Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 02-15-2017 -
RARE BUICK AM/FM CASSETTE WITH EQ OPTION -
I don’t claim to be an expert on the various radios that GM used in the various G-body applications. At some point after the 1987 GM models, the harness and the radio plugs changed from a 12-pin format to a 21-pin format. Also, the antenna lead was a different diameter, which is why on some units we sell we include the antenna adapter lead and the 21-pin adapter so your stock radio harness and antenna lead plugs into the later more sought-after am/fm CD players.
I was at a salvage yard last week that I had not been to in some time, since it is over 65 miles away from our house. I found a LeSabre T-Type. I think it was a 1987 LeSabre T-Type. This radio, although it has a glossy black face and was an am/fm cassette with the EQ option, was different from any I have found in the past. Once I removed the radio, I discovered it had the proper 12-pin plug on the back of the radio. Unfortunately, there is no part number sticker on the radio to determine when it was used and what GM models it came in. It is not listed in any of my Buick code books. However, in my collection of original literature I do have a small booklet entitled, “Delco 2000 Series ETR Music Systems.” It is dated 7-1-86. My research to date has shown that all the Pontiac radios during those years had a grey face. It appears Buick and Oldsmobile, as well as Chevrolet, used a black face radio. Again, this is my assumption based on the thousands of cars I have seen in yards.
This radio I found shows up in this 1986 Delco brochure and is listed as the top-of-the line radio above the one most Turbo Regal owners are familiar with. It is listed as a “ETR Touch-Control” AM stereo/FM stereo, seek and scan and auto-reserve cassette with music search/equalizer and clock. The key words are “Touch Control,” as it has buttons to control volume and tuning, versus the style most of you are familiar with that had volume and tuning knobs.
PHOTO 1 - We show a photo of this glossy black face am/fm cassette with EQ option. This radio has the very rare Touch and Control feature, instead of the volume and tune knobs. This has two small buttons to raise and lower the volume and two small buttons to tune it up and down as well. I am sure this radio was over $500 as an option. See Rare Parts section in this issue as it is for sale. This is a direct bolt-in to the factory brackets in any 1984-1987 Turbo Regal and the factory harness and antenna plugs into it. In my opinion, it is very rare since it’s the first one I have ever come across. This is the first of this kind I have ever found in a salvage yard. See Rare Parts listing as this radio is for sale.
MORE INFO ON GM FACTORY AM/FM CD PLAYERS -
It’s unfortunate that the CD players in GM cars did not make an appearance until after the 1987 model year, from everything I have seen and read. We are trying to find more correct-looking am/fm CD players for the 1984-1987 Turbo Regals. I just got in two more am/fm CD units with EQ option. See Rare Parts section for pricing. Email me personally if you want one [email protected] These would be slightly different than the two I had last week. These also have a six-month warranty.
I found a flyer from Delco Electronics, dated 1988, promoting a factory GM installed am/fm CD unit to replace the regular am/fm cassette unit. It was available for certain 1988 GM models. They listed four different part numbers that covered most of the 1988 GM cars, trucks and vans. The Regal was not among them! This is probably because the 1988 through 1994 Regals had an unusual size radio. It also was completely redesigned and had a front wheel drive format.
PHOTO 2 - The photo on the left shows the front of this Delco Electronics flyer showing the new CD player. The photo on the right shows the back of the flyer and lists the various 1988 GM cars, trucks and vans that it fits.
In all these years, I can’t recall having ever seen one of these early am/fm CD players in any car. My guess is this was a fairly-costly option for buyers in 1988, so it probably had very little sales. The flyer does not list a cost.
T-TYPE AND GNX SEAT ARMOUR™ SEAT COVERS -
We now have both the T-Type and GNX Seat Armour™ seat covers in stock. The company is GM licensed and only makes these designs for us. The T-Type is on a grey terry cloth and the GNX is on a black terry cloth. The logos, of course, are in full color.
PHOTO 3 - Shows the T-Type and the GNX Seat Armour™ seat covers. They simply drape over the bucket seat to protect that expensive seat material GM used. See New Parts section for more details. We will have all these designs on display and for sale at our Spring Open House.
Here is a link to all our seat covers on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7751&submit_button=
UP AND DOWN WEATHER LAST WEEK -
We were closed last Thursday due to a fast-moving snow storm. Wednesday, the day before, the temperature broke records in most of our area as the temperature hit the mid-60s. By Friday morning we woke up to six-to-eight inches of blowing wet snow!
PHOTO 4 - Eileen found this photo of one of the last Turbo cars I bought maybe ten years ago. A solid roof white Turbo-T with about 200 pounds of snow on it and my trailer. I almost did not make it home with this car as I got caught in this snow storm about 30 miles from our house.
DODGE CHALLENGER SRT DEMON UPDATE -
The latest blurb on the new Dodge Demon states the air grabber scoop on the hood, at 45 square inches, is the largest ever for a production car. This hood scoop format is said to drop the inlet air temperature by 30 degrees compared to the 707 HP Hellcat.
I remember back in my GTO days we reproduced the 1965 and 1966 tri-power ram air pans. The bezel on the hood scoop of the early GTOs had the ribbed area removed so the outside air would flow in direct to the carburetors. Originally it was an option that came in the trunk. The owner could replace the solid hood scoop bezel with the cut out one and install the ram air pan on top of the 3 carburetors. That was my first introduction to the advantages of cooler outside air and making more power. At one time the original metal GTO tri-power pans would fetch $1,000 or more.
UPDATE ON LAST WEEK’S STORY ABOUT MANUAL SHIFT CARS QUICKLY DISAPPEARING
We had several good guesses on this question last week. Although no one guessed the car I read about, we awarded a pen set to Andy Hill of California for his guess of the 2017 Viper. It’s also the last year for the Viper. All Vipers are manual shift cars. The answer I was seeking is the Subaru BRZ. According to the article I read, 83% of those buyers choose a manual transmission. Manual transmissions, as a rule, garner about 5% when offered in other car models. Ironically, in the latest Car & Driver magazine they have a crusade to save the manual shift cars. You can purchase a shirt or a coffee mug at their shopcaranddriver.com The advertisement claims the manual shift gearbox and ability to drive it are endangered.
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 – 9 am - 2 pm
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 car events, since Carlisle is only about two hours west from our location. I go to Spring Carlisle midweek every year.
Our Open House will have the usual features - Yum Yums donuts, M&Ms contest, sale prices on new parts, tagged and bagged goodies, and no reserve auction. We already are putting aside unique items for the no reserve auction, including several GNX items and original pallex seat material. Several featured items will be discounted to save shipping. As the date draws closer we will list what large items will have a special show price. The usual array of tagged and bagged used parts and literature will be for sale as well.
We are currently requesting raffle items from many of the various Turbo Regal vendors that we sell to. We want to make this event special since it is our 30th year. We have a food vendor coming. You will be able to purchase hot dogs, Kielbasas, hamburgers, chips, and various drinks.
Mike of Spoolfool has really stepped up this year and is donating for our raffle, not only a pair of front fillers but his one-piece rear filler and the new radiator top plate. This is over $700 worth of merchandise that can be won.
Rich Warner owner of Shine Enterprises and a customer of ours will be donating over $300 worth of Race Glaze products for our raffle. His website is www.mr-shine.com or 1-800-677-4463.
Metco Motorsports is donating a pair of their lower trailering arms for our raffle. These are a $270 value and can be seen on my personal white Turbo-T.
Derek Freyberger is donating a hand-carved Grand National picture frame that he had a friend make. He had two of them made and is donating one for our raffle.
Russ and his friend Don are donating three trophies that we will be awarding. One trophy will be for the longest distance driven in a Turbo Regal. Another trophy will be awarded for the one this is my favorite Turbo Regal, and last but not least the one needing the most TLC.
Russ, the baker, will be making some special treats for the raffle as well. As the date draws closer I am sure we will have other items for our raffle from other vendors.
This is our 30th year, so plan to attend!
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 THE ORIGINAL BLACK PALLEX SEAT MATERIAL -
I am still waiting for the original black pallex material. This source has had my money now since late November.
FOUR 1980 REGALS FOR SALE -
Recently Tom Zemanek contacted me about putting his four 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.
NOTE -Tom has recently been in touch with me and has dropped the prices on several of his non-turbo Regals. He has reduced the price to $6,000 on the non-Turbo Regals. If you have seen photos of these cars you can see Tom has a real passion for 1980 Regals. While the power under the hood is under whelming, any of these make a great candidate for a Turbo engine or a V8 crate motor. Drop in the bigger 8.5 rear and you have a nice Regal coupe sleeper. You can switch out the steering box for the one from a Turbo Regal and upgrade the wheels to 18 by 8s. You already start with an extremely nice body and interior.
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 -
With the trunk lid closed, try pressing it down. If you can still move it downward, the two bushings on the inside corners need to be adjusted outward in order to get a snug fit when the trunk lid is closed.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED - 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering wheels. They must not be bent or rusted. We will issue a $75 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
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 -
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM LICENSED - EMBROIDERED
“BUICK MOTORSPORTS” SEAT ARMOUR™ BLACK SEAT COVERS
“T-TYPE” SEAT ARMOUR™ GREY SEAT COVERS
“GNX” SEAT ARMOUR™ BLACK SEAT COVERS
Because of the value of original, Grand Nationals, T-Types and GNX seats, it’s best to protect them from stains, odors, and fading from the sunlight.
We are the exclusive distributor for these GM licensed embroidered Seat Armour™ seat covers.
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 Motorsports” logo is embroidered in the logo colors - red, yellow and silver on black material, part #7751 and #7752. The embroidered logo measures 9" x 2-1/2". It is machine washable 100% heavyweight cotton velour terry material.
The GM licensed “T-TYPE” logo is embroidered in the logo colors - red and silver outlined in black on grey material, part #7753 and #7754. The embroidered logo measures 7" x 1-3/4". It is machine washable 100% heavyweight cotton velour terry material.
The GM licensed “GNX” logo is embroidered in the logo colors - red and silver on black material, part #7755 and #7756. The embroidered logo measures 7" 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.
Our other photos show the various options of designs.
We offer each design as a single cover. If you want to cover both seats, there is another part number for two covers.
Another great interior item to protect your car seats.
Here are the six options for ordering seat covers.
7751 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM Licensed - Embroidered “Buick Motorsports” Seat Armour™ Black Seat Cover (1) - $36.95
7752 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
TWO - GM Licensed - Embroidered “Buick Motorsports” Seat Armour™ Black Seat Covers (2) - $69.95
7753 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM Licensed - Embroidered “T-TYPE” Seat Armour™ Grey Seat Cover (1) - $36.95
7754 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
TWO - GM Licensed - Embroidered “T-TYPE” Seat Armour™ Grey Seat Covers (2) - $69.95
7755 - 1987 Buick GNX -
GM Licensed - Embroidered “GNX” Seat Armour™ Black Seat Cover (1) - $36.95
7756 - 1987 Buick GNX -
TWO - GM Licensed - Embroidered “GNX” Seat Armour™ Black Seat Covers (2) - $69.95
Here is a link to these seat covers on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7751&submit_button=
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
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 -
Remember, our Open House is April 22, 2017 rain or shine. This is the first Turbo Regal event for 2017. Also it’s our 30th year. One you don’t want to miss.
RARE BUICK AM/FM CASSETTE WITH EQ OPTION -
I don’t claim to be an expert on the various radios that GM used in the various G-body applications. At some point after the 1987 GM models, the harness and the radio plugs changed from a 12-pin format to a 21-pin format. Also, the antenna lead was a different diameter, which is why on some units we sell we include the antenna adapter lead and the 21-pin adapter so your stock radio harness and antenna lead plugs into the later more sought-after am/fm CD players.
I was at a salvage yard last week that I had not been to in some time, since it is over 65 miles away from our house. I found a LeSabre T-Type. I think it was a 1987 LeSabre T-Type. This radio, although it has a glossy black face and was an am/fm cassette with the EQ option, was different from any I have found in the past. Once I removed the radio, I discovered it had the proper 12-pin plug on the back of the radio. Unfortunately, there is no part number sticker on the radio to determine when it was used and what GM models it came in. It is not listed in any of my Buick code books. However, in my collection of original literature I do have a small booklet entitled, “Delco 2000 Series ETR Music Systems.” It is dated 7-1-86. My research to date has shown that all the Pontiac radios during those years had a grey face. It appears Buick and Oldsmobile, as well as Chevrolet, used a black face radio. Again, this is my assumption based on the thousands of cars I have seen in yards.
This radio I found shows up in this 1986 Delco brochure and is listed as the top-of-the line radio above the one most Turbo Regal owners are familiar with. It is listed as a “ETR Touch-Control” AM stereo/FM stereo, seek and scan and auto-reserve cassette with music search/equalizer and clock. The key words are “Touch Control,” as it has buttons to control volume and tuning, versus the style most of you are familiar with that had volume and tuning knobs.
PHOTO 1 - We show a photo of this glossy black face am/fm cassette with EQ option. This radio has the very rare Touch and Control feature, instead of the volume and tune knobs. This has two small buttons to raise and lower the volume and two small buttons to tune it up and down as well. I am sure this radio was over $500 as an option. See Rare Parts section in this issue as it is for sale. This is a direct bolt-in to the factory brackets in any 1984-1987 Turbo Regal and the factory harness and antenna plugs into it. In my opinion, it is very rare since it’s the first one I have ever come across. This is the first of this kind I have ever found in a salvage yard. See Rare Parts listing as this radio is for sale.
MORE INFO ON GM FACTORY AM/FM CD PLAYERS -
It’s unfortunate that the CD players in GM cars did not make an appearance until after the 1987 model year, from everything I have seen and read. We are trying to find more correct-looking am/fm CD players for the 1984-1987 Turbo Regals. I just got in two more am/fm CD units with EQ option. See Rare Parts section for pricing. Email me personally if you want one [email protected] These would be slightly different than the two I had last week. These also have a six-month warranty.
I found a flyer from Delco Electronics, dated 1988, promoting a factory GM installed am/fm CD unit to replace the regular am/fm cassette unit. It was available for certain 1988 GM models. They listed four different part numbers that covered most of the 1988 GM cars, trucks and vans. The Regal was not among them! This is probably because the 1988 through 1994 Regals had an unusual size radio. It also was completely redesigned and had a front wheel drive format.
PHOTO 2 - The photo on the left shows the front of this Delco Electronics flyer showing the new CD player. The photo on the right shows the back of the flyer and lists the various 1988 GM cars, trucks and vans that it fits.
In all these years, I can’t recall having ever seen one of these early am/fm CD players in any car. My guess is this was a fairly-costly option for buyers in 1988, so it probably had very little sales. The flyer does not list a cost.
T-TYPE AND GNX SEAT ARMOUR™ SEAT COVERS -
We now have both the T-Type and GNX Seat Armour™ seat covers in stock. The company is GM licensed and only makes these designs for us. The T-Type is on a grey terry cloth and the GNX is on a black terry cloth. The logos, of course, are in full color.
PHOTO 3 - Shows the T-Type and the GNX Seat Armour™ seat covers. They simply drape over the bucket seat to protect that expensive seat material GM used. See New Parts section for more details. We will have all these designs on display and for sale at our Spring Open House.
Here is a link to all our seat covers on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7751&submit_button=
UP AND DOWN WEATHER LAST WEEK -
We were closed last Thursday due to a fast-moving snow storm. Wednesday, the day before, the temperature broke records in most of our area as the temperature hit the mid-60s. By Friday morning we woke up to six-to-eight inches of blowing wet snow!
PHOTO 4 - Eileen found this photo of one of the last Turbo cars I bought maybe ten years ago. A solid roof white Turbo-T with about 200 pounds of snow on it and my trailer. I almost did not make it home with this car as I got caught in this snow storm about 30 miles from our house.
DODGE CHALLENGER SRT DEMON UPDATE -
The latest blurb on the new Dodge Demon states the air grabber scoop on the hood, at 45 square inches, is the largest ever for a production car. This hood scoop format is said to drop the inlet air temperature by 30 degrees compared to the 707 HP Hellcat.
I remember back in my GTO days we reproduced the 1965 and 1966 tri-power ram air pans. The bezel on the hood scoop of the early GTOs had the ribbed area removed so the outside air would flow in direct to the carburetors. Originally it was an option that came in the trunk. The owner could replace the solid hood scoop bezel with the cut out one and install the ram air pan on top of the 3 carburetors. That was my first introduction to the advantages of cooler outside air and making more power. At one time the original metal GTO tri-power pans would fetch $1,000 or more.
UPDATE ON LAST WEEK’S STORY ABOUT MANUAL SHIFT CARS QUICKLY DISAPPEARING
We had several good guesses on this question last week. Although no one guessed the car I read about, we awarded a pen set to Andy Hill of California for his guess of the 2017 Viper. It’s also the last year for the Viper. All Vipers are manual shift cars. The answer I was seeking is the Subaru BRZ. According to the article I read, 83% of those buyers choose a manual transmission. Manual transmissions, as a rule, garner about 5% when offered in other car models. Ironically, in the latest Car & Driver magazine they have a crusade to save the manual shift cars. You can purchase a shirt or a coffee mug at their shopcaranddriver.com The advertisement claims the manual shift gearbox and ability to drive it are endangered.
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 – 9 am - 2 pm
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 car events, since Carlisle is only about two hours west from our location. I go to Spring Carlisle midweek every year.
Our Open House will have the usual features - Yum Yums donuts, M&Ms contest, sale prices on new parts, tagged and bagged goodies, and no reserve auction. We already are putting aside unique items for the no reserve auction, including several GNX items and original pallex seat material. Several featured items will be discounted to save shipping. As the date draws closer we will list what large items will have a special show price. The usual array of tagged and bagged used parts and literature will be for sale as well.
We are currently requesting raffle items from many of the various Turbo Regal vendors that we sell to. We want to make this event special since it is our 30th year. We have a food vendor coming. You will be able to purchase hot dogs, Kielbasas, hamburgers, chips, and various drinks.
Mike of Spoolfool has really stepped up this year and is donating for our raffle, not only a pair of front fillers but his one-piece rear filler and the new radiator top plate. This is over $700 worth of merchandise that can be won.
Rich Warner owner of Shine Enterprises and a customer of ours will be donating over $300 worth of Race Glaze products for our raffle. His website is www.mr-shine.com or 1-800-677-4463.
Metco Motorsports is donating a pair of their lower trailering arms for our raffle. These are a $270 value and can be seen on my personal white Turbo-T.
Derek Freyberger is donating a hand-carved Grand National picture frame that he had a friend make. He had two of them made and is donating one for our raffle.
Russ and his friend Don are donating three trophies that we will be awarding. One trophy will be for the longest distance driven in a Turbo Regal. Another trophy will be awarded for the one this is my favorite Turbo Regal, and last but not least the one needing the most TLC.
Russ, the baker, will be making some special treats for the raffle as well. As the date draws closer I am sure we will have other items for our raffle from other vendors.
This is our 30th year, so plan to attend!
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 THE ORIGINAL BLACK PALLEX SEAT MATERIAL -
I am still waiting for the original black pallex material. This source has had my money now since late November.
FOUR 1980 REGALS FOR SALE -
Recently Tom Zemanek contacted me about putting his four 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.
NOTE -Tom has recently been in touch with me and has dropped the prices on several of his non-turbo Regals. He has reduced the price to $6,000 on the non-Turbo Regals. If you have seen photos of these cars you can see Tom has a real passion for 1980 Regals. While the power under the hood is under whelming, any of these make a great candidate for a Turbo engine or a V8 crate motor. Drop in the bigger 8.5 rear and you have a nice Regal coupe sleeper. You can switch out the steering box for the one from a Turbo Regal and upgrade the wheels to 18 by 8s. You already start with an extremely nice body and interior.
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 -
With the trunk lid closed, try pressing it down. If you can still move it downward, the two bushings on the inside corners need to be adjusted outward in order to get a snug fit when the trunk lid is closed.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED - 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering wheels. They must not be bent or rusted. We will issue a $75 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
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 -
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM LICENSED - EMBROIDERED
“BUICK MOTORSPORTS” SEAT ARMOUR™ BLACK SEAT COVERS
“T-TYPE” SEAT ARMOUR™ GREY SEAT COVERS
“GNX” SEAT ARMOUR™ BLACK SEAT COVERS
Because of the value of original, Grand Nationals, T-Types and GNX seats, it’s best to protect them from stains, odors, and fading from the sunlight.
We are the exclusive distributor for these GM licensed embroidered Seat Armour™ seat covers.
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 Motorsports” logo is embroidered in the logo colors - red, yellow and silver on black material, part #7751 and #7752. The embroidered logo measures 9" x 2-1/2". It is machine washable 100% heavyweight cotton velour terry material.
The GM licensed “T-TYPE” logo is embroidered in the logo colors - red and silver outlined in black on grey material, part #7753 and #7754. The embroidered logo measures 7" x 1-3/4". It is machine washable 100% heavyweight cotton velour terry material.
The GM licensed “GNX” logo is embroidered in the logo colors - red and silver on black material, part #7755 and #7756. The embroidered logo measures 7" 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.
Our other photos show the various options of designs.
We offer each design as a single cover. If you want to cover both seats, there is another part number for two covers.
Another great interior item to protect your car seats.
Here are the six options for ordering seat covers.
7751 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM Licensed - Embroidered “Buick Motorsports” Seat Armour™ Black Seat Cover (1) - $36.95
7752 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
TWO - GM Licensed - Embroidered “Buick Motorsports” Seat Armour™ Black Seat Covers (2) - $69.95
7753 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM Licensed - Embroidered “T-TYPE” Seat Armour™ Grey Seat Cover (1) - $36.95
7754 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
TWO - GM Licensed - Embroidered “T-TYPE” Seat Armour™ Grey Seat Covers (2) - $69.95
7755 - 1987 Buick GNX -
GM Licensed - Embroidered “GNX” Seat Armour™ Black Seat Cover (1) - $36.95
7756 - 1987 Buick GNX -
TWO - GM Licensed - Embroidered “GNX” Seat Armour™ Black Seat Covers (2) - $69.95
Here is a link to these seat covers on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7751&submit_button=
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
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 -
Remember, our Open House is April 22, 2017 rain or shine. This is the first Turbo Regal event for 2017. Also it’s our 30th year. One you don’t want to miss.