03-24-2021 Inner Circle

Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 03-24-2021 -

CLICK HERE - To see this Inner Circle and photos on our website.

A CLARIFICATION TO ONE OF THE PHOTOS POSTED LAST WEEK -

In photo 4 last week we showed the Sinclair gas station I worked at in the mid 1960s time frame. That picture I used is not correct. That building had been replaced with a newer building. The brand remained the same Sinclair. The location is correct. Actually the person I got the picture from I saw this past weekend. I did not realize it until now that it was his father that owned the Sinclair gas station that I worked at! It is a small world!



FEW MORE UNUSUAL TURBO REGAL PARTS -

These 3 items are listed for sale under the Rare Parts section which only subscribers can view. I had a customer stop by this past week and I bought these items from him. All have been stored inside and are in good condition.

PHOTO 1- The top left and top right photo shows a pair of 1984-1985 Grand National wheels I got. Condition is quite good, no curb rash and the backs are clean. The bottom left photo shows 2 really nice T-Type wheel center caps. No busted tabs on either center cap. The bottom right photo shows from 1994 Caspers Ultrachip. It is brand new, never used in the box with all the directions.

PHOTO 2 - The top left shows 4 different black Terry Cloth shop towels. The Grand National logo in color, Buick Motorsport logo, Grand National logo in black and grey, and the Power Six logo in black and grey with a white outline. The top right photo shows 3 different Terry Cloth GNX shop towels. The GNX logo in the correct colors on a black, grey, or white Terry cloth shop towel. All the shop towels measure 24 inches by 14 inches. The bottom left photo we show two glass ashtrays. Both have the exact Goodyear Eagle VR 50 series tire around it that appears on the real GNX cars! The ashtray measures 6 inches in diameter. The bottom right photo we show 3 different brand new watches. The dials are unique. One shows the Grand National logo in the correct colors, One shows the VDO GNX boost gauge in the correct colors and the last one pictures the analog Grand National dash with the grey leather wrapped wheel. Watches are brand new.




INFORMATION BOOKLETS -

I just had a limited number of these reprinted from my files that I had from over 30 years ago. This first booklet runs over 130 pages! Packed with a lot of valuable information specifically for the 1986 and 1987 Turbo Regal owner. The first section covers all the SPI codes related to the trunk label. Next we cover all the codes and various trim combinations. Then all the 1986 and 1987 Regal prices and codes related to every possible option. Another section covers troubleshooting the touch climate control digital dash, power windows, power door locks, theft deterrent system trunk release, power seat. The last section covers drivability issues, ignition problems, wiring diagrams, ECM connector IDs, and turbo install and maintenance. All neatly laid out in a spiral bound 81/2 by 11 format. Over 130 pages of strictly 1986-1987 Turbo Regal information at your fingertips.

Next we have a 30 page spiral bound booklet providing all the background information I had collected years ago concerning the GNX project. Going back to the letter to ASC dated July 1986. All the specifics and the goals. Initially the production was supposed to be 200, then jumped to 500 and eventually the number 547. This provides all that proof. Very interesting read and a must have for any GNX owner.

PHOTO 3 - The top left and top right photo shows the 130-page spiral bound booklet “1986-1987 BUICK TURBO REGAL INFORMATION BOOKLET”. The bottom left and bottom right photos show the 30-page “GNX PROJECT FROM PROPOSAL TO PRODUCTION”. Both of these unique booklets can be found in the Rare Parts section for sale.



GNX REPRINTED MAGAZINE ARTICLES -

This booklet we have assembled covers many of the early GNX articles dating back to 1987 reprinted in glossy paper stock. Pages that were in color we had reprinted in color. Spiral bound over 50-pages. Another must have booklet for any GNX owner. The GNX got a lot of magazine coverage back in the day when magazines were popular. I even include the copies of the hand sketch artwork that eventually became the GNX owners manual supplement, a copy of one if not the only magazine ad ASC did featuring the GNX. Also the full page ad listing the very first real GNX we sold. It had 179,000 miles on it and I had it listed for $13,900. (I got $13,500) Another must have booklet for any GNX owner. (I am pretty if I still had it today I could safely triple my money!) I paid $10,000 for it.



ANOTHER NEW PART AVAILABLE FROM US -

We now offer the new reproduction 1986-1987 Turbo Regal power steering reservoir. It includes the white hand painted lettered cap as well. The cap from the original supplier is all black which is not correct. The wording on the cap should be white similar to the radiator reservoir cap. The source we buy these from hand paints the raised lettering on the cap so it looks 100% correct. Many of these plastic power steering reservoirs get broken any time major engine work or engine removal is done on your car. The part number is #7929 and the price is $189.95 plus shipping. We have some currently in stock.

PHOTO 4 - The top left photo shows the cover of this booklet. The top right photo and bottom left photos shows two of the inside pages of this spiral bound booklet. The bottom right photo shows the new reproduction 1986-1987 Turbo Regal power steering reservoir with the correct hand painted cap included.

Again the booklet can be found in the Rare Parts section. The new reproduction Turbo Regal power steering reservoir can be found on our website. It is in stock. Only subscribers can see the Rare Parts section. It is free to subscribe. Simply email me [email protected] with your request to join.

CLICK HERE - For the link to the Power Steering Reservoir on our website.



REBUILT POWERMASTER BRAKE UNITS -

As you read this we got over a dozen Cardone rebuilt powermaster brake units coming in this week. We are one of just a handful of sources that have these. Ours has both a new brake switch and brake bowl. This is the most rebuilt powermaster brake units we have ever gotten at the same time. Already about half of them are sold.



MORE NEW TURBO REGAL PARTS COMING SOON -

Our goal is to add several new Turbo Regal parts each week to expand our product line.



SOME PEOPLE HAVE ALL THE LUCK -

Two small news articles caught my eye this past week. One fortunate person bought a $35 porcelain bowl at a garage sale. Turns out it is from the 15th-century made in China. At auction it sold for a cool $722,000. Quick math will tell you that is a tremendous return on a $35 investment. Also one in a million chances of ever repeating again!

The second story involves a recent used car purchase. While cleaning the interior the new owner discovered a lottery ticket. It was never cashed in. It turned out it was worth one million dollars. Having personally detailed many cars I think the most I found was about $8 in coins from under the front driver's seat and under the center console.

The takeaway on both of these extreme cases is both sellers have to be pretty upset at the turn of events. Be nice if both new owners at least gave them something in return.



GRAND NATIONAL T-SHIRT BLOW OUT SALE -

See our website part number #7884 and #7885. This gives a full description of the black and the grey GM licensed T-shirts we sell. See the Rare Parts section for special pricing as we have just a few of each color in stock. We have reduced the price on these remaining GM licensed T-shirts.



1989 TURBO TRANS AM STILL AVAILABLE -

The Turbo Trans Am are still available. I have more photos available of the Turbo Trans Am and can provide the email address for the seller of the Turbo Trans Am. He only wants serious buyers. See last week's Inner Circle for more details. The price is $26,495 OBO. Car is located in the midwest.



COLLECTOR CAR COLLECTION UPDATE - THREE TURBO REGALS AND ONE SYCLONE

All 4 are still available. The 1986 blue T-Type and the 1987 Grand National he purchased brand new. He is the 3rd owner of the white 1987 Turbo-T. The Syclone he also purchased was brand new. These vehicles are located in Tennessee. The light blue 1986 T-Type is $25,000 OBO. The 1987 Grand National has the rare factory astro roof and has been repainted Corvette red. It is priced at $20,000 OBO. The white 1987 Turbo-T is $25,000 OBO. The Syclone has about 9,500 miles on it. It is priced at $44,900 OBO. See past Inner circle for more details on these vehicles. For more photos and to reach the seller email me direct [email protected]



CAR SHOW DATES FOR 2021 SEASON -

40th GS NATIONALS - Bowling Green, Kentucky
May 12-15, 2021

The 40th GS Nationals will be held May 12th thru 15th 2021 at Beach Bend Raceway Park, Bowling Green, Kentucky. In recent previous years the annual event was held in the fall. This year marks the 40th year! For up to date info, go to their website site www.gsnationals.com



EBAY LISTINGS -

Be sure to check ebay every week or so as we post parts under both Kirban Performance and Kirban Enterprises. You never know what will be posted from us.



LIST OF MECHANICS FOR THE TURBO REGAL UPDATE -

We will only post any new additions to avoid confusion. Refer to previous inner circle emails to see the entire list.



TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -

If you have an idea or tip or a product idea, send it to my email [email protected]



TIP FROM KIRBAN -.

Remember if you have converted your Turbo Regal to a hydroboost system you have put a tougher strain on the original 30 plus year old power steering pump. We have rebuilt ones in stock. Ideally this is something you should have a spare as it is quite unique to just a few GM models and only for a few years. Part number #7378.



IMPORTANT - INFORMATION ABOUT OUR SHIPPING ADDRESS –

If you are returning any cores or products, it is important that you send them to the correct address.

KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
529 HAYCOCK RUN ROAD
KINTNERSVILLE, PA 18930

We discovered that FedEx will not forward any packages that are sent to the old PO Box or to our old address in Plumsteadville. Instead they deliver the packages to the old address and leave them outside or send them back to the shipper. They refuse to forward and say that we should notify the shipper. In most cases, we have no idea when we are getting packages shipped back to us.

If you have any cores that are being sent back to us, be sure to use the correct address, especially if you use FedEx. Otherwise, we may not receive your package or it may be sent back to you.

CLICK HERE - For the link to the Kirban Enterprises ebay listings.



IMPORTANT NOTE ON RARE PARTS FOR SALE –

In order for our Inner Circle members to have an equal opportunity on the Rare Parts, no emails regarding orders on rare parts will be honored prior to 3 pm Wednesday. This way Inner Circle members get the opportunity first to purchase any of the rare items that may be pictured in the main body of the Inner Circle which may go on our website earlier in the day each week. Inner Circle members are the ONLY people that get to see the Rare Parts listing and see the prices.



CORES NEEDED - URGENT REQUEST –

Here is the information on our credits for cores.

STEERING WHEEL CORES. Currently we need good 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering cores. They must be straight and not have rusted spokes. We will issue a Letter of Credit of $100 for each acceptable core. You must email me [email protected] a photo first to make sure the steering wheel is acceptable.

POWERMASTER BRAKE UNITS. Currently, we are accepting powermaster brake units. We give a $150 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core. If you include the turbo pedal, add $10. You would receive a $160 Letter of Credit. To avoid having your core not accepted, you MUST first email me a photo of the core you plan to send in - [email protected] - We will NOT accept any cores that have severe rust issues or have been disassembled. Core must have the brake switch and brake bowl reservoir. Too many of the cores we have been getting are in such terrible shape they are worthless to us.

TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $175 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core. We need cores now.

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.

UPS or MAIL - Ship to Address –
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
529 HAYCOCK RUN ROAD
KINTNERSVILLE, PA 18930



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 to 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 3,500 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 3,400 potential buyers.

Ads submitted properly by the previous Sunday would appear that next Wednesday in the weekly Inner Circle. Ads must be submitted by email to - [email protected]

Payment by credit card must be done by phone to our office 215-766-1611.



NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE BUICK RARE PARTS SECTION -

If you are not able to see the Buick Rare Parts section at the end of this Inner Circle, it is because you are not an Inner Circle member, but instead are reading this on the website. You must subscribe to see the Rare Parts section each week. It would go directly to your inbox every Wednesday afternoon. It is FREE, probably one reason why nobody complains about what I write about. To subscribe simply email – [email protected] - to get our free weekly Inner Circle email.

The Buick Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!



EMAILS TO KIRBAN PERFORMANCE -

NOTE - If you email us and do NOT get a timely reply, be sure to check your “SPAM” folder. Some emails do not go through.

If you need to email us, use - [email protected]



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 –

1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction PLASTIC POWER STEERING RESERVOIR WITH HAND-PAINTED CAP

This plastic power steering reservoir has been reproduced exactly like the original. It is unique for only the 1986 and 1987 Buick Turbo Regals. The lettering on the cap is hand-painted in white.

Originals are prone to cracking or the inlet and outlet orifice can easily get broken.

Very few sources sell it with the hand-painted lettering on the white cap, as shown in the photos.
A must-have part to have as a spare.

NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7378 Rebuilt Power Steering Pump, #7612 Reproduction Power Steering Pressure Hose from Hydro-Boost to Pump, #7414 Reproduction Stainless Steel Power Steering Line, #7380 Rebuilt Power Steering Gear Box, and #7574 Upgraded Used Lower Steering Shaft.

Another excellent replacement for any engine restoration.

7936 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Reproduction Plastic Power Steering Reservoir with Hand-Painted Cap - $189.95

CLICK HERE - For the link to this Power Steering Reservoir on our website.




1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
REPRODUCTION HEADER PANEL

This reproduction header panel is made to factory specifications for fit. It does not have the emblem mounting hole. The material is the same as the original. SMC is both a process and reinforced composite material.

The header panel is in primer and ready to be painted and installed.

We recommend the header panel be test fitted prior to painting and installation. Minor modifications (including elongating mounting hole and adding shims) are normal and may be needed during installation.

It is important to note that hard driving can twist frames and bodies out of original tolerances. Also, previous accidents or damage can cause fitment problems with installation.

NOTE - Do to its size and the special packing required, shipping and handling is calculated to be $150 to the 48 contiguous states. Canada and other locations must call our office for shipping rates - 215-766-1611.

NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7215 Reproduction BLACK Grille, #7239 Reproduction CHROME-plated Plastic Grille, #7222 Reproduction Black Headlight Bezels, #7238 Reproduction CHROME-plated Plastic Headlight Bezels, #7436 Reproduction Marker Lights, #7092 Reproduction Front Grille Springs, #7438 Reproduction GM-style FRONT Bumper Filler Panels, and #7530 Upgraded H4 Headlights (4) Kit.

This is an excellent reproduction for any exterior restoration.

7929 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Reproduction Header Panel - $489.95 plus $150 shipping to the 48 contiguous states - $639.95

CLICK HERE - For the link to this header panel on our website.



1984-1987 Buick Grand National -
GM Licensed - GRAND NATIONAL LOGO GRILLE EMBLEM

This is an emblem that Buick should have made originally.

This cool diecast custom emblem is GM licensed and is an exact match to the fender and trunk Grand National emblems.

This emblem is also metal. It measures approximately 3-3/4" x 1-1/4" and replaces the “BUICK” grille emblem. It attaches in the same two holes on the stock grille. Two speed nuts are included with the emblem.

The quality is excellent.

Another excellent emblem for any Grand National exterior.

NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7215 Reproduction BLACK Grille, #7239 Reproduction CHROME-plated Plastic Grille, #7222 Reproduction Black Headlight Bezels, #7238 Reproduction CHROME-plated Plastic Headlight Bezels, #7436 Reproduction Marker Lights, #7092 Reproduction Front Grille Springs, #7438 Reproduction GM-style FRONT Bumper Filler Panels, and #7530 Upgraded H4 Headlights (4) Kit.

7928 - 1984-1987 Buick Grand National -
GM Licensed Grand National Logo Grille Emblem - $69.95

CLICK HERE - For the link to this Grand National grille emblem on our website.



1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
REBUILT POWER STEERING PUMP

We have a source that rebuilds the unique power steering pump that was used on the 1986-1987 Turbo Regals.

These are rebuilt to meet or exceed OE specifications. They only use premium-grade heavy-duty seals for longer life.

They are 100% performance tested to ensure quality.

Pump comes with a Manufacturer’s One-year Warranty.

Because these are unique and rebuilt we have a core charge of $25, which is included in the price. The core charge will be refunded to you once we receive your original correct steering pump.

NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #6943 Reproduction Power Steering Pressure Hose, #7380 Rebuilt Power Steering Gear Box, #7414 Reproduction Stainless Steel Power Steering Line, and #7649 Power Steering Return Hose..

Another excellent replacement part.

7378 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Rebuilt Power Steering Pump - $104.95 plus a $25 Refundable Core Charge - $129.95

CLICK HERE - For the link to this power steering pump on our website.



1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM 8-HOLE MOLDED UNDER HOOD INSULATOR LINER PAD
WITH GM LICENSED WORDING/LOGOS IMPRINTS

Over time, an original under hood (insulator liner) pad can deteriorate or rodents may have eaten holes in the material.

GM has not had the factory 9-hole molded hood pad available for many years. GM later made a 8-hole molded hood pad which eliminated the center back hole.

This hood pad is purchased from GM then imprinted with GM Licensed wording and designs.

The wording is done using the same heat transfer process Buick used. This is exactly like the original hood pad.

We offer two different options.

NOTE: The GM licensed hood pads listed here are done using the same heat transfer process that Buick used originally. Do not confuse these with ones offered several years ago. Those did have issues because they were a decal. These will withstand very high temperatures.

#7926-O “BUICK TURBOCHARGED with TURBO-SIX LOGO” matches the one-color original hood pad that Buick used on all the 1986-1987 Turbo Regals.

#7927-GN “BUICK TURBOCHARGED with the GRAND NATIONAL INTERCOOLED LOGO” is another design featuring the Grand National Intercooled logo in two colors to match the Grand National hood rest. Buick never offered this design, but it is available if you want a different look.

Each comes with 8 new hood pad pins to secure it to your hood.

The hood pad is shipped directly from the supplier to you.

*NOTE - Price includes the oversized box shipping and handling by UPS Ground shipping to the 48 U.S. contiguous states.

NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #6981 Hood Insulation Pad Lock Buttons (12) Set, #6700 STOCK STEEL Hood Gas Shocks (2), and #7680 Hood Shocks Reproduction bolts (2).

Another excellent replacement for any engine compartment restoration.

Here are the 2 options for these hood pads.
7926-O - GM Licensed “BUICK TURBOCHARGED with TURBO-SIX LOGO” 8-Hole Under Hood Insulator Liner Pad (grey print) $499.95 (includes shipping)

7927-GN - GM Licensed “BUICK TURBOCHARGED with GRAND NATIONAL Intercooled Turbo-Six Color Logo” 8-Hole Under Hood Insulator Liner Pad (grey, red & yellow print) $499.95 (includes shipping)

CLICK HERE - for the link to these hood pads on our website.





ALWAYS LOOKING FOR IDEAS -

If you have any product ideas that would fit our Turbo Buick market that you would like to see available, email me direct - [email protected]



ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION FOR TURBO REGAL PARTS -

Got any Turbo Buick parts you are not using? Why not cash them in for parts you need with a Letter of Credit. We also may buy your new or used parts. Simply email me a list - [email protected]

Also, we are still buying dead or partially dead 1984-1987 Turbo Regals under $4,000 that are within 250 to 350 miles of our location.



NOTE - ABOUT LINKS IN THE INNER CIRCLE -

We have heard from a couple people that have had problems with the links in our Inner Circle.

When we check the links, they work fine. However, if you are not able to be directed to the exact website page or internet site, you can "copy" and "paste" the link into the URL in your browser (such as Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.

Most people having problems are using Internet Explorer. If you are having issues with links, try another browser to see if it works.

You may need to "UPDATE" your browser to be used if 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 directly - [email protected] - and 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 -

URGENT REQUEST - Please, if you have any original 1986-1987 Turbo Regal turbos, cash them in with us for the $175 Letter of Credit. This helps us help our customers obtain the rebuilt turbo they need for their car.




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