Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 04-16-2014
A PICTURE PERFECT DAY FOR OUR SPRING TIME OPEN HOUSE -
A picture perfect day for our Spring Open House last Saturday. No wind, gorgeous sunshine, and temperatures hit 75 degrees. Many customers started to roll in around 9 am and continued to roll in through the noon hour.
Both Bruce Shaw and Terry Shaw gave very interesting seminars for our customers.
The luncheon featured a wide variety of food that satisfied everyone's appetite. According to Russ, over 250 meals were served.
The car count for Turbo Regals and Turbo Trans Ams was between 55 and 65.
We got to meet several people that came for the very first time. In addition to the local Pennsylvania enthusiasts, people came from Canada, Ohio, North Carolina, Illinois, Connecticut, New Jersey, Maryland, Delaware, New York, and Massachusetts, just to name some of the states.
THE FOLLOWING PEOPLE MADE OUR OPEN HOUSE POSSIBLE -
We want to thank…
Chef Russ and Nancy faithfully prepare and spend their own money for all the food and preparation. His friend Don also helps with the cooking at the Open House. Jeremy and Kay Zipin kindly volunteer to help serve the food. This is a huge undertaking and Russ and Nancy insist on all the donations being sent to the Molly Memorial Scholarship Fund. This year they collected $631! The food was excellent - a job well done! Remember, they do this to thank Molly for his design efforts, by contributing to his daughter's scholarship fund.
Bruce and Terry Shaw for coming and giving their seminars relating to insurance and legal car services.
John Follweiler who faithfully supplies all the sodas for our Open House events. He delivers all the soda and coolers a week ahead of the event.
Jason Maxfield from Canada who always attends and helps us load and unload everything.
Chris Hall and John Hall for a great job selling our parts.
Pete Hoffman who also helps and answers any technical questions.
Carrie and Christina who did all the order processing during the event, and kept the coffee flowing.
Our granddaughter Devyn, who assisted my wife Eileen at the registration table and with the raffles. Thanks to the Nick Christie, and Ron and Rick Mukalian for the sweet Godiva chocolates they gave Eileen as a gift.
Alex Gonzalez from New York generously donated a signed Molly diecast box and car as an auction item for the Molly Memorial Fund. It raised another $145.
Mike Bernard, owner of Spoolfool, generously donated of not only a pair of his front Spoolfool fillers but also his popular one-piece rear Spoolfool filler panels for the raffle. Attendees really wanted those fillers, so along with the other raffle items, we collected over $1,200.
Interesting enough while some customers had planned to pick up the one piece Spoolfool rear fillers to save shipping they discovered the one-piece rear filler does not fit in many cars, unless the rear seat folds down! Fortunately the winner of the Spoolfool rear filler had driven a car that had a hatchback!
Several customers had used parts for sale. Paul Castle came out from Chicago and had an array of parts for sale as well.
All the monies from the Spoolfool and other raffle items, the donated diecast auction, and the donations for the luncheon will be sent to the Molly fund. We were able to raise over $2,000 at this event.
This brings the total to over $5,000 our Open House events have raised for Brooke's education.
Thanks to the members of the Magna Club. Over 20 cars came in a caravan to the event.
If we're missed anyone, we apologize. We appreciate all that came.
PHOTOS FROM OUR OPEN HOUSE -
PHOTO 1 - The top left photo shows some of the variety of food that was being served for the lunch. The top right photo shows some of the lineup of Grand Nationals. The lower left photo is the display board Nancy had honoring her Dad, William Pasco, who recently passed away. She dedicated her recently restored 1987 Grand National to him at our event. Her dad was a mechanical engineer and helped them restore the car. Russ and Nancy own two 1987 Grand Nationals and both feature the highly-desirable GNX rear suspension. The lower right photo shows Nancy’s restored 1987 Grand National. This car features many brand new original parts including tires, intercooler, and most of the engine exterior parts. Even the console is a brand new GM original.
PHOTO 2 - The top left shows a two tone Turbo Regal sporting GNX style rims. The top right photo shows the some of the line for the lunch! The bottom left shows some of the original paperwork in a binder with one of the Turbo Regal. The lower right photo show of the people as they go around looking at the various cars. Since it was not billed as a car show or a judged event, everyone was able to relax and enjoy the day's events.
PHOTO 3 - The top left photo shows some of the used parts that one person had put out for sale. The top right photo shows the latest Grand National upgrade dash using the later-style Stewart Warner Gauges. The lower left photo shows Richard Clark with his new Jack Russell dog Olive talking to some of the attendees. The lower right photo shows Bruce Shaw conducting his seminar on collector car automotive fraud.
PHOTO 4 - The top left shows Terry Shaw conducting his seminar on the importance of having an appraisal on your collectible car. The top right shows more of the Turbo Regals in attendance and a 1989 Turbo Trans Am. There were 2 Turbo Trans Ams in attendance and also a 2014 Corvette convertible. The lower left photo shows the passenger's side door panel on a Turbo-T. Notice it has crank windows, concert sound II and the pull strap with the plastic moldings has been eliminated. The lower right photo shows one of the earlier-style reproduction GNX dashes in the same Turbo-T. This car belongs to Jordan Polites, who recently had our refurbished lower steering shaft installed in his gorgeous burgundy Turbo-T.
ELECTRICAL GROUND CONNECTIONS ON THE 1986-1987 TURBO REGAL -
We covered this electrical ground connections topic in last week’s Inner Circle.
We did hear from Rick, one of our readers who owned one of our Grand Nationals a few years back. He was at one of our Open House events a few years back and was having trouble with the fuse blowing on his powermaster at our event. Richard Clark and few others tried several options to isolate the issue with other switches and cores, all to no avail.
Finally, another person at our Open House remarked that they also had the same issue with their powermaster brake switch. It turned out to be the black ground wire to the firewall. It simply was not tight! Once they tightened the ground wire to the firewall, the powermaster brake switch no longer blew the fuse!
So, you can clearly see how a ground wire that is not properly grounded can cause problems that can be difficult to pinpoint. The solution is something so simple and often times overlooked.
Speaking of the powermaster brake switch… currently we are no longer able to get new ones to sell. This is also probably true from other sources, since we sold them wholesale to most of the other Turbo Regal suppliers.
GM may still have some available in their system, which is identical to the ones we sold since GE was the manufacturer. I am sure they would be priced higher from GM than the ones we sold
WANTED - A 1963 BONNEVILLE CONVERTIBLE -
We have a local friend who wants a car identical to one he had when he was younger. It has to be triple black - top, body and interior.
He is looking for one that he can drive and enjoy, not necessarily a 95-point show car. He is willing to travel.
Email me if you know of one for sale. He is a serious buyer. My email is - [email protected]
1956 THUNDERBIRD FOR SALE -
A local long-time friend of mine has acquired a very restorable 1956 Thunderbird he wants to sell. I believe it is priced very reasonable for someone to drive and enjoy, and eventually restore to a higher standard. If you do restoration or own a body shop, this car is an excellent candidate. The car is basically a one owner and was always a local car in our area. It has the optional original 312 V8 engine in it, the optional hardtop, and continental tire kit on the back. Receipts that come with the car total over $12,000 and cover the engine, transmission fuel lines, brake lines gas tank, brakes, radiator, new tires and much more. The floors and the trunk are solid. It does need inner and outer rockers and complete exterior and interior restoration. The price is $16,000. My friend may be open to partial trades. For more information, contact me direct - [email protected]
FOR SALE - 1966 BUICK GS COUPE 4-SPEED -
A friend of mine, who has an automotive repair shop, is selling one of his friend's cars (who is reducing his collection.) I saw this 1966 Buick GS Coupe 4-speed earlier this week. It is located about 25 minutes south of our warehouse.
Early GS Skylarks are scarce. This is blue with a redone black bucket seat interior. The number matching engine has been rebuilt. Engine is a 401 V8. What makes it rare is the fact it's a factory 4-speed with the factory mini console, complete with the factory Buick tach mounted on the console. The trunk is solid. The car has manual steering with later model disc brakes, factory Ralley chrome wheels, new shocks and new tires. It has a non-stock steering wheel on it. Car shows 62,000 miles, which may be correct. Body is very straight. It would be an excellent restoration project that can be driven and enjoyed now.
The price is $11,900. Email me direct - [email protected] - for photos and more information.
BREAKING NEWS - REPRODUCTION 1986 & 1987 TURBO REGAL WINDOW STICKERS -
Because of the many requests, we have struck a deal with Triple A Enterprises to offer exclusively for our customer's, reproduction Window Stickers for the 1986 and 1987 Turbo Regals only. They have been doing the Pontiacs and Corvettes for many years.
Since this is a part time job for Triple A Enterprises, they are limited to the number of Window Stickers they can do. The turn around time will be about 2 weeks.
We have not yet worked out a price structure. Watch for more details later this month. Again, we will only be able to offer 1986 and 1987 Turbo Regal reproduction Window Stickers.
IF YOU'RE PLANNING TO REACH THE AGE OF 100 AND BEYOND -
If you are planning to reach the age of 100 and beyond, as a male your odds are not that great.
A recent survey of just over 2,000 people in the state of New York that are 100 and older shows 83% are woman. With that in mind, you may want to pass on that major restoration project if you are currently approaching 85 years old and older.
CLOSE OUT SPECIAL ON 1986-1987 TURBO REGAL - OIL TUBE AND BREATHER ASSEMBLY -
This oil tube and breather assembly was not one of our parts but was a part made by another source and we purchased their remaining Inventory. Be sure to call our office if you want one. To see a photo, go to 03-12-2013 Inner Circle, Photo 1. The tube is straight and measures 4" tall overall and the breather has a chrome cap on the top and measures 3" in diameter, billet construction. The new lower price is $26 each, which includes shipping to any of the basic 48 states.
You must call the office to order this, as it is not on our website - 215-766-1611 x 0. We have about 8 of them left. This is a product we bought from another company.
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]
UPDATE CONCERNING SPOOLFOOL FILLER PANELS -
As you read this we should have a quantity of both the rears and fronts in stock for immediate delivery. If you reside near Pennsylvania, shipping on the rear one-piece Spoolfool filler is not that bad. It would run probably around $55 to $60, depending on your zip code.
The Spoolfool front fillers would be reasonable to ship anywhere in the USA as they are not oversized. Shipping has already been absorbed in getting them from Mike, the supplier in California, to our Pennsylvania location. Call our office for ordering - 215-766-1611 x 0.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
“TURBO BUICK ENGINE & QUOTE” - BLACK VINYL BANNERS - TWO SIZES
Our high-quality vinyl banners are made exclusively for Kirban Performance. The design features the Turbo Buick engine with the quote “The Heart and Soul of the Fastest U.S. Production Car in 1987.” in red, white, silver and black.
We offer this design in two sizes: 24" tall by 48" wide (Part #7586) and 18" tall x 36" wide (Part #7587).
Banners are Made in the U.S.A., are waterproof, weatherproof, and UV coated.
Each banner has metal eyelets on all the corners for easy hanging. This is just one of several distinctive banner designs we offer.
Banners are ideal to hang in any garage or workshop. Banners make an excellent gift for any Turbo Buick owner or mechanic.
Another great display item.
7586 - “TURBO BUICK ENGINE & QUOTE” - 24″ x 48″ Black Vinyl Banner - $38.95
7587 - “TURBO BUICK ENGINE & QUOTE” - 18″ x 36″ Black Vinyl Banner - $28.95
Here is the link to the “Turbo Buick Engine & Quote" Banners on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7587&submit_button=
1975-1987 Buick Regal (All 3.8 Engine Models, Including Turbo Regals) -
BRAND NEW HEAVY-DUTY WATER PUMP
This new heavy-duty water pump comes complete with a new gasket and has a manufacturer’s limited lifetime warranty to the original purchaser.
It is better to buy a new pump rather than a rebuilt or remanufactured pump.
This brand new water pump is an upgraded unit with a heavy-duty bearing and 10% better flow.
We also offer a brand new stock water pump, Part #7381.
A nice upgrade when you rebuild the engine or need to replace the original water pump. It’s best to also flush the coolant system when replacing the water pump.
Another excellent replacement part for any engine restoration.
7581 - 1975-1987 Buick Regal (All 3.8 Engine Models, including Turbo Regals) -
Brand New Heavy-duty Water Pump - $42.95
Here is the link to this Heavy-duty Water Pump on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44153/BRAND+NEW+HEAVY-DUTY+WATER+PUMP+%237581.html
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction ALKY CONTROL UNIT APPLIQUE INSERTS
Because we get requests and since we offer the Alky Kit, Part #7341, we now offer two dash appliques so you can install the switch in the dash and have it look factory.
These appliques are formatted for the Alky Kit we sell. Since the Alky Kit is for the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal, we note those years in our description. However, it will also fit the 1984 and 1985 Regal dash.
This high-quality applique comes with a self-adhesive backing for easy installation.
We offer two styles as shown - one has both rear defogger and remote right mirror option (Part #7582) and the other has just the remote right mirror option (Part #7583). These are the only two we offer.
This applique insert is made by the same company that makes our other applique inserts and is a perfect match in material, font style, and color as the original applique on the dash.
This high-quality applique comes with a self-adhesive backing for easy installation.
Another great interior restoration item.
7582 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction ALKY Control Unit Applique Insert with option for Rear Defogger and Remote Right Mirror - $24.95
7583 - 1987-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction ALKY Control Unit Applique Insert with option for Remote Right Mirror Only - $24.95
Here is the link to these Applique Inserts on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7582&submit_button=
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
CONSOLE ASHTRAY 3-SWITCH and 4-SWITCH PLATES
These switch plates are designed to fit into the 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal console ashtray. Switches are 16 amp rated. The finish is black brushed aluminum. Switches are on-and-off format, low profile, so you can close the ashtray lid. So, whether the switch is on or off, the lid can still be closed.
We offer two options - 3-switch plate (Part #7584) and 4-switch plate (Part #7585).
NOTE - Unfortunately, because of the finish, these are difficult to photograph, but the quality is excellent.
Another great interior item.
7584 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Console Ashtray 3-SWITCH Plate - $26.95
7585 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Console Ashtray 4-SWITCH Plate - $32.95
Here is the link to these Ashtray Switch Plates on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7584&submit_button=
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM NEW PLASTIC GASKETS (2) FOR EXTERIOR DOOR
In addition to offering black outside door handles, we now offer brand new plastic gaskets for the exterior door handles.
We recommend replacing the plastic door gaskets whenever you replace the exterior door handles or have your car repainted. Since the originals are plastic, over a period of time the gaskets can become brittle due to age and heat.
These gaskets are a unique molded part and keeps the metal door handle from chipping the paint.
Gaskets are sold as a pair.
We also offer Part #7186, 1984-1987 Turbo Regal - Reproduction Black Outside Door Handles (2).
Another nice finishing touch for any restoration.
7588 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM New Plastic Gaskets (2) for Exterior Door Handles - $17.95 / 2-piece set
Here is the link to these Exterior Door Handle Gaskets on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44158/GM+NEW+PLASTIC+GASKETS+FOR%E2%80%88EXTERIOR+DOOR+HANDLES+%237588.html
2014 - UPCOMING TURBO REGAL EVENTS FOR 2014 -
24TH ANNUAL BUICK RACE DAY - NORWALK, OHIO -
APRIL 25-26-27, 2014
The dates are Friday, April 25th at the track from 6-11 pm, Saturday, April 26th for the All Buick Car Show show at Arbys in Norwalk, Ohio and Sunday, April 27th for Buick powered racing at Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio.
For more information, contact Roberta Vasilow at 810-655-8277 or email - [email protected]. Or contact Bill Wills at 330-747-1029 or email is - [email protected]
RIDE FOR MOLLY - SATURDAY - MAY 10, 2014
The date this year for the "Ride for Molly" event is Saturday, May 10, 2014. According to Ralph Shelley, one of our Turbo Regal customers, he expects that 3 or 4 Turbo Buicks from northern California will participate this year.
This year the ride originates from the site of their first two memorial rides, the very popular Temecula Creek Inn. It will then go along one of Molly's favorite routes to Borrego Springs, with a luncheon planned at the Red Octotillo, located in the lodge built in 1948. This is truly a throwback to the 1950's and an experience you won't want to miss.
As in the past, all monies contributed by the attendees will support a college fund for Molly’s daughter Brooke. If you are not able to attend but wish to contribute, a check made payable to “Molly Memorial Education Fund” can be mailed to: Molly Memorial Education Fund, c/o Alan DeCarr, 6446 Fairwind Circle, Huntington Beach, Ca. 92648.
For more information, contact - [email protected] or (866) 275-1294
5TH ANNUAL BUICK RACE DAY - Lebanon Valley Dragway, Lebanon Valley, New York
MAY 24, 2014
This is sponsored by the Northeast Chapter of the GS/GN Club, on May 24th, 2014 at Lebanon Valley Dragway in Lebanon Valley, New York. Three race classes are Quick 16, V8 and V6.
For more information, contact John at 518-794-7120 or 914-447-6068.
GN T-TYPE CENTRAL GET TOGETHER - Chicagoland Buick Chapter -
SATURDAY, JUNE 6, 7 & 8, 2014
The main dates are Saturday and Sunday June 7th and 8th 2014. Location is the Holiday Inn, 860 Irving Park Road in Itasca, Ill. The two-day event includes a car show, cruise, swap meet and racing. Sponsored in part by the Chicagoland Buick Chapter. Security will be provided. There is also a meet and Friday night, June 6th. For more information, contact Benny at 773-251-8198 or Prasad at 630-965-1987.
THE BUICK PERFORMANCE GROUP 2014 EVENT - National Trail Raceway, Hebron, Ohio
AUGUST 1st and 2nd, 2014
The BPG 2014 Event will again be held at National Trail Raceway in Hebron, Ohio on August 1st-2nd. The Host Hotel will be the Newark Metropolitan. They will have an expanded breakfast menu for 2014. The Hotel will be making arrangements to block off the street on Thursday and Friday night and will provide the BBQ again. Ted Nagels Band will again be playing Friday night.
For more information, visit - www.buickperformancegroup.com or their Buick Performance Group Facebook page.
MAGNA - MID-ATLANTIC GRAND NATIONAL ASSOCIATION -
The local Magna Club has posted events related to the Turbo Regals for this coming summer season.
Here is a link for the latest information:
http://www.magnabuick.com/show/index.shtml
GS NATIONALS - OCTOBER 15-18, 2014 -
Beech Bend Raceway, 798 Beech Bend Road, Bowling Green, Kentucky
Ron Joseph informs me that the dates for the 2014 GS Nationals are October 15th thru 18th. The intent to move it to September has been shelved at least for a year, according to Ron. We will share more info as it becomes available. Also for the first time ever there will be an auto cross open to all cars October 15th and 16th. 2014. This year ALL vehicles are welcome to participate and have some fun, prizes will be given away and sponsors will be there!
Click here for more info:
http://www.turbobuick.com/forums/threads/2014-gs-nationals-auto-cross-oct-15-16-th.407646/#post-3357189
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 WORKS -
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.
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 -
Looks like spring has finally come to our area. It was fun getting to drive our Turbo-T for the Open House. I need to get it out more often and enjoy it.
A PICTURE PERFECT DAY FOR OUR SPRING TIME OPEN HOUSE -
A picture perfect day for our Spring Open House last Saturday. No wind, gorgeous sunshine, and temperatures hit 75 degrees. Many customers started to roll in around 9 am and continued to roll in through the noon hour.
Both Bruce Shaw and Terry Shaw gave very interesting seminars for our customers.
The luncheon featured a wide variety of food that satisfied everyone's appetite. According to Russ, over 250 meals were served.
The car count for Turbo Regals and Turbo Trans Ams was between 55 and 65.
We got to meet several people that came for the very first time. In addition to the local Pennsylvania enthusiasts, people came from Canada, Ohio, North Carolina, Illinois, Connecticut, New Jersey, Maryland, Delaware, New York, and Massachusetts, just to name some of the states.
THE FOLLOWING PEOPLE MADE OUR OPEN HOUSE POSSIBLE -
We want to thank…
Chef Russ and Nancy faithfully prepare and spend their own money for all the food and preparation. His friend Don also helps with the cooking at the Open House. Jeremy and Kay Zipin kindly volunteer to help serve the food. This is a huge undertaking and Russ and Nancy insist on all the donations being sent to the Molly Memorial Scholarship Fund. This year they collected $631! The food was excellent - a job well done! Remember, they do this to thank Molly for his design efforts, by contributing to his daughter's scholarship fund.
Bruce and Terry Shaw for coming and giving their seminars relating to insurance and legal car services.
John Follweiler who faithfully supplies all the sodas for our Open House events. He delivers all the soda and coolers a week ahead of the event.
Jason Maxfield from Canada who always attends and helps us load and unload everything.
Chris Hall and John Hall for a great job selling our parts.
Pete Hoffman who also helps and answers any technical questions.
Carrie and Christina who did all the order processing during the event, and kept the coffee flowing.
Our granddaughter Devyn, who assisted my wife Eileen at the registration table and with the raffles. Thanks to the Nick Christie, and Ron and Rick Mukalian for the sweet Godiva chocolates they gave Eileen as a gift.
Alex Gonzalez from New York generously donated a signed Molly diecast box and car as an auction item for the Molly Memorial Fund. It raised another $145.
Mike Bernard, owner of Spoolfool, generously donated of not only a pair of his front Spoolfool fillers but also his popular one-piece rear Spoolfool filler panels for the raffle. Attendees really wanted those fillers, so along with the other raffle items, we collected over $1,200.
Interesting enough while some customers had planned to pick up the one piece Spoolfool rear fillers to save shipping they discovered the one-piece rear filler does not fit in many cars, unless the rear seat folds down! Fortunately the winner of the Spoolfool rear filler had driven a car that had a hatchback!
Several customers had used parts for sale. Paul Castle came out from Chicago and had an array of parts for sale as well.
All the monies from the Spoolfool and other raffle items, the donated diecast auction, and the donations for the luncheon will be sent to the Molly fund. We were able to raise over $2,000 at this event.
This brings the total to over $5,000 our Open House events have raised for Brooke's education.
Thanks to the members of the Magna Club. Over 20 cars came in a caravan to the event.
If we're missed anyone, we apologize. We appreciate all that came.
PHOTOS FROM OUR OPEN HOUSE -
PHOTO 1 - The top left photo shows some of the variety of food that was being served for the lunch. The top right photo shows some of the lineup of Grand Nationals. The lower left photo is the display board Nancy had honoring her Dad, William Pasco, who recently passed away. She dedicated her recently restored 1987 Grand National to him at our event. Her dad was a mechanical engineer and helped them restore the car. Russ and Nancy own two 1987 Grand Nationals and both feature the highly-desirable GNX rear suspension. The lower right photo shows Nancy’s restored 1987 Grand National. This car features many brand new original parts including tires, intercooler, and most of the engine exterior parts. Even the console is a brand new GM original.
PHOTO 2 - The top left shows a two tone Turbo Regal sporting GNX style rims. The top right photo shows the some of the line for the lunch! The bottom left shows some of the original paperwork in a binder with one of the Turbo Regal. The lower right photo show of the people as they go around looking at the various cars. Since it was not billed as a car show or a judged event, everyone was able to relax and enjoy the day's events.
PHOTO 3 - The top left photo shows some of the used parts that one person had put out for sale. The top right photo shows the latest Grand National upgrade dash using the later-style Stewart Warner Gauges. The lower left photo shows Richard Clark with his new Jack Russell dog Olive talking to some of the attendees. The lower right photo shows Bruce Shaw conducting his seminar on collector car automotive fraud.
PHOTO 4 - The top left shows Terry Shaw conducting his seminar on the importance of having an appraisal on your collectible car. The top right shows more of the Turbo Regals in attendance and a 1989 Turbo Trans Am. There were 2 Turbo Trans Ams in attendance and also a 2014 Corvette convertible. The lower left photo shows the passenger's side door panel on a Turbo-T. Notice it has crank windows, concert sound II and the pull strap with the plastic moldings has been eliminated. The lower right photo shows one of the earlier-style reproduction GNX dashes in the same Turbo-T. This car belongs to Jordan Polites, who recently had our refurbished lower steering shaft installed in his gorgeous burgundy Turbo-T.
ELECTRICAL GROUND CONNECTIONS ON THE 1986-1987 TURBO REGAL -
We covered this electrical ground connections topic in last week’s Inner Circle.
We did hear from Rick, one of our readers who owned one of our Grand Nationals a few years back. He was at one of our Open House events a few years back and was having trouble with the fuse blowing on his powermaster at our event. Richard Clark and few others tried several options to isolate the issue with other switches and cores, all to no avail.
Finally, another person at our Open House remarked that they also had the same issue with their powermaster brake switch. It turned out to be the black ground wire to the firewall. It simply was not tight! Once they tightened the ground wire to the firewall, the powermaster brake switch no longer blew the fuse!
So, you can clearly see how a ground wire that is not properly grounded can cause problems that can be difficult to pinpoint. The solution is something so simple and often times overlooked.
Speaking of the powermaster brake switch… currently we are no longer able to get new ones to sell. This is also probably true from other sources, since we sold them wholesale to most of the other Turbo Regal suppliers.
GM may still have some available in their system, which is identical to the ones we sold since GE was the manufacturer. I am sure they would be priced higher from GM than the ones we sold
WANTED - A 1963 BONNEVILLE CONVERTIBLE -
We have a local friend who wants a car identical to one he had when he was younger. It has to be triple black - top, body and interior.
He is looking for one that he can drive and enjoy, not necessarily a 95-point show car. He is willing to travel.
Email me if you know of one for sale. He is a serious buyer. My email is - [email protected]
1956 THUNDERBIRD FOR SALE -
A local long-time friend of mine has acquired a very restorable 1956 Thunderbird he wants to sell. I believe it is priced very reasonable for someone to drive and enjoy, and eventually restore to a higher standard. If you do restoration or own a body shop, this car is an excellent candidate. The car is basically a one owner and was always a local car in our area. It has the optional original 312 V8 engine in it, the optional hardtop, and continental tire kit on the back. Receipts that come with the car total over $12,000 and cover the engine, transmission fuel lines, brake lines gas tank, brakes, radiator, new tires and much more. The floors and the trunk are solid. It does need inner and outer rockers and complete exterior and interior restoration. The price is $16,000. My friend may be open to partial trades. For more information, contact me direct - [email protected]
FOR SALE - 1966 BUICK GS COUPE 4-SPEED -
A friend of mine, who has an automotive repair shop, is selling one of his friend's cars (who is reducing his collection.) I saw this 1966 Buick GS Coupe 4-speed earlier this week. It is located about 25 minutes south of our warehouse.
Early GS Skylarks are scarce. This is blue with a redone black bucket seat interior. The number matching engine has been rebuilt. Engine is a 401 V8. What makes it rare is the fact it's a factory 4-speed with the factory mini console, complete with the factory Buick tach mounted on the console. The trunk is solid. The car has manual steering with later model disc brakes, factory Ralley chrome wheels, new shocks and new tires. It has a non-stock steering wheel on it. Car shows 62,000 miles, which may be correct. Body is very straight. It would be an excellent restoration project that can be driven and enjoyed now.
The price is $11,900. Email me direct - [email protected] - for photos and more information.
BREAKING NEWS - REPRODUCTION 1986 & 1987 TURBO REGAL WINDOW STICKERS -
Because of the many requests, we have struck a deal with Triple A Enterprises to offer exclusively for our customer's, reproduction Window Stickers for the 1986 and 1987 Turbo Regals only. They have been doing the Pontiacs and Corvettes for many years.
Since this is a part time job for Triple A Enterprises, they are limited to the number of Window Stickers they can do. The turn around time will be about 2 weeks.
We have not yet worked out a price structure. Watch for more details later this month. Again, we will only be able to offer 1986 and 1987 Turbo Regal reproduction Window Stickers.
IF YOU'RE PLANNING TO REACH THE AGE OF 100 AND BEYOND -
If you are planning to reach the age of 100 and beyond, as a male your odds are not that great.
A recent survey of just over 2,000 people in the state of New York that are 100 and older shows 83% are woman. With that in mind, you may want to pass on that major restoration project if you are currently approaching 85 years old and older.
CLOSE OUT SPECIAL ON 1986-1987 TURBO REGAL - OIL TUBE AND BREATHER ASSEMBLY -
This oil tube and breather assembly was not one of our parts but was a part made by another source and we purchased their remaining Inventory. Be sure to call our office if you want one. To see a photo, go to 03-12-2013 Inner Circle, Photo 1. The tube is straight and measures 4" tall overall and the breather has a chrome cap on the top and measures 3" in diameter, billet construction. The new lower price is $26 each, which includes shipping to any of the basic 48 states.
You must call the office to order this, as it is not on our website - 215-766-1611 x 0. We have about 8 of them left. This is a product we bought from another company.
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]
UPDATE CONCERNING SPOOLFOOL FILLER PANELS -
As you read this we should have a quantity of both the rears and fronts in stock for immediate delivery. If you reside near Pennsylvania, shipping on the rear one-piece Spoolfool filler is not that bad. It would run probably around $55 to $60, depending on your zip code.
The Spoolfool front fillers would be reasonable to ship anywhere in the USA as they are not oversized. Shipping has already been absorbed in getting them from Mike, the supplier in California, to our Pennsylvania location. Call our office for ordering - 215-766-1611 x 0.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
“TURBO BUICK ENGINE & QUOTE” - BLACK VINYL BANNERS - TWO SIZES
Our high-quality vinyl banners are made exclusively for Kirban Performance. The design features the Turbo Buick engine with the quote “The Heart and Soul of the Fastest U.S. Production Car in 1987.” in red, white, silver and black.
We offer this design in two sizes: 24" tall by 48" wide (Part #7586) and 18" tall x 36" wide (Part #7587).
Banners are Made in the U.S.A., are waterproof, weatherproof, and UV coated.
Each banner has metal eyelets on all the corners for easy hanging. This is just one of several distinctive banner designs we offer.
Banners are ideal to hang in any garage or workshop. Banners make an excellent gift for any Turbo Buick owner or mechanic.
Another great display item.
7586 - “TURBO BUICK ENGINE & QUOTE” - 24″ x 48″ Black Vinyl Banner - $38.95
7587 - “TURBO BUICK ENGINE & QUOTE” - 18″ x 36″ Black Vinyl Banner - $28.95
Here is the link to the “Turbo Buick Engine & Quote" Banners on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7587&submit_button=
1975-1987 Buick Regal (All 3.8 Engine Models, Including Turbo Regals) -
BRAND NEW HEAVY-DUTY WATER PUMP
This new heavy-duty water pump comes complete with a new gasket and has a manufacturer’s limited lifetime warranty to the original purchaser.
It is better to buy a new pump rather than a rebuilt or remanufactured pump.
This brand new water pump is an upgraded unit with a heavy-duty bearing and 10% better flow.
We also offer a brand new stock water pump, Part #7381.
A nice upgrade when you rebuild the engine or need to replace the original water pump. It’s best to also flush the coolant system when replacing the water pump.
Another excellent replacement part for any engine restoration.
7581 - 1975-1987 Buick Regal (All 3.8 Engine Models, including Turbo Regals) -
Brand New Heavy-duty Water Pump - $42.95
Here is the link to this Heavy-duty Water Pump on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44153/BRAND+NEW+HEAVY-DUTY+WATER+PUMP+%237581.html
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction ALKY CONTROL UNIT APPLIQUE INSERTS
Because we get requests and since we offer the Alky Kit, Part #7341, we now offer two dash appliques so you can install the switch in the dash and have it look factory.
These appliques are formatted for the Alky Kit we sell. Since the Alky Kit is for the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal, we note those years in our description. However, it will also fit the 1984 and 1985 Regal dash.
This high-quality applique comes with a self-adhesive backing for easy installation.
We offer two styles as shown - one has both rear defogger and remote right mirror option (Part #7582) and the other has just the remote right mirror option (Part #7583). These are the only two we offer.
This applique insert is made by the same company that makes our other applique inserts and is a perfect match in material, font style, and color as the original applique on the dash.
This high-quality applique comes with a self-adhesive backing for easy installation.
Another great interior restoration item.
7582 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction ALKY Control Unit Applique Insert with option for Rear Defogger and Remote Right Mirror - $24.95
7583 - 1987-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction ALKY Control Unit Applique Insert with option for Remote Right Mirror Only - $24.95
Here is the link to these Applique Inserts on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7582&submit_button=
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
CONSOLE ASHTRAY 3-SWITCH and 4-SWITCH PLATES
These switch plates are designed to fit into the 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal console ashtray. Switches are 16 amp rated. The finish is black brushed aluminum. Switches are on-and-off format, low profile, so you can close the ashtray lid. So, whether the switch is on or off, the lid can still be closed.
We offer two options - 3-switch plate (Part #7584) and 4-switch plate (Part #7585).
NOTE - Unfortunately, because of the finish, these are difficult to photograph, but the quality is excellent.
Another great interior item.
7584 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Console Ashtray 3-SWITCH Plate - $26.95
7585 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Console Ashtray 4-SWITCH Plate - $32.95
Here is the link to these Ashtray Switch Plates on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7584&submit_button=
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM NEW PLASTIC GASKETS (2) FOR EXTERIOR DOOR
In addition to offering black outside door handles, we now offer brand new plastic gaskets for the exterior door handles.
We recommend replacing the plastic door gaskets whenever you replace the exterior door handles or have your car repainted. Since the originals are plastic, over a period of time the gaskets can become brittle due to age and heat.
These gaskets are a unique molded part and keeps the metal door handle from chipping the paint.
Gaskets are sold as a pair.
We also offer Part #7186, 1984-1987 Turbo Regal - Reproduction Black Outside Door Handles (2).
Another nice finishing touch for any restoration.
7588 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM New Plastic Gaskets (2) for Exterior Door Handles - $17.95 / 2-piece set
Here is the link to these Exterior Door Handle Gaskets on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44158/GM+NEW+PLASTIC+GASKETS+FOR%E2%80%88EXTERIOR+DOOR+HANDLES+%237588.html
2014 - UPCOMING TURBO REGAL EVENTS FOR 2014 -
24TH ANNUAL BUICK RACE DAY - NORWALK, OHIO -
APRIL 25-26-27, 2014
The dates are Friday, April 25th at the track from 6-11 pm, Saturday, April 26th for the All Buick Car Show show at Arbys in Norwalk, Ohio and Sunday, April 27th for Buick powered racing at Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio.
For more information, contact Roberta Vasilow at 810-655-8277 or email - [email protected]. Or contact Bill Wills at 330-747-1029 or email is - [email protected]
RIDE FOR MOLLY - SATURDAY - MAY 10, 2014
The date this year for the "Ride for Molly" event is Saturday, May 10, 2014. According to Ralph Shelley, one of our Turbo Regal customers, he expects that 3 or 4 Turbo Buicks from northern California will participate this year.
This year the ride originates from the site of their first two memorial rides, the very popular Temecula Creek Inn. It will then go along one of Molly's favorite routes to Borrego Springs, with a luncheon planned at the Red Octotillo, located in the lodge built in 1948. This is truly a throwback to the 1950's and an experience you won't want to miss.
As in the past, all monies contributed by the attendees will support a college fund for Molly’s daughter Brooke. If you are not able to attend but wish to contribute, a check made payable to “Molly Memorial Education Fund” can be mailed to: Molly Memorial Education Fund, c/o Alan DeCarr, 6446 Fairwind Circle, Huntington Beach, Ca. 92648.
For more information, contact - [email protected] or (866) 275-1294
5TH ANNUAL BUICK RACE DAY - Lebanon Valley Dragway, Lebanon Valley, New York
MAY 24, 2014
This is sponsored by the Northeast Chapter of the GS/GN Club, on May 24th, 2014 at Lebanon Valley Dragway in Lebanon Valley, New York. Three race classes are Quick 16, V8 and V6.
For more information, contact John at 518-794-7120 or 914-447-6068.
GN T-TYPE CENTRAL GET TOGETHER - Chicagoland Buick Chapter -
SATURDAY, JUNE 6, 7 & 8, 2014
The main dates are Saturday and Sunday June 7th and 8th 2014. Location is the Holiday Inn, 860 Irving Park Road in Itasca, Ill. The two-day event includes a car show, cruise, swap meet and racing. Sponsored in part by the Chicagoland Buick Chapter. Security will be provided. There is also a meet and Friday night, June 6th. For more information, contact Benny at 773-251-8198 or Prasad at 630-965-1987.
THE BUICK PERFORMANCE GROUP 2014 EVENT - National Trail Raceway, Hebron, Ohio
AUGUST 1st and 2nd, 2014
The BPG 2014 Event will again be held at National Trail Raceway in Hebron, Ohio on August 1st-2nd. The Host Hotel will be the Newark Metropolitan. They will have an expanded breakfast menu for 2014. The Hotel will be making arrangements to block off the street on Thursday and Friday night and will provide the BBQ again. Ted Nagels Band will again be playing Friday night.
For more information, visit - www.buickperformancegroup.com or their Buick Performance Group Facebook page.
MAGNA - MID-ATLANTIC GRAND NATIONAL ASSOCIATION -
The local Magna Club has posted events related to the Turbo Regals for this coming summer season.
Here is a link for the latest information:
http://www.magnabuick.com/show/index.shtml
GS NATIONALS - OCTOBER 15-18, 2014 -
Beech Bend Raceway, 798 Beech Bend Road, Bowling Green, Kentucky
Ron Joseph informs me that the dates for the 2014 GS Nationals are October 15th thru 18th. The intent to move it to September has been shelved at least for a year, according to Ron. We will share more info as it becomes available. Also for the first time ever there will be an auto cross open to all cars October 15th and 16th. 2014. This year ALL vehicles are welcome to participate and have some fun, prizes will be given away and sponsors will be there!
Click here for more info:
http://www.turbobuick.com/forums/threads/2014-gs-nationals-auto-cross-oct-15-16-th.407646/#post-3357189
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 WORKS -
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.
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 -
Looks like spring has finally come to our area. It was fun getting to drive our Turbo-T for the Open House. I need to get it out more often and enjoy it.