Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 02-14-2018 -
HERE ARE A FEW ADDITIONAL FACTS ON OUR PERSONAL WHITE 1987 TURBO-T FOR SALE -
I started the 1987 Turbo-T we have for sale the other day for the first time in about 6 months. No issues at all. I did try the AC and it does blow ice cold with no unusual sounds. In all these years, I never used the AC. Everything for the AC is factory original. The hood pad is the desirable 9-hole style. Every decal is mint, even the one of the intercooler. The AC vents in the dash are all brand new as are the door sill plates. The tan interior has had excellent care since new. The pleats in the door panels are perfect.
The car still has the factory GM heater water valve, factory oil fill tube and cap. Also, the factory tube to the turbo from the passenger valve cover is all 100% original correct GM. The powermaster unit has never caused an issue and still retains the GM yellow striped brake bowl. The firewall is still bright white. Also, both taillights are brand new GM. These bring almost a thousand dollars today, if you can even find a pair! I have a receipt for all the work that was done when I first purchased the car.
As far as trades considered, I am not looking for a project car. Open to basically any car, performance or otherwise, that can be resold. I am merely making this a possible option for the buyer to lessen the cash outlay.
There is some wiggle room in the price as I realize a potential buyer will probably have some travel expenses involved. There is a price that will buy the car. Remember, this car has several features that make it uniquely 1 of 1.
Below are more detailed pictures taken last week, mostly of the engine compartment.
PHOTO 1 - Here are four photos of the engine compartment area. These were taken over this past weekend.
T HANDLES -
The T handle shifter knob format is nothing new. Hurst is probably credited with making the first T handle style handles in 1967 for the 4-speed manual shift American cars. Hurst hit the ground running by making a wide assortment of T handle style shifter handles, first in diecast aluminum and later in plastic and leather.
Unlike the flimsy T handle found in your Turbo Regal, these were not only better built but had the indentions for your fingers, something our T handles lack.
PHOTO 2 - The photo to the left shows the original Press Release paper dated December 5, 1966 for the new T handle shifter. Notice the price of just $7.95. What many old timers may not realize is the original plan was to offer 3 different angle T handles, besides offering course and also the fine thread formats. The photo to the right shows 4 original Hurst T handles from my personal collection. The diecast aluminum one is brand new and still has the sticker on the side listing it as a 45 degree angle T handle for course threads. The black felt looking one was just one color they did with the felt or flocking on the handle. They would also do shifter balls with the same felt or flocking material in various colors. The white T handle is plastic and they offered them in several colors as well. The leather-wrapped handle is probably one of the later style Hurst T handles
Next week we will share a few more little-known facts about the Hurst T handles. I have over 25 different Hurst T handles in my private collection, several of which are prototypes.
BOBBY RYDELL FANS -
Last week the lady that does the custom frames for some of our rare artwork and pictures hosted a local rock and roll star from the late 1950s and 1960s, Bobby Rydell. She had done work for him in the past. I went down a day earlier to pre-purchase a few items for Bobby to sign, including copies of his book as I wanted some for personal gifts.
PHOTO 3 - We show this framed and personally signed Bobby Rydell record sleeve with the original 45 rpm record framed. There is only one of these featuring this exact record sleeve and actual record. We also show a copy of his autobiography book that has also been signed by Bobby on the inside. See the Rare Parts listing as they are for sale.
POCKET DIARY 1935 -
I am not sure when I bought this small black leather diary, but I found it among some of my Buick literature the other day. This diary is for the year 1935. I found some of the entries to be quite interesting. One entry lists buying a Chevy for $25. Another entry shows that he worked 8 hours and was paid 50 cents per hour. Another entry showed the writer was paid 47 cents per hour.
What intrigued me most was the writer listed that on October 29th an earthquake struck Helena, Montana. I went on the internet as I was curious if indeed that did occur. Sure enough, it did. A later entry from November 1st, the writer said he felt the aftershocks from the earthquake at his house. Again, the internet verified that indeed aftershocks did strike November 1, 1935.
With that being the case, I realized this person lived in Helena, Montana in 1935. We live near Philadelphia, PA. I wonder how this small pocket-size diary not only survived over 80 years, but traveled over 2,000 miles. It’s a shame the writer did not put their name or address in the diary. It would have been neat to try and hunt down any of the writer’s relatives.
PHOTO 4 - The photo to the left shows the leather-bound pocket size diary. Note - It says 1935. Although the writing is hard to read the photo, to the right details the aftershock the writer felt from the earthquake on November 1, 1935.
KIRBAN SPRING 2018 OPEN HOUSE -
Next week we will announce the date for our Spring Open House. It will be on a Saturday in April with no rain date. Since it’s only February, we are pleasantly surprised at the number of emails we get inquiring as to when the Open House will be held this Spring.
2018 TURBO BUICK RELATED CAR SHOWS EVENTS -
Here is the current listing with dates for events to show your Turbo Regal or attend in 2018. As more information becomes available for these events, we will update them.
27TH ANNUAL BUICK OLDS PONTIAC CADILLAC SWAP MEET & CAR CORRAL
Sunday February 18, 2018
Kane Country Fairgrounds, 525 S. Randall Road, St Charles, Il. For more info, email [email protected] or website www.bopcswap.com
2018 Turbobuick.com NATIONALS -
May 2nd thru May 5th, 2018 - Burlington, NC
This event is held at two location. The first part of the week is at Richard Clark’s Garage, 2557 Faucette Lane, Burlington, NC. It then moves to Piedmont Race track in Burlington, NC. For more information, go to turbobuick.com and click on 2018 Turbo Buick Nationals or on Facebook.
PYPES and MAX PERFORMANCE 8th Annual American Muscle Car and Truck Show -
June 29th and June 30th, 2018 - Hatfield, PA
This show is hosted by Pypes and Max Performance. A BBQ and cruise is Friday afternoon and Saturday is the car show. The location is at their facility at 2705 Clemens Road B103, Hatfield, PA 19440. This event draws a huge amount of all kinds of GM muscle cars, including Ford and Chrysler. The company owner has been our friend for over 30-plus years. We will be attending this event. For more information, go to their website - maxperformanceinc.com
MAGNA - MID ATLANTIC GRAND NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
22nd EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS -
September 14th and 15th, 2018 - Cecil County Dragway, Cecil, Maryland
The MAGNA Group has their annual event September 14th and 15th at Cecil County Dragway in Cecil County, Maryland. This event grows bigger each year and is open to all Buick muscle cars not just the Turbo Regals. For more details, go to turbobuick.com or their website - magnabuick.com
NEW PROJECT IN THE WORKS -
We should have a very reasonable solution for slip-on grey and black seat covers very shortly. I know in the past we have had good luck selling black and grey covers to protect the expensive pallex material that GM used in the Grand Nationals.
These new seat covers requires no tools and no skill to install. I know because I did a sample cover of my car the other day!
MY MUSCLE CAR PINBALL STORY -
Since we just sold our Williams High Speed Pinball machine, I figured I would relate a story from my past that ties into the Firebird 400 we used to own and pinball machines.
The year was 1970s something. An older couple advertised a 1967 Firebird 400 for sale. I went to look at it. They were getting $1,200 on a trade in the next day on a new Volvo. If I paid over $1,200, they would sell me the car. I paid $1,201 and bought the car.
Over the next few years I painstakingly converted it to a 4-speed and acquired all the super rare parts to make it a factory ram air car with all the options. I had the ram air factory headers, hood tachometer, aluminum Pontiac intake, etc.
I would later advertise it in Hemmings Motor News. Back then Hemmings was the best place to sell any muscle car. A buyer out of Chicago flew in and bought the Firebird. At the time, he had a 6-cylinder Firebird. One quick blast down the street and he quickly realized this was far quicker than his little 6-cylinder Firebird.
Over the years, I stayed in contact with him. I asked him what he did for a living. He told me he owned a company called Electric Windings and made all the windings for the Williams pinball company. I would later purchase parts from him for the High Speed pinball machine that we used to own.
He always told me, if I was ever in the Chicago area, to stop in. He had a huge farm outside of Chicago. On one of my many road trips to pick up a Turbo Regal, I did stop at his farm to pay him a visit.
I was amazed as I viewed the largest collection of pinball machines I had ever seen in my life. Each machine was in numerical year order in row upon row in this huge building. Plus, all of them were in mint condition and plugged into a bar of electric outlets on the floor. You could play each one instantly. Just as amazing my old Firebird was the only car in this building with well over 250 pinball machines.
He later would tell me he never bought another muscle car, just the one he bought from me. I am glad I took time to pay him a visit as a few years later he died in a freak accident at his home.
That is my pinball machine story. I have no idea where the Firebird is today or even if the current owner realizes that it was once our car and is the same car that appears on the Firebird poster and is pictured in the hardbound Firebird book. That current owner could be pleasantly surprised.
WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU -
Two weeks ago, I met with a person that has developed a very interesting product that has been on the market for a while. He already has two companies in two different fields of operation, both of which are the biggest in the field using his product exclusively. This is quite an accomplishment.
We are working out the details so we can be a distributor for this local company. This product is superior to all the competition with no downsides! If you work or own any new or used car dealership, clean out houses for estate sales, or work or own an automotive detail business, email me direct - [email protected] - for more details as they become available.
CUSTOM-MADE GM LICENSED VINYL BANNERS UPDATE -
Currently we are working with a company that is fully GM licensed for GM banners. They have agreements for all the GM models except Chevrolet and Corvette. They have submitted Turbo Regal Grand National banner samples to GM license department. Watch for word on availability on these custom-made vinyl banners later this month. The GM legal department moves extremely slow on granting license agreements! We still have no word yet.
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 3,200 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.
My Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!
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.
THIS WEEK’S CLASSIFIED ADS -
WANTED TO BUY: For a 1987 Buick Turbo Regal: NOS left and right hardtop roof rail pillar weatherstrip seals, NOS left and right door weather strip seals, NOS hood to cowl lace weather strip seal, NOS trunk weather strip seal, NOS left and right rear bumper fillers, NOS left and right front black metal parking light bezels, NOS exhaust catalytic converter hanger, NOS left and right exhaust manifolds. Prefer parts to be in original GM factory sealed packaging or GM factory box with original GM part number tag and GM dealer tag. Serious Buyer. Please email clear pictures and description or part or call and leave message. All calls will be returned. Jason Maxfield, (416) 399-7265, email: [email protected] - Niagara Falls, NY 14303. 1 of 4.
FOR SALE - Remember, if you are local to us check out the inventory of used vehicles 611 Auto Sales. They are located near us at 8307 Easton Road in Ottsville, PA. Their website is -611autosalespa.com Many of the cars are priced under $3,995. Mention my name and it may save you a few bucks! They have several one-owner cars to choose from.
Their office number is 610-847-0100. Currently they have the 1987 Bronco II for $6,495. Several of their real nice 4-door sedans are priced under $3995. These are ones I bid on that checked out as 1-2 owners, non-smoker with real nice exterior and interiors.
NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the 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.
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 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 -
It’s always a good idea to seek out the turbo car that has not had any wires cut in the harness as that can lead to issues when you least expect it.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
NEED - Powermaster brake units. The must be complete. We will issue you a Letter of Credit for $125 for each acceptable core. We currently will not buy any powermaster units outright only letter of credit towards parts.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number. These are the only 2 items we are currently accepting as cores.
MAIL - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949
UPS - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
6201 Kellers Church Road
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949-1199
TECH CALLS -
If you need technical information, it’s best to email - [email protected] - rather than call us. We will do our best to answer any technical questions within 24 hours. Please remember I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
THE RETURN OF THE 1986-1987 & 1989 REPRODUCTION TRANS AM STAINLESS STEEL ENGINE COOLANT LINES -
We are happy to announce we now have the Reproduction Stainless Steel Engine Coolant Lines, part #7296, available again. Lines are powder coated and come with the correct ends.
Here is a link to these coolant lines on our website.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) -
REPLACEMENT UPGRADED GM AUTOMATIC SHIFTER HANDLES
AND INSTALLATION KIT
Until now you had no other choice but to stay with the stock wimpy shifter handle. That GM shifter handle has been the same one from 1978 thru 1987 on the Regals with the console format. Not only is it small in size, but its short mounting shaft makes it prone to breaking due to the plastic internals. If that wasn’t bad enough, it shows wear quickly from use and the plastic chrome ends fall off!
All the 1978-1987 Buick Regal and 1978-1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass floor shifter handles are the same. They all used a locking clip on the one side of the handle to secure the handle to the shifter shaft. On all the other GM cars from that time period, including the Monte Carlo SS models, the locking clip was in the front. That format will not work on the Turbo Regal shifter shaft because the slots on the shaft need to match up to a locking clip on the side in order to secure the handle to the shaft.
We also have a new aftermarket leather shifter handle available, #7830.
This makes it difficult to install a better stronger GM automatic shifter handle from another GM car without making some modifications and adding a method to secure the handle to the shaft.
Our installation kit eliminates the locking clip altogether. You will no longer have to buy a $5 locking clip!
The stock factory handle has plastic internals plus has no depth to give it strength on the shifter shaft. This poor design leads to many of the original shifter handles breaking. Also, while the small plastic chrome rings may give the original GM handle an elegant look, over time they can fall off.
The new original replacement handle can run $40 to $100 or more depending on what actual parts you need to buy. We have come up with several various later GM handles and an installation kit to secure the later GM handles from other GM cars to the factory shifter shaft.
We have several options available including one aftermarket leather handle that is brand new. The used GM handles listed below have all been cleaned and are almost brand new in appearance. (We remove them from certain models that are only about 12-15 years old.)
All the handles are black making it a nice match to any Grand National interior or T-Type with grey interior. Each handle has been modified internally and comes with the necessary custom-made parts to secure it to the factory shaft.
These fit every 1978-1987 Turbo Regal and Oldsmobile Cutlass that has the factory floor shifter. Each handle has been pre-tested to function properly on an original Regal shaft. All of these better design GM shifter handles can be installed if desired to be angled to the driver, something the factory shifter handle you can't do. The end result is a better looking GM handle that fits your hand better and gives a stronger look to your factory shifter.
The used GM shifter handles listed below are a far less costly alternative to purchasing a new original Turbo Regal shifter handle. Not only are they stronger, but these do not show wear as quickly as the original light grey original GM handle does.
All the shifter handles come with easy-to-follow directions and parts as shown.
These replacement shifter handles allow you to keep your original shifter handle like new in storage for car shows. Handles can be switched out in a matter of minutes.
This is a nice upgrade that Buick should have done originally to compliment the engineering they did under the hood.
NOTE - Handles shown in Photo 4 and Photo 5 are extremely rare to find!
Excellent replacements for any interior restoration.
7830 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Aftermarket LEATHER Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 1 - NEW - $15.95
Includes new locking ring with allen wrench and set screws installed. These are in stock for immediate delivery.
7831 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Replacement Upgraded GM Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 2 - USED - $29.95
Includes new locking ring with allen wrench, set screw and trigger spacer
7832 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Replacement Upgraded GM Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 3 - USED - $29.95
Includes new locking ring with allen wrench, set screw and trigger spacer
7833 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Replacement Upgraded GM Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 4 - TEAR-DROP STYLE - USED - $29.95
Includes new locking ring with allen wrench, set screw and trigger spacer
7834 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Replacement Upgraded GM Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 5 - CHROME-PLATED THUMB BUTTON - USED $29.95
Includes new locking ring with set screw and trigger spacer as shown
NOTE - Only the #7830 – Aftermarket Black LEATHER Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit is in stock now and available online. Here is the link to that handle of our website.
1984-1987 Buick Grand National -
REPRODUCTION GRAND NATIONAL DASH PLAQUE INLAY
This is a new reproduction item. GM never offered this emblem as a separate replacement part as it was only part of the assembly found under GM #25504346.
This emblem is found in every Grand National (except 1982-1/2) as part of the dash plate located above the glove box door. This is an insert GM placed right below the “BUICK” lettering.
Different models/trim options used different style inserts, i.e. “Regal” or “GNX.”
After many years of sun exposure, moisture or dash cleaning products, the chrome finish on this emblem may have faded away or the inlay may have even fallen off the dash plate and is lost.
The dash plate assembly is no longer available and fetches $350+.
This reproduction inlay measures 2-5/8" x 3/8 and is made in ABS injection molded plastic, chrome plated, and painted in the correct colors. There is 3M adhesive backed tape attached for easy installation.
NOTE - This is the "Grand National" INSERT ONLY and NOT the entire dash plate!
The top photo shows this dash plaque inlay (red tab is the carrier sheet for the self-adhesive backing) and the lower photo shows its placement on the dash plaque.
This is another excellent replacement for any interior restoration.
7820 - 1984-1987 Buick Grand National - Reproduction Grand National Dash Plaque Inlay - $19.95
Here is a link to this dash plaque inlay 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. 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 -
Remember, next week we expect to announce the date of our 2018 Spring Open House.
HERE ARE A FEW ADDITIONAL FACTS ON OUR PERSONAL WHITE 1987 TURBO-T FOR SALE -
I started the 1987 Turbo-T we have for sale the other day for the first time in about 6 months. No issues at all. I did try the AC and it does blow ice cold with no unusual sounds. In all these years, I never used the AC. Everything for the AC is factory original. The hood pad is the desirable 9-hole style. Every decal is mint, even the one of the intercooler. The AC vents in the dash are all brand new as are the door sill plates. The tan interior has had excellent care since new. The pleats in the door panels are perfect.
The car still has the factory GM heater water valve, factory oil fill tube and cap. Also, the factory tube to the turbo from the passenger valve cover is all 100% original correct GM. The powermaster unit has never caused an issue and still retains the GM yellow striped brake bowl. The firewall is still bright white. Also, both taillights are brand new GM. These bring almost a thousand dollars today, if you can even find a pair! I have a receipt for all the work that was done when I first purchased the car.
As far as trades considered, I am not looking for a project car. Open to basically any car, performance or otherwise, that can be resold. I am merely making this a possible option for the buyer to lessen the cash outlay.
There is some wiggle room in the price as I realize a potential buyer will probably have some travel expenses involved. There is a price that will buy the car. Remember, this car has several features that make it uniquely 1 of 1.
Below are more detailed pictures taken last week, mostly of the engine compartment.
PHOTO 1 - Here are four photos of the engine compartment area. These were taken over this past weekend.
T HANDLES -
The T handle shifter knob format is nothing new. Hurst is probably credited with making the first T handle style handles in 1967 for the 4-speed manual shift American cars. Hurst hit the ground running by making a wide assortment of T handle style shifter handles, first in diecast aluminum and later in plastic and leather.
Unlike the flimsy T handle found in your Turbo Regal, these were not only better built but had the indentions for your fingers, something our T handles lack.
PHOTO 2 - The photo to the left shows the original Press Release paper dated December 5, 1966 for the new T handle shifter. Notice the price of just $7.95. What many old timers may not realize is the original plan was to offer 3 different angle T handles, besides offering course and also the fine thread formats. The photo to the right shows 4 original Hurst T handles from my personal collection. The diecast aluminum one is brand new and still has the sticker on the side listing it as a 45 degree angle T handle for course threads. The black felt looking one was just one color they did with the felt or flocking on the handle. They would also do shifter balls with the same felt or flocking material in various colors. The white T handle is plastic and they offered them in several colors as well. The leather-wrapped handle is probably one of the later style Hurst T handles
Next week we will share a few more little-known facts about the Hurst T handles. I have over 25 different Hurst T handles in my private collection, several of which are prototypes.
BOBBY RYDELL FANS -
Last week the lady that does the custom frames for some of our rare artwork and pictures hosted a local rock and roll star from the late 1950s and 1960s, Bobby Rydell. She had done work for him in the past. I went down a day earlier to pre-purchase a few items for Bobby to sign, including copies of his book as I wanted some for personal gifts.
PHOTO 3 - We show this framed and personally signed Bobby Rydell record sleeve with the original 45 rpm record framed. There is only one of these featuring this exact record sleeve and actual record. We also show a copy of his autobiography book that has also been signed by Bobby on the inside. See the Rare Parts listing as they are for sale.
POCKET DIARY 1935 -
I am not sure when I bought this small black leather diary, but I found it among some of my Buick literature the other day. This diary is for the year 1935. I found some of the entries to be quite interesting. One entry lists buying a Chevy for $25. Another entry shows that he worked 8 hours and was paid 50 cents per hour. Another entry showed the writer was paid 47 cents per hour.
What intrigued me most was the writer listed that on October 29th an earthquake struck Helena, Montana. I went on the internet as I was curious if indeed that did occur. Sure enough, it did. A later entry from November 1st, the writer said he felt the aftershocks from the earthquake at his house. Again, the internet verified that indeed aftershocks did strike November 1, 1935.
With that being the case, I realized this person lived in Helena, Montana in 1935. We live near Philadelphia, PA. I wonder how this small pocket-size diary not only survived over 80 years, but traveled over 2,000 miles. It’s a shame the writer did not put their name or address in the diary. It would have been neat to try and hunt down any of the writer’s relatives.
PHOTO 4 - The photo to the left shows the leather-bound pocket size diary. Note - It says 1935. Although the writing is hard to read the photo, to the right details the aftershock the writer felt from the earthquake on November 1, 1935.
KIRBAN SPRING 2018 OPEN HOUSE -
Next week we will announce the date for our Spring Open House. It will be on a Saturday in April with no rain date. Since it’s only February, we are pleasantly surprised at the number of emails we get inquiring as to when the Open House will be held this Spring.
2018 TURBO BUICK RELATED CAR SHOWS EVENTS -
Here is the current listing with dates for events to show your Turbo Regal or attend in 2018. As more information becomes available for these events, we will update them.
27TH ANNUAL BUICK OLDS PONTIAC CADILLAC SWAP MEET & CAR CORRAL
Sunday February 18, 2018
Kane Country Fairgrounds, 525 S. Randall Road, St Charles, Il. For more info, email [email protected] or website www.bopcswap.com
2018 Turbobuick.com NATIONALS -
May 2nd thru May 5th, 2018 - Burlington, NC
This event is held at two location. The first part of the week is at Richard Clark’s Garage, 2557 Faucette Lane, Burlington, NC. It then moves to Piedmont Race track in Burlington, NC. For more information, go to turbobuick.com and click on 2018 Turbo Buick Nationals or on Facebook.
PYPES and MAX PERFORMANCE 8th Annual American Muscle Car and Truck Show -
June 29th and June 30th, 2018 - Hatfield, PA
This show is hosted by Pypes and Max Performance. A BBQ and cruise is Friday afternoon and Saturday is the car show. The location is at their facility at 2705 Clemens Road B103, Hatfield, PA 19440. This event draws a huge amount of all kinds of GM muscle cars, including Ford and Chrysler. The company owner has been our friend for over 30-plus years. We will be attending this event. For more information, go to their website - maxperformanceinc.com
MAGNA - MID ATLANTIC GRAND NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
22nd EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS -
September 14th and 15th, 2018 - Cecil County Dragway, Cecil, Maryland
The MAGNA Group has their annual event September 14th and 15th at Cecil County Dragway in Cecil County, Maryland. This event grows bigger each year and is open to all Buick muscle cars not just the Turbo Regals. For more details, go to turbobuick.com or their website - magnabuick.com
NEW PROJECT IN THE WORKS -
We should have a very reasonable solution for slip-on grey and black seat covers very shortly. I know in the past we have had good luck selling black and grey covers to protect the expensive pallex material that GM used in the Grand Nationals.
These new seat covers requires no tools and no skill to install. I know because I did a sample cover of my car the other day!
MY MUSCLE CAR PINBALL STORY -
Since we just sold our Williams High Speed Pinball machine, I figured I would relate a story from my past that ties into the Firebird 400 we used to own and pinball machines.
The year was 1970s something. An older couple advertised a 1967 Firebird 400 for sale. I went to look at it. They were getting $1,200 on a trade in the next day on a new Volvo. If I paid over $1,200, they would sell me the car. I paid $1,201 and bought the car.
Over the next few years I painstakingly converted it to a 4-speed and acquired all the super rare parts to make it a factory ram air car with all the options. I had the ram air factory headers, hood tachometer, aluminum Pontiac intake, etc.
I would later advertise it in Hemmings Motor News. Back then Hemmings was the best place to sell any muscle car. A buyer out of Chicago flew in and bought the Firebird. At the time, he had a 6-cylinder Firebird. One quick blast down the street and he quickly realized this was far quicker than his little 6-cylinder Firebird.
Over the years, I stayed in contact with him. I asked him what he did for a living. He told me he owned a company called Electric Windings and made all the windings for the Williams pinball company. I would later purchase parts from him for the High Speed pinball machine that we used to own.
He always told me, if I was ever in the Chicago area, to stop in. He had a huge farm outside of Chicago. On one of my many road trips to pick up a Turbo Regal, I did stop at his farm to pay him a visit.
I was amazed as I viewed the largest collection of pinball machines I had ever seen in my life. Each machine was in numerical year order in row upon row in this huge building. Plus, all of them were in mint condition and plugged into a bar of electric outlets on the floor. You could play each one instantly. Just as amazing my old Firebird was the only car in this building with well over 250 pinball machines.
He later would tell me he never bought another muscle car, just the one he bought from me. I am glad I took time to pay him a visit as a few years later he died in a freak accident at his home.
That is my pinball machine story. I have no idea where the Firebird is today or even if the current owner realizes that it was once our car and is the same car that appears on the Firebird poster and is pictured in the hardbound Firebird book. That current owner could be pleasantly surprised.
WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU -
Two weeks ago, I met with a person that has developed a very interesting product that has been on the market for a while. He already has two companies in two different fields of operation, both of which are the biggest in the field using his product exclusively. This is quite an accomplishment.
We are working out the details so we can be a distributor for this local company. This product is superior to all the competition with no downsides! If you work or own any new or used car dealership, clean out houses for estate sales, or work or own an automotive detail business, email me direct - [email protected] - for more details as they become available.
CUSTOM-MADE GM LICENSED VINYL BANNERS UPDATE -
Currently we are working with a company that is fully GM licensed for GM banners. They have agreements for all the GM models except Chevrolet and Corvette. They have submitted Turbo Regal Grand National banner samples to GM license department. Watch for word on availability on these custom-made vinyl banners later this month. The GM legal department moves extremely slow on granting license agreements! We still have no word yet.
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 3,200 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.
My Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!
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.
THIS WEEK’S CLASSIFIED ADS -
WANTED TO BUY: For a 1987 Buick Turbo Regal: NOS left and right hardtop roof rail pillar weatherstrip seals, NOS left and right door weather strip seals, NOS hood to cowl lace weather strip seal, NOS trunk weather strip seal, NOS left and right rear bumper fillers, NOS left and right front black metal parking light bezels, NOS exhaust catalytic converter hanger, NOS left and right exhaust manifolds. Prefer parts to be in original GM factory sealed packaging or GM factory box with original GM part number tag and GM dealer tag. Serious Buyer. Please email clear pictures and description or part or call and leave message. All calls will be returned. Jason Maxfield, (416) 399-7265, email: [email protected] - Niagara Falls, NY 14303. 1 of 4.
FOR SALE - Remember, if you are local to us check out the inventory of used vehicles 611 Auto Sales. They are located near us at 8307 Easton Road in Ottsville, PA. Their website is -611autosalespa.com Many of the cars are priced under $3,995. Mention my name and it may save you a few bucks! They have several one-owner cars to choose from.
Their office number is 610-847-0100. Currently they have the 1987 Bronco II for $6,495. Several of their real nice 4-door sedans are priced under $3995. These are ones I bid on that checked out as 1-2 owners, non-smoker with real nice exterior and interiors.
NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the 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.
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 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 -
It’s always a good idea to seek out the turbo car that has not had any wires cut in the harness as that can lead to issues when you least expect it.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
NEED - Powermaster brake units. The must be complete. We will issue you a Letter of Credit for $125 for each acceptable core. We currently will not buy any powermaster units outright only letter of credit towards parts.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number. These are the only 2 items we are currently accepting as cores.
MAIL - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949
UPS - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
6201 Kellers Church Road
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949-1199
TECH CALLS -
If you need technical information, it’s best to email - [email protected] - rather than call us. We will do our best to answer any technical questions within 24 hours. Please remember I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
THE RETURN OF THE 1986-1987 & 1989 REPRODUCTION TRANS AM STAINLESS STEEL ENGINE COOLANT LINES -
We are happy to announce we now have the Reproduction Stainless Steel Engine Coolant Lines, part #7296, available again. Lines are powder coated and come with the correct ends.
Here is a link to these coolant lines on our website.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) -
REPLACEMENT UPGRADED GM AUTOMATIC SHIFTER HANDLES
AND INSTALLATION KIT
Until now you had no other choice but to stay with the stock wimpy shifter handle. That GM shifter handle has been the same one from 1978 thru 1987 on the Regals with the console format. Not only is it small in size, but its short mounting shaft makes it prone to breaking due to the plastic internals. If that wasn’t bad enough, it shows wear quickly from use and the plastic chrome ends fall off!
All the 1978-1987 Buick Regal and 1978-1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass floor shifter handles are the same. They all used a locking clip on the one side of the handle to secure the handle to the shifter shaft. On all the other GM cars from that time period, including the Monte Carlo SS models, the locking clip was in the front. That format will not work on the Turbo Regal shifter shaft because the slots on the shaft need to match up to a locking clip on the side in order to secure the handle to the shaft.
We also have a new aftermarket leather shifter handle available, #7830.
This makes it difficult to install a better stronger GM automatic shifter handle from another GM car without making some modifications and adding a method to secure the handle to the shaft.
Our installation kit eliminates the locking clip altogether. You will no longer have to buy a $5 locking clip!
The stock factory handle has plastic internals plus has no depth to give it strength on the shifter shaft. This poor design leads to many of the original shifter handles breaking. Also, while the small plastic chrome rings may give the original GM handle an elegant look, over time they can fall off.
The new original replacement handle can run $40 to $100 or more depending on what actual parts you need to buy. We have come up with several various later GM handles and an installation kit to secure the later GM handles from other GM cars to the factory shifter shaft.
We have several options available including one aftermarket leather handle that is brand new. The used GM handles listed below have all been cleaned and are almost brand new in appearance. (We remove them from certain models that are only about 12-15 years old.)
All the handles are black making it a nice match to any Grand National interior or T-Type with grey interior. Each handle has been modified internally and comes with the necessary custom-made parts to secure it to the factory shaft.
These fit every 1978-1987 Turbo Regal and Oldsmobile Cutlass that has the factory floor shifter. Each handle has been pre-tested to function properly on an original Regal shaft. All of these better design GM shifter handles can be installed if desired to be angled to the driver, something the factory shifter handle you can't do. The end result is a better looking GM handle that fits your hand better and gives a stronger look to your factory shifter.
The used GM shifter handles listed below are a far less costly alternative to purchasing a new original Turbo Regal shifter handle. Not only are they stronger, but these do not show wear as quickly as the original light grey original GM handle does.
All the shifter handles come with easy-to-follow directions and parts as shown.
These replacement shifter handles allow you to keep your original shifter handle like new in storage for car shows. Handles can be switched out in a matter of minutes.
This is a nice upgrade that Buick should have done originally to compliment the engineering they did under the hood.
NOTE - Handles shown in Photo 4 and Photo 5 are extremely rare to find!
Excellent replacements for any interior restoration.
7830 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Aftermarket LEATHER Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 1 - NEW - $15.95
Includes new locking ring with allen wrench and set screws installed. These are in stock for immediate delivery.
7831 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Replacement Upgraded GM Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 2 - USED - $29.95
Includes new locking ring with allen wrench, set screw and trigger spacer
7832 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Replacement Upgraded GM Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 3 - USED - $29.95
Includes new locking ring with allen wrench, set screw and trigger spacer
7833 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Replacement Upgraded GM Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 4 - TEAR-DROP STYLE - USED - $29.95
Includes new locking ring with allen wrench, set screw and trigger spacer
7834 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Replacement Upgraded GM Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 5 - CHROME-PLATED THUMB BUTTON - USED $29.95
Includes new locking ring with set screw and trigger spacer as shown
NOTE - Only the #7830 – Aftermarket Black LEATHER Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit is in stock now and available online. Here is the link to that handle of our website.
1984-1987 Buick Grand National -
REPRODUCTION GRAND NATIONAL DASH PLAQUE INLAY
This is a new reproduction item. GM never offered this emblem as a separate replacement part as it was only part of the assembly found under GM #25504346.
This emblem is found in every Grand National (except 1982-1/2) as part of the dash plate located above the glove box door. This is an insert GM placed right below the “BUICK” lettering.
Different models/trim options used different style inserts, i.e. “Regal” or “GNX.”
After many years of sun exposure, moisture or dash cleaning products, the chrome finish on this emblem may have faded away or the inlay may have even fallen off the dash plate and is lost.
The dash plate assembly is no longer available and fetches $350+.
This reproduction inlay measures 2-5/8" x 3/8 and is made in ABS injection molded plastic, chrome plated, and painted in the correct colors. There is 3M adhesive backed tape attached for easy installation.
NOTE - This is the "Grand National" INSERT ONLY and NOT the entire dash plate!
The top photo shows this dash plaque inlay (red tab is the carrier sheet for the self-adhesive backing) and the lower photo shows its placement on the dash plaque.
This is another excellent replacement for any interior restoration.
7820 - 1984-1987 Buick Grand National - Reproduction Grand National Dash Plaque Inlay - $19.95
Here is a link to this dash plaque inlay 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. 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 -
Remember, next week we expect to announce the date of our 2018 Spring Open House.