Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 03-21-2018 -
IMPORTANT - EARLY INNER CIRCLE TODAY -
You are receiving the Inner Circle today, one day early. We are expecting another nor’easter tomorrow (Wednesday) so our office will be closed.
MINI CONTEST -
This mini contest is open to all Turbo Regal owners except those in the Turbo Regal business.
In Photo 1 we show the actual optional part that you need to answer correctly. It is a 3-part question. What make GM car is it from? What exact model is this option from? Lastly, what year is the option from?
You must have the correct answer for all 3 parts sent in a single email to [email protected]
You only get ONE try to answer. All answers must be sent by this coming Saturday night, 6 pm eastern time, March 24th to be eligible. If there is no exact winner, we will pick the one entry closest to having all 3 parts correct. In case of a tie, the answer I receive first will be the winner.
PHOTO 1 - Here is the optional part you need to identify. What year GM car it is from, what model it is from, and what year. The clues are as follows: The car is from the 1980s. It was mounted in a console in the car I removed it from. It is a crude method for showing Systems Check. It measures 5-½ inches wide by 4 inches deep by 1-¼ inches high.
The winner receives a $25 Letter of Credit against any website parts. Good luck to those that participate.
THE OPTIONAL POWER TRUNK RELEASE -
One of the easiest options to add to any 1984-1987 Turbo Regal or any other G-body model is the optional power trunk release. - By easy, I mean even I can do it. It simply bolts to your existing trunk latch with one screw. It has a single wire lead that you run down the driver’s side of your car alongside the existing trunk light wire harness.
Originally GM mounted the trunk release button on a small bracket inside your glove box so it could be locked, not allowing access to your trunk. God forbid someone gets into your trunk and steals your jack and spare. Heck, it would save you the trouble of ever trying to put it in the trunk like the factory did! Most later model cars have the trunk release button or cable release by the driver. This makes more sense to me.
The trunk ID code for this option is A90. This code IDs the fact it was a factory installed option. In 1984, 1985, and 1986 it was a $40 option, according to my Buick Price Directories. In 1987 the price was bumped to $50. In the scheme of various options, this was a fairly reasonably priced option to add to your initial purchase.
It could be purchased later as an accessory from GM in a kit form that would have included a complete wire harness, switch, bracket and solenoid. According to my GM books, that same trunk release option is the same for all 1982 to 1987 G-body models. The accessory part number is 997882. It also fits various other Buick models.
I have the very rare Buick 1987 Dealer Parts and Accessories Price Schedule, and in that book that accessory package has a list price of just $16.50. In my 2001 Dealer Parts and Accessories Price Schedule the part number does not show up, which means it was no longer available. This makes sense since that style solenoid was changed in the later models.
If my numbers are correct, that means it would have been cheaper to buy it as an accessory in 1987 instead of having it as a factory option when you ordered the car.
PHOTO 2 - We show a good used tested, power trunk release. The larger trunk button in the photo is the correct release button. The smaller release button in the photo comes out of later GM cars. This trunk release has been bench tested and is for sale under the Rare Parts section. The kit includes both trunk release buttons as it makes more sense to simply drill a small hole on the bottom lip of your dash and pop in the smaller release button and run a short lead wire to the nearby fuse box. Look for a constant hot circuit so you can operate the trunk lid with the key off.
METAL GSX 1:24 SCALE MODEL -
It’s not often you see any metal detailed Buick models in stores. The CVS drug stores in my area all have a rack that has various metal diecast cars and trucks on it. I am not sure if this is a new model, but it’s the first time I have seen a 1970 Buick GSX model. They had it in red (pictured below) and also in yellow. The scale appears to be 1:24 or 1:25.
The hood opens as does the doors. You can almost read the decal on the hood tachometer. You can even see the white washer bottle and red decal on the air cleaner under the hood. Even the decals on the body and rear spoiler lip are visible and appear correct. In other words, the detail is quite amazing when compared to cheap diecast cars from years ago. At $9.95 I figured it was a good deal so I bought it. Since the Welly company had these made in China and holds a GM license it would be nice if they make some Buick Turbo Regals. Heck from one Turbo Regal mold they could easily produce all the various colors, which would increase their sales and not greatly affect their costs.
PHOTO 3 - We show this really nice $9.95 diecast 1970 GSX model. I think it’s a fairly accurate rendition with a very reasonable price. If you can’t find any in your area, I may be able to pick up a few in my travels. Emailed me [email protected]
GRASSROOTS MOTORSPORTS CAR MAGAZINE -
As we mentioned a month or so ago, we were contacted by one of the writers of the magazine Grassroots Motorsports. They asked me email them details on some tips on buying a used Grand National. They did a 2-page article entitled “Vintage Views: Buick Grand National”. It appears in their current April 2018 issue. I have 2 extra copies that I listed under Rare Parts for sale in case any readers can’t find this issue and want a copy for their collection.
If you are interested in subscribing to this magazine, here is contact info - Grassrootsmotorsports.com or 877-677-6878
PHOTO 4 - We first show the cover and the 2 pages of the April 2018 issue of Grassroots Motorsports. My input appears on the second page of the article. In the same magazine, it also has a good article on what a great value the 2002-2004 ZO6 Corvettes are today. Find a nice original one and you got yourself a nice Corvette without breaking the bank.
OUR SPRING OPEN HOUSE - APRIL 21ST- UPDATE -
Here is a current list as of 3-16-18 of companies that have responded about donating something for our door prizes. I am sure several companies will respond as the date gets closer. Here is the current listing:
Casper’s Electronics, Cold Case, Max Performance, Gbodyparts.com, Limit Engineering, Lorenz Racing & Performance, Metco Motorsports, REM Automotive, Russ & Nancy, Spoolfool (Mike Barnard), and Yum Yums.
Special Guest Terry Shaw from Auto Legal Services (Appraisal Information) will also be there to answer any of your questions.
UPDATE ON ANOTHER CLEVER NEW PRODUCT COMING SHORTLY -
I still don’t have a corrected prototype to try. My friend assures me we will have them available at my Spring Open House. I hope to have a sample to try on a car next week.
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.
KIRBAN SPRING OPEN HOUSE -
Saturday, April 21st, 2018 -KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS, 6201 Kellers Church Road, Plumsteadville, PA
This event has no rain date. We will have free Yum Yum donuts and coffee while supplies last. This event features specials on our products, M&M contest, and our popular No Reserve auction. The time is from 9 am until 2 pm. Special pricing to be announced on Pypes exhaust systems and Cold Case radiators. Spoolfool fillers can be reserved for pickup to eliminate costly shipping charges. Those are the 3 big items where you can save money by picking them up at our Open House. Many of our vendors and suppliers are donating door prizes for this event.
MOTELS IN QUAKERTOWN - CLOSE TO LOCATION of our Open House
All locations listed are about 25 minutes from our shop and are basically just 3 turns.
If you plan to arrive Friday night, let me know as we can meet for dinner as I meet Jason from Canada every year for dinner Friday night at Applebees in Quakertown.
The first three listed are all fairly new motels.
Comfort Suites Inn
Rt 663 - 1905 John Fries Highway Quakertown PA 18951 - 215-538-3000
Hampton Inn
Rt 663 - 1915 John Fries Highway Quakertown, PA 18951 - 215-536-7779
Quakertown Holiday Inn Express
Rt 663 - 1915 John Fries Highway Quakertown, PA 18951 - 215-529-7979
Econo Lodge
1446 West Broad Street, Quakertown, PA 18951 - 215-536-2500
2018 Turbobuick.com NATIONALS -
May 2nd thru May 5th, 2018 - Burlington, NC
This event is held at two locations. The first part of the week is at Richard Clark’s Garage, 2557 Faucette Lane, Burlington, NC. It then moves to a different track - Farmington Dragway, 2992 NC Highway 801N, Mocksville, NC, located about one hour west of Burlington, NC. For more information, go to turbobuick.com and click on 2018 Turbo Buick Nationals or on Facebook.
9TH ANNUAL BUICK RACE DAY
May 26th, 2018 Lebanon Valley Dragway, NY.
This is their 9th annual Buick event.
For more information, call 518-794-7130 or 845-528-GSGN, and ask for John.
BUICKS@Bates 2018-
Sunday, June 3, 2018
9 am - 4 pm PDT
Bates Nut Farm, 15954 Wood Valley Road, Valley Center, Californian 92082
The largest gathering of 1984-1987 Turbo Buicks and Classic Buicks west of the Mississippi! Come hang with the SoCal GS Club and Turbobuick.com South Westerners.
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. We expect to be attending this event. (It falls on my birthday). For more details, go to turbobuick.com - or - their website - magnabuick.com
CUSTOM-MADE GM LICENSED VINYL BANNERS UPDATE-
We will have actual samples of several new Turbo Regal banners on display at our Spring Open House, including two GNX versions. We are working with the company that is licensed by GM that covers Buick/Oldsmobile/Pontiac.
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 -
FOR SALE: a set of 4 Grand National wheels and tires that were taken off a GN during its conversion to a GNX. These tires have been sitting unused and untouched since Mid-December 1987 in a windowless building. The condition is as close to new on all four steel wheels and tires as you could get. The air in the tires is believed to be 1987 air. Each tire appears to have no cracking and all of the nubs, hairs, or nipples are still on each tire. I purchased these tires and rims directly from Dennis Kirban in 2013 and never used them. They went directly into my heated warehouse in 2013. $2,000.00 plus shipping. I also have four original excellent GNX rims for sale for $5,000.00 also purchased from Dennis Kirban. Contact [email protected] 1 of 3.
FOR SALE: Clean and rare 1987 Buick Regal Limited Turbo-T with 87koriginal miles. Factory grey with grey leather interior. Extra padded vinyl roof, factory G80 posi rear, remote trunk release, PDL, PW, and PS. Comes with all the original paperwork. Not a spec of rot or rust on the body. Tons of new parts and recent work over the years. Most modifications done for drivability. Just installed a new 1 piece rear filler and all new AC Delco AC components and converted to R134a. Blows cold! I have a laundry list of work done and tons of pictures. Email [email protected] for more info and pictures or call/text 401-487-1207 if serious. Reduced to $14,900. Car is located in Rhode Island. 4 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 $3,995. 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 -
Years ago, we wrote two books listed on our website - “Dennis Kirban’s Tips, Trivia and Sources for the 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regals” Volume 1 (#7027) and Volume 2 (#7088).
Both of these books are based on the knowledge I gained by buying and selling over 300 of these cars back in the 1990s and early 2000s time period. While the internet is a great source of information, these books are a wealth of ideas that work on these cars. Volume 1 runs 60 pages in length and Volume 2 runs 40 pages in length. In some ways, it’s like a magician explaining how he does his tricks.
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.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1985-1987 Buick GRAND NATIONAL -
ONE-PIECE BUCKET SEAT COVER
Because the original grey and black pallex Grand National seat material is so costly, here is a simple and inexpensive method to protect it.
We offer a one-piece form-fitting seat cover for the front bucket seat. No tools are required and it’s easy to clean. You simply slide it over the seat. It can be removed easily.
This seat cover has the same two-color color (black and grey) design, so it looks like it was made specifically for the Grand National.
The durable and breathable material is double nylon mesh cloth with 2mm thick sponge in the middle. The spandex back provides a universal fit that conforms to the Grand National’s bucket seat.
It’s an inexpensive investment to protect your Grand National bucket seats from damage.
To purchase one cover, order #7821. To order two covers, order #7822.
Another excellent way to protect the seats.
7821 - 1985-1987 Buick Grand National - One-piece Bucket Seat Cover - $18.95
7822 - 1985-1987 Buick Grand National -
TWO One-piece Bucket Seat Covers (2) - $29.95 (Save $7.95)
Here is a link to this seat cover 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 -
Our Annual Spring Open House is less than 5 weeks away.
If you’re planning on buying the Pypes Exhaust, Spoolfool rear filler, or Cold Case radiator, it’s important to pay for it in advance so we have it set aside for you to pickup.
IMPORTANT - EARLY INNER CIRCLE TODAY -
You are receiving the Inner Circle today, one day early. We are expecting another nor’easter tomorrow (Wednesday) so our office will be closed.
MINI CONTEST -
This mini contest is open to all Turbo Regal owners except those in the Turbo Regal business.
In Photo 1 we show the actual optional part that you need to answer correctly. It is a 3-part question. What make GM car is it from? What exact model is this option from? Lastly, what year is the option from?
You must have the correct answer for all 3 parts sent in a single email to [email protected]
You only get ONE try to answer. All answers must be sent by this coming Saturday night, 6 pm eastern time, March 24th to be eligible. If there is no exact winner, we will pick the one entry closest to having all 3 parts correct. In case of a tie, the answer I receive first will be the winner.
PHOTO 1 - Here is the optional part you need to identify. What year GM car it is from, what model it is from, and what year. The clues are as follows: The car is from the 1980s. It was mounted in a console in the car I removed it from. It is a crude method for showing Systems Check. It measures 5-½ inches wide by 4 inches deep by 1-¼ inches high.
The winner receives a $25 Letter of Credit against any website parts. Good luck to those that participate.
THE OPTIONAL POWER TRUNK RELEASE -
One of the easiest options to add to any 1984-1987 Turbo Regal or any other G-body model is the optional power trunk release. - By easy, I mean even I can do it. It simply bolts to your existing trunk latch with one screw. It has a single wire lead that you run down the driver’s side of your car alongside the existing trunk light wire harness.
Originally GM mounted the trunk release button on a small bracket inside your glove box so it could be locked, not allowing access to your trunk. God forbid someone gets into your trunk and steals your jack and spare. Heck, it would save you the trouble of ever trying to put it in the trunk like the factory did! Most later model cars have the trunk release button or cable release by the driver. This makes more sense to me.
The trunk ID code for this option is A90. This code IDs the fact it was a factory installed option. In 1984, 1985, and 1986 it was a $40 option, according to my Buick Price Directories. In 1987 the price was bumped to $50. In the scheme of various options, this was a fairly reasonably priced option to add to your initial purchase.
It could be purchased later as an accessory from GM in a kit form that would have included a complete wire harness, switch, bracket and solenoid. According to my GM books, that same trunk release option is the same for all 1982 to 1987 G-body models. The accessory part number is 997882. It also fits various other Buick models.
I have the very rare Buick 1987 Dealer Parts and Accessories Price Schedule, and in that book that accessory package has a list price of just $16.50. In my 2001 Dealer Parts and Accessories Price Schedule the part number does not show up, which means it was no longer available. This makes sense since that style solenoid was changed in the later models.
If my numbers are correct, that means it would have been cheaper to buy it as an accessory in 1987 instead of having it as a factory option when you ordered the car.
PHOTO 2 - We show a good used tested, power trunk release. The larger trunk button in the photo is the correct release button. The smaller release button in the photo comes out of later GM cars. This trunk release has been bench tested and is for sale under the Rare Parts section. The kit includes both trunk release buttons as it makes more sense to simply drill a small hole on the bottom lip of your dash and pop in the smaller release button and run a short lead wire to the nearby fuse box. Look for a constant hot circuit so you can operate the trunk lid with the key off.
METAL GSX 1:24 SCALE MODEL -
It’s not often you see any metal detailed Buick models in stores. The CVS drug stores in my area all have a rack that has various metal diecast cars and trucks on it. I am not sure if this is a new model, but it’s the first time I have seen a 1970 Buick GSX model. They had it in red (pictured below) and also in yellow. The scale appears to be 1:24 or 1:25.
The hood opens as does the doors. You can almost read the decal on the hood tachometer. You can even see the white washer bottle and red decal on the air cleaner under the hood. Even the decals on the body and rear spoiler lip are visible and appear correct. In other words, the detail is quite amazing when compared to cheap diecast cars from years ago. At $9.95 I figured it was a good deal so I bought it. Since the Welly company had these made in China and holds a GM license it would be nice if they make some Buick Turbo Regals. Heck from one Turbo Regal mold they could easily produce all the various colors, which would increase their sales and not greatly affect their costs.
PHOTO 3 - We show this really nice $9.95 diecast 1970 GSX model. I think it’s a fairly accurate rendition with a very reasonable price. If you can’t find any in your area, I may be able to pick up a few in my travels. Emailed me [email protected]
GRASSROOTS MOTORSPORTS CAR MAGAZINE -
As we mentioned a month or so ago, we were contacted by one of the writers of the magazine Grassroots Motorsports. They asked me email them details on some tips on buying a used Grand National. They did a 2-page article entitled “Vintage Views: Buick Grand National”. It appears in their current April 2018 issue. I have 2 extra copies that I listed under Rare Parts for sale in case any readers can’t find this issue and want a copy for their collection.
If you are interested in subscribing to this magazine, here is contact info - Grassrootsmotorsports.com or 877-677-6878
PHOTO 4 - We first show the cover and the 2 pages of the April 2018 issue of Grassroots Motorsports. My input appears on the second page of the article. In the same magazine, it also has a good article on what a great value the 2002-2004 ZO6 Corvettes are today. Find a nice original one and you got yourself a nice Corvette without breaking the bank.
OUR SPRING OPEN HOUSE - APRIL 21ST- UPDATE -
Here is a current list as of 3-16-18 of companies that have responded about donating something for our door prizes. I am sure several companies will respond as the date gets closer. Here is the current listing:
Casper’s Electronics, Cold Case, Max Performance, Gbodyparts.com, Limit Engineering, Lorenz Racing & Performance, Metco Motorsports, REM Automotive, Russ & Nancy, Spoolfool (Mike Barnard), and Yum Yums.
Special Guest Terry Shaw from Auto Legal Services (Appraisal Information) will also be there to answer any of your questions.
UPDATE ON ANOTHER CLEVER NEW PRODUCT COMING SHORTLY -
I still don’t have a corrected prototype to try. My friend assures me we will have them available at my Spring Open House. I hope to have a sample to try on a car next week.
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.
KIRBAN SPRING OPEN HOUSE -
Saturday, April 21st, 2018 -KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS, 6201 Kellers Church Road, Plumsteadville, PA
This event has no rain date. We will have free Yum Yum donuts and coffee while supplies last. This event features specials on our products, M&M contest, and our popular No Reserve auction. The time is from 9 am until 2 pm. Special pricing to be announced on Pypes exhaust systems and Cold Case radiators. Spoolfool fillers can be reserved for pickup to eliminate costly shipping charges. Those are the 3 big items where you can save money by picking them up at our Open House. Many of our vendors and suppliers are donating door prizes for this event.
MOTELS IN QUAKERTOWN - CLOSE TO LOCATION of our Open House
All locations listed are about 25 minutes from our shop and are basically just 3 turns.
If you plan to arrive Friday night, let me know as we can meet for dinner as I meet Jason from Canada every year for dinner Friday night at Applebees in Quakertown.
The first three listed are all fairly new motels.
Comfort Suites Inn
Rt 663 - 1905 John Fries Highway Quakertown PA 18951 - 215-538-3000
Hampton Inn
Rt 663 - 1915 John Fries Highway Quakertown, PA 18951 - 215-536-7779
Quakertown Holiday Inn Express
Rt 663 - 1915 John Fries Highway Quakertown, PA 18951 - 215-529-7979
Econo Lodge
1446 West Broad Street, Quakertown, PA 18951 - 215-536-2500
2018 Turbobuick.com NATIONALS -
May 2nd thru May 5th, 2018 - Burlington, NC
This event is held at two locations. The first part of the week is at Richard Clark’s Garage, 2557 Faucette Lane, Burlington, NC. It then moves to a different track - Farmington Dragway, 2992 NC Highway 801N, Mocksville, NC, located about one hour west of Burlington, NC. For more information, go to turbobuick.com and click on 2018 Turbo Buick Nationals or on Facebook.
9TH ANNUAL BUICK RACE DAY
May 26th, 2018 Lebanon Valley Dragway, NY.
This is their 9th annual Buick event.
For more information, call 518-794-7130 or 845-528-GSGN, and ask for John.
BUICKS@Bates 2018-
Sunday, June 3, 2018
9 am - 4 pm PDT
Bates Nut Farm, 15954 Wood Valley Road, Valley Center, Californian 92082
The largest gathering of 1984-1987 Turbo Buicks and Classic Buicks west of the Mississippi! Come hang with the SoCal GS Club and Turbobuick.com South Westerners.
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. We expect to be attending this event. (It falls on my birthday). For more details, go to turbobuick.com - or - their website - magnabuick.com
CUSTOM-MADE GM LICENSED VINYL BANNERS UPDATE-
We will have actual samples of several new Turbo Regal banners on display at our Spring Open House, including two GNX versions. We are working with the company that is licensed by GM that covers Buick/Oldsmobile/Pontiac.
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 -
FOR SALE: a set of 4 Grand National wheels and tires that were taken off a GN during its conversion to a GNX. These tires have been sitting unused and untouched since Mid-December 1987 in a windowless building. The condition is as close to new on all four steel wheels and tires as you could get. The air in the tires is believed to be 1987 air. Each tire appears to have no cracking and all of the nubs, hairs, or nipples are still on each tire. I purchased these tires and rims directly from Dennis Kirban in 2013 and never used them. They went directly into my heated warehouse in 2013. $2,000.00 plus shipping. I also have four original excellent GNX rims for sale for $5,000.00 also purchased from Dennis Kirban. Contact [email protected] 1 of 3.
FOR SALE: Clean and rare 1987 Buick Regal Limited Turbo-T with 87koriginal miles. Factory grey with grey leather interior. Extra padded vinyl roof, factory G80 posi rear, remote trunk release, PDL, PW, and PS. Comes with all the original paperwork. Not a spec of rot or rust on the body. Tons of new parts and recent work over the years. Most modifications done for drivability. Just installed a new 1 piece rear filler and all new AC Delco AC components and converted to R134a. Blows cold! I have a laundry list of work done and tons of pictures. Email [email protected] for more info and pictures or call/text 401-487-1207 if serious. Reduced to $14,900. Car is located in Rhode Island. 4 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 $3,995. 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 -
Years ago, we wrote two books listed on our website - “Dennis Kirban’s Tips, Trivia and Sources for the 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regals” Volume 1 (#7027) and Volume 2 (#7088).
Both of these books are based on the knowledge I gained by buying and selling over 300 of these cars back in the 1990s and early 2000s time period. While the internet is a great source of information, these books are a wealth of ideas that work on these cars. Volume 1 runs 60 pages in length and Volume 2 runs 40 pages in length. In some ways, it’s like a magician explaining how he does his tricks.
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.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1985-1987 Buick GRAND NATIONAL -
ONE-PIECE BUCKET SEAT COVER
Because the original grey and black pallex Grand National seat material is so costly, here is a simple and inexpensive method to protect it.
We offer a one-piece form-fitting seat cover for the front bucket seat. No tools are required and it’s easy to clean. You simply slide it over the seat. It can be removed easily.
This seat cover has the same two-color color (black and grey) design, so it looks like it was made specifically for the Grand National.
The durable and breathable material is double nylon mesh cloth with 2mm thick sponge in the middle. The spandex back provides a universal fit that conforms to the Grand National’s bucket seat.
It’s an inexpensive investment to protect your Grand National bucket seats from damage.
To purchase one cover, order #7821. To order two covers, order #7822.
Another excellent way to protect the seats.
7821 - 1985-1987 Buick Grand National - One-piece Bucket Seat Cover - $18.95
7822 - 1985-1987 Buick Grand National -
TWO One-piece Bucket Seat Covers (2) - $29.95 (Save $7.95)
Here is a link to this seat cover 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 -
Our Annual Spring Open House is less than 5 weeks away.
If you’re planning on buying the Pypes Exhaust, Spoolfool rear filler, or Cold Case radiator, it’s important to pay for it in advance so we have it set aside for you to pickup.