Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members - 04-25-2012
TurboBuick.com NATIONALS UPDATE -
This TurboBuick.com Nationals event is next week - starting on Wednesday, May 2nd thru Saturday, May 5th.
Many of the well-known Buick vendors will be there. There will be some new items on display from us as well as the other vendors.
This is one event you do not want to miss.
IMPORTANT - The luncheon on Thursday, May 3rd is absolutely free. However, you MUST email Eileen if you are going to be there. Her email is - [email protected] They have to have the final count in by Monday. Please respond today if you plan to attend.
We will be accepting powermaster brake cores at the TurboBuick.com Nationals. We will issue you a $100 Letter of Credit for acceptable powermaster brake cores.
We are also seeking original 1986-1987 Turbo Buick mass air flow sensors. We will issue you a $25 Letter of Credit for each mass air flow sensor.
By bringing the cores to this Burlington event, it eliminates shipping costs for you.
We will have several of our new products on display.
Remember, if you have any parts you want to sell, be sure to see us for possible trades or for us to buy outright.
NOTE - NO EMAIL INNER CIRCLE NEXT WEEK - May 2 -
Because of the TurboBuick.com Nationals event, we will not be emailing an Inner Circle next week - May 2. Please keep that in mind. The Inner Circle will be back the following week as usual, hopefully with some new rare items for sale.
TOOK TIME THIS WEEKEND TO GO TO A JUNK YARD -
I try to make it a point to go to one of those large U-Pick-It junkyards or "salvage yards," as they are sometimes called every spring. This particular one " Harry’s U-Pull-It" has 3 locations in my general area. They are open seven days a week. Their website is - www.wegotused.com
You pay a $2 entry fee for the privilege of inspecting their inventory. Their inventory is fairly well organized. All the foreign cars are in the first rows, then trucks and SUVs, GM cars, Ford cars and so on.
It's strictly cash, no credit cards. They even will rent by the hour an oversized wagon for those heavy parts. They do not remove any parts, you must bring your own tools and your own muscle, if you want the front suspension, engine, whatever.
I went mostly for the memories with a few hand tools and about $60 in cash. It's best to go in the early spring before the wasps set up their nests in doorjambs, etc. Like many of you, the yards you probably went to as a teenager are long gone. All the ones I dealt with in my youth now have malls or houses built on the properties.
I was amazed how many women were there with their husbands or boyfriends helping them.
PHOTO 1 - In the rows and rows of GM cars, I did not come across one single Regal 1987 and older, as shown in top left photo. Here you see a later model GS. There were two others as well. In the top right photos I show the early 3800-model engine cover and also the later 3800 Series II engine cover. As most of you know, and your mechanic will verify, the Buick 3800 engine is one of the best trouble free engines ever made.
In the lower left photo we show that even Mercedes Benz was represented in this yard. This Mercedes Benz roadster was probably the most valuable of the few Mercedes Benz in the yard. Hard to believe the roadster still had a lot of good parts on it.
The lower right photo shows that some manual labor was used to sit this engine up on top of the car, or someone wheeled an engine hoist into the yard.
I did make a few discoveries related to our Turbo Regals. Some of which I already knew about. But since I was at this yard, I was able to pick some of the parts up I needed to photograph to show you differences.
For example, the stainless steel radiator cap that came on your radiator originally. The original cap was unique. You may recall we said it says, "MADE IN ENGLAND." This is true. The cap is round whereas most radiator caps have either 2 finger or 4 finger tabs on it, which makes it easier to remove.
What I did not realize is some GM cars used another stainless radiator cap that was identical to the MADE IN ENGLAND version, except it did not say MADE IN ENGLAND. The only other difference in the wording was this cap to the middle under the one arrow has the letters TVS. The Made in England radiator cap that is correct for the 19856-1987 Turbo Regals under that same arrow has the letters "AC," which I assume was for AC Delco.
Both caps other than what I mentioned are identical and are round. I stumbled on another cap that was identical to the one that says TVS that has the two fingers to grab on the side. Other than that, everything is identical. All three caps are RC27 and say 15 LB closed system.
PHOTO 2 - We show all three GM radiator caps. We have a small green arrow drawn on the first one where it reads in small print "MADE IN ENGLAND." The middle radiator cap in the photo does not have the words MADE IN ENGLAND on it and has the letters TVS where the first radiator cap says AC in that same area under the arrow on the left of the cap. The far right radiator cap has the two finger tabs and says TVS like the center radiator cap reads. As you can see in this photo, all three are pretty much the same.
We still have a good supply of good used ones, Part #7151, for $20 each. No need to buy a replacement or an incorrect reproduction as we have plenty of the 100% correct used radiator caps in stock.
We use a red arrow on each to show where "AC" and "TVS" appears on the caps.
I do not believe these original caps are available new from GM anymore. I have no idea what other GM cars back then used the MADE IN ENGLAND radiator caps.
Next time you are working under the hood, check the wording on your radiator cap and see if you see the very faint line that reads MADE IN ENGLAND just above the line that reads 15 lb CLOSED SYSTEM.
So, in quick review, all three radiator caps are interchangeable and hold the same 15 lbs pressure, but as we pointed out, only one would be factory correct for the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal based on my history with these cars.
Also, while walking down the rows of various GM cars, I noticed different radiator overflow bottle caps from that same vintage as our 1986-1987 Turbo Regals. You would think as a cost saving measure GM would have made all the caps the same or had the supplier make them all the same.
PHOTO 3 - We show three different radiator overflow plastic caps. The first one to the far left is a brand new correct cap that came on the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal overflow bottles. The letters were raised on the top and are white in color.
The middle cap is used, so the raised white lettering is partially faded. It had the same wording on it and in the center appears to be a symbol of a radiator with waves in the bottom of the illustration.
The far right radiator overflow cap is identical to the one in the center, only the color is not white, it is green.
All three caps are identical in size and shape with the only difference being the printing on the top of the actual cap. All three would interchange on any overflow radiator bottle.
So, in quick review, you can see how something as simple as a radiator cap could have been changed at some point by a various owners over the course of 25-plus years. You would have to have a keen eye and memory to recognize what is original and what has been changed over the years, if you are restoring a 1986-1987 Turbo Regal.
I don’t consider myself an expert by any means, but I come pretty close to knowing what is original and what isn’t.
BUICK LITERATURE -
One of my local sources gave me the 1988 Buick Motorsports Press Kit packet. I had never seen one before. It consists of 10 of the black and white 8" x 10" photos and a 5 x 7" of Kenny Bernstein. In 1987 Kenny Bernstein dominated NHRA Winston Funny Car competition en route to his third straight series championship. In doing so, he tied Don "The Snake” Prudhomme for the most NHRA Funny Car national event victories in a season (seven).
PHOTO 4 - The top photos show the cover and the fully opened inside spread of the 1988 Buick Motorsport Press Kit. You can see the "Power Six" logo and the Tri-shield logo. The lower left photo shows the Buick V6 engines picture they featured that year. The lower right photo shows the car the famous Budweiser King Funny Car that Kenny Bernstein drove to so many wins.
NEW PRICE INCREASE -
We have a new price increase on both our front and rear fiberglass bumpers. The new price is $195 each plus shipping. The front fiberglass bumper is part #1507, and the rear fiberglass bumper is part #1532.
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 1/2" 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
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 -
THIS WEEKEND - 2nd ANNUAL "RIDE ON MOLLY" MEMORIAL RIDE! -
APRIL 27-29, 2012
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.
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.
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 Philadelphia, 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 -
SEPTEMBER 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 next week! 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 must email her now, so Richard has an accurate count to tell the catering company. You will need a ticket to get the free lunch. You can pick up your lunch ticket on Thursday at the event. Hope to see you there next week!
Remember, there is NO Turbo Regal Inner Circle email next week - May 2 - because of the Turbo Buick Nats.
TurboBuick.com NATIONALS UPDATE -
This TurboBuick.com Nationals event is next week - starting on Wednesday, May 2nd thru Saturday, May 5th.
Many of the well-known Buick vendors will be there. There will be some new items on display from us as well as the other vendors.
This is one event you do not want to miss.
IMPORTANT - The luncheon on Thursday, May 3rd is absolutely free. However, you MUST email Eileen if you are going to be there. Her email is - [email protected] They have to have the final count in by Monday. Please respond today if you plan to attend.
We will be accepting powermaster brake cores at the TurboBuick.com Nationals. We will issue you a $100 Letter of Credit for acceptable powermaster brake cores.
We are also seeking original 1986-1987 Turbo Buick mass air flow sensors. We will issue you a $25 Letter of Credit for each mass air flow sensor.
By bringing the cores to this Burlington event, it eliminates shipping costs for you.
We will have several of our new products on display.
Remember, if you have any parts you want to sell, be sure to see us for possible trades or for us to buy outright.
NOTE - NO EMAIL INNER CIRCLE NEXT WEEK - May 2 -
Because of the TurboBuick.com Nationals event, we will not be emailing an Inner Circle next week - May 2. Please keep that in mind. The Inner Circle will be back the following week as usual, hopefully with some new rare items for sale.
TOOK TIME THIS WEEKEND TO GO TO A JUNK YARD -
I try to make it a point to go to one of those large U-Pick-It junkyards or "salvage yards," as they are sometimes called every spring. This particular one " Harry’s U-Pull-It" has 3 locations in my general area. They are open seven days a week. Their website is - www.wegotused.com
You pay a $2 entry fee for the privilege of inspecting their inventory. Their inventory is fairly well organized. All the foreign cars are in the first rows, then trucks and SUVs, GM cars, Ford cars and so on.
It's strictly cash, no credit cards. They even will rent by the hour an oversized wagon for those heavy parts. They do not remove any parts, you must bring your own tools and your own muscle, if you want the front suspension, engine, whatever.
I went mostly for the memories with a few hand tools and about $60 in cash. It's best to go in the early spring before the wasps set up their nests in doorjambs, etc. Like many of you, the yards you probably went to as a teenager are long gone. All the ones I dealt with in my youth now have malls or houses built on the properties.
I was amazed how many women were there with their husbands or boyfriends helping them.
PHOTO 1 - In the rows and rows of GM cars, I did not come across one single Regal 1987 and older, as shown in top left photo. Here you see a later model GS. There were two others as well. In the top right photos I show the early 3800-model engine cover and also the later 3800 Series II engine cover. As most of you know, and your mechanic will verify, the Buick 3800 engine is one of the best trouble free engines ever made.
In the lower left photo we show that even Mercedes Benz was represented in this yard. This Mercedes Benz roadster was probably the most valuable of the few Mercedes Benz in the yard. Hard to believe the roadster still had a lot of good parts on it.
The lower right photo shows that some manual labor was used to sit this engine up on top of the car, or someone wheeled an engine hoist into the yard.
I did make a few discoveries related to our Turbo Regals. Some of which I already knew about. But since I was at this yard, I was able to pick some of the parts up I needed to photograph to show you differences.
For example, the stainless steel radiator cap that came on your radiator originally. The original cap was unique. You may recall we said it says, "MADE IN ENGLAND." This is true. The cap is round whereas most radiator caps have either 2 finger or 4 finger tabs on it, which makes it easier to remove.
What I did not realize is some GM cars used another stainless radiator cap that was identical to the MADE IN ENGLAND version, except it did not say MADE IN ENGLAND. The only other difference in the wording was this cap to the middle under the one arrow has the letters TVS. The Made in England radiator cap that is correct for the 19856-1987 Turbo Regals under that same arrow has the letters "AC," which I assume was for AC Delco.
Both caps other than what I mentioned are identical and are round. I stumbled on another cap that was identical to the one that says TVS that has the two fingers to grab on the side. Other than that, everything is identical. All three caps are RC27 and say 15 LB closed system.
PHOTO 2 - We show all three GM radiator caps. We have a small green arrow drawn on the first one where it reads in small print "MADE IN ENGLAND." The middle radiator cap in the photo does not have the words MADE IN ENGLAND on it and has the letters TVS where the first radiator cap says AC in that same area under the arrow on the left of the cap. The far right radiator cap has the two finger tabs and says TVS like the center radiator cap reads. As you can see in this photo, all three are pretty much the same.
We still have a good supply of good used ones, Part #7151, for $20 each. No need to buy a replacement or an incorrect reproduction as we have plenty of the 100% correct used radiator caps in stock.
We use a red arrow on each to show where "AC" and "TVS" appears on the caps.
I do not believe these original caps are available new from GM anymore. I have no idea what other GM cars back then used the MADE IN ENGLAND radiator caps.
Next time you are working under the hood, check the wording on your radiator cap and see if you see the very faint line that reads MADE IN ENGLAND just above the line that reads 15 lb CLOSED SYSTEM.
So, in quick review, all three radiator caps are interchangeable and hold the same 15 lbs pressure, but as we pointed out, only one would be factory correct for the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal based on my history with these cars.
Also, while walking down the rows of various GM cars, I noticed different radiator overflow bottle caps from that same vintage as our 1986-1987 Turbo Regals. You would think as a cost saving measure GM would have made all the caps the same or had the supplier make them all the same.
PHOTO 3 - We show three different radiator overflow plastic caps. The first one to the far left is a brand new correct cap that came on the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal overflow bottles. The letters were raised on the top and are white in color.
The middle cap is used, so the raised white lettering is partially faded. It had the same wording on it and in the center appears to be a symbol of a radiator with waves in the bottom of the illustration.
The far right radiator overflow cap is identical to the one in the center, only the color is not white, it is green.
All three caps are identical in size and shape with the only difference being the printing on the top of the actual cap. All three would interchange on any overflow radiator bottle.
So, in quick review, you can see how something as simple as a radiator cap could have been changed at some point by a various owners over the course of 25-plus years. You would have to have a keen eye and memory to recognize what is original and what has been changed over the years, if you are restoring a 1986-1987 Turbo Regal.
I don’t consider myself an expert by any means, but I come pretty close to knowing what is original and what isn’t.
BUICK LITERATURE -
One of my local sources gave me the 1988 Buick Motorsports Press Kit packet. I had never seen one before. It consists of 10 of the black and white 8" x 10" photos and a 5 x 7" of Kenny Bernstein. In 1987 Kenny Bernstein dominated NHRA Winston Funny Car competition en route to his third straight series championship. In doing so, he tied Don "The Snake” Prudhomme for the most NHRA Funny Car national event victories in a season (seven).
PHOTO 4 - The top photos show the cover and the fully opened inside spread of the 1988 Buick Motorsport Press Kit. You can see the "Power Six" logo and the Tri-shield logo. The lower left photo shows the Buick V6 engines picture they featured that year. The lower right photo shows the car the famous Budweiser King Funny Car that Kenny Bernstein drove to so many wins.
NEW PRICE INCREASE -
We have a new price increase on both our front and rear fiberglass bumpers. The new price is $195 each plus shipping. The front fiberglass bumper is part #1507, and the rear fiberglass bumper is part #1532.
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 1/2" 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
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 -
THIS WEEKEND - 2nd ANNUAL "RIDE ON MOLLY" MEMORIAL RIDE! -
APRIL 27-29, 2012
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.
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.
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 Philadelphia, 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 -
SEPTEMBER 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 next week! 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 must email her now, so Richard has an accurate count to tell the catering company. You will need a ticket to get the free lunch. You can pick up your lunch ticket on Thursday at the event. Hope to see you there next week!
Remember, there is NO Turbo Regal Inner Circle email next week - May 2 - because of the Turbo Buick Nats.