Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 07-22-2015
RARE COLORS Continued -
The rarest of rare colors for 1987 Turbo Regals came about because Buick introduced a new option. So, to avoid confusion, they cancelled this combination two days prior to introducing the new Turbo Regal option. I am referring to the WE4 Turbo-T package, which was released on a Production Information Bulletin on 11-15-86. On 11-13-86 Buick no longer let you order a black Turbo-T with the Exterior Sport Package (WO2). This was because it would closely resemble the new WE4 option with the only difference being the WE4 came with front and rear bumpers painted black.
So, assuming production of the 1987 Turbo Ts began in the fall of 1986, you can see the black 1987 Turbo-T if ordered with the Exterior Sport package W02 was only available for about 90 days! The potential customers would have no idea that the WE4 was coming out, so there was no bump in sales for a black Turbo-T with the Exterior Sport package.
Of all the 300-plus Turbo Regals I have owned, I did have at least one of these cars. Unfortunately, I did not realize how rare an example the car was at the time. I remember the car because I titled it for a short period of time and drove it. It belonged to a local sales person, so it had high miles. This was probably around 1989-1990.
PHOTO 1 - We show both Buick Product Information Bulletins. The photo on the left shows the Bulletin No. 87-035 dated 11-13-86. It only consists of 6 lines of copy. “Please be advised that Black Exterior Paint (19) is no longer available on Regals ordered with the Exterior Sport Package (WO2). However, you may order the Regal Turbo “T” Package (WE4) to merchandise Regals with this affect. Please update your Order Guides, Buick Marketing Manual and Sales Staff accordingly.” The photo on the right shows page 1 of the two-page Bulletin No. 87-031 dated 11-15-86. It gives all the details on the newly release WE4. The first page shows a MSRP of $15,136 for the Grand National and $14,857 for the Regal Special Turbo Package. Page 2 of this Bulletin shows the list price of this Special Turbo Package as $3295.
“CHRYSLERS AT CARLISLE” CONTINUED -
If you were around in the 1960s and 1970s, one of the biggest dealers selling Dodge performance cars was Grand Spalding Dodge located in Chicago, Illinois. I can remember seeing their ads for many years.
Norman Kraus, who became known as simply “Mr. Norm,” opened his Dodge dealership on West Grand Avenue in Chicago in 1962. Unlike most dealerships, he focused his business on Dodge muscle cars. His dealership became well known for Dodge muscle cars during the height of the muscle car era. The dealership has long been closed and, in recent years, he has produced several special Dodge Challenger models.
“Mr. Norm” is still going strong, modifying Dodge Challengers over the last several years. He was set up at one of the manufacturer’s booth at Chryslers at Carlisle.
A few years ago, they made 500 Mr. Norm bobble-head dolls, measuring 7 inches tall.
Mr. Norm only had 2 left from his supply, which I purchased. I had him sign the box and the actual bobble head. I took a photo of him signing the Bobble-head. I did not see any other Mr. Norm bobble-heads for sale at Carlisle. However, I’m sure others exist for sale of the 500 made, but these were the last of his stock. However, if you find any for sale, it’s probably not signed by Mr. Norm.
PHOTO 2 - The photo to the left shows the Mr. Norm bobble-head doll, still in the original box. His signature is on the clear plastic and also on the actual bobble-head base, which is not very visible in the photo. The photo to the right shows Mr. Norm signing the bobble-head for me. I have one of them listed for sale in the Rare Parts section in this issue.
PHOTO 3 - The photo to the left shows a rare AAR Cuda that was a barn find. The photo to the right shows a 1970s Chrysler boat for sale. I never knew Chrysler even made any boats! The asking price was $10,500.
FRONT SWAY BAR LINKS -
Most owners probably pay very little attention to the front sway bar links. Unless you are upgrading to a thicker front sway bar, you probably never have replaced the front sway bar links.
On the 2004 Impala I just got, I upgraded to the GM High Performance front sway bar and included in the kit was new front sway bar links. This Impala was always garaged and only had 76,000 miles on it. I had the mechanic save the old sway bar links. I could not believe how thin it was due to rust. Most sway bar links, including the ones on your Turbo Regal, have a sleeve over the rod, which simply hides from view what is happening the actual rod or bolt.
PHOTO 4 - In this photo we show one of the original front sway bar links from my 2004 Impala on the left alongside a brand new replacement one on the right. Not only can you visually see how thin the bolt or rod is, but how squished the rubber bushings are compared to the new one next to it. (NOTE - The ones on our Turbo Regals are similar but longer in length.)
On a similar note, this past week we heard from Ken out of Ohio. He recently found out what was causing the rear filler panels on his Turbo car to constantly be getting nicked and cut by his rear bumper by each corner.
At first he kept adjusting his rear bumper thinking it was too close to the filler panels. Then one day he was under his car and noticed his car was missing the very last lower body bushing on both sides!
He bought one of our bushing kits and installed them and the problem was gone!
In quick review, all our Regals should have the last lower body bushing on both sides. It’s the #3 and #4 bushings Buick purposely left out of our cars. Today, most of us realize that was a big mistake.
Any measures you can take to tighten up the suspension will bring your car back to the new ride feeling. This is especially true if your car has the T-Tops option. One main reason you don’t want to put off installing the missing lower body bushings is, the longer you wait, the higher chances the body bolt may become more difficult to remove due to corrosion and rust!
OUR BRACE KITS ARE NOW POWDER-COATED BLACK -
All our brace kits #1586 Rear Seat Frame Brace Kit, #6744 Under-the-hood Brace Kit, #6756 Connecting Front Brace, and #6564 Front Frame Braces (2) are all now powder-coated satin black, rather than painted.
The powder coating will hold up better. All the prices remain the same, except for a small increase on #6744, the Under-the-hood brace kit. This is a nice improvement on our popular brace kits.
These kits we highly recommend as they are worth the money to stiffen up the suspension on your car!
Here is a link to our Braces on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=braces&submit_button=
1986 T-TYPE STOLEN -
We just heard from one of our customers in Mississippi who purchased a nice 1986 T-Type Regal in April. It was stolen from his house in June. This was a Designer Series car that was in very nice condition. Theft is still an issue with our cars.
Here’s what he said, “Hey, KP - I just wanting to get this story out to all Buick owners. I just purchase a 1986 Buick T-Type on April 4, 2015. I haven't had it 4 months. On June 25, 2015 I woke up, looked out my window, and my baby was gone. Stolen. I did all the things you do - call police and insurance company, but I felt violated, could not sleep for a week. I didn't have enough security devices on my car. I only wish I had more, like GPS, so it could have showed where my car went. So, whoever stole my car would be caught and put in jail. So, to all my fellow Buick owners, protect your cars at all cost with every anti-thief devices you can get. I will get me another Buick T-Type. Wallace.”
NBC NIGHTLY NEWS - JULY 14TH -
On July 14th on the NBC nightly News, they were showing the devastating floods in Kentucky. On the video they actually showed Buick Grand National nose down in the floodwaters!
This information comes from Chris Tobie and has been verified by other Turbo owners. If the owner is a customer of ours, I would like to hear from them.
MINI CONTEST - GUESS WHAT PART WE ARE HAVING MADE -
Here is a mini contest open to all readers of this email.
We will award the first three correct answers that come direct to my email [email protected]
The three winners will get the actual item (when its available,) and one of our new LED dome lights, part #7661, for their car.
The deadline is this Saturday, July 25th, 9 pm eastern time.
You can only submit 3 guesses. Your email must include your full name and phone number so I can contact the winners.
Here are the clues: The part we are getting made consists of three separate parts. It will retail for under $20. The part attaches to an option that was offered on all 1984 through 1987 Turbo Regals.
Be sure to follow rules exactly to be eligible.
CLOSE OUT ITEMS -
We are discontinuing the “Black Air: The Buick Grand National Documentary” 24” x 36” Poster, part #7466. However, we will continue to offer the Black Air DVD, part #7465. We have just 3 of the posters left. The price is $21.95, which includes free shipping. You must call our office 215-766-1611 x 0 to order this part!
We are also discontinuing part #7594, the Aftermarket Idler Arm Assembly that fits all 1978-1987 Buick Regals, including the Turbo models. We have just one left. The price is $34.95, which includes free shipping. You must call our office 215-766-1611 x 0 to order this last one.
NOTE - We have a damaged one-piece Spoolfool rear filler panel. If you are handy with repairing fiberglass, this can be repaired. It is cracked near the center. Normal retail is $370. You can buy this panel for $145 and FREE UPS shipping to any of the basic 48 states. If you are interested, email me [email protected] I can email you a photo of the damage. NEW LOWER PRICE
REPRODUCTION GNX-STYLE DASH FOR SALE -
Complete pre-mounted GNX dash for sale. All of the cutting, fitting and alignment work is complete, just wire the dash and install the entire unit.
Kit Includes:
Applique with correct color indicators
Metal mounting plate
Plastic gauge bezel
Stock pre-cut cluster harness
Stock dash bezel (pre-cut with plastic gauge bezel attached)
New Stewart Warner speedometer with upper speedometer cable
New Stewart Warner tachometer
New Stewart Warner oil pressure gauge with sending unit
New Stewart Warner water temperature gauge with sending unit
New Stewart Warner fuel gauge
New Stewart Warner vacuum/ boost gauge
Plug-and-play harness
$2,250 plus shipping
This one was hand built by a good friend of ours who owns three Grand Nationals and has built several of these.
It comes with stock bezel already precut so you do not have to cut your dash bezel. This kit eliminates any possible issues of trial and error since they have built several of these. Buyer would have to inform us which dash is currently in the car - either digital or analog.
If interested, email me direct - [email protected] - I can provide photos.
REFURBISHED UPGRADED USED LOWER STEERING SHAFTS -
As you read this, I have just 1 left of the refurbished upgraded used lower steering shafts now in stock, part #7572. Email me - [email protected] - if you want one from this batch.
Here is a link to this shaft on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44150/UPGRADED+REFURBISHED+USED+LOWER+STEERING+SHAFT+%237574.html
CORES NEEDED -
We have an urgent need for powermaster cores, steering wheel cores, and turbo cores.
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
POWERMASTER CORES must be complete with brake bowl and brake switch. You get $100 Letter of Credit or we will trade our complete headlight kit #7530 a $129.95 value for each acceptable core. Powermaster units must be nice and not look like they been in a river for the last 10 years.
STEERING WHEEL CORES must be the 1986-1987 style. They can’t have any bent spokes and spokes, and can’t be rusty. We will issue you a $75 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock ones. They must be complete. We will issue you a $100 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core. WE HAVE AN URGENT NEED FOR THESE.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number
MAIL - Ship to Address -
ATTN DENNIS
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADSVILLE, PA 18949-1199
TECH CALLS -
Because our busy season is starting, if you need technical information, it’s best to email - [email protected] rather than call us.
We will do our best to answer any technical questions within 24 hours.
ORIGINAL GM AC DELCO HEATER WATER VALVE -
Our supplier was able to locate a few more of these original brand new AC Delco heater water valves. You must call our office to order one - 215-766-1611 x 0. The price is $60 plus shipping. It appears this AC Delco heater water valve will be discontinued from GM and AC Delco. It doesn’t appear that we will be getting any more of theses. We were able to get a few more and now have 6 of them!
CAR FOR SALE - 2004 CADILLAC CTS V - CFS027
One of our Turbo Buick customers has his personal 2004 Cadillac CTS V for sale. He purchased it originally in 2007 and it has 86,400 miles on it. This is the first year for the CTS V model.
The CTS V has been well cared for, since he has treated the car like his Grand National. It was never smoked in, garage kept, and never used in bad weather. Car is completely stock. He has all the service records, which will go with the car.
You may remember a few years back I found one for Richard Clark. The car is the best of both worlds - the Corvette drive train with seating for the family! The price is $14,250. Car is located in New York.
For photos, see our website. Contact Dennis Zach direct for additional photos or more information.
Contact Dennis Zach at 914-325-3499 or email is [email protected]
Here is a link to this Cadillac CTS V on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44258/CAR+FOR+SALE+-+2004+CADILLAC+CTS+V+-+CFS027.html
GRAND NATIONAL ON EBAY FOR SALE -
Several customers forwarded me information about a 20,000-mile Grand National on ebay. It has a “Buy it Now” price of a cool 65 grand! The ebay number is 271933837805.
Besides an unusually high price tag, in the description it states the car needs hood shocks and in the one photo you see a pole holding the hood up. One would think the seller would spend the $35 or $40 and install hood shocks on the car based on the $65,000 price tag!
VEHICLES FOR SALE -
From time to time, whenever we spot an unusual or an exceptional car or truck for sale, or one we have for sale, we will put a blurb in our weekly Inner Circle. Also any cars that our customers have for sale will be featured here and you can see their car with photos on our website. In this category we will run the descriptions for two to three weeks and, if there is no interest in that particular vehicle, it will be deleted the following week. Any new vehicles that we add will appear first, so the oldest listing would be at the end of this section.
If any of these vehicles perk your interest, email me personally - [email protected] - for more information and photos.
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If you have a tip or a discovery that you found that works on your Turbo Regal, drop us an email giving us the details so we can pass the info on to our readers. Remember, even with my knowledge, I don’t know it all. Simply email me at - [email protected]
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Late-Model RADIO PLUG-IN HARNESS KIT
By using this custom harness, it allows you to plug your existing 1984-1987 Turbo Regal radio harness and antenna lead into this harness, which plugs into the later radios.
This eliminates cutting any of the factory wires. It allows the 12-pin harness to adapt to the 21-pin harness in the later AC Delco radios.
If you have a power antenna option, it will still work.
The harness and antenna lead can be seen in the photo. The big plug to the left is what the stock 3-part harness plugs into.
This is the same harness we have put with every late-model AC Delco CD player we have sold over the years.
7065 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Late-Model Radio Plug-in Harness Kit - $19.95 / kit
21-Pin to 12-Pin Harness with Antenna Lead and Antenna Lead Adapter
Here is a link to this Radio Harness on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/89/RADIO+PLUG-IN+HARNESS+KIT+12+PIN+to+21+PIN+%237065.html
“THE POWER PAC BUICK - PERFORMANCE AND RESTORATION TIPS” Book
and Guide to 1978-1987 Buick Grand National, T-Type and GNX “THE FACTS & FIGURES BOOK - SERIES #II” Book
“The Power Pac Buick Performance and Restoration Tips” book by Steven L. Dove covers the popular Buick Turbo Regals; Grand Nationals, T-Types, Turbo-Ts, and GNXs. It was published in 1998.
The book measures 6" x 9", has 230 pages and includes eight chapters of information. One chapter highlights all the major players with fast Turbo Regals from Marka Gallina to Kenny Duttweiler. Another chapter covers transmission upgrades by Art Carr. That same chapter includes tidbits on getting your turbo car to run in the 11’s and 12’s.
A later chapter covers restoration and care of your Turbo Regal. There is a tech talk section with John Craig on turbo upgrades and a chapter on suspension and brake upgrades. Another chapter deals with all the specifications with quick data information covering all Turbo Regals from 1982 through 1987, including the GNX.
The “Guide to 1978-1987 Buick Grand National, T-Type and GNX - FACTS & FIGURES BOOK - SERIES #II” covers the history of the Buick Regal from 1978 through 1987. It has many pictures and shows actual Service Bulletins covering the Turbo Regals from GM. Very informative with many pictures and illustrations. It measures 6" x 9" and has 260+ pages, and was published in 1992.
These are great additions to your Buick library of information.
NOTE - We recently acquired a limited supply of these two books from the 1990s. Once our stock is sold, there are no more. Order now, while supplies last.
Here are the 3 options for these books.
6791 - “THE POWER PAC BUICK - PERFORMANCE AND RESTORATION TIPS” Book by Steven L. Dove - $18.95
6618 - “Guide to 1978-1987 Buick Grand National, T-Type and GNX - FACTS & FIGURES - SERIES #II” Book by Steven L. Dove - $18.95
7681 - “THE POWER PAC BUICK - PERFORMANCE AND RESTORATION TIPS” Book
AND Guide to 1978-1987 Buick Grand National, T-Type and GNX - “THE FACTS & FIGURES BOOK - SERIES #II” Book - $30 / 2 book set (Save $7.90)
Here is a link to these books on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7681&submit_button=
ALWAYS 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 FOR TURBO REGAL PARTS -
Got any Turbo Buick 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 LINKS IN THE INNER CIRCLE -
We have heard from a couple people that have had problems with the links in our Inner Circle.
When we check the links, they work fine. However, if you are not able to be directed to the exact website page or internet site, you can "copy" and "paste" the link into the URL in your browser (such as Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
Most people having problems are using Internet Explorer… If you are having issues with links, try another browser to see if it works.
You may need to "UPDATE" your browser to be use you are using the current version.
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.
2015 CALENDAR OF EVENTS -
EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS & MAGNA PRESENTS ALL BUICK POWERED JUDGED CAR SHOW
September 18th and 19th, 2015
Cecil County Dragway, Maryland - Interstate 95 and MD Route 272 (Exit 100)
I plan to be there Saturday only.
Host Hotel - Comfort Inn, phone 410-287-7100
Free Vending
For more information, contact Doug Dougherty 302-653-2201 or John Csordas 914-447-6068 or email - [email protected]
35th Annual GS NATIONALS 2015
October 14-17, 2015
Beech Bend Raceway, Bowling Green, Kentucky
Here is a link to the event on their website:
http://www.gsnationals.com
IN CLOSING -
Our granddaughter recently took and past her Pennsylvania driver’s test the first time! Its hard to believe she is now 16 years old and driving.
I remember getting my driver’s license at 16, as it was major milestone as a teenager hooked on cars. At 15 I was able to buy a brand new 1963 Ford Galaxie fastback. I still remember the amount of the monthly payment - $99 a month.
My wife and I went to a very small school and I was the only student that had a brand new car. I am going to have to give Devyn more lessons on driving a stick shift. I already showed her how manual windows work!
RARE COLORS Continued -
The rarest of rare colors for 1987 Turbo Regals came about because Buick introduced a new option. So, to avoid confusion, they cancelled this combination two days prior to introducing the new Turbo Regal option. I am referring to the WE4 Turbo-T package, which was released on a Production Information Bulletin on 11-15-86. On 11-13-86 Buick no longer let you order a black Turbo-T with the Exterior Sport Package (WO2). This was because it would closely resemble the new WE4 option with the only difference being the WE4 came with front and rear bumpers painted black.
So, assuming production of the 1987 Turbo Ts began in the fall of 1986, you can see the black 1987 Turbo-T if ordered with the Exterior Sport package W02 was only available for about 90 days! The potential customers would have no idea that the WE4 was coming out, so there was no bump in sales for a black Turbo-T with the Exterior Sport package.
Of all the 300-plus Turbo Regals I have owned, I did have at least one of these cars. Unfortunately, I did not realize how rare an example the car was at the time. I remember the car because I titled it for a short period of time and drove it. It belonged to a local sales person, so it had high miles. This was probably around 1989-1990.
PHOTO 1 - We show both Buick Product Information Bulletins. The photo on the left shows the Bulletin No. 87-035 dated 11-13-86. It only consists of 6 lines of copy. “Please be advised that Black Exterior Paint (19) is no longer available on Regals ordered with the Exterior Sport Package (WO2). However, you may order the Regal Turbo “T” Package (WE4) to merchandise Regals with this affect. Please update your Order Guides, Buick Marketing Manual and Sales Staff accordingly.” The photo on the right shows page 1 of the two-page Bulletin No. 87-031 dated 11-15-86. It gives all the details on the newly release WE4. The first page shows a MSRP of $15,136 for the Grand National and $14,857 for the Regal Special Turbo Package. Page 2 of this Bulletin shows the list price of this Special Turbo Package as $3295.
“CHRYSLERS AT CARLISLE” CONTINUED -
If you were around in the 1960s and 1970s, one of the biggest dealers selling Dodge performance cars was Grand Spalding Dodge located in Chicago, Illinois. I can remember seeing their ads for many years.
Norman Kraus, who became known as simply “Mr. Norm,” opened his Dodge dealership on West Grand Avenue in Chicago in 1962. Unlike most dealerships, he focused his business on Dodge muscle cars. His dealership became well known for Dodge muscle cars during the height of the muscle car era. The dealership has long been closed and, in recent years, he has produced several special Dodge Challenger models.
“Mr. Norm” is still going strong, modifying Dodge Challengers over the last several years. He was set up at one of the manufacturer’s booth at Chryslers at Carlisle.
A few years ago, they made 500 Mr. Norm bobble-head dolls, measuring 7 inches tall.
Mr. Norm only had 2 left from his supply, which I purchased. I had him sign the box and the actual bobble head. I took a photo of him signing the Bobble-head. I did not see any other Mr. Norm bobble-heads for sale at Carlisle. However, I’m sure others exist for sale of the 500 made, but these were the last of his stock. However, if you find any for sale, it’s probably not signed by Mr. Norm.
PHOTO 2 - The photo to the left shows the Mr. Norm bobble-head doll, still in the original box. His signature is on the clear plastic and also on the actual bobble-head base, which is not very visible in the photo. The photo to the right shows Mr. Norm signing the bobble-head for me. I have one of them listed for sale in the Rare Parts section in this issue.
PHOTO 3 - The photo to the left shows a rare AAR Cuda that was a barn find. The photo to the right shows a 1970s Chrysler boat for sale. I never knew Chrysler even made any boats! The asking price was $10,500.
FRONT SWAY BAR LINKS -
Most owners probably pay very little attention to the front sway bar links. Unless you are upgrading to a thicker front sway bar, you probably never have replaced the front sway bar links.
On the 2004 Impala I just got, I upgraded to the GM High Performance front sway bar and included in the kit was new front sway bar links. This Impala was always garaged and only had 76,000 miles on it. I had the mechanic save the old sway bar links. I could not believe how thin it was due to rust. Most sway bar links, including the ones on your Turbo Regal, have a sleeve over the rod, which simply hides from view what is happening the actual rod or bolt.
PHOTO 4 - In this photo we show one of the original front sway bar links from my 2004 Impala on the left alongside a brand new replacement one on the right. Not only can you visually see how thin the bolt or rod is, but how squished the rubber bushings are compared to the new one next to it. (NOTE - The ones on our Turbo Regals are similar but longer in length.)
On a similar note, this past week we heard from Ken out of Ohio. He recently found out what was causing the rear filler panels on his Turbo car to constantly be getting nicked and cut by his rear bumper by each corner.
At first he kept adjusting his rear bumper thinking it was too close to the filler panels. Then one day he was under his car and noticed his car was missing the very last lower body bushing on both sides!
He bought one of our bushing kits and installed them and the problem was gone!
In quick review, all our Regals should have the last lower body bushing on both sides. It’s the #3 and #4 bushings Buick purposely left out of our cars. Today, most of us realize that was a big mistake.
Any measures you can take to tighten up the suspension will bring your car back to the new ride feeling. This is especially true if your car has the T-Tops option. One main reason you don’t want to put off installing the missing lower body bushings is, the longer you wait, the higher chances the body bolt may become more difficult to remove due to corrosion and rust!
OUR BRACE KITS ARE NOW POWDER-COATED BLACK -
All our brace kits #1586 Rear Seat Frame Brace Kit, #6744 Under-the-hood Brace Kit, #6756 Connecting Front Brace, and #6564 Front Frame Braces (2) are all now powder-coated satin black, rather than painted.
The powder coating will hold up better. All the prices remain the same, except for a small increase on #6744, the Under-the-hood brace kit. This is a nice improvement on our popular brace kits.
These kits we highly recommend as they are worth the money to stiffen up the suspension on your car!
Here is a link to our Braces on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=braces&submit_button=
1986 T-TYPE STOLEN -
We just heard from one of our customers in Mississippi who purchased a nice 1986 T-Type Regal in April. It was stolen from his house in June. This was a Designer Series car that was in very nice condition. Theft is still an issue with our cars.
Here’s what he said, “Hey, KP - I just wanting to get this story out to all Buick owners. I just purchase a 1986 Buick T-Type on April 4, 2015. I haven't had it 4 months. On June 25, 2015 I woke up, looked out my window, and my baby was gone. Stolen. I did all the things you do - call police and insurance company, but I felt violated, could not sleep for a week. I didn't have enough security devices on my car. I only wish I had more, like GPS, so it could have showed where my car went. So, whoever stole my car would be caught and put in jail. So, to all my fellow Buick owners, protect your cars at all cost with every anti-thief devices you can get. I will get me another Buick T-Type. Wallace.”
NBC NIGHTLY NEWS - JULY 14TH -
On July 14th on the NBC nightly News, they were showing the devastating floods in Kentucky. On the video they actually showed Buick Grand National nose down in the floodwaters!
This information comes from Chris Tobie and has been verified by other Turbo owners. If the owner is a customer of ours, I would like to hear from them.
MINI CONTEST - GUESS WHAT PART WE ARE HAVING MADE -
Here is a mini contest open to all readers of this email.
We will award the first three correct answers that come direct to my email [email protected]
The three winners will get the actual item (when its available,) and one of our new LED dome lights, part #7661, for their car.
The deadline is this Saturday, July 25th, 9 pm eastern time.
You can only submit 3 guesses. Your email must include your full name and phone number so I can contact the winners.
Here are the clues: The part we are getting made consists of three separate parts. It will retail for under $20. The part attaches to an option that was offered on all 1984 through 1987 Turbo Regals.
Be sure to follow rules exactly to be eligible.
CLOSE OUT ITEMS -
We are discontinuing the “Black Air: The Buick Grand National Documentary” 24” x 36” Poster, part #7466. However, we will continue to offer the Black Air DVD, part #7465. We have just 3 of the posters left. The price is $21.95, which includes free shipping. You must call our office 215-766-1611 x 0 to order this part!
We are also discontinuing part #7594, the Aftermarket Idler Arm Assembly that fits all 1978-1987 Buick Regals, including the Turbo models. We have just one left. The price is $34.95, which includes free shipping. You must call our office 215-766-1611 x 0 to order this last one.
NOTE - We have a damaged one-piece Spoolfool rear filler panel. If you are handy with repairing fiberglass, this can be repaired. It is cracked near the center. Normal retail is $370. You can buy this panel for $145 and FREE UPS shipping to any of the basic 48 states. If you are interested, email me [email protected] I can email you a photo of the damage. NEW LOWER PRICE
REPRODUCTION GNX-STYLE DASH FOR SALE -
Complete pre-mounted GNX dash for sale. All of the cutting, fitting and alignment work is complete, just wire the dash and install the entire unit.
Kit Includes:
Applique with correct color indicators
Metal mounting plate
Plastic gauge bezel
Stock pre-cut cluster harness
Stock dash bezel (pre-cut with plastic gauge bezel attached)
New Stewart Warner speedometer with upper speedometer cable
New Stewart Warner tachometer
New Stewart Warner oil pressure gauge with sending unit
New Stewart Warner water temperature gauge with sending unit
New Stewart Warner fuel gauge
New Stewart Warner vacuum/ boost gauge
Plug-and-play harness
$2,250 plus shipping
This one was hand built by a good friend of ours who owns three Grand Nationals and has built several of these.
It comes with stock bezel already precut so you do not have to cut your dash bezel. This kit eliminates any possible issues of trial and error since they have built several of these. Buyer would have to inform us which dash is currently in the car - either digital or analog.
If interested, email me direct - [email protected] - I can provide photos.
REFURBISHED UPGRADED USED LOWER STEERING SHAFTS -
As you read this, I have just 1 left of the refurbished upgraded used lower steering shafts now in stock, part #7572. Email me - [email protected] - if you want one from this batch.
Here is a link to this shaft on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44150/UPGRADED+REFURBISHED+USED+LOWER+STEERING+SHAFT+%237574.html
CORES NEEDED -
We have an urgent need for powermaster cores, steering wheel cores, and turbo cores.
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
POWERMASTER CORES must be complete with brake bowl and brake switch. You get $100 Letter of Credit or we will trade our complete headlight kit #7530 a $129.95 value for each acceptable core. Powermaster units must be nice and not look like they been in a river for the last 10 years.
STEERING WHEEL CORES must be the 1986-1987 style. They can’t have any bent spokes and spokes, and can’t be rusty. We will issue you a $75 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock ones. They must be complete. We will issue you a $100 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core. WE HAVE AN URGENT NEED FOR THESE.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number
MAIL - Ship to Address -
ATTN DENNIS
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADSVILLE, PA 18949-1199
TECH CALLS -
Because our busy season is starting, if you need technical information, it’s best to email - [email protected] rather than call us.
We will do our best to answer any technical questions within 24 hours.
ORIGINAL GM AC DELCO HEATER WATER VALVE -
Our supplier was able to locate a few more of these original brand new AC Delco heater water valves. You must call our office to order one - 215-766-1611 x 0. The price is $60 plus shipping. It appears this AC Delco heater water valve will be discontinued from GM and AC Delco. It doesn’t appear that we will be getting any more of theses. We were able to get a few more and now have 6 of them!
CAR FOR SALE - 2004 CADILLAC CTS V - CFS027
One of our Turbo Buick customers has his personal 2004 Cadillac CTS V for sale. He purchased it originally in 2007 and it has 86,400 miles on it. This is the first year for the CTS V model.
The CTS V has been well cared for, since he has treated the car like his Grand National. It was never smoked in, garage kept, and never used in bad weather. Car is completely stock. He has all the service records, which will go with the car.
You may remember a few years back I found one for Richard Clark. The car is the best of both worlds - the Corvette drive train with seating for the family! The price is $14,250. Car is located in New York.
For photos, see our website. Contact Dennis Zach direct for additional photos or more information.
Contact Dennis Zach at 914-325-3499 or email is [email protected]
Here is a link to this Cadillac CTS V on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44258/CAR+FOR+SALE+-+2004+CADILLAC+CTS+V+-+CFS027.html
GRAND NATIONAL ON EBAY FOR SALE -
Several customers forwarded me information about a 20,000-mile Grand National on ebay. It has a “Buy it Now” price of a cool 65 grand! The ebay number is 271933837805.
Besides an unusually high price tag, in the description it states the car needs hood shocks and in the one photo you see a pole holding the hood up. One would think the seller would spend the $35 or $40 and install hood shocks on the car based on the $65,000 price tag!
VEHICLES FOR SALE -
From time to time, whenever we spot an unusual or an exceptional car or truck for sale, or one we have for sale, we will put a blurb in our weekly Inner Circle. Also any cars that our customers have for sale will be featured here and you can see their car with photos on our website. In this category we will run the descriptions for two to three weeks and, if there is no interest in that particular vehicle, it will be deleted the following week. Any new vehicles that we add will appear first, so the oldest listing would be at the end of this section.
If any of these vehicles perk your interest, email me personally - [email protected] - for more information and photos.
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If you have a tip or a discovery that you found that works on your Turbo Regal, drop us an email giving us the details so we can pass the info on to our readers. Remember, even with my knowledge, I don’t know it all. Simply email me at - [email protected]
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Late-Model RADIO PLUG-IN HARNESS KIT
By using this custom harness, it allows you to plug your existing 1984-1987 Turbo Regal radio harness and antenna lead into this harness, which plugs into the later radios.
This eliminates cutting any of the factory wires. It allows the 12-pin harness to adapt to the 21-pin harness in the later AC Delco radios.
If you have a power antenna option, it will still work.
The harness and antenna lead can be seen in the photo. The big plug to the left is what the stock 3-part harness plugs into.
This is the same harness we have put with every late-model AC Delco CD player we have sold over the years.
7065 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Late-Model Radio Plug-in Harness Kit - $19.95 / kit
21-Pin to 12-Pin Harness with Antenna Lead and Antenna Lead Adapter
Here is a link to this Radio Harness on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/89/RADIO+PLUG-IN+HARNESS+KIT+12+PIN+to+21+PIN+%237065.html
“THE POWER PAC BUICK - PERFORMANCE AND RESTORATION TIPS” Book
and Guide to 1978-1987 Buick Grand National, T-Type and GNX “THE FACTS & FIGURES BOOK - SERIES #II” Book
“The Power Pac Buick Performance and Restoration Tips” book by Steven L. Dove covers the popular Buick Turbo Regals; Grand Nationals, T-Types, Turbo-Ts, and GNXs. It was published in 1998.
The book measures 6" x 9", has 230 pages and includes eight chapters of information. One chapter highlights all the major players with fast Turbo Regals from Marka Gallina to Kenny Duttweiler. Another chapter covers transmission upgrades by Art Carr. That same chapter includes tidbits on getting your turbo car to run in the 11’s and 12’s.
A later chapter covers restoration and care of your Turbo Regal. There is a tech talk section with John Craig on turbo upgrades and a chapter on suspension and brake upgrades. Another chapter deals with all the specifications with quick data information covering all Turbo Regals from 1982 through 1987, including the GNX.
The “Guide to 1978-1987 Buick Grand National, T-Type and GNX - FACTS & FIGURES BOOK - SERIES #II” covers the history of the Buick Regal from 1978 through 1987. It has many pictures and shows actual Service Bulletins covering the Turbo Regals from GM. Very informative with many pictures and illustrations. It measures 6" x 9" and has 260+ pages, and was published in 1992.
These are great additions to your Buick library of information.
NOTE - We recently acquired a limited supply of these two books from the 1990s. Once our stock is sold, there are no more. Order now, while supplies last.
Here are the 3 options for these books.
6791 - “THE POWER PAC BUICK - PERFORMANCE AND RESTORATION TIPS” Book by Steven L. Dove - $18.95
6618 - “Guide to 1978-1987 Buick Grand National, T-Type and GNX - FACTS & FIGURES - SERIES #II” Book by Steven L. Dove - $18.95
7681 - “THE POWER PAC BUICK - PERFORMANCE AND RESTORATION TIPS” Book
AND Guide to 1978-1987 Buick Grand National, T-Type and GNX - “THE FACTS & FIGURES BOOK - SERIES #II” Book - $30 / 2 book set (Save $7.90)
Here is a link to these books on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7681&submit_button=
ALWAYS 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 FOR TURBO REGAL PARTS -
Got any Turbo Buick 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 LINKS IN THE INNER CIRCLE -
We have heard from a couple people that have had problems with the links in our Inner Circle.
When we check the links, they work fine. However, if you are not able to be directed to the exact website page or internet site, you can "copy" and "paste" the link into the URL in your browser (such as Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
Most people having problems are using Internet Explorer… If you are having issues with links, try another browser to see if it works.
You may need to "UPDATE" your browser to be use you are using the current version.
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.
2015 CALENDAR OF EVENTS -
EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS & MAGNA PRESENTS ALL BUICK POWERED JUDGED CAR SHOW
September 18th and 19th, 2015
Cecil County Dragway, Maryland - Interstate 95 and MD Route 272 (Exit 100)
I plan to be there Saturday only.
Host Hotel - Comfort Inn, phone 410-287-7100
Free Vending
For more information, contact Doug Dougherty 302-653-2201 or John Csordas 914-447-6068 or email - [email protected]
35th Annual GS NATIONALS 2015
October 14-17, 2015
Beech Bend Raceway, Bowling Green, Kentucky
Here is a link to the event on their website:
http://www.gsnationals.com
IN CLOSING -
Our granddaughter recently took and past her Pennsylvania driver’s test the first time! Its hard to believe she is now 16 years old and driving.
I remember getting my driver’s license at 16, as it was major milestone as a teenager hooked on cars. At 15 I was able to buy a brand new 1963 Ford Galaxie fastback. I still remember the amount of the monthly payment - $99 a month.
My wife and I went to a very small school and I was the only student that had a brand new car. I am going to have to give Devyn more lessons on driving a stick shift. I already showed her how manual windows work!