04-24-2013 Inner Circle

Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members - 04-24-2013

UNUSUAL NOS PART SELDOM SEEN TODAY -

Made by AC and the GM wording for this part was called “TELLTALE FILTER.” To most owners it is perhaps better known as the lens for the idiot lights. The 1984-1987 Buick Regals all models analog and digital dash had a strip of these idiot lights down both sides of the dash. They can easily be scratched, if you are not careful. Back when our cars where new (1984-1987), these tell tale filter lenses cost a whopping $6.12 each. In my 2001 price book, they are not listed, which means prior to 2001 they were gone from the GM inventory.

PHOTO 1 - Here we show a brand new factory AC telltale lens for the right side only. Along side it is the original AC box it came in. We have peeled off the protective clear coating for this photo.

PHOTO 2 - We show the top half of one of the 1987 Dealer Album pages that show the illustration of the dash and the telltale filters for both sides (highlighted with red arrows.) It's interesting to note, on the right side in the Dealer Album illustration two blank spaces appear. The third one down is blank, as is the fifth one in the illustration. However, on your actual telltale filter, the number three slot and number five slot is not blank. In the number three slot, it says "CAR IS LEVELING" and in the fifth slot it says "POWER INJECTION." However, this does not appear in this illustration.

As everyone knows, these do not light up on the dash unless you have modified your car and made use of one of those slots. This same illustration for the left side telltale filters eliminates the seventh slot, which is Low Fuel. However the wording "Low Fuel" with the gas pump symbol is visible on your telltale filter even though it will not light up. Unless, of course, you have added that option. (See our Part #7244). By purchasing this part, the low fuel warning will function.



BUICK KEY FOBS -

If you bought your Turbo Regal used, perhaps when you got your car the seller also included a unique Buick key fob that he used over the years.

When I bought the 1987 Turbo-T, the seller gave me the key fob that I assume he got from the original with the keys. I say this because the seller only had it about a month and decided the car was too original and nice to modify it.

PHOTO 3 - Here is our Turbo Regal car keys with the key fob. This key fob is all metal and on the back its embossed with the words "MADE IN THE USA." Most key fobs you buy today are made overseas. We seem to have lost the ability to make something as simple as a key fob here in the USA.


I found these AC Delco key chains that light up at a store that specializes in close out items. I had never seen these before. I got these from the same place I got the AC Delco double AA batteries from a few months back. I have several of each available for sale if you are looking for a rare key chain that is GM related. (See the parts listing at end of this issue).

PHOTO 4 - In this top photo we show the 3 different color AC Delco plastic key chains we found. Each one lights up. These were available in three different colors. They are about 2-1/4" x 1".

In the lower photo we show two other key fobs. The one on the left is a Buick tri-shield leather key fob. These we make up ourselves by buying new leather key fobs and removing the rubber like emblem and actually affixing a real Buick plastic tri-shield emblem that we remove from a later model Buick Century horn center. We were able to make about 40 of these. So these are unique, since no company ever made one exactly like this.

The other key chain in the lower right shows a "WE BRAKE FOR CORVETTES." We had a few dozen made based on the popular bumper sticker back when our cars were new. It's made in plastic and is about 3" x ¾". With only a few dozen produced, it is also unique. (See the parts listing at the end of this issue).



WINDOW STICKER UPDATE -

The source that does our reproduction Window Stickers will now ONLY offer this service for our Inner Circle members, and only for the 1985-1987 Turbo Regal models.

So, if you want a reproduction Buick Turbo Regal Window Sticker for a 1984-1987 Turbo Regal, you must contact our office to place your order.



2013 TurboBuick.com GBody NATIONALS - LUNCHEON AT RICHARD CLARK'S SHOP -

Time is running out to get your reservation in for the FREE lunch on Thursday, May 2, 2013 at Richard Clark's shop. If you are planning to attend the lunch, you must email - [email protected] - as soon as possible. Include how many, your name(s), city and state. This will be another great event in North Carolina. Remember, there will be raffles and the annual M&M contest at the FREE lunch.

See you there!



MESSAGE FROM TERRY SANDERS - MOLLY MEMORIAL EDUCATION FUND -

We received a lovely note from Terry, Molly's wife, after she received the $1,330 contribution to Brooke's Education Fund. We'd like to share part of it to thank those who contributed at our Open House.

"My mail was stacked up and unopened for a few days... Typical for me... And tonight I just went through it, to pay bills, and found the big envelope from Kirban Performance Products. Brooke and I opened it together and she was so thrilled. Me too! She was really excited to see "her photos," and felt so special. And, Eileen what a generous check from the whole group. I am so touched. Brooke is doing so much better in school, working so hard and finally getting "it." It being how to study and succeed. I'm so proud of her. THANK YOU and everyone. Looks like your open house was a lot of fun and quite a success.
Love, Terry"



KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS ON YouTube -

We have been recording various segments on our products and information related to the Buick Turbo Regals, and we have posted them on YouTube. Keep checking back on this as we filmed several more segments last week.

Some segments feature products, their placements, benefits, or issues.

We recently recorded some more videos for our YouTube posting, which should be up very shortly.

In one of the segments I explain the LED dash lights we have available for the analog dash and the Low Fuel warning unit. There is also a segment on the Tinman cold air system.

Here is a link to the YouTube site:
https://www.youtube.com/user/KirbanPerformance?feature=guide



NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -

We have several new parts this week.

We also have available suitable for framing copies of the cartoons that we have published to date. See information below for further details. Ideal to hang in your garage or workshop.


1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
REPRODUCTION AIR CONDITIONING HOSES (2) SET

This is a quality reproduction of the two main air conditioning lines, which go across the front of the engine by the core support.

The one set of fittings goes to the air conditioner compressor. One of the other ends goes to the drier receiver on the passenger’s side. The remaining fitting goes to the condenser towards the front on the passenger’s side.

These are identical to the original except the aluminum lines are not painted black like the originals. If you want them to look factory original, you can paint them.

In some cases, your originals may be cracked or severely bent from leaning over the front of the engine.

Another great engine restoration item.

7494 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction Air Conditioning Hoses (2) Set - $199.95 / 2-piece set

Here is a link to this AC Hoses Set on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44073/REPRODUCTION+AIR+CONDITIONING+HOSES+SET+%237494.html



1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
RJC RACING BOOST CONTROLLER

Here is a clever product that will give you a little more instant boost.

Your original boost controller is very progressive. With this new RJC Boost Controller, it is no longer progressive, which means - if you have your boost level set at 15 psi, this lets your actuator stay shut until 15 psi, then it opens fully.

The end result is you have reduced turbo lag and it makes part throttle boost much more responsive and allows you to run a little bit larger turbo than you normally could with a stock torque converter. The car feels a lot more powerful.

The stock boost controller system is adequate for stock situations and boost levels. When you start to up boost levels to make more power, you may run into a problem. Once the wastegate actuator rod is shortened to achieve say 20 psi of boost, it will have very little travel left on the rod, so now when the load is high in third gear, the actuator can't fully open and boost creeps up.

By letting this boost controller control the amount of boost that the wastegate actuator "sees", it will eliminate boost creep.

7495 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
RJC Racing Boost Controller - $ 61.95

Here is a link to this RJC Racing Boost Controller on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44074/RJC+RACING+BOOST+CONTROLLER+%237495.html



1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
RJC RACING #1C-315-XTF FRONT MOUNTED INTERCOOLER KIT

This front mounted intercooler is designed, tested, and built by RJC Racing. It achieves as much intercooler size as you can possibly fit in the front of a Turbo Regal, yet still maintain cool engine temps.

The size of the core is big enough to handle 750 hp (approximately 9.80s in the 1/4 mile.) The intercooler only weighs 33 pounds. This new tube and fin style core allows a significant increase in airflow across the core. You actually get cooler CATs with back-to-back runs than RJC’s previous designed Bar and Plate intercooler, which has been the industry standard.

This core flows a whopping 53% more air across the core. This translates to much more airflow going across not only the intercooler core, but also the A/C condenser core and the radiator. This leads to much cooler temps that rival stock location intercoolers. RJC Racing has done testing that has shown as much as a 20 degree temp difference over their previously designed intercooler, which was previously the best intercooler on the market. For a street-driven application, this is the only real choice.

With a stock turbo, gains are about 20 hp. Going with any of the upgrade turbos, gains can be 60 hp or more depending on the turbo upgrade you have. If you run the largest 3 bolt flange turbo available, gains can exceed 100 hp.

Our photos show the front mounted intercooler, clamps, hoses and hardware, and the two upgraded polished pipes.

FEATURES -
CORE STYLE - High-efficiency max flow tube ad fin design
END TANK MATERIAL - Die cast aluminum
PIPE MATERIAL - Mandrel Bent 3" aluminum pipe

Intercooler kit is drop shipped from the manufacturer.

Another quality upgrade to provide better 1/4-mile times while retaining a street driven 1986-1987 Turbo Regal.

NOTE - You MUST call our office to order this intercooler kit - 215-766-1611.

7493 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
RJC RACING #1C-315-XTF Front Mounted Intercooler Kit $945 / kit
Includes Intercooler, Hardware, Hoses and Upgraded Polished Aluminum Pipes

NOTE - We MUST know your throttle body inlet size and turbo inlet size to send you the proper size hose connections. Be sure to have this information ready when you call.

Here is the link to this Intercooler Kit on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44065/RJC+RACING+Front+Mounted+Intercooler+Kit+%237493.html



KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS -
CARTOON SERIES

Here’s a fun idea designed by Fred Boatman, a well-known automotive cartoonist and author of the book, “Cartoons on Wheels.” His career spanned 40 years in the graphic arts world. Between 1962 and 1976 his cartoons were featured in Peterson Publishing magazines: HOT ROD CARtoons, CYCLEtoons, CAR CRAFT and ROD & CUSTOM.

Although Fred is now retired, he still does some freelance cartoons today. This series features the unique perspective of the Turbo Regal owner, and issues with these cars.

These clever cartoons will sure bring a chuckle to any Turbo Regal owner.

Each cartoon in the series of Kirban Turbo Regal measures 17" x 14", and is printed on high-quality GS Poster Epson Gloss Paper, and is suitable for framing.

It’s an ideal size to hang on your garage or office wall, and also makes a great gift!

SHIPPING NOTE - If this is the only item you are purchasing, we can ship it by U.S. Mail for $5. However, you would need to call us (215-766-1611) to order it since our website does not give you the option to ship by U.S. Mail.

Clever posters for any Turbo Regal enthusiast.

81001 - Kirban Performance Products -
“TIME TO FIX THAT PESKY POWER ANTENNA” CARTOON #001, 17" x 14" - $9.95

81002 - Kirban Performance Products -
“REPLACING THE BODY SIDE MOLDING” CARTOON #002, 17" x 14" - $9.95

81003 - Kirban Performance Products -
“ONE USE FOR DEAD BRAKE ACCUMULATOR BOWLS” CARTOON #003, 17" x 14" - $9.95

81004 - Kirban Performance Products -
“COULD BE TIME TO REPLACE THE POWER MASTER...” CARTOON #004, 17" x 14" - $9.95

81005 - Kirban Performance Products -
“LEAKY T-TOPS NOT A PROBLEM” CARTOON #005, 17" x 14" - $9.95

81006 - Kirban Performance Products -
“THE GREAT BRAKE BOWL TOSS-OFF CONTEST” CARTOON #006, 17" x 14" - $9.95

Here is the link to these cartoons on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=81001&submit_button=



CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS FOR 2013 -

THIS WEEKEND - BUICK RACE DAY - NORWALK, OHIO - April 26th, thru 28th, 2013 -

The 26th will be at the Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio. The 27th will be an All Buick Show at Arbys in Norwalk, Ohio. Racing will be the 28th at Summit Motorsports Park.

For more info, email - [email protected] or call Roberta Vasilow at 810-655-8277, 7 pm til 10 pm only.

Here is a link for their flyer in this event also pre-entry form - http://mi-buicks.com/Norw2013.pdf

AND the pre-entry form - http://mi-buicks.com/PREENTry2013.pdf



THIS WEEKEND - 3rd ANNUAL "RIDE ON MOLLY" - Saturday, April 27, 2013 -
Central Coast area of California

Hello friends of Molly. Plans are underway for the 3rd Annual "Ride on Molly" Ride. This year's ride will incorporate a new location with outstanding new riding roads, while keeping the focus on remembering Molly and bringing his friends together for a weekend of fun. Additionally, the Molly Memorial Education Fund continues to provide his daughter Brooke with financial assistance for her future college needs. The Ride on Molly Committee. For more information, contact Alan - [email protected]



2013 TURBOBUICK.COM GBODY NATIONALS -
BURLINGTON, NORTH CAROLINA - MAY 1st through May 4th, 2013 -

On the 1st and 2nd it will be held at Richard Clark's shop on Faucette Lane in Burlington, NC.

On the 3rd and 4th it will be at the Piedmont Dragway.

Unlike previous events, this event is also open to all G-body cars, including the Monte Carlos, Oldsmobile Cutlasses, and Pontiac Grand Prix. This event is sponsored by Gbodyparts.com.

We will be at this event, as usual.

Here is the link to details on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/inner_circle.php?nak=237

Here is the 2013 Nationals website for the most up-to-date information - http://turbobuicknationals.com



4TH ANNUAL BUICK RACE DAY - Saturday, May 25, 2013
Lebanon Valley Dragway, Lebanon, NY - Gates open at 8 am

Participants in all Buick classes must be Buick powered. Sponsored by the GS Northeast GS/GN Club, Inc. For more information, call 518-794-7130 or call 845-528-GSGN (Ask for John.)



GM AT CARLISLE - June 21st thru 23rd, 2013 -
Carlisle Fairgrounds, Carlisle, PA

GM at Carlisle is held at the Carlisle Fairgrounds, celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the Turbo Regal.

I have signed on to conduct two seminars on Saturday, June 22nd. One seminar will be on Turbo Regals and the second one will be on Hurst. So, mark your calendar.

Carlisle, as many of you know, puts on some of the largest car shows and swap meets in the USA and has done so for over 25 years. It is centrally located in Pennsylvania, just west of Harrisburg, PA and minutes off the PA Turnpike and Route 81.

Check out their website for more details.
http://www.carlisleevents.com/ce/events/gm-nationals/



BUICK PERFORMANCE GROUP BLOCK PARTY - Hebron, Ohio - August 2nd & 3rd, 2013 -

The 2013 BPG Event will be at National Trail Raceway in Hebron, Ohio, Friday, August 2nd and Saturday August 3rd.

The Host Hotel will be the Newark Metropolitan. For reservations, call the hotel direct - 740-322-6455. Use the code " BUICK 2013" to get special price when booking online.

There will be a Cruise In Thursday and Friday night. The city is blocking off the street in front of Hotel for the Cruise In. There will also be a live band in the parking lot Friday night.

For more information visit their website:

http://www.buickperformancegroup.com/forums/showthread.php?11518-2013-BPG-Event-information
or contact Sean Ryder at [email protected]



EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS - Cecil County Dragway, MD - September 20th & 21st, 2013 -

The East Coast Buick Regionals are held at Cecil County Dragway, Maryland. Saturday, the 21st, features a judged car show for all Buick-powered cars.

For more info, contact Doug Doughtery at 302-653-2201 or email - [email protected], John Csordas 914-447-6068 or email - [email protected]

The website is - tristategsclub.com



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 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].



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 -

Reminder - If you are attending the Turbo Buick Nats next week at Richard Clark's, we will be able to take any powermaster cores for credit. Also mass air flow sensor cores.

Right now the core value for a powermaster is $75 Letter of Credit (since you won't have to pay shipping costs to us) and $25 Letter of Credit for correct 1986-1987 AC Delco mass air flow sensors. These prices are ONLY for this show.

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