06-05-2013 Inner Circle

Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members - 06-05-2013

JUNE CARTOON -

This month's cartoon features the "proper" removal of a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

PHOTO 1 - Shows our monthly cartoon by Fred Boatman, #81007, with the caption, "REMOVING THE STEERING WHEEL IS NOT A PROBLEM - IF YOU HAVE THE MUSCLE. One of the best investments you can make to dress up your interior is to buy our redone grey leather-wrapped steering wheel, Part #7135. The other critical part we have reproduced is Part #1518, the machined billet aluminum grey horn ring, which replaces the often cracked plastic GM horn ring. Both upgrades are well worth the investment.



"MADE IN ENGLAND" OIL FILTER UPDATE -

I heard from one of our customers, Joe Centrola, who worked at Oldsmobile during that time in the 1980s. According to Joe, the "Made in England" version of the oil filter has staggered inlet holes, which can cause a restriction in oil flow through the filter. Back then, they had several customers complain of rod knock when the car would sit overnight. Frankly, I don’t think it's wise to use a 25-year-old oil filter, since it's a critical part of keeping oil flowing and filtering.



ONE MAN'S PRIVATE MUSCLE CAR COLLECTION -


We have a good customer Henry who is local to us, and asked me to stop over to his new shop to see his private car collection. He recently moved his business into a huge building, which affords him the unique opportunity to stash most of his cars at his work place. Another ten of his cars are kept in a double-deep garage at his house. The ones at his house are all late-model examples.

At his warehouse, neatly spaced out, sits about 35 prime examples of various performance cars. All have current license plates and inspections on them, meaning he could take any of them out for spin during his lunch break!

PHOTO 2 - In this top left photo is an immaculate 1995 GMC Yukon. These full-size two-door models have become very collectable in recent years. (I happen to own a 1994 Chevrolet Sport model, also black). Henry's truck doesn’t reflect it, but it has 120,000 miles on it! In this upper right photo sits one of two of his Firehawks. This one is a 1995 Firehawk convertible, car number #0455, with just 21,400 actual miles. The lower left photo is an ultra rare 1981 BMW 323 fitted with a Schnitzer turbo, one of four cars ever produced. The lower right shows the BMW engine, which is also intercooled. This car is custom fitted with a 40-gallon fuel tank.

PHOTO 3 - In this top left photo we show just one of his big block Corvette Coupes. This one is a 1965 with the 396 425 HP combination original 4.11 rear with just 50,000 miles on it. In this top right photo we show its companion a 1966 Corvette coupe with the 427 450 HP in red. In the lower left photo is one of my favorites, a gold 1971 Corvette that was a frame off restoration. In a quest for more power, it is fitted with an LS7 engine backed up by a four speed. In this lower right photo we show the LS7 powerplant, which retains the factory 1971 look.

Photo 4 - In this top left photo is a red 1974 Corvette what makes this extremely rare is this car has a silver interior rather than tan or black. He has both tops for this car plus it's a 4 speed. In this top right photo is his yellow 1973 Corvette with a 454 engine and brown interior. All numbers are matching with both tops and, of course, a 4 speed. Every Corvette in his collection is a 4-speed unless it's a newer one, then it's a 6-speed. In the bottom left photo we show his 1975 red Corvette with a burgundy interior and this car has the optional L82 engine and also is a 4 speed. In the bottom right photo we show the L82 powerplant.

Next week we will show some of Henry’s other unique cars including his Turbo-T, along with several Typhoons and some late-model cars you seldom if ever get to see in person.

I found Henry's collection amazing in several regards. First it has to be neat to have most of them where you work. Second with most of his collection pumping out 400 to 800 hp, I was amazed he doesn't do any racing with his cars.



CONGRATULATIONS TO CHARLIE FRIERSON -

Charlie Frierson is one of our long-time Turbo Buick customers. He did some work for one of the long-term Edmunds test cars a little while ago and got written up for helping out.

Very cool to be recognized after all this time. See link below:
http://www.edmunds.com/car-reviews/features/1987-buick-regal-grand-national-long-term-road-test-index.html



ANOTHER URGENT REQUEST -

Once again we find ourselves needing original stock AC Delco correct 1986-1987 Turbo Regal mass air flow sensors. The housing CANNOT be broken. Screens are not important. Each one that meets these requirements is worth $25 in Letter of Credit to us. Help us help other owners keep their cars original.



KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS ON YouTube -

Here is a link to the videos we currently have up on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/user/KirbanPerformance?feature=guide



ANOTHER EX-KIRBAN CAR FOR SALE - 1987 WE4 BUICK TURBO REGAL

This 1987 Turbo Regal is a WE4 hardtop with less than 25,000 original miles. The current owner purchased it from me back in July of 2000, when it had about 17,000 miles on it. The car has never seen the rain since he got it from me. Car is located in New Jersey. I can provide a list of upgrades that have been done.

According to the owner, he has invested over $12,000 in various upgrades to make this an outstanding example of a WE4. The paint has no issues and is original. No cracking no fading at all.

This is a well-optioned WE4 hardtop that has not been advertised. This one of the best-of-the-best examples of a sought-after WE4. The price is $20,900. For more details, email me - [email protected]



GM LICENSED T-SHIRTS - DISCONTINUED -

Our supplier for the Buick T-shirts we offer is not renewing their contract with GM. Supplies are very limited!

NOTE - BUY ANY 2 T-SHIRTS FROM THIS LIST FOR JUST $25 PLUS POSTAGE FOR MAIL SHIPPING.

We have the following T-Shirts available. You must call our office - 215-766-1611 - to place your order.

Once our current supply is gone, there will NOT be any more.

#7058 - GM Licensed - Turbo Regal - “TURBO TIME” Buick T-Shirt - size LARGE - Only 29 available in LARGE - $15 each.

Here is the "TURBO TIME" T-shirt on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/394/SIZE+LARGE+GM+Licensed+-+TURBO+TIME+BUICK+T-SHIRT+%237058.html


"BUICK TRI-SHIELD" T-shirts
#7226 - 1984-1987 BUICK –
GM Licensed “BUICK TRI-SHIELD” T-Shirt - size LARGE - Only 2 available - $15 each

#7227 - 1984-1987 BUICK -
GM Licensed “BUICK TRI-SHIELD” T-Shirt - size EXTRA LARGE LARGE - Only 1 available at $15

Here is the "BUICK TRI-SHIELD" T-shirts on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=Buick+Tri-shield&submit_button=


"GRAND NATIONAL" T-shirts
#7224 - 1984-1987 Grand National -
GM Licensed “GRAND NATIONAL” T-Shirt - size LARGE - Only 7 available. The price is $15 each.

Here is the "GRAND NATIONAL" T-shirt on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/43511/SIZE+LARGE+GM+Licensed+-+GRAND+NATIONAL+T-SHIRT+%237224.html

These prices are slightly less than the normal retail.

Remember, you MUST call our office to place your order with this special pricing (does not include Shipping.)



NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -

1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Reproduction BLACK WHEEL WELL MOLDINGS (4) SET

We now have the correct black color Grand National reproduction wheel well molding sets from GBodyParts. These would also be correct for the earlier T-Types and the 1987 Turbo-Ts with the black-out package option.

While there are others on the market, these match the exact paint code color. You will see the rainbow color through the molding, just like a NOS unit. I also personally checked this against a NOS set that I had still in the GM wrapper.

The shape and alignments are perfect. These have a Manufacturer’s Lifetime Warranty against deterioration.

Moldings are only available as a set. This version is an exact match to the NOS originals.

NOTE - There is a flat rate shipping of $25 because the package is oversized.

You MUST call our office to order - 215-766-1611.

Another great exterior restoration item.

7509 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Reproduction Black Wheel Well Moldings (4) Set - $199.95 / 4-piece set

Here is a link to these Wheel Well Moldings set on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44085/Reproduction+BLACK+WHEEL+WELL+MOLDINGS+SET+%237509.html



1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Reproduction “AMBER” AND “CLEAR” SIGNAL LAMPS (2) SETS

These are the signal lamps that sit in the front bumper on every 1984-1987 Regal. Over time, lamps can become chipped, cracked or faded.

We offer two reproduction options, “AMBER” or “CLEAR.”

Originally these cars had amber signal lamps, but we also offer the clear signal lamps, which gives the car a custom look. The clear ones were not an option on the 1984-1987 Regals, but were available on earlier Buick Regal models.

These new reproductions have a manufacturer’s Lifetime Warranty, and are ISO 9001 certified, which is modern day standards.

The amber color is very bright and the clear lenses are the same high quality. The definition of the lines is crisp compared to originals. The newer technology has produced a crisper-looking lens, compared to the original GM lamps from 30 years ago.

NOTE - Our second photo shows both options and a clear signal lamp installed on a Grand National.

Signal lamps are sold as a pair, so they match.

Another great exterior restoration item.

7507 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Reproduction “AMBER” Signal Lamps (2) Set - $119.95 / 2-piece set

7508 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Reproduction “CLEAR” Signal Lamps (2) Set - $119.95 / 2-piece set

Here is a link to these Signal Lamps on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7507&submit_button=



1986-1987 Turbo Regal -
COIL PACK IGNITION SIMULATOR

This Coil Pack Ignition Simulator was designed to accurately detect weakness or a malfunction in the original-style ignition coils on 1986-1987 Turbo Regals.

Most ignition problems can be traced back to the coil. This becomes more evident as the cars get older. To keep your car running in tip-top shape, this tool is a must. This is the only test tool we are aware of that allows you to test the output of the coils under a load. My mechanic uses it to check for coil problems.

This unit allows you to simulate a spark load using an increased spark gap and, at the same time, simulate engine speed with an adjustable control feature.

If you have a 1986-1987 Turbo Regal, you will want to have this tool in your workshop. Other methods cannot detect a weak coil under a load condition.

Because this has an adjustment, you can test it under a load condition as high as 8,000 rpms and as low as at idle. It also lets you observe the spark between the coils. You simply attach the unit to the terminals on the coil pack and plug the harness into the stock plug. The two clip leads go to the battery.

It comes with easy-to-follow directions and is very easy to operate. Our second photo shows it being adjusted on the engine.

Coil Pack Ignition Simulator has a Manufacturer’s One-year Warranty. Unit cannot be returned for credit, only returned to be repaired.

6907 - 1986-1987 Turbo Regal -
Coil Pack Ignition Simulator - $132.95

Click on this link to view this Coil Pack Ignition Simulator on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44080/COIL+PACK+IGNITION+SIMULATOR+%236907.html



1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
CASPERS ELECTRONICS V-Plus™ VOLT BOOSTER KIT

Your alternator is designed to put out a specific voltage to your electrical system, typically 13.2 volts. The car battery can then be continuously charged while the engine is running.

The problem with this system is when there is a greater demand on the electrical system, during wide-open-throttle the alternator tends to fall short on delivery. Decreased system voltage, when you need it most, causes less than adequate fuel pump flow and ignition spark.

The V-Plus™ booster overcomes that inadequacy by increasing the system voltage by 2.2 volts at approximately 70% throttle. The result: Increased fuel delivery, hotter spark and greater overall performance!

This will work in conjunction with the 1984-1987 Turbo Regal - Fuel Pump Feeder Kit, Part #6751. It will also work alone to boost the volts to the fuel system, as well as the rest of the electrical system.

An excellent method to get ample volts to the entire electrical system.

7505 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Caspers Electronics V-Plus™ Volt Booster Kit - $74.95 / kit

Click on this link to view this C-Plus™ Volt Booster Kit on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44082/CASPERS+ELECTRONICS+V-Plus+VOLT+BOOSTER+KIT+%237505.html



CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS FOR 2013 -

2013 PERFORMANCE YEARS in conjunction with the GTOAA EAST COAST REGIONAL MEET - June 14th and 15th, 2013
Held at Performance Years, 2705 Clemens Road, Hatfield, PA 19440.

Last year they had over 400 cars in attendance. Show is open to all muscle cars, Mustangs, and Trucks. For more info, call 267-638-3500 or check out their website - performanceyears.com/openhouse. My plan is to be there on Saturday with my Turbo-T.



LANSDALE MAIN STREET CAR SHOW - SATURDAY - JUNE 15, 2013

Just a short distance from the Performance Years Car show that same Saturday night in nearby Lansdale is the yearly Main Street car show. They shut down the entire length of the Main Street through Lansdale. They line up classic and performance cars on both sides of the street. Well worth seeing! I plan to be there.



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. The first seminar is 10 am on Saturday and it will be on Hurst. The second seminar is on Turbo Buicks and it is held at 2 pm Saturday. So, mark your calendar.

Carlisle, as many of you know, puts on some of the largest car shows and swap meets in the U.S.A. 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.

I hope to see many of you there. It's a tremendous facility.

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



2013 GS NATIONALS - October 16-19, 2013
This is the 33rd Annual consecutive event held at Beech Bend Raceway, 798 Beech Bend Road, Bowling Green, Kentucky.

Jim Bell, of Kenne-Bell fame, will be in attendance to present honorary car and race show awards to both V8 & V6 cars.

Working on having the 2015 models of the new GNX and Grand National display along with a GM rep to hold a seminar on the car's development and performance capabilities.

For more info log onto - http://www.gsnationals.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 -

At GM at Carlisle I will be conducting 2 seminars on Saturday, June 22nd. The first seminar on Hurst at 10 am Saturday and at 2 pm I will be conducting the seminar on Turbo Regals. This is only a few weeks away.

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