04-18-2012 Inner Circle

Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members - 04-18-2012

JAY FRICK - JAY'S GN - REST IN PEACE

Many of you have probably already heard that Jay Frick, Jay's GN passed away last Wednesday from complications from surgery.

We noted his passing with a moment of silence at our Open House, and I told a few stories.

As many of you know, Jay has been a part of the Buick community since these cars where first built. He actually worked at a Buick/GMC dealership back when these cars were brand new. I have been to his house several times over the years. He has attended several of our events, the last one being my 60th birthday event in 2007.

PHOTO 1 - My wife has gone through her files and here are some photos of Jay, mostly taken at our events over the years. This first photo shows Jay at one of our Open Houses. The lower left photo was taken in our house on the eve of my 60th Birthday Bash. From left to right - Ian Reeves from the UK, Bob Rebello, Jay Frick, sorry but don't know this person's name, Pete Hoffman, and John Lebetski. This lower right photo was taken at our favorite local restaurant, The Oaks. From left to right - Pete Serio, sorry but don't know this person's name, Terry Shaw (Automotive Legal Services), Jay's good friend Bill Haines and Jay.

On Sunday, the day after our Open House, we got word about his viewing and funeral. It was important for me to attend to represent all his fellow Buick vendors to pay our respect. It was not a trip I wanted to make, but I did.

PHOTO 2 - When I arrived Sunday night at the viewing, there was a display of photographs and memorabilia special to Jay. The top left photo shows a pencil illustration of Jay with his Grand National, which was on display. The lower photo shows his GMP diecast and a photo of him in the cockpit of a jet plane. The top right photo shows a decal that Chris Esasky made to affix to the cars in the funeral procession. I'm told there were 5 Grand Nationals in his funeral procession. This was a nice tribute to one of the long-time Buick vendors and mechanics.

Christina especially will miss Jay's frequent calls for parts. Christina handles all our wholesale accounts.

Jay will surely be missed in the Turbo Buick world.

A special thanks to Bill Haines and John Canut, who reminisced about Jay and took me out to dinner before I headed back home.

If you would like to send his family a card, here is the address -
Jeanne Frick & Family, Jay's GN Parts, 110 Buick Lane, Hunker, PA 15639

Here is a link to an online guestbook - http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/obituaries/?mode=view&obit_id=226470



OUR OPEN HOUSE -

The weather this past Saturday was picture perfect. We had about 40 to 45 turbo cars in the parking lot. We had three customers come from Canada. By the way, gas in Canada is now $6.25-$6.50 per gallon.)

The 8 dozen donuts were gone before noon. The winner of the M & M contest nailed the count exact! We had several customers bring parts and display them for sale which gave people more options on items to buy.

PHOTO 3 - These are some photos I took at our Open House this past Saturday. Peruzzi BUICK GMC brought over a brand new black Regal GS model, which was available for test drives. The first photo shows the new GS Regal. This car sported adjustable suspension, 20" wheels, special seats, push-button start (no key), and it was decked out with probably almost every available option. I even found time to take it for a test drive. The roads near our warehouse made a perfect road course to test this GS Regal. We even put a pair of magnetic Grand National emblems on the front fenders! The second photo shows this 1987 Turbo-T that had been repainted a gorgeous metallic copper color against the black out trim. The third photo shows a highly-detailed engine in one of the cars at our event.

PHOTO 4 - The top photo shows some of the cars at the Open House. We also had 3 Typhoons and at least one Turbo Trans Am. It's always good to see so many long-time customers come to almost every event we do. In the middle left photo you see Gerald Zipin holding an old GTO/Buick Reunion T-shirt from 1991. This was one of the first events we did at the Johnsville Naval Airbase in nearby Warminster, PA. It's hard to believe that was over 20 years ago! The lower left photo shows the massive chocolate cake Russ made, topped with the largest strawberries I have ever seen covered in chocolate. Russ also made a huge cheesecake. Both were donated to our raffle items. All the proceeds from our raffle, over $300, went to Molly's daughter's scholarship fund. The lower right photo shows the rebuilt engine Russ built and had on display.



REDUCED PRICE - REBUILT POWER STEERING PUMP

We now offer this rebuilt power steering pump at a reduced price of $95 and NO core is required.

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 against any defects.

Another excellent replacement part.

7378 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Rebuilt Power Steering Pump $95

Here is a link to this part on our website -
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/43926/REBUILT+POWER+STEERING+PUMP+%237378.html




WINDOW STICKERS PRICE INCREASE -

We just received notice that each of the reproduction Window Stickers have increased $5 for the first copy. Our website has been updated.

Here is a link to all the Window Sticker options on our website –
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=window+stickers&submit_button=



NEW PRODUCT – ALUMINUM DRIVESHAFTS -

We also have several of our new aluminum driveshafts in stock. We gave most of the details in last week's Inner Circle. You save almost 3 lbs over your stock driveshaft. It is made in Alcoa #6061 aluminum specifically for driveshaft tubes, and it will never rust. Spicer sealed universal joints #1330 are used for strength. This driveshaft is a direct bolt in, if you have a 200-4R transmission and the stock 8.5 rear end.

Because overall this driveshaft is approximately ½" wider it may or may not fit with some of the various aftermarket driveshaft loops. Here is complete information:

1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
ALUMINUM DRIVESHAFT

This aluminum driveshaft is a great upgrade for any Turbo Regal.

NOTE - Your 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal must have the stock 200-4R transmission and the factory 8.5" rear for this driveshaft to fit.

The entire driveshaft is brand new with a new yoke and universal joints. Each driveshaft is completely custom built by hand in the U.S.A. GM never painted any of the driveshafts, so unless you have refurbished the original steel driveshaft, it’s probably rusty.

This new driveshaft is 1/2" wider (1/4" wider around) than the stock driveshaft. The stock GM driveshaft has an approximate 3" diameter shaft. This new aluminum driveshaft has a 3-1/2" diameter shaft. This upgraded driveshaft is capable of handling a 700 to 750 hp car. This is based on the driveshaft position being as straight as possible between the transmission and rear end.

The worse the angle between the rear and transmission the more stress is placed on the universal joints and binding can occur. Since this driveshaft is overall 1/2" wider than the stock 3" diameter driveshaft, it may not clear various aftermarket driveshaft loops and some of the larger aftermarket dual exhaust systems that may be routed near the center of the car.

If your car has any of these modifications, check all the clearances prior to ordering to be sure a one-half wider diameter shaft will fit!

Companies do not recommend building an aluminum driveshaft in that length with any diameter smaller than 3-1/2".

Not only is it less rotating weight, but unlike the GM driveshaft, this one is balanced within the weight of a single postage stamp!

GM welds their weights on. To counter their welded weight if too much was added, you may see another weight opposite it to get the weight down to GM specs. Which mean it has more weight and is not balanced as well as the new aluminum driveshaft.

Since the new driveshaft is aluminum, you save rotating weight. Your stock steel driveshaft weighs just over 16 lbs. This new aluminum driveshaft weighs slightly over 13 lbs. You save 3 pounds of rotating weight.

The actual driveshaft is made of Alcoa Aluminum #6061 driveshaft grade material. The yoke is made by Neapco. The universal joints are made by Spicer #1330 series non-greaseable, sealed joints with snap ring lock.

Our supplier has been making driveshafts for over 20 years. Not only are the welds cleaner and stronger, but the material around the end joints are a lot thicker than the factory GM, as highlighted with a red arrow in our photo.

The end result is a better looking driveshaft made in aluminum, with all new universal joints and front yoke, which means a reduction in weight, better balanced than factory, and one that will never rust.

As a bonus, you can also sell your original driveshaft!

NOTE - We recommend this driveshaft be installed by a qualified mechanic.

Another item to upgrade your favorite ride!

7415 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Aluminum Driveshaft - $439.95

Here is a link to the aluminum driveshafts on our website -
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/43959/ALUMINUM+DRIVESHAFT+%237415.html



NEW PRODUCT - UPPER DASH PANEL - IN STOCK

The 1978-1987 Buick Regal (All A-Body & G-Body Models) -
REPRODUCTION UPPER DASH TRIM PANEL are now in stock! The sale has ended. Panel is $199.95 plus $15 shipping, Part #7386.

Here is a link to the upper dash panel on our website –
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/43929/REPRODUCTION+UPPER+DASH+TRIM+PANEL+%237386.html



NEW PART - NOW AVAILABLE -

1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction TV DETENT CABLE

The TV (throttle valve) Detent Cable controls line pressure, shift points, shift feel, part throttle downshifts, and detent (full throttle) downshifts.

If the TV Detent cable is not adjusted properly, it can cause numerous transmission problems.

The original TV Detent cable has a hard plastic outer jacket that can become brittle and break. This reproduction TV Detent cable has a hard rubber jacket for flexibility. It also has a new rubber seal attached and is ready to install.

This part is actually made by a well-known transmission shop, so the quality is excellent.

No more searching for a universal TV Detent cable, since this is an exact reproduction of the factory cable.

NOTE - We recommend you also replace the transmission shift cable (Part #7368). Other related parts include: Art Carr 200 4R Transmission Pan Kit (Part #6831) and the Reproduction 200-4R Mild Steel Floor Shifter Bracket (Part #7416).

A nice upgrade to replace the original TV Detent Cable.

7417 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Reproduction TV Detent Cable - $79.95

Here is a link to this TV Detent Cable on our website -

http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/43958/Reproduction+TV+DETENT+CABLE+%237417.html



1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
REPRODUCTION 200-4R MILD STEEL FLOOR SHIFTER BRACKET

This is the bracket that secures the shifter cable to the transmission. It is unique to the 200-4R application.

NOTE - Buyers of this part may have also purchased our Part #7368, Reproduction Transmission Shift Cable.

If the original bracket has been lost, here’s the perfect replacement.

7416 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction 200-4R Mild Steel Floor Shifter Bracket - $21.95

Here is a link to this bracket on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/43955/Reproduction 200-4R Mild Steel Floor Shifter Bracket #7416.html



UNIQUE COLLECTIBLE MEN'S WRIST WATCHES - NOW AVAILABLE -


HURST PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS LICENSED -
CUSTOM-DESIGNED MEN'S WRIST WATCHES FOR CAR COLLECTORS

These custom-designed men's wrist watches are perfect for an car collector or enthusiast.

Highlights for each watch - Dial faces measure 1-1/4" diameter, and features high-quality quartz movement, chrome body with a black rotating bezel, durable flexible stainless adjustable band, and long-life silver oxide battery. The two push buttons are not functional and the watches are water resistant not waterproof.

Watches are a great gift idea and an excellent collectible for any Hurst enthusiast.

NOTE - Kirban Performance Products is officially licensed by Hurst Performance Products.



HURST LICENSED -
HURST "HEMI UNDER GLASS" MEN'S WRIST WATCH -

This Hemi Under Glass artwork was reproduced from an original 1965 Hemi Under Glass T-shirt in our private collection.

It features the artwork in the correct red-black-gold colors, and pays tribute to one of Hurst's greatest PR achievements on the racetrack.

An excellent collectible for any Hurst enthusiast, especially Mopar owners.

H2010 - Hurst Performance Products Licensed -
Hurst "HEMI UNDER GLASS" Men’s Wrist Watch - $36.95


HURST LICENSED -
"HURST EQUIPPED" MEN’S WRIST WATCH -

This watch features the popular "HURST EQUIPPED" logo, which Hurst still sells today. The colors on the dial are red-black-gray.

An excellent collectible for any Hurst enthusiast.

H2011 - Hurst Performance Products Licensed -
"HURST EQUIPPED" Men's Wrist Watch - $36.95

Here is a link to these Hurst Licensed watches on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=H2010&submit_button=



SLP FIREBIRD FORMULA - FOR SALE - NEW LOWER PRICE -

This car is still available at $19,500. This is for the 400-mile red 2002 SLP Formula Firebird we pictured in the 11-16-2011 Inner Circle. This car will be finding a new home at some point.



REPRODUCTION GNX SUSPENSION - NOW AVAILABLE -

Pete Hoffman has a limited number of the reproduction GNX Suspension Systems available. These are the Richard Clark systems that he has had made locally.

They are nearly exact to the originals, down to the welds and material used. They come with complete detailed instructions.

Limited availability! Call or email Pete 215-778-1036
[email protected]



ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION WORKS -

Got any turbo 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 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].



2012 CALENDAR OF EVENTS -


2nd ANNUAL "RIDE ON MOLLY" MEMORIAL RIDE!
APRIL 27-29, 2012
It's time to register for the 2nd Annual Ride on Molly ride in California!

The event purpose is two-fold - It serves as a gathering of friends to honor Molly and to provide a remembrance of the positive impact he had on so many lives. It also benefits Molly and Terry's daughter Brooke, by adding to her college fund.

Donations to participate in the ride are neither required nor expected. However, 100% of all donations received will be placed in Brooke's college fund as they were last year. Since donations go to a personal fund, they are not tax deductible.

NOTE - If anyone from our Inner Circle is planning to attend this event, please let us know. We would appreciate having photos and coverage of the ride.

Here is the link for their website:
https://www.eiseverywhere.com/ehome/mollyride2012/53454/



TURBOBUICK.COM NATIONALS 2012 –
MAY 2 - MAY 5, 2012 - Burlington, NC

For the latest information, go to - www.turbobuick.com/forums or - [email protected]

Event will feature free food, dyno, tech sessions, drag racing, and Auto-X. This is one of the first Turbo Buick events for the year 2012. Already they have many of the top vendors confirmed that will be at this event. Several key speakers are also confirmed.

The luncheon is absolutely free. However, you must email my wife Eileen if you are going to be there for the free Thursday lunch. Her email is - [email protected]

NEWS - SPECIAL ROOM RATES - Econo Lodge, 2133 West Hanford Road, Burlington, NC 27215 is offering a flat rate on any room for just $47.99 a night. You must mention Turbo Buick Nationals. They have free wireless internet, breakfast, and a microwave in the rooms. Phone number is 336-227-1270.

For the most up-to-date information on Race Classes and other activities, go to -http://turbobuick.com/forums/forums/2012-turbobuick-com-nationals-may-2nd-5th-sponsore.168/

Here's a link to this event on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/inner_circle.php?nak=173



31st ANNUAL PEACH BLOSSOM B.O.P.C. - Car Show & Swap Meet
MAY 4th and 5th, 2012 - Friday & Saturday
Marriott Atlanta Northeast, 200 Interstate North Parkway, Atlanta, GA

Open to all Buicks, Oldsmobiles, Pontiacs and Cadillacs. Hosted by the Southeastern GTO Association. There is a reception Friday night and the Car Show is on Saturday. For more info, contact Ed Bellair at 770-428-4934 or email - [email protected]



3RD ANNUAL BUICK RACE DAY -
MAY 26th, 2012 - Saturday
Lebanon Valley Dragway, Lebanon, New York.

For more info, phone number for the racetrack is 518-794-7130. To reach John Csordas - 845-528-GSGN or his cell is 914-447-6068.



PERFORMANCE YEARS CAR SHOW -
JUNE 15th and 16th, 2012 - Friday & Saturday
Friday afternoon World's Record attempt at muffler box dominoes.
Cruise through Lansdale, PA Friday night.
Saturday event is held at Performance Years headquarters, 2705 Clemens Road, Hatfield, PA 19440. They should have 150+ Pontiacs, 150+ musclecars and 150+ Mustangs. They even have 2 bands playing back to back on Saturday.

Lansdale Under the Lights is that evening. Lansdale/Hatfield area should be crawling with cool cars!

All monies collected for registration, minus the costs of the trophies, goes to the ALS Foundation (Lou Gehrig's disease) in Philadlephia, PA.

Here is the link with for more details -
http://performanceyears.com/openhouse.asp



22ND ANNUAL BUICK RACEDAY
JUNE 15th, 16th and 17th, 2012 - Friday, Saturday & Sunday -
Summit Motorsports Park, Norwalk, Ohio.

Hotels - Best Western Norwalk - 419-663-3501 or All American Inn Norwalk - 419-663-1922.
For more info, contact Roberta Vasilow 810-655-8277 email - [email protected]
or Bill Wills 330-747-1029 email [email protected]



2012 BUICK PERFORMANCE GROUP "CLASS OF 1987" and "BIG BOAT BASH"
AUGUST 3rd and 4th, 2012 - Friday & Saturday
National Trail Raceway, Hebron, Ohio
The theme this year is the "Class of 1987." Open to all Buick models built in 1987.



2012 EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS and FAST EVENT
SEPTMBER 21st and 22nd, 2012 - Friday & Saturday
Cecil County Dragway, Maryland
Event is open to all models of Buicks

Featuring the 2nd Annual MAGNA (Mid-Atlantic Grand National Association) All Buick powered judged Car Show! All Buick's! All years! All makes!

Goodie bags for the first 50 Buicks in the show. Door prizes all day and 50/50 to win some cash. The ONLY ALL-Buick car show on the east coast!

For more information, contact Doug Dougherty - 302-653-2201 or John Csordas - 914-447-6068 or email questions to - [email protected] or [email protected] Visit their website -http://tristategsclub.com



2012 GS NATIONALS -
OCTOBER 17-20, 2012 - Wednesday-Saturday
Beach Bend Raceway, Bowling Green, Kentucky

Racing is FREE on Wednesday, October 17th. The correct dates are October 17-20, 2012. Because of the reschedule, they have negotiated FREE racing on Wednesday, October 17th. This includes "everyone" who comes thru the gate and pays the usual nominal entrance fee. There is NO usual additional charge to race your Buick powered cars on Wednesday.

The BCA (Buick Club of America) will be joining the GSCA event. This combination will make for a well-rounded event featuring all kinds of Buicks. This is one fall event you do not want to miss!



EBAY LISTINGS -

If you would like to see any of the Kirban Performance Products items listed on eBay, here is a link to our store and auctions - http://stores.ebay.com/Kirban-Performance-Products-Inc_W0QQssPageNameZl2QQtZ km



ABOUT OUR EMAILS -

Any inquiries concerning used parts, you must email me direct - [email protected] - I will answer you. However, if I fail to answer you within 24 hours, please email us again. Since expanding into used parts, I get a lot of emails and sometimes I may forget your request or may not remember who requested the item.




IN CLOSING -

Remember, the Turbo Nationals event is fast approaching. To register for the free lunch on Thursday May 3rd, you must email my wife Eileen - [email protected] - and give her the names and count. You will need a ticket to get the free lunch. Hope to see you there in two weeks!

Email Deals

Be the first to receive exclusive promotions, updates and product announcements. Subscribe to our mailing list now.