07-24-2013 Inner Circle

Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members - 07-24-2013

SUMMERTIME MINI CONTEST - IDENTIFY THIS PART -

I figured I would test the knowledge of our readers and see how well they know their Turbo Regal.

Here are the clues:

This part can be found on every original 1984-1987 Turbo Regal. It is not visible in the car. It is a foam-like sponge material that measures about 3" inches across with a 1-3/4" hole in the center. It is about 1/4" thick.

I want to know where this part is used on the 1984-1987 Turbo Regal.

You get two guesses, but they must be in one single email.

The first THREE entries with the correct answer will each receive a set of our new dash filter lenses for their Turbo Regal, Part #7501.

Contest is open to all customers, except those that work for any of the Turbo Regal companies.

Contest ENDS this Sunday 3 pm eastern time, July 28th 2013. Good luck participants.

You have to submit your two guesses in one email to me - [email protected]

PHOTO 1 - This is a photo of the 1984-1987 Turbo Regal part in our contest. This is the part you have to identify as to where it is used in the 1984-1987 Turbo Regal.



G-BODY CONVERTIBLES -

I remember seeing at least one Grand National convertible at the GS Nationals in Kentucky a number of years ago. On this past trip I saw this 1985 Monte Carlo that was converted in 1985.

PHOTO 2 - Shows this 1985 Monte Carlo that was made into a convertible. The car looked real good in black. The lower photo shows a close up of the ID label showing it was converted by a company called “Matrix.” I am told the company is no longer in business. The back seat was extremely small.

One of the major players at converting cars was ASC that also did the GNX project for Buick. I would think that ASC was the largest player in making convertibles compared to all the other custom shops. Years ago my son had a Camaro that was an ASC conversion.

As you can imagine many issues can arise years later as parts have to be replaced and may be a challenge to find. If anyone has more information concerning convertible and Buick Regals, drop me an email - [email protected]



MORE FROM GTOAA/POCI EVENT -

I walked the swap meet area the one day and was amazed at how prices have really gone up since I used to sell GTO parts. I remember selling complete tri-power setups for $350 a set. At this meet I saw several mostly priced from $1,000 and $1,500 a set.

Another high-ticket item was the 1965 and the 1966-1967 factory GTO am/fm radio. Back then it was just a simple am/fm, not even stereo. Prices on them ranged from $650 and $850 each.

Ram Air IV engine parts are the Holy Grail and bring good money. A bare block was priced at around $4,000, and I did see a complete one for around $9,000.

GTO production far exceeds the Turbo Regal production, but it made me stop and think as to what some of the Turbo Regal parts will be worth as time goes by. Our company was lucky enough to be involved with both car models. Both cars have achieved high values as time goes on.

PHOTO 3 -The top photo shows a 1967 GTO am/fm radio with a $1,000 price tag. One can only assume for that amount of money it works. The lower photo shows a 1966 GTO am/fm for a mere $650 and a brand new correct AC radiator cap for $120.

PHOTO 4 - The top photo shows one of the top-notch 1970 GTO Judges, in one of the best looking color combination with the Judge stripes and white convertible top. The bottom photo shows Pete Serio, also known as the “Window Rattle Guy,” showing some of his test equipment to a customer. Pete is well known in the GTO world for restoring the early GTO rally gauge clusters for many of the high-end restoration cars. Pete was set up with me in my indoor vendor spot.



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



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



KIRBAN SEPTEMBERFEST OPEN HOUSE - SATURDAY - SEPTEMBER 28TH - 9 am - 3 pm

We will be holding our annual fall “SEPTEMBERFEST” Open House on Saturday, September 28th, at our Plumsteadville location - 6201 Kellers Church Road, Plumsteadville. Rain or Shine, 9 am until 3 pm. Open to all cars, not just Turbo Buicks.

Free Yum Yum donuts and coffee will be provided in the morning.

Pete and I will have our usual array of used parts. Some of the highlights for the Open House will be the raffle prizes, M&M contest, and a no reserve auction.

Our personal Turbo-T will be on display and I will show our new plug-and-play H4 headlight system.

Once again, Chef Russ and Nancy will be preparing a full-course gourmet luncheon, like they did at our Spring Open House. This time the menu will be expanded. We are very fortunate to have Nancy and Russ, our local Turbo Buick Chef who loves to cook, generously offer to prepare the entire luncheon menu. So bring your appetite.



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.

Also attending is Art Carr and his wife. One of the top transmission specialists for many years.

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 -

Remember to mark your calendar - Septemberfest Kirban Open House - September 28th 2013 - rain or shine - luncheon once again prepared by Chef Russ and Nancy, featuring a variety of food prepared on location and free! A real treat!

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