through 1989 used another version. The 1989 version would cover the turbo Trans Ams. We have also done them for other Buicks, Cadillac, Pontiacs and other models.
Christina is kept very busy processing decal orders every week for customers. We work with the only GM licensed company, ECS Automotive Concepts, that can do the complete VIN data decals in the correct original font style and papers.
While blank door VIN decals are available on ebay, especially the single early blue ones, it makes no sense to buy a blank one. You would never match the font style GM used or position the information you need to have on it, properly on the decal. Using a typewriter is not going to work.
PHOTO 1 - We show the three different versions that cover all the 1984-1989 GM cars. In each case, decals are on the identical tamper-proof paper with the correct font style as the GM originals. You can go to our website and under KEYWORD SEARCH type in 7900 for the 1984, 7901 for the 1985-1986, or 7902 for the 1987-1989. Later part numbers cover the 1970 through 1983 GM cars.
RESEARCHING YOUR 1987 TURBO REGAL VIN NUMBER -
I am often asked from 1987 Grand National owners what the very last VIN number was, so they can determine if their VIN comes close to the last one. The sequential part of your 17 digit VIN number are the six digits that follow the HP letters. With that said, the last VIN for 1987 Grand Nationals was 465288. Like the last GNX 547, both ended up in public hands!
Most readers know that the production of the 1987 Grand National was increased by 10,000 cars. Looking back now, it was a great idea as it gives companies like ours, a larger customer base. The last 10,000 were titled as Grand Nationals. Prior to this extended run, your Buick Window Sticker would read “Regal 2 Dr Coupe” and the Grand National would appear under options with a “WE2” code for the Grand National package. The early years (1964-1967) the “GTO” was also listed as an option and the car model was shown as a Lemans/Tempest. The later years, GTO became a separate car model.
We all know the GTO option makes a difference in the values of any Lemans with the GTO option Again, on the GTO I am going by memory as to when it ended as an option on a Lemans/Tempest.
So, knowing the last Grand National VIN number ended in 465288, you can determine where your 1987 Grand National VIN falls into place. The actual date for the last one built was December 15th, 1987. I looked on my list of 320-plus 1986-1987 Turbo Regals that we sold and the closest VIN I show for 1987 to the end of production is 465250. That means only 38 Grand Nationals more were built after that one. What I don’t know is how many they were building a day to determine just how close in actual days it was to the very end. Buick certainly ended its rear wheel drive platform with a car that captured the muscle car customer. Good thing most of overlooked the shortcomings, such as body fitment, paint issues, and T-Tops leaks, to name a few.
So, check your VIN. I would be interested to hear from anyone that has a closer VIN to the last VIN produced. Just look at the six digits after the letters “HP.”
Also, remember I have a list of almost every Turbo Regal VIN I sold. I may have paperwork on your car!
HERE IS AN INTERESTING 1987 TURBO REGAL VIN COINCIDENCE -
While I was looking over my list of Turbo Regal VIN numbers to see if I sold a Grand National with a VIN number close to the end of production, I discovered another interesting fact. With a list of over 320 VINs of 1986-1987 Turbo Regals I sold, I noticed a few that were only separated by maybe 3 or 4 of the last digits. That shows they were very close in actual production.
I then discovered that in February of 2000 I bought one 1987 with the VIN of HP444885. This one came out of Maryland. In July of that same year I bought another 1987 Turbo Regal out of New Jersey and the VIN was HP444886.
In other words, two Turbo Regals were built back to back! I have no idea where these two cars are today. What are the chances of having two Turbo Regals built exactly one after the other?
It’s a shame I did not have both in my possession at the same time. Had I made that a goal to own two sequential Turbo Regals, it would have never happened. One was a white Turbo-T and the other is a very rare blue Turbo-T. Actually, I have a copy of the Window Sticker for the blue car. It was well optioned, complete with cornering lamps and the high dollar am/fm radio with cassette and EQ. It listed for $17,068. True story!
I wonder who owns either of these two cars today? Since most of the Turbo Regals I sold were extremely nice cars, I would imagine most still survive today among collectors.
OUR SECOND TEST CAR -
Our second test car remains still a mystery as to where it resides today. Many readers know the history of our first test car, which was a 1987 Grand National that we leased brand new and later bought. We sold it to a customer in Hawaii.
Our third test car, 1987 Turbo-T, is well known. It is an original Florida car, blue on blue hardtop with the blackout package. It was one of the first, if not the first, Turbo-T to get Richard Clark’s GNX suspension installed personally by him many years ago. That car is still owned today by the person I sold it to.
The car that is missing from this group is our second test car, which was also a rare combination. It was a silver 1987 Turbo-T Limited with the blackout package. That means it lacked all that gaudy chrome work on the exterior. It was the very first Limited Turbo car I owned. Prior to that, I had little knowledge that Buick even made these models with the turbo engine option.
Early on I did hit a deer head on with it, so my son had to fix the front end. Fortunately, back then front header panels were not that hard to locate! The bumper, hood, and fenders were untouched from the accident. The deer however, died on the spot.
Fred Vetter of Dynotech rebuilt the engine for us. It had the grey leather pillow seats. I sold the Limited to a buyer from Maryland for $11,200 back in 1996. I have never seen it since. Where it is today, if it’s still on the road, is anyone’s guess. Someday I will try and see if I have a photo of it. It had our Kirban-style 16 inch GNX wheels on it.
On a side note, a few years later I hit and killed another deer with one of the BMW 325 models we owned. That BMW I would later sell to the person that makes our Turbo Regal plug wires. At the time he lived near us. True story!
VINTAGE DASH CLUSTERS -
A few years back a friend of mine owned a local salvage yard. He sold it and it’s now a strictly scrap metal salvage yard. Prior to his shutting down the yard, I went through this small salvage yard and gave him a list of dash clusters I would buy and I wanted him to remove from cars. I wanted to make a nice display of them on a shelf in my pole building. Some of his cars went back to the sixties. I got a Ford Falcon dash cluster, a Corvair Spyder cluster, a Jaguar Cluster and about a dozen others.
PHOTO 2 - We show two interesting dash clusters I got from this salvage yard. The first one is probably from the mid-1930s based on the styling. What is interesting is the design of the speedometer and odometer. It was made by Stewart Warner and proudly states on the face, “Made in the USA.” These four words are being revived this year in America. The ornate design on the faceplate is quite unique. None of it is plastic. I have no idea what car this came out of. This dash cluster was on a shelf in his building.
For those of you that like a challenge, the first person who responds with positive proof as to what this dash cluster is out of, will be awarded a unique prize. My email is - [email protected]
Good luck to those that participate.
The second photo is out of a 1984 Maserati Biturbo coupe turbo car. What stands out on this cluster is the small 55 number that is circled. Back then 55 mph was the national speed limit in the USA, which was a law President Nixon put into effect. Today they are building cars that can hit close to 200 mph!
Two other things strike me as unique with this cluster. One - The speedometer numbers read up to 160 mph. Remember, this was 1984! In the lower left corner is the turbo gauge. Two -The miles showing on the panel is a mere 3,434. If the miles are accurate, this car died at a young age!
ANOTHER NEWSPAPER GRAND NATIONAL ADVERTISEMENT -
This past week we heard from Bob, one of our Inner Circle readers, who sent me a copy of a newspaper ad dated March 25th, 1988. He bought his new Grand National in February 1988. Bob has been a customer of ours since 1992!
PHOTO 3 - Here is that newspaper advertisement. Reads “Last Chance for a Classic” This dealership had just 5 left. That catch phrase, “Last chance for a Classic,” rings true today as the Grand National has indeed reached the classic classification, in my opinion. It’s interesting that this dealership had Sunday hours. In many of the states, Pennsylvania included, car dealers were prohibited from selling cars on Sunday.
MY ONE TIME COLLECTIBLE CAR AUCTION BUYING EXPERIENCE -
My one time car auction buying experience happened in the spring of either 1968 or 1969. I know the approximate date because the photos show our old house on Easton Road in Willow Grove prior to moving to Sugar Bottom Road in Furlong, PA.
Back then, every Spring the Manheim Auction facility in nearby Manheim PA held what was called a “Red Rose Auction.” It was held on a Saturday and featured older cars and trucks, some of which would be collectibles and others that became collectibles. At the time, because of our towing business, I had a passion for trucks. I already had a 1947 Studebaker pickup all restored. I went with a friend and probably had a $1,000 in cash.
I ended up buying a 1½ ton 1937 Chevrolet stake body truck. That truck had original paint and still carried the name of the company on the doors. It belonged to the Columbia Burial Vault Company in Columbia, PA. Ironically, today my brother lives in Columbia, PA.
I researched the company several years ago and it went out of business many years ago. Not sure how that happens as it seems to me burial vaults should always have a demand. I paid I think $600 for the truck and drove it home. I did not realize until after I purchased it that it had mechanical brakes. Hydraulic brakes did not make their appearance until the following year. I never had much use for the truck except for the annual 4th of July parade when my sisters and brother would ride in the back. Today it would probably be popular at Halloween as I left the company name on the truck when I sold it. That is my one and only buying experience at a collectible car auction.
PHOTO 4 - I could only find these few small photos of this unique Chevrolet truck. Barely visible in the background is our 1947 Studebaker pickup truck.
LOTS OF CAR SHOW EVENTS THIS SUMMER TO ATTEND
As you scroll down this week’s Inner Circle, we have added a few more events that we are either attending as a speaker or are related to Turbo Regals. I think everyone in most of the country is anxious for winter to end so we can enjoy our hobby either as a participant or a spectator. I can’t complain as the winter thus far has been very mild in our immediate area.
38th ANNUAL GTOAA NATIONALS -
JUNE 27-JULY 2, 2017
Crowne Plaza Hotel and Convention Center, Springfield, Illinois
This year the GTOAA Nationals will be held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel and Convention Center in Springfield, Illinois. I will be one of the guest speakers there on Thursday June 29th 8:30 am until 10 am. I have spoken several times in years past at their annual conventions and I also have written several dozen articles over the years for their monthly publication called, “The Legend.” If you near Springfield, you may want to attend.
I am asking if any local Buick club may want to set up a meeting one or two days prior near Springfield, Illinois. I would be willing to conduct a Turbo Regal seminar for them as well. Email me - [email protected] if you reside in or near Springfield, Illinois and want to meet for dinner or something. We may be able to work something out. I have done this in years past when I would travel to pick up Turbo Regals to sell.
What is interesting about the GTO National Club is I joined back in the late 1970s and my membership number is 044. According to the current GTOAA President, only six current members have a lower number than me.
One thing they do that is a creative idea is that they recognize GTO original owners that still own their GTO with a special certificate. In other words, if you bought your GTO new in the 1960s or 1970s and still have it, you are part of that select group.
It would be neat to see how many Turbo Regal owners still own their original Turbo Regal. I know I would not be part of that group! I would be part of the group that has owned and sold more than one since 1987!
OUR GRANDDAUGHTER DEVYN ACCEPTED TO PENN STATE -
Our granddaughter Devyn has been accepted at Penn State. She has committed to the College of Engineering at Penn State main campus starting this coming Fall. Her goal is to pursue an electrical engineering degree. We are all quite proud of her. I often kid her that I was only on a college campus one time back in the early 1990s. The seller of one of the Grand Nationals I picked up in the New England area worked at a college. I can’t remember his job title. I picked up the Grand National on the college campus. This is the closest I ever came to college!
SOMEONE DROPPED THE BALL -
Someone really dropped the ball on this toll road cheater. One New Jersey resident owes more than $644,804 (not a misprint). This amount is in unpaid tolls and fees related to the Lincoln Tunnel. With that said, wouldn’t you think the authorities would be on the lookout for this driver at some point before the total of unpaid tolls and fees reached the six digit figure? Obviously this individual was probably committing this crime on a fairly regular basis over a long period of time! There is little to no chance that they will be able to collect the monies due now.
SOME HOPE AFTER ALL -
I might have some hope after all. I read in the paper that a farmer in New Guinea found a high school ring from a U.S. resident dated 1938. It was lost during World War II. The farmer, with the help of a friend, was able to track down the family of the owner and return the high school ring. Unfortunately the soldier who lost the ring had passed away a few years earlier.
I lost my girlfriend’s high school ring (now my wife) in the China Sea off the coast of Vietnam in 1966-1967. Maybe someday someone will find it and track me down!
THIS YEAR’S SUPER BOWL COMMERCIALS -
With the amount of money spent on the yearly Super Bowl commercials, usually they are well thought out and humorous.
The Coen brothers, who have a long list of successful movies to their credit, did a commercial for Mercedes Benz AMG group for this Sunday’s Super Bowl. It features Peter Fonda. Peter Fonda’s iconic movie role was Easy Rider, which I remember quite well. The commercial is entitled, “Easy Driver.” It features a motorcycle gang at a desert saloon whose parked bikes get blocked in by a Mercedes Benz AMG roadster driven by Peter Fonda. You can instantly see the connection. This sounds like one thirty-second commercial worth checking out.
DODGE CHALLENGER SRT DEMON UPDATE -
Here are a few more tidbits on the upcoming Dodge Challenger SRT Demon. It will ride on 18 alloy wheels that are 11 inches wide. Tires will be 315/40R18 Nitto NT05R drag radials, the same size tires front and back. This may be the first time that a factory U.S. car model will come equipped riding on drag radials. Start saving your pennies now!
UPDATE ON THE CUSTOM-MADE ARMY JEEP GOLF CART-
This unusual golf cart is still available. It does run. See last week’s Inner Circle for photos or email me - [email protected]
It is located about 15 minutes from our house. We can easily store this in our pole building, if you purchase it and can’t pick it up right away.
MECUM AUCTION CONTEST WINNER UPDATE -
We heard from our last Mecum contest winner Preston Mullins who lives in Wesson, Mississippi. He has been a customer of ours for four years and owns a 1986 Grand National. He nailed the auction price exact on the Grand National. His reasoning was it appeared very nice and then added a bit of luck to his guess!
1986-1987 TURBO REGAL EIGHT-HOLE HOOD PADS -
The price for the eight-hole hood pad picked up at our location is $279.95. If you want it shipped, the price is $349.95 to any of the basic 48 states.
Another option is to pay for it now and pick it up at our Spring Open House on April 22nd. We also have a source that can sell you the pattern so you can imprint the Buick logo on the hood pad.
These are not on our website. You must call our office and talk to Christina if you want one of these hood pads. You can contact Christina - 215-766-1611 x 0.
UPCOMING RELATED CAR SHOW EVENTS FOR 2017 -
KIRBAN SPRING 2017 OPEN HOUSE -
SATURDAY, APRIL 22, 2017
6201 Kellers Church Road, Plumsteadville, PA
Our Spring Open House will be held rain or shine on Saturday, April 22nd, 2017. It is the same weekend as Spring Carlisle. Spring Carlisle starts Wednesday the 19th. You could hit two events, since Carlisle is only about two hours from our location. I go to Spring Carlisle midweek every year.
Our Open House will have the usual features - YumYum donuts, M&M contest, sale prices on parts, and no reserve auction. We already are putting aside unique items for the no reserve auction. Several featured items will be discounted to save shipping. The usual array of tagged and bagged used parts and literature will be for sale as well.
2017 TurboBuick.com - NC TURBO BUICK NATIONALS -
MAY 3-6, 2017 - BURLINGTON, NC
The dates for the Turbo Buick Nationals in Burlington, NC are May 3rd thru May 6th, 2017. The main event is held at Richard Clark’s Garage, where you can see the largest array of turbo cars and parts. We will be attending this event.
For more up-to-date information, go to turbobuick.com, and scroll down to events.
PYPES EXHAUST/MAX PERFORMANCE CAR & TRUCK SHOW -
JUNE 16-17, 2017
Pypes Exhaust Headquarters, 2705 Clemens Road, Hatfield, PA
The annual Pypes Exhaust/Max Performance Car & Truck Show is June 16th and 17th, 2017 at Pypes Exhaust Headquarters, 2705 Clemens Road, Hatfield, PA. 19440.
This is a huge event. You can contact Mike - 267-638-5030 - for more information about registering your car for the event. I have attended this event in the past. It is located about 15 miles from our location.
38th ANNUAL GTOAA NATIONALS -
JUNE 27-JULY 2, 2017
Crowne Plaza Hotel and Convention Center, Springfield, Illinois
This event is held in Springfield, Illinois at the Crowne Plaza Hotel and Convention Center. I am guest speaker Thursday, June 29th at 8:30 am until 10 am.
CARLISLE CHRYSLER NATIONALS -
JULY 14-16, 2017
Carlisle Fairgrounds, Carlisle, PA
This year’s Chrysler event has a special all new Hurst Nationals July 14th and 15th in conjunction with the Chrysler Nationals. I have been asked to conduct a seminar on Hurst both days, July 14th and 15th. The location of my seminars as well as the other seminars is held just off the grounds from Gate 3 at the Expo Center. They have not yet told me my speaking times.
My granddaughter, Devyn hopes to go with me to help. With Chrysler introducing the Demon this April, my guess is they will have several Demons on display at Carlisle. Hope to see some of my customers at this event. I am as well versed with early Hurst history as I am with Turbo Regals.
As with all my seminars, I will be doing a M&Ms contest in honor of my parents. The Don Garlits autographed connecting rod will make a nice prize!
21ST EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS
SEPTEMBER 15th-16th, 2017
Cecil County Dragway in Cecil Maryland
This is a very well attended event. Once again we plan to be there as a vendor. It is the same weekend as the annual GS Nationals held in Bowling Green, Kentucky.
For more up to date information go to their website www.magnabuick.com
37th ANNUAL GS NATIONALS
SEPTEMBER 13-16, 2017
Beech Bend Race Park, Bowling Green, Kentucky
For more details, go to their website or go to turbobuick.com and scroll down to the event section.
UPDATE ON GM AC DELCO AM/FM CD PLAYERS -
We expect to have these pictured in next week’s Inner Circle. See Rare Parts section in this issue as we have two of the rare AC Delco AM/FM CD players. Complete with six-month warranty included and the proper jumper harness to plug into a factory 1984-1987 Turbo Regal radio harness. These are extremely hard to find. Only those that get this weekly Inner Circle directly to their inbox see the Rare Parts section.
If you want to sign up, contact our office. It’s free and I pride myself on never missing a single week in all these years of doing them. I believe we have the only online newsletter specifically for the Turbo Regal owner that is done by email on a weekly basis.
UPDATE ON THE ORIGINAL BLACK PALLEX SEAT MATERIAL -
The material did come in, however, it was incorrect. My source is trying to locate the correct original black pallex they owe me as I write this. My patience is wearing thin to say the least since I paid him over two months ago. Hopefully we will have good results at some point! We still a good amount of the grey original 1986-1987 Grand National/GNX pallex material on hand. Remember there is no correct substitute for original 30-year-old material. It can only increase in value as time goes on.
FOUR 1980 REGALS FOR SALE -
Recently Tom Zemanek contacted me about putting his 4 pristine 1980 Regals up for sale. He built these cars over the years as a hobby. Each one is 100 percent OEM. You can clearly see Tom has a passion for the 1980 Regal coupes. He ordered one 1980 Regal brand new with every possible option. One is white, one is blue and two are black. Most are in the $8,500 price range. One is a very rare Turbo Sport Coupe and the price is a more for that one.
He does have photos of these on YouTube. To find out more on these 4 pristine 1980 Regal coupes, contact Tom personally. His email is - [email protected]
Tell him you heard about his cars on the Kirban Inner Circle.
1987 GRAND NATIONAL FOR SALE LOCAL TO US -
See photos and detailed description on this 1987 Grand National for sale in our 01-18-2017 Inner Circle. The Grand National has 88,000 actual miles. The car has been garage kept and the owner is 79 years old and has health issues. Car is located about 15 minutes from our house. The price is $19,250. If you are interested or would like to see more photos, email me - [email protected]
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If you have a tip or a discovery that you found that works on your Turbo Regal, drop us an email giving us the details so we can pass the info on to our readers. Remember, even with my knowledge, I don’t know it all. Simply email me at - [email protected]
TIP FROM KIRBAN - PLAN TO ATTEND OUR SPRING OPEN HOUSE -
It’s never too early to start planning to attend our annual Spring Open House. This event is held Saturday, April 22nd and has no rain date.
In recent years, our no reserve auction has been well received. This year we will have several unique items at the auction, including some GNX items and framed prints.
It’s a great time to also bring us any parts you want to trade or cores that we are always need. Cash them in and it saves you shipping.
Sometime in the next few weeks we will be announcing special sale prices on some of the larger items so you can pick them up at the show and avoid shipping. These items would have to be paid for in advance so we have them set aside for you. One item in particular will be the Pypes exhaust system. Our Spring Open House is usually the first event of the show season in this area for Turbo Regal owners.
NEW TURBO REGAL ITEMS NOW IN STOCK -
#7774 - Our newest part for the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal is a fiberglass reproduction of the radiator top plate. The originals are usually rusted.
These are being made for us by Mike at SPOOLFOOL, and our first order is in stock. The excellent quality of this item is just like his ready-to-install filler panels. The fit is excellent. The cover weighs a mere 1 pound, whereas the steel cover weighs 3 pounds.
Each one comes with 5 new powder-coated black bolts. The introductory price for this radiator top plate is $114.95. This price is only in effect until Friday, February 10th, 2017. The price will be $124.95 after that date. These radiator top plates and bolts are in stock. The Spoolfool quality has these looking like metal and will outshine a factory Grand National paint job. Mike does such a super job on these. You have to touch it to believe that it is not metal.
If you are interested, contact our office to get one of the first ones - 215-766-1611 x 0
Here is a link to this radiator top plate on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44347/REPRODUCTION+RADIATOR+TOP+PLATE+%26+HARDWARE+%237774.html
#7751 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal GM licensed Embroidered “Buick Motorsports” Seat Armour™ Seat Cover.
Here is a link to this seat cover on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7751&submit_button=
#7773 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal Reproduction Front Air Dams (2) $219.95.
Here is a link to these Front Air Dams on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44344/Reproduction+FRONT+AIR+DAMS+%282%29+%237773.html
#7772 - 1981-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regals) - Reproduction 3-Piece Baffles Set - $26.95 / 3-piece set
Here is a link to this baffles set on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44343/Reproduction+3+PIECE+BAFFLES+SET+%237772.html
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED - TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $125 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.
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. Keep in mind, I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
REPRODUCTION RADIATOR TOP PLATE & HARDWARE
In many cases, the original metal radiator top plate that holds the top of the radiator and secures the housing for the electric fan may be rusted or bent.
This radiator top plate is unique to the 1986-1987 Turbo Regals, making it difficult to find a nice used one today.
We had Spoolfool make this radiator top plate exactly like the original, except it is fiberglass and not metal. Each one is done in black gelcoat polished to a high gloss shine. It weighs only 1 pound versus 3 pounds for the metal plate. It saves a small amount of weight, but more importantly, it will never rust!
It comes with 5 powder-coated black new bolts, which are the correct size for this plate, and easy-to-follow directions.
Our first photo shows the radiator top plate and hardware, the lower photo on the left shows an original top plate on a car, and the lower right photo shows the new radiator top plate on a car.
NOTE - The photo on the lower right shows the new plate installed with original hardware, not the new powder-coated black bolts that come with the plate. That photo also shows a new reproduction “Fan Caution” decal, part #6507 on the new plate.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #6507 Reproduction “Fan Caution” Decal, #6502 Reproduction “ACCESSORY BELT ROUTING” Decal, #7607 Dual Fan Conversion Kit and Custom-made Plug-and-Plug Harness, #7608 Dual Fan Only, and #7609 Custom-made Plug-and-Plug Harness Only (for Intrepid Dual Fan).
A nice finishing touch for under the hood.
7774 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Reproduction Radiator Top Plate & Hardware - $124.95
Here is a link to this radiator top plate on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44347/REPRODUCTION+RADIATOR+TOP+PLATE+%26+HARDWARE+%237774.html
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM LICENSED - EMBROIDERED “BUICK MOTORSPORTS”
SEAT ARMOUR™ SEAT COVER
Because of the value of original Grand National seats, it’s best to protect them from stains, odors, and fading from the sunlight.
We are the exclusive distributor for this GM licensed embroidered “Buick Motorsports” Seat Armour™ seat cover. This Seat Armour™ seat cover is a simple slip-on cover that slides over the head rest, which secures the top of the cover in place. It just covers the seat portion, not the headrest.
The cover installs in seconds. There are no straps or elastic and no other attachments are needed. You simply slide it over the headrest and it drapes over the seat.
The GM licensed “Buick Motorsport” logo is embroidered in the logo colors - red, yellow and silver on black material. The embroidered logo measures 9" x 2-1/2". It is machine washable 100% heavyweight cotton velour terry material.
It can be folded and stored in the trunk when not in use.
It is cool in the summer and warm in the winter. It’s a quick and simple way to protect the seats.
Our photo on the left shows this one-piece seat cover laid out so you can see the shape. Photo in the middle shows the original driver’s side seat, and the photo on the right shows the cover on the seat.
We offer a single cover, part #7751. If you want to cover both seats, you can order two covers, part #7752.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7750 Slip-on Grey & Black Front Seat Covers (2) and Seat Belt Covers (2) Set, #7516 GM Plastic Front Seat Belt Cap Covers (2) Set, and #7479 Reproduction Front Bucket Grey Seat Belts (4 pieces) Set.
This is another great interior item to protect your car seats.
7751 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM Licensed - Embroidered “Buick Motorsports” Seat Armour™ Seat Cover (1) - $36.95
7752 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
TWO - GM Licensed - Embroidered “Buick Motorsports” Seat Armour™ Seat Covers (2) - $69.95
NOTE - If you are interested in the T-Type or GNX embroidered seat covers currently being made, contact our office for availability. Those will be the same price as the “Buick Motorsports” covers and are not on our website yet. 215-766-1611 x 0
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction FRONT AIR DAMS (2)
Another nice dress-up item for the exterior is to replace the front air dams.
Over the years, some of the front air dams have deteriorated or become distorted, or are broken from being hit.
Because of many requests, we now offer reproduction front air dams. These air dams are a dead-on match, exact size and width, and even the texture is perfect.
Keep in mind, these are built with modern-day plastic and will last a lot longer than the GM originals. This material is a little harder to scruff compared to the OEM units.
These replace GM #25525981 and #25525980.
Photo on the left shows the two air dam pieces. Photo on the right shows the positioning on a car.
If you are having the car repainted or restored, it is a good time to replace the air dams.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7772 Reproduction 3-Piece Baffles Set, #7507 Reproduction “AMBER” Signal Lamps (2) Set, #7708 Reproduction “CLEAR” Signal Lamps (2) Set, and #7557 OEM FRONT Bumper Impact Cushion & Thread Cutting Nuts (25) Pack.
This is another great exterior restoration item.
7773 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Reproduction Front Air Dams (2) - $219.95
Here is a link to these front air dams on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44344/Reproduction+FRONT+AIR+DAMS+%282%29+%237773.html
1981-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regals) -
Reproduction 3-PIECE BAFFLES SET
These baffles are often overlooked, but are critical to keep a turbo engine cool.
Buick had a 3-piece baffles set, which consisted of 3 individual baffles that directed the air flow towards the radiator core. The long baffle went under the center and attached to the bottom of the front of the core support. The 2 small baffles attached to each side of the core support and to the front bumper shock pistons.
This format directs more airflow to the front of the radiator.
Overtime, the originals may be ripped or missing completely.
These reproduction baffles are made from the same rubber-like material as the originals.
NOTE - You will need to re-use the original hardware and plastic tie straps to attach the baffles.
Our top photo shows the 3 baffles in the set, and lower photos show the baffles in position on the front and driver’s side.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7457 Upgraded New ALUMINUM Radiator, #KE003 Used Original AC Delco “MADE IN ENGLAND” Radiator Cap, #1507 1984-1987 Regal Fiberglass Front Bumper, #7215 GNX, Grand National, WE4, and 1987 Turbo-T with the black-out package Reproduction BLACK Grille, and #7239 1984-1987 Regal (Including Turbo Models) Reproduction CHROME-plated Plastic Grille.
Another great restoration set.
7772 - 1981-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regals) - Reproduction 3-Piece Baffles Set - $26.95 / 3-piece set
Here is a link to this baffles set on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44343/Reproduction+3+PIECE+BAFFLES+SET+%237772.html
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. 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 have to be low-resolution photos to work on the Inner Circle segments on the website, any photos of text don't appear clear when enlarged. This is a problem when you are trying to see numbers, such as those on the VIN labels or pages from Options booklet. Also, because of photo reproduction and computer screen variations, the colors may not be true to the actual product or photo.
If you would like to have us email you any photo at the higher resolution for viewing, just email us and we will email them to you. Be sure to be specific on which pictures you want to see - Reference Inner Circle date and photo number 1, 2, 3 or 4 - [email protected]
ABOUT OUR EMAILS -
Any inquiries concerning used parts, you must email me direct - [email protected] - I will answer you. However, if I fail to answer you within 24 hours, please email us again. Since expanding into used parts, I get a lot of emails and sometimes I may forget your request or may not remember who requested the item.
IN CLOSING -
Be sure to mark your calendar for April 22nd as that is the day for our annual Spring Open House. It has no rain date.
I appreciate all the nice comments I get on my weekly Inner Circle. I love to write and there never is a shortage of topics to cover and new parts to present to the market.
We hope to have a Buick seminar lined up soon in Illinois, just prior to my GTO speaking engagement in Springfield, Illinois. Watch for details. All my seminars feature a M&Ms contest in memory of my parents.
ECS AUTOMOTIVE CONCEPTS DOOR JAMB VIN DATA DECALS -
As a GM car owner, the Door Jamb VIN Data decal is one thing you need to make sure is in good readable condition on your car. Any VIN related decal on your GM car is very critical, if not for you the owner, it will be to the next owner!
Our cars are now collectible, not simply a used car.
Although our retail market centers on the 1984-1987 Turbo Regals, we can get any GM car door VIN decal(s) for any 1970 through 1989 GM car. The early cars took a single blue door VIN decal. The GM truck decals are different.
We have a program in place where we also offer these decals to any other GM suppliers. Gbodyparts and Corvette Central are two such companies that we work with to provide decals to their customers. What is nice about Corvette Central is that they have a post on their website where you can just type in your Corvette VIN number and it will tell you the month and year of production. It would have been nice if we had a similar program like that system for our cars!
The 1984 GM VIN decal was one year by itself. The 1985 and 1986 used the same door VIN decals and the 1987 through 1989 used another version. The 1989 version would cover the turbo Trans Ams. We have also done them for other Buicks, Cadillac, Pontiacs and other models.
Christina is kept very busy processing decal orders every week for customers. We work with the only GM licensed company, ECS Automotive Concepts, that can do the complete VIN data decals in the correct original font style and papers.
While blank door VIN decals are available on ebay, especially the single early blue ones, it makes no sense to buy a blank one. You would never match the font style GM used or position the information you need to have on it, properly on the decal. Using a typewriter is not going to work.
PHOTO 1 - We show the three different versions that cover all the 1984-1989 GM cars. In each case, decals are on the identical tamper-proof paper with the correct font style as the GM originals. You can go to our website and under KEYWORD SEARCH type in 7900 for the 1984, 7901 for the 1985-1986, or 7902 for the 1987-1989. Later part numbers cover the 1970 through 1983 GM cars.
RESEARCHING YOUR 1987 TURBO REGAL VIN NUMBER -
I am often asked from 1987 Grand National owners what the very last VIN number was, so they can determine if their VIN comes close to the last one. The sequential part of your 17 digit VIN number are the six digits that follow the HP letters. With that said, the last VIN for 1987 Grand Nationals was 465288. Like the last GNX 547, both ended up in public hands!
Most readers know that the production of the 1987 Grand National was increased by 10,000 cars. Looking back now, it was a great idea as it gives companies like ours, a larger customer base. The last 10,000 were titled as Grand Nationals. Prior to this extended run, your Buick Window Sticker would read “Regal 2 Dr Coupe” and the Grand National would appear under options with a “WE2” code for the Grand National package. The early years (1964-1967) the “GTO” was also listed as an option and the car model was shown as a Lemans/Tempest. The later years, GTO became a separate car model.
We all know the GTO option makes a difference in the values of any Lemans with the GTO option Again, on the GTO I am going by memory as to when it ended as an option on a Lemans/Tempest.
So, knowing the last Grand National VIN number ended in 465288, you can determine where your 1987 Grand National VIN falls into place. The actual date for the last one built was December 15th, 1987. I looked on my list of 320-plus 1986-1987 Turbo Regals that we sold and the closest VIN I show for 1987 to the end of production is 465250. That means only 38 Grand Nationals more were built after that one. What I don’t know is how many they were building a day to determine just how close in actual days it was to the very end. Buick certainly ended its rear wheel drive platform with a car that captured the muscle car customer. Good thing most of overlooked the shortcomings, such as body fitment, paint issues, and T-Tops leaks, to name a few.
So, check your VIN. I would be interested to hear from anyone that has a closer VIN to the last VIN produced. Just look at the six digits after the letters “HP.”
Also, remember I have a list of almost every Turbo Regal VIN I sold. I may have paperwork on your car!
HERE IS AN INTERESTING 1987 TURBO REGAL VIN COINCIDENCE -
While I was looking over my list of Turbo Regal VIN numbers to see if I sold a Grand National with a VIN number close to the end of production, I discovered another interesting fact. With a list of over 320 VINs of 1986-1987 Turbo Regals I sold, I noticed a few that were only separated by maybe 3 or 4 of the last digits. That shows they were very close in actual production.
I then discovered that in February of 2000 I bought one 1987 with the VIN of HP444885. This one came out of Maryland. In July of that same year I bought another 1987 Turbo Regal out of New Jersey and the VIN was HP444886.
In other words, two Turbo Regals were built back to back! I have no idea where these two cars are today. What are the chances of having two Turbo Regals built exactly one after the other?
It’s a shame I did not have both in my possession at the same time. Had I made that a goal to own two sequential Turbo Regals, it would have never happened. One was a white Turbo-T and the other is a very rare blue Turbo-T. Actually, I have a copy of the Window Sticker for the blue car. It was well optioned, complete with cornering lamps and the high dollar am/fm radio with cassette and EQ. It listed for $17,068. True story!
I wonder who owns either of these two cars today? Since most of the Turbo Regals I sold were extremely nice cars, I would imagine most still survive today among collectors.
OUR SECOND TEST CAR -
Our second test car remains still a mystery as to where it resides today. Many readers know the history of our first test car, which was a 1987 Grand National that we leased brand new and later bought. We sold it to a customer in Hawaii.
Our third test car, 1987 Turbo-T, is well known. It is an original Florida car, blue on blue hardtop with the blackout package. It was one of the first, if not the first, Turbo-T to get Richard Clark’s GNX suspension installed personally by him many years ago. That car is still owned today by the person I sold it to.
The car that is missing from this group is our second test car, which was also a rare combination. It was a silver 1987 Turbo-T Limited with the blackout package. That means it lacked all that gaudy chrome work on the exterior. It was the very first Limited Turbo car I owned. Prior to that, I had little knowledge that Buick even made these models with the turbo engine option.
Early on I did hit a deer head on with it, so my son had to fix the front end. Fortunately, back then front header panels were not that hard to locate! The bumper, hood, and fenders were untouched from the accident. The deer however, died on the spot.
Fred Vetter of Dynotech rebuilt the engine for us. It had the grey leather pillow seats. I sold the Limited to a buyer from Maryland for $11,200 back in 1996. I have never seen it since. Where it is today, if it’s still on the road, is anyone’s guess. Someday I will try and see if I have a photo of it. It had our Kirban-style 16 inch GNX wheels on it.
On a side note, a few years later I hit and killed another deer with one of the BMW 325 models we owned. That BMW I would later sell to the person that makes our Turbo Regal plug wires. At the time he lived near us. True story!
VINTAGE DASH CLUSTERS -
A few years back a friend of mine owned a local salvage yard. He sold it and it’s now a strictly scrap metal salvage yard. Prior to his shutting down the yard, I went through this small salvage yard and gave him a list of dash clusters I would buy and I wanted him to remove from cars. I wanted to make a nice display of them on a shelf in my pole building. Some of his cars went back to the sixties. I got a Ford Falcon dash cluster, a Corvair Spyder cluster, a Jaguar Cluster and about a dozen others.
PHOTO 2 - We show two interesting dash clusters I got from this salvage yard. The first one is probably from the mid-1930s based on the styling. What is interesting is the design of the speedometer and odometer. It was made by Stewart Warner and proudly states on the face, “Made in the USA.” These four words are being revived this year in America. The ornate design on the faceplate is quite unique. None of it is plastic. I have no idea what car this came out of. This dash cluster was on a shelf in his building.
For those of you that like a challenge, the first person who responds with positive proof as to what this dash cluster is out of, will be awarded a unique prize. My email is - [email protected]
Good luck to those that participate.
The second photo is out of a 1984 Maserati Biturbo coupe turbo car. What stands out on this cluster is the small 55 number that is circled. Back then 55 mph was the national speed limit in the USA, which was a law President Nixon put into effect. Today they are building cars that can hit close to 200 mph!
Two other things strike me as unique with this cluster. One - The speedometer numbers read up to 160 mph. Remember, this was 1984! In the lower left corner is the turbo gauge. Two -The miles showing on the panel is a mere 3,434. If the miles are accurate, this car died at a young age!
ANOTHER NEWSPAPER GRAND NATIONAL ADVERTISEMENT -
This past week we heard from Bob, one of our Inner Circle readers, who sent me a copy of a newspaper ad dated March 25th, 1988. He bought his new Grand National in February 1988. Bob has been a customer of ours since 1992!
PHOTO 3 - Here is that newspaper advertisement. Reads “Last Chance for a Classic” This dealership had just 5 left. That catch phrase, “Last chance for a Classic,” rings true today as the Grand National has indeed reached the classic classification, in my opinion. It’s interesting that this dealership had Sunday hours. In many of the states, Pennsylvania included, car dealers were prohibited from selling cars on Sunday.
MY ONE TIME COLLECTIBLE CAR AUCTION BUYING EXPERIENCE -
My one time car auction buying experience happened in the spring of either 1968 or 1969. I know the approximate date because the photos show our old house on Easton Road in Willow Grove prior to moving to Sugar Bottom Road in Furlong, PA.
Back then, every Spring the Manheim Auction facility in nearby Manheim PA held what was called a “Red Rose Auction.” It was held on a Saturday and featured older cars and trucks, some of which would be collectibles and others that became collectibles. At the time, because of our towing business, I had a passion for trucks. I already had a 1947 Studebaker pickup all restored. I went with a friend and probably had a $1,000 in cash.
I ended up buying a 1½ ton 1937 Chevrolet stake body truck. That truck had original paint and still carried the name of the company on the doors. It belonged to the Columbia Burial Vault Company in Columbia, PA. Ironically, today my brother lives in Columbia, PA.
I researched the company several years ago and it went out of business many years ago. Not sure how that happens as it seems to me burial vaults should always have a demand. I paid I think $600 for the truck and drove it home. I did not realize until after I purchased it that it had mechanical brakes. Hydraulic brakes did not make their appearance until the following year. I never had much use for the truck except for the annual 4th of July parade when my sisters and brother would ride in the back. Today it would probably be popular at Halloween as I left the company name on the truck when I sold it. That is my one and only buying experience at a collectible car auction.
PHOTO 4 - I could only find these few small photos of this unique Chevrolet truck. Barely visible in the background is our 1947 Studebaker pickup truck.
LOTS OF CAR SHOW EVENTS THIS SUMMER TO ATTEND
As you scroll down this week’s Inner Circle, we have added a few more events that we are either attending as a speaker or are related to Turbo Regals. I think everyone in most of the country is anxious for winter to end so we can enjoy our hobby either as a participant or a spectator. I can’t complain as the winter thus far has been very mild in our immediate area.
38th ANNUAL GTOAA NATIONALS -
JUNE 27-JULY 2, 2017
Crowne Plaza Hotel and Convention Center, Springfield, Illinois
This year the GTOAA Nationals will be held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel and Convention Center in Springfield, Illinois. I will be one of the guest speakers there on Thursday June 29th 8:30 am until 10 am. I have spoken several times in years past at their annual conventions and I also have written several dozen articles over the years for their monthly publication called, “The Legend.” If you near Springfield, you may want to attend.
I am asking if any local Buick club may want to set up a meeting one or two days prior near Springfield, Illinois. I would be willing to conduct a Turbo Regal seminar for them as well. Email me - [email protected] if you reside in or near Springfield, Illinois and want to meet for dinner or something. We may be able to work something out. I have done this in years past when I would travel to pick up Turbo Regals to sell.
What is interesting about the GTO National Club is I joined back in the late 1970s and my membership number is 044. According to the current GTOAA President, only six current members have a lower number than me.
One thing they do that is a creative idea is that they recognize GTO original owners that still own their GTO with a special certificate. In other words, if you bought your GTO new in the 1960s or 1970s and still have it, you are part of that select group.
It would be neat to see how many Turbo Regal owners still own their original Turbo Regal. I know I would not be part of that group! I would be part of the group that has owned and sold more than one since 1987!
OUR GRANDDAUGHTER DEVYN ACCEPTED TO PENN STATE -
Our granddaughter Devyn has been accepted at Penn State. She has committed to the College of Engineering at Penn State main campus starting this coming Fall. Her goal is to pursue an electrical engineering degree. We are all quite proud of her. I often kid her that I was only on a college campus one time back in the early 1990s. The seller of one of the Grand Nationals I picked up in the New England area worked at a college. I can’t remember his job title. I picked up the Grand National on the college campus. This is the closest I ever came to college!
SOMEONE DROPPED THE BALL -
Someone really dropped the ball on this toll road cheater. One New Jersey resident owes more than $644,804 (not a misprint). This amount is in unpaid tolls and fees related to the Lincoln Tunnel. With that said, wouldn’t you think the authorities would be on the lookout for this driver at some point before the total of unpaid tolls and fees reached the six digit figure? Obviously this individual was probably committing this crime on a fairly regular basis over a long period of time! There is little to no chance that they will be able to collect the monies due now.
SOME HOPE AFTER ALL -
I might have some hope after all. I read in the paper that a farmer in New Guinea found a high school ring from a U.S. resident dated 1938. It was lost during World War II. The farmer, with the help of a friend, was able to track down the family of the owner and return the high school ring. Unfortunately the soldier who lost the ring had passed away a few years earlier.
I lost my girlfriend’s high school ring (now my wife) in the China Sea off the coast of Vietnam in 1966-1967. Maybe someday someone will find it and track me down!
THIS YEAR’S SUPER BOWL COMMERCIALS -
With the amount of money spent on the yearly Super Bowl commercials, usually they are well thought out and humorous.
The Coen brothers, who have a long list of successful movies to their credit, did a commercial for Mercedes Benz AMG group for this Sunday’s Super Bowl. It features Peter Fonda. Peter Fonda’s iconic movie role was Easy Rider, which I remember quite well. The commercial is entitled, “Easy Driver.” It features a motorcycle gang at a desert saloon whose parked bikes get blocked in by a Mercedes Benz AMG roadster driven by Peter Fonda. You can instantly see the connection. This sounds like one thirty-second commercial worth checking out.
DODGE CHALLENGER SRT DEMON UPDATE -
Here are a few more tidbits on the upcoming Dodge Challenger SRT Demon. It will ride on 18 alloy wheels that are 11 inches wide. Tires will be 315/40R18 Nitto NT05R drag radials, the same size tires front and back. This may be the first time that a factory U.S. car model will come equipped riding on drag radials. Start saving your pennies now!
UPDATE ON THE CUSTOM-MADE ARMY JEEP GOLF CART-
This unusual golf cart is still available. It does run. See last week’s Inner Circle for photos or email me - [email protected]
It is located about 15 minutes from our house. We can easily store this in our pole building, if you purchase it and can’t pick it up right away.
MECUM AUCTION CONTEST WINNER UPDATE -
We heard from our last Mecum contest winner Preston Mullins who lives in Wesson, Mississippi. He has been a customer of ours for four years and owns a 1986 Grand National. He nailed the auction price exact on the Grand National. His reasoning was it appeared very nice and then added a bit of luck to his guess!
1986-1987 TURBO REGAL EIGHT-HOLE HOOD PADS -
The price for the eight-hole hood pad picked up at our location is $279.95. If you want it shipped, the price is $349.95 to any of the basic 48 states.
Another option is to pay for it now and pick it up at our Spring Open House on April 22nd. We also have a source that can sell you the pattern so you can imprint the Buick logo on the hood pad.
These are not on our website. You must call our office and talk to Christina if you want one of these hood pads. You can contact Christina - 215-766-1611 x 0.
UPCOMING RELATED CAR SHOW EVENTS FOR 2017 -
KIRBAN SPRING 2017 OPEN HOUSE -
SATURDAY, APRIL 22, 2017
6201 Kellers Church Road, Plumsteadville, PA
Our Spring Open House will be held rain or shine on Saturday, April 22nd, 2017. It is the same weekend as Spring Carlisle. Spring Carlisle starts Wednesday the 19th. You could hit two events, since Carlisle is only about two hours from our location. I go to Spring Carlisle midweek every year.
Our Open House will have the usual features - YumYum donuts, M&M contest, sale prices on parts, and no reserve auction. We already are putting aside unique items for the no reserve auction. Several featured items will be discounted to save shipping. The usual array of tagged and bagged used parts and literature will be for sale as well.
2017 TurboBuick.com - NC TURBO BUICK NATIONALS -
MAY 3-6, 2017 - BURLINGTON, NC
The dates for the Turbo Buick Nationals in Burlington, NC are May 3rd thru May 6th, 2017. The main event is held at Richard Clark’s Garage, where you can see the largest array of turbo cars and parts. We will be attending this event.
For more up-to-date information, go to turbobuick.com, and scroll down to events.
PYPES EXHAUST/MAX PERFORMANCE CAR & TRUCK SHOW -
JUNE 16-17, 2017
Pypes Exhaust Headquarters, 2705 Clemens Road, Hatfield, PA
The annual Pypes Exhaust/Max Performance Car & Truck Show is June 16th and 17th, 2017 at Pypes Exhaust Headquarters, 2705 Clemens Road, Hatfield, PA. 19440.
This is a huge event. You can contact Mike - 267-638-5030 - for more information about registering your car for the event. I have attended this event in the past. It is located about 15 miles from our location.
38th ANNUAL GTOAA NATIONALS -
JUNE 27-JULY 2, 2017
Crowne Plaza Hotel and Convention Center, Springfield, Illinois
This event is held in Springfield, Illinois at the Crowne Plaza Hotel and Convention Center. I am guest speaker Thursday, June 29th at 8:30 am until 10 am.
CARLISLE CHRYSLER NATIONALS -
JULY 14-16, 2017
Carlisle Fairgrounds, Carlisle, PA
This year’s Chrysler event has a special all new Hurst Nationals July 14th and 15th in conjunction with the Chrysler Nationals. I have been asked to conduct a seminar on Hurst both days, July 14th and 15th. The location of my seminars as well as the other seminars is held just off the grounds from Gate 3 at the Expo Center. They have not yet told me my speaking times.
My granddaughter, Devyn hopes to go with me to help. With Chrysler introducing the Demon this April, my guess is they will have several Demons on display at Carlisle. Hope to see some of my customers at this event. I am as well versed with early Hurst history as I am with Turbo Regals.
As with all my seminars, I will be doing a M&Ms contest in honor of my parents. The Don Garlits autographed connecting rod will make a nice prize!
21ST EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS
SEPTEMBER 15th-16th, 2017
Cecil County Dragway in Cecil Maryland
This is a very well attended event. Once again we plan to be there as a vendor. It is the same weekend as the annual GS Nationals held in Bowling Green, Kentucky.
For more up to date information go to their website www.magnabuick.com
37th ANNUAL GS NATIONALS
SEPTEMBER 13-16, 2017
Beech Bend Race Park, Bowling Green, Kentucky
For more details, go to their website or go to turbobuick.com and scroll down to the event section.
UPDATE ON GM AC DELCO AM/FM CD PLAYERS -
We expect to have these pictured in next week’s Inner Circle. See Rare Parts section in this issue as we have two of the rare AC Delco AM/FM CD players. Complete with six-month warranty included and the proper jumper harness to plug into a factory 1984-1987 Turbo Regal radio harness. These are extremely hard to find. Only those that get this weekly Inner Circle directly to their inbox see the Rare Parts section.
If you want to sign up, contact our office. It’s free and I pride myself on never missing a single week in all these years of doing them. I believe we have the only online newsletter specifically for the Turbo Regal owner that is done by email on a weekly basis.
UPDATE ON THE ORIGINAL BLACK PALLEX SEAT MATERIAL -
The material did come in, however, it was incorrect. My source is trying to locate the correct original black pallex they owe me as I write this. My patience is wearing thin to say the least since I paid him over two months ago. Hopefully we will have good results at some point! We still a good amount of the grey original 1986-1987 Grand National/GNX pallex material on hand. Remember there is no correct substitute for original 30-year-old material. It can only increase in value as time goes on.
FOUR 1980 REGALS FOR SALE -
Recently Tom Zemanek contacted me about putting his 4 pristine 1980 Regals up for sale. He built these cars over the years as a hobby. Each one is 100 percent OEM. You can clearly see Tom has a passion for the 1980 Regal coupes. He ordered one 1980 Regal brand new with every possible option. One is white, one is blue and two are black. Most are in the $8,500 price range. One is a very rare Turbo Sport Coupe and the price is a more for that one.
He does have photos of these on YouTube. To find out more on these 4 pristine 1980 Regal coupes, contact Tom personally. His email is - [email protected]
Tell him you heard about his cars on the Kirban Inner Circle.
1987 GRAND NATIONAL FOR SALE LOCAL TO US -
See photos and detailed description on this 1987 Grand National for sale in our 01-18-2017 Inner Circle. The Grand National has 88,000 actual miles. The car has been garage kept and the owner is 79 years old and has health issues. Car is located about 15 minutes from our house. The price is $19,250. If you are interested or would like to see more photos, email me - [email protected]
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If you have a tip or a discovery that you found that works on your Turbo Regal, drop us an email giving us the details so we can pass the info on to our readers. Remember, even with my knowledge, I don’t know it all. Simply email me at - [email protected]
TIP FROM KIRBAN - PLAN TO ATTEND OUR SPRING OPEN HOUSE -
It’s never too early to start planning to attend our annual Spring Open House. This event is held Saturday, April 22nd and has no rain date.
In recent years, our no reserve auction has been well received. This year we will have several unique items at the auction, including some GNX items and framed prints.
It’s a great time to also bring us any parts you want to trade or cores that we are always need. Cash them in and it saves you shipping.
Sometime in the next few weeks we will be announcing special sale prices on some of the larger items so you can pick them up at the show and avoid shipping. These items would have to be paid for in advance so we have them set aside for you. One item in particular will be the Pypes exhaust system. Our Spring Open House is usually the first event of the show season in this area for Turbo Regal owners.
NEW TURBO REGAL ITEMS NOW IN STOCK -
#7774 - Our newest part for the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal is a fiberglass reproduction of the radiator top plate. The originals are usually rusted.
These are being made for us by Mike at SPOOLFOOL, and our first order is in stock. The excellent quality of this item is just like his ready-to-install filler panels. The fit is excellent. The cover weighs a mere 1 pound, whereas the steel cover weighs 3 pounds.
Each one comes with 5 new powder-coated black bolts. The introductory price for this radiator top plate is $114.95. This price is only in effect until Friday, February 10th, 2017. The price will be $124.95 after that date. These radiator top plates and bolts are in stock. The Spoolfool quality has these looking like metal and will outshine a factory Grand National paint job. Mike does such a super job on these. You have to touch it to believe that it is not metal.
If you are interested, contact our office to get one of the first ones - 215-766-1611 x 0
Here is a link to this radiator top plate on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44347/REPRODUCTION+RADIATOR+TOP+PLATE+%26+HARDWARE+%237774.html
#7751 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal GM licensed Embroidered “Buick Motorsports” Seat Armour™ Seat Cover.
Here is a link to this seat cover on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7751&submit_button=
#7773 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal Reproduction Front Air Dams (2) $219.95.
Here is a link to these Front Air Dams on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44344/Reproduction+FRONT+AIR+DAMS+%282%29+%237773.html
#7772 - 1981-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regals) - Reproduction 3-Piece Baffles Set - $26.95 / 3-piece set
Here is a link to this baffles set on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44343/Reproduction+3+PIECE+BAFFLES+SET+%237772.html
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED - TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $125 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.
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. Keep in mind, I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
REPRODUCTION RADIATOR TOP PLATE & HARDWARE
In many cases, the original metal radiator top plate that holds the top of the radiator and secures the housing for the electric fan may be rusted or bent.
This radiator top plate is unique to the 1986-1987 Turbo Regals, making it difficult to find a nice used one today.
We had Spoolfool make this radiator top plate exactly like the original, except it is fiberglass and not metal. Each one is done in black gelcoat polished to a high gloss shine. It weighs only 1 pound versus 3 pounds for the metal plate. It saves a small amount of weight, but more importantly, it will never rust!
It comes with 5 powder-coated black new bolts, which are the correct size for this plate, and easy-to-follow directions.
Our first photo shows the radiator top plate and hardware, the lower photo on the left shows an original top plate on a car, and the lower right photo shows the new radiator top plate on a car.
NOTE - The photo on the lower right shows the new plate installed with original hardware, not the new powder-coated black bolts that come with the plate. That photo also shows a new reproduction “Fan Caution” decal, part #6507 on the new plate.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #6507 Reproduction “Fan Caution” Decal, #6502 Reproduction “ACCESSORY BELT ROUTING” Decal, #7607 Dual Fan Conversion Kit and Custom-made Plug-and-Plug Harness, #7608 Dual Fan Only, and #7609 Custom-made Plug-and-Plug Harness Only (for Intrepid Dual Fan).
A nice finishing touch for under the hood.
7774 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Reproduction Radiator Top Plate & Hardware - $124.95
Here is a link to this radiator top plate on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44347/REPRODUCTION+RADIATOR+TOP+PLATE+%26+HARDWARE+%237774.html
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM LICENSED - EMBROIDERED “BUICK MOTORSPORTS”
SEAT ARMOUR™ SEAT COVER
Because of the value of original Grand National seats, it’s best to protect them from stains, odors, and fading from the sunlight.
We are the exclusive distributor for this GM licensed embroidered “Buick Motorsports” Seat Armour™ seat cover. This Seat Armour™ seat cover is a simple slip-on cover that slides over the head rest, which secures the top of the cover in place. It just covers the seat portion, not the headrest.
The cover installs in seconds. There are no straps or elastic and no other attachments are needed. You simply slide it over the headrest and it drapes over the seat.
The GM licensed “Buick Motorsport” logo is embroidered in the logo colors - red, yellow and silver on black material. The embroidered logo measures 9" x 2-1/2". It is machine washable 100% heavyweight cotton velour terry material.
It can be folded and stored in the trunk when not in use.
It is cool in the summer and warm in the winter. It’s a quick and simple way to protect the seats.
Our photo on the left shows this one-piece seat cover laid out so you can see the shape. Photo in the middle shows the original driver’s side seat, and the photo on the right shows the cover on the seat.
We offer a single cover, part #7751. If you want to cover both seats, you can order two covers, part #7752.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7750 Slip-on Grey & Black Front Seat Covers (2) and Seat Belt Covers (2) Set, #7516 GM Plastic Front Seat Belt Cap Covers (2) Set, and #7479 Reproduction Front Bucket Grey Seat Belts (4 pieces) Set.
This is another great interior item to protect your car seats.
7751 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM Licensed - Embroidered “Buick Motorsports” Seat Armour™ Seat Cover (1) - $36.95
7752 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
TWO - GM Licensed - Embroidered “Buick Motorsports” Seat Armour™ Seat Covers (2) - $69.95
NOTE - If you are interested in the T-Type or GNX embroidered seat covers currently being made, contact our office for availability. Those will be the same price as the “Buick Motorsports” covers and are not on our website yet. 215-766-1611 x 0
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction FRONT AIR DAMS (2)
Another nice dress-up item for the exterior is to replace the front air dams.
Over the years, some of the front air dams have deteriorated or become distorted, or are broken from being hit.
Because of many requests, we now offer reproduction front air dams. These air dams are a dead-on match, exact size and width, and even the texture is perfect.
Keep in mind, these are built with modern-day plastic and will last a lot longer than the GM originals. This material is a little harder to scruff compared to the OEM units.
These replace GM #25525981 and #25525980.
Photo on the left shows the two air dam pieces. Photo on the right shows the positioning on a car.
If you are having the car repainted or restored, it is a good time to replace the air dams.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7772 Reproduction 3-Piece Baffles Set, #7507 Reproduction “AMBER” Signal Lamps (2) Set, #7708 Reproduction “CLEAR” Signal Lamps (2) Set, and #7557 OEM FRONT Bumper Impact Cushion & Thread Cutting Nuts (25) Pack.
This is another great exterior restoration item.
7773 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Reproduction Front Air Dams (2) - $219.95
Here is a link to these front air dams on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44344/Reproduction+FRONT+AIR+DAMS+%282%29+%237773.html
1981-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regals) -
Reproduction 3-PIECE BAFFLES SET
These baffles are often overlooked, but are critical to keep a turbo engine cool.
Buick had a 3-piece baffles set, which consisted of 3 individual baffles that directed the air flow towards the radiator core. The long baffle went under the center and attached to the bottom of the front of the core support. The 2 small baffles attached to each side of the core support and to the front bumper shock pistons.
This format directs more airflow to the front of the radiator.
Overtime, the originals may be ripped or missing completely.
These reproduction baffles are made from the same rubber-like material as the originals.
NOTE - You will need to re-use the original hardware and plastic tie straps to attach the baffles.
Our top photo shows the 3 baffles in the set, and lower photos show the baffles in position on the front and driver’s side.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7457 Upgraded New ALUMINUM Radiator, #KE003 Used Original AC Delco “MADE IN ENGLAND” Radiator Cap, #1507 1984-1987 Regal Fiberglass Front Bumper, #7215 GNX, Grand National, WE4, and 1987 Turbo-T with the black-out package Reproduction BLACK Grille, and #7239 1984-1987 Regal (Including Turbo Models) Reproduction CHROME-plated Plastic Grille.
Another great restoration set.
7772 - 1981-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regals) - Reproduction 3-Piece Baffles Set - $26.95 / 3-piece set
Here is a link to this baffles set on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44343/Reproduction+3+PIECE+BAFFLES+SET+%237772.html
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. 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 have to be low-resolution photos to work on the Inner Circle segments on the website, any photos of text don't appear clear when enlarged. This is a problem when you are trying to see numbers, such as those on the VIN labels or pages from Options booklet. Also, because of photo reproduction and computer screen variations, the colors may not be true to the actual product or photo.
If you would like to have us email you any photo at the higher resolution for viewing, just email us and we will email them to you. Be sure to be specific on which pictures you want to see - Reference Inner Circle date and photo number 1, 2, 3 or 4 - [email protected]
ABOUT OUR EMAILS -
Any inquiries concerning used parts, you must email me direct - [email protected] - I will answer you. However, if I fail to answer you within 24 hours, please email us again. Since expanding into used parts, I get a lot of emails and sometimes I may forget your request or may not remember who requested the item.
IN CLOSING -
Be sure to mark your calendar for April 22nd as that is the day for our annual Spring Open House. It has no rain date.
I appreciate all the nice comments I get on my weekly Inner Circle. I love to write and there never is a shortage of topics to cover and new parts to present to the market.
We hope to have a Buick seminar lined up soon in Illinois, just prior to my GTO speaking engagement in Springfield, Illinois. Watch for details. All my seminars feature a M&Ms contest in memory of my parents.