07-10-2013 Inner Circle

Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members - 07-10-2013

MORE PHOTOS FROM GM AT CARLISLE -

PHOTO 1 - Our first photo shows one of the invited GNXs on display at the "GM AT CARLISLE" event. It came with an enclosed trailer, which was also on display behind the GNX.

PHOTO 2 - In the car corral at GM at Carlisle was this partially destroyed 1994-1996 Impala SS. It was the victim of a very large tree that fell on it during Hurricane Sandy. The top photo shows the front with minimal damage. The bottom photo shows the back end where the brunt of the tree fell on the car!

PHOTO 3 - A car you seldom see today was also on display at GM at Carlisle, since it was sold by GM specifically by Buick dealers years ago. The car is an Opel GT. This can be seen in the top photo. The Opel GT was sometimes referred to as the baby Corvette as the front end was similar to the Corvette at the time. The bottom photo shows a 1988 Trans Am GTA that had only 36,000 miles on it. The car appeared to be mint and featured a 4-speed. The price tag was $12,500. Seemed like a reasonable price for this car. You seldom see a 4-speed that has survived in mint condition.

ON A SIDE NOTE - Long story, but in 1964 my Dad bought a new Opel Kadette, which was the two-door station wagon model. My Mom would push it with their Thunderbird, since it would never start in the rain! I used to drive it to school after wrecking my new 1963 Ford.

PHOTO 4 - Several of the top end restorations I saw featured paper tags on certain engine and suspension parts, and markings on the firewall. All done in an effort to bring the car back to how it was when it rolled out of the showroom. All four of these photos are of the same engine compartment on a 1965 GTO that was for sale. The top left photo shows the markings on the firewall. The top right shows the tag on the brake line. The bottom left shows the overall view of the engine compartment. The bottom right shows the tag on the fuel line and the stamping on the alternator housing.

As you read this, I am at the GTO/POCI convention in Ohio. I am sure I will see many cars of this caliber being judged in the Concourse Show division.



DOUG ENGELBART PASSED AWAY -

While his name may not be familiar, chances are you use his invention every day. In the 1960s he invented the mouse, which he patented in 1970. The original was a wooden shell over two metal wheels. This invention is right up there with the TV remote! It was not commercially available until 1984 with Apple’s Macintosh computer. By 1987 the technology fell into the public domain, meaning Engelbart could not collect royalties as the mouse went into wide use.

So, if you shop garage sales and see what appears to be a wooden mouse, you may have stumbled on one the early ones!



IN 2012 POPULAR AUTOMOTIVE COLORS -

In 2012, black is number one popular automotive color with 23%, followed by white at 21%, then silver at 18%. Coming in at 14% is gray, then red is 8%, then tied at 6% is blue/brown/beige, tied at 1% green/yellow/gold. Then 2% makes up all the remaining various weird-unusual colors.

In our household we have the top four colors, then one at the 6%, and one that would fall under others. Another reason Grand Nationals will be in demand is the color!

A special thanz to Jason Maxfield for providing me with this information.



1982-1/2 GRAND NATIONAL ON EBAY -

This information comes from Wayland Cox “Butch.” The bidding ended at $2,410.65 on July 7th with 24 bids. It said the reserve was not met. The car was in Missouri and needed a major restoration.

Below is the link:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1982-Buick-Grand-National-VERY-RARE-one-of-215-All-Original-and-complete-/281129460296?forcev4exp=true#ht_501wt_1006



COMING SOON -

We are also working on an upgrade H4 headlight system. The goal is to have everything plug-and-play and use a glass headlight that is as close to factory original as possible. This way you can retain a stock appearance, yet have improved night vision over the outdated sealed beam format. I have the system already in our personal car. All plug-and-play nothing gets cut or drilled.

It is virtually not visible under the hood. Plus, now all four headlights are the same brightness at night. Our supplier will be making the proper plug-and-play harness specifically for the G-Body cars in the proper lengths and format so you don’t have to switch any wires in your existing harness. This system eliminates any possible overload issues with your headlight switch.

Watch for more information to come.



RARE MOTORCYCLES FOR SALE -

We recently sold several of this local customer's cars and he has decided to part with some of his old motorcycles. My knowledge on various bikes is very little. If interested, email me - [email protected] - and I can put the seller in touch with you. Specify which bike(s) perks your interest.

Here is the info that he has provided.

1) 1997 Buell Thunderbolt T3. Original Buell purchased from Brian of Brian's Harley Davidson. (Brian's is a Cycle shop near me.) All black, all original, second owner with 9,980 miles. Bike has been maintained by Brian's. In storage for approximately 24 months. This is the premier year for the Thunderbolt with the 1203 cc Harley Davidson engine. Asking $4,150.

2) 1975 Suzuki T500 Titan. All original Titan with 5,400 original miles. Blue with excellent chrome and seat. Bike is very tight with no piston slap. Titan was gone over approximately 36 months ago and in storage for approximately 24 months. Very comfortable ride. Asking $2,950.

3) 1974 Honda CB 350 F. Excellent example of Honda's smallest 4 and last year for the CB 350. Maroon in color, bike has 22,500 miles, disc brake and electric start. Very good paint and chrome. Bike is all original except for exhaust, which is 4 into 2. Bike was gone over approximately 36 months ago with carbs. rebuilt. In storage approximately 24 months. Asking $1,950.



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 $40 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



CLOSE OUTS - LIMITED QUANTITIES -

Package Deal - 1 "TURBO TIME" large T-shirt #7058 (a $15 value) plus 1 set of front disc brake semi metallic pads #7449 (a $34.95.) Brake pads fit all 1984-1987 Turbo Regal calipers, excellent stopping power. Both for just $40 plus $6 shipping.

We have 8 deals we can do and then there is no more of these two products. You must call Christina during normal business hours to order - 215-766-1611 x 0



NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -

1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction MAIN CLUSTER LENSES
for Standard ANALOG AND Optional DIGITAL DASH CLUSTERS

Buick offered two styles of dashes for all the 1984-1987 Turbo Regals.

All Turbo Regals have either a standard analog dash or the optional digital dash, and both came with the trip odometer option.

The digital dash has a smaller hole for the trip odometer hole and it’s in a different spot than the trip odometer hole in the analog dash.

We had both lenses reproduced. The original is a molded lens, which is secured behind the bezel by 4 screws that also secure the inner bezel.

We designed this lens to simply attach to the flat area of the base bezel. This reproduction lens is flat, which matches exactly like the visible part of the original lens is. These new reproduction lenses are the same thickness as the original lenses.

Installation is secured by two-sided tape, which comes with each lens. The end result is a very inexpensive method to have a brand new clear plastic lens at a fraction of the cost of the molded style. Once installed you can't tell the difference, since it is secured behind the face bezel.

We offer two options.

#7503 is for the Standard ANALOG Dash.

#7504 is for the Optional DIGITAL Dash.

Each lens comes with a protective film and easy-to-follow installation directions.

NOTE - See Part #7501 - Reproduction Dash Filter Lenses (Telltale Lenses) for Left & Right Inserts (2) with ORIGINAL wording or Part #7502 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) - Reproduction Dash Filter Lenses (Telltale Lenses) for Left & Right Inserts (2) with “ALKY.” By purchasing this additional part, you would have all new lenses for your dash.
Over the years, the originals are probably scratched or faded, so this is a great way to restore the dash area.

Great interior restoration items.

7503 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction Main Instrument Lens for the STANDARD ANALOG DASH - $14.95

7504 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction Main Instrument Lens for the OPTIONAL DIGITAL DASH - $15.95

Here is the link to these lens on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7503&submit_button=



1984-1987 Turbo Regal -
Reproduction GNX FENDER LOUVERS (2) Set

These GNX reproduction fender louvers will fit all 1984-1987 Regals. In addition to allowing some engine heat to be released from under the hood, these louvers make a unique finishing touch to your car.

The louvers are manufactured in a black plastic-like material. As you know, the quality of the plastic on the original louvers was not perfect. These louvers must be sanded and primed if you plan to paint them before being installed onto the front fenders.

Louvers come with directions and a template so you can trim the metal and place them in the correct position on the front fender. You will need to use some sort of windshield sealer to secure the louvers to the fenders.

NOTE - We highly recommend you have them installed by a qualified body shop, since the fenders need to be cut to install these louvers.

NOTE - We also offer a Reproduction GNX Sensor Bracket and Inner Fender Louver Bezel Kit, Part #7117. Inner fender bezels are used when you cut the two inner fenders in order to make the fender louvers functional.

A nice effect for any Regal owner that wants the GNX look!

1541 - 1984-1987 Turbo Regal -
Reproduction GNX Fender Louvers (2) Set - $59.95 / set

Here is a link to these louvers on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/33/Reproduction+GNX+FENDER+LOUVERS+%282%29+%231541.html



1978-1987 Buick Regal (All G-Body Models) -
REPRODUCTION DOOR JAMB VENTS (2) SET

These reproduction vents will fit all 1978-1988 G-body models, including the Turbo models.

Your original door vents may be cracked or faded, due to age. Or, there may simply have paint overspray on them.

When you remove the original vent, you will notice a build up of dust and dirt. It’s a great time to clean this area.

Our top photo shows the 2 new vents. The lower left photo shows the door jamb without the vent (you can see the dirt against the white paint). The lower right photo shows our car with the new vent installed.

An excellent replacement item for any interior restoration.

7511 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (All G-Body Models) -
Reproduction Door Jamb Vents (2) Set - $39.95 / 2-piece set

Here is a link to these door jamb vents on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44092/REPRODUCTION+DOOR+JAMB+VENTS+%282%29+SET+%237511.html



1978-1987 Regal (All Models) -
COLUMN PRO-GARD STEERING COLLAR LOCK

This car guard collar lock, “Column Pro-Gard - Auto Security Device,” will fit any 1984-1987 Regal model with either console or column shifters. It also fits a wide variety of other GM vehicles, including 1978-1987 Jeeps. A full listing for other applications appears on the box.

The red, solid steel construction collar guard covers the steering column as well as the ignition switch. The lock for this collar is incorporated into the unit, which makes it easy to use and store.

Since it is bright red, it is highly visible on the steering column. It comes with two special keys.

Remember, it is important to have as many theft deterrents as possible to keep your Regal in your possession. This collar guard makes it especially difficult to break the steering column in your car.

We highly recommend this unit as a visible theft deterrent to use along with some other device that cuts off the fuel system or ignition. You can never be too safe. Don't wait until it's too late.

Another great theft deterrent.

7007 - 1978-1987 Regal (All Models) -
Column Pro-Gard Steering Collar Lock - $89.95

Here is a link to this collar lock on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44093/COLUMN+PRO-GARD+STEERING%E2%80%88COLLAR+LOCK+%237007.html



1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Reproduction DASH FILTER LENSES (TELLTALE Lenses)
ORIGINAL or with ALKY wording FOR LEFT & RIGHT DASH INSERTS (2)

GM called these dash filter lenses “TELLTALE Lenses.”

We offer two options.

#7201 is a reproduction of the original wording on the two lenses.

#7202 has been customized by changing two areas. On the left lens it reads “LOW ALKY” where it originally said “LOW FUEL.” On the right lens it reads “ALKY” where it said “POWER INJECTION.” We have highlighted the areas with a red arrows in the second photo.

Now, if you have the Alky system, you can make those two areas light up so you are kept informed.

These new reproduction filter lenses set are made in the U.S.A. Material is .020 thick, same as the original. The material is clear Lexan. Lenses have a dead front, like the originals, so no wording is visible until the light are on.

These replace both lenses that are on each side of the main dash cluster (highlighted with the blue arrows in our second photo,) whether you have the analog dash or the optional digital dash.
Over the years, the originals are probably scratched or faded.

These lenses are very easy to install and will make a very visible improvement in the dash over the 25+-year-old lenses.

To save costs, these reproduction filter lenses do not have the upper and lower tabs. We made these filter lenses to fit better in the metal frames, which eliminated the need for the locking tabs.
Lenses comes with easy-to-follow installation directions.

NOTE - See Part #7503 or Part #7504 for the reproduction main lenses for both analog or digital dash. By purchasing this additional part, you would have all new lenses for your dash.

Great interior restoration items.

7501 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) - Reproduction Dash Filter Lenses (Telltale Lenses) for Left & Right Inserts (2) with ORIGINAL Wording - $21.95 / set

7502 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) - Reproduction Dash Filter Lenses (Telltale Lenses) for Left & Right Inserts (2) with “ALKY” Wording - $22.95 / set


Here is a link to these new lenses on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7501&submit_button=



CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS FOR 2013 -

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 -

I can’t stress it enough… we need 1986-1987 stock mass air cores, 1986-1987 stock turbo cores, and powermaster brake units.

If you have a rebuilt powermaster unit, please send in your core so we can refund your core charge. By keeping the cores in circulation. You help keep the core prices down and help us help others keep their cars original.

We are open to trades on cores we need. You must email me direct - [email protected] - with what you have and what you want from our parts. We can help each other. We will only trade or issue a Letter of Credit on any of these items we need.

I hate to see these items go extinct

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