Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 08-04-2021 -
WE ACQUIRED ANOTHER STASH OF TURBO REGAL PARTS -
Some of which can be found under the Rare Parts section of this weekly Inner Circle. Remember only subscribers can view the Rare Parts section. If you are not a subscriber, simply email me [email protected] to join. It's free and it has always been free. Because of our long time in the business we do come across a stash of parts from long time customers that for one reason or another contact me about selling their hoard of parts. You never know what we may turn up from week to week. Since we number each part I think it's somewhat amazing that we now have over 4,000 in our numbering system of parts we have sold. .
FROM OUR RECENT PURCHASE -
Hard to believe we have another brand new set of 4 Grand National wheels. Like the previous set (4) this set is brand new. The entire set has had proper storage. We also acquired a very extremely nice pair of 1984-1987 Turbo Regal tail light lenses complete with the housing and back up lenses. All you need to do is reuse your outer bezels.
PHOTO 1 - We show one of the 4 Grand National wheels front and back. Also the 4 Grand National center caps are still in the original boxes. Plus a set of 20 brand new GM correct lug nuts and 4 original grey valve stem caps. The remaining photo shows the set of 1984-1987 Turbo Regal used tail lights complete with the back up lens. Good enough in appearance for a show quality restoration.
PHOTO 2 - The top left photo shows a very nice slightly used 1986-1987 mass air duct hose. The top right photo shows a brand new 1986-1987 heater water valve. These are no longer available and none of the aftermarket ones look like this. The bottom left photo shows the billet stock inlet bell. The bottom right photo shows a set of brand new 10 ohm rear speakers that we used to sell about 10 years ago. All these items can be seen in the Rare Parts section for sale.
FRED BOATMAN -
If you are a long-time subscriber, you remember the cartoonist we used several years ago - Fred Boatman. Each cartoon was entitled, “The adventures of Tommie Turbo”. I would give Fred a theme for the cartoon and he would provide the finished product. Altogether he ended up creating over 35 Tommie Turbo cartoons for us. I have kept the original artwork for each cartoon he did. He passed away a few years back. Originally he did work for Petersen Publishing company and that is where I first saw his work.
A few weeks back I was at a newsstand and noticed a magazine entitled Cartoons. It was issue number 32. In this particular issue they did a 2-page spread on Fred Boatman. In the article it covered his background and the fact he was one of the ole skool original Automotive cartoon artists!
He created characters like Granny McGo, Dipstick, and Arin Gee for various car magazines. In the two page article it showed some of the cartoons Fred did over his life. One of the cartoons they showed was the one he did for us entitled “Time to Fix that Pesky Power Antenna”.
PHOTO 3 - The top left photo shows the original artwork that Fred did for us entitled “Time to Fix the Pesky Power Antenna.” The top right shows the cover of the #32 Cartoons magazine. The bottom left photo shows the two page article on Fred Boatman. The bottom right photo shows a close up where they show our Tommie Turbo cartoon.
KIRBAN CUSTOMS - DARRELL’S CUSTOM-BUILT GTO PROJECT -
As many readers know, my son has been working on making a customized 1967/2005 GTO. He started with an actual 2005 GTO. Then he cut all the body panels off along with the roof. He then stretched the unibody structure 5-¼ inches to accommodate the 1967 GTO wheelbase. After hundreds of hours of work, he graphed the 1967 body onto the 2005 GTO.
In June of 2018 I was a guest speaker at the GTO National convention that was held near our town. Since Darrell was looking for some GTO body parts, he and Devyn went with me.
At my seminar we met Blanco Brown. At the time we had no idea who he was in the music world. Boy did that change after we researched him on YouTube.
Go on Youtube and search Blanco Brown, and watch the videos of his popular international triple platinum song sensation “The Git Up.” The official video has already been viewed more than 122 MILLION TIMES with OVER 27,000 COMMENTS! The song is quite catchy.
He has a real love for GTOs and owns a 1965 GTO, and that was one of the reasons he attended the GTO convention. He even asked me to autograph a GTO poster for his collection.
Darrell and Blanco now have an agreement on the custom GTO that Darrell has been working on and Blanco and has big plans to showcase the car on tour with him. It will be finished as the perfect present for Blanco’s birthday next spring.
When Darrell has searched for various parts, he has run into several people that have figured out that he is our son.
You can see some of the current pictures in the link below. The drivetrain is all done and it rides on some pretty wide wheels. Darrell's skill level is nothing short of amazing.
If you are on Facebook, you can go to the Kirban Customs Inc. homepage to view photos of the project.
CLICK HERE - Here is a link to Kirban Customs Inc. photos of the GTO project car.
Here is the Facebook link where Blanco announced that Darrell is building this custom GTO for him. This is an awesome project and great PR for Darrell and Kirban Customs Inc.
CLICK HERE - For the link to Blanco Brown’s announcement about the GTO.
https://m.facebook.com/158693859925/posts/10158744117089926/
SPEAKING OF DARRELL'S TALENT -
I was at the local annual Hatboro Moonlight Memories car show this past Saturday night. The weather was absolutely picture perfect and not really hot. The Hatboro Moonlight Memories event was one of the first in this area to do these car show events where they shut down the main street through town for about 6 hours on a Saturday night. The event draws all sorts of cars and trucks. I did see one Turbo-T and one highly modified Grand National. Also one G-body 442. I did not see one single G-body Monte Carlo SS, which is unusual since they made so many of them. I did see several of the popular 5.0 GT Mustangs. Also a few of the highly desirable notchback models.
Mike O'Neil of ONeil Buick/GMC is a major sponsor of the annual Hatboro Moonlight Memories event. Years ago I was a judge at this event. A difficult job with such a wide variety of cars and trucks to pick the top 50! Many of you remember that it was Mike's dealership that I held a sales license for that enabled me to purchase over 325-plus Turbo Regals and 11 GNXs through. It was during that time that on one occasion in Tennessee I was at a rug warehouse buying a Grand National and the seller happened to mention he had a 1970 GS Buick and a 1935 Buick coupe sitting in this warehouse. I called Mike figuring he may want to buy the 1935 Buick coupe as I had never seen one before. Car was very straight and rust free. Car also ran. Turns out Mike bought both the 1935 Buick coupe and the 1970 GS and had them transported back to Warminster.
Mike then had Darrell engineer installing the 1986-1987 Turbo engine into the 1935 Buick Coupe. Not an easy project due to space limitations and no manual to go by as a guide! No matter what Darrell was able to do it. Mike then had the car all redone inside and his body shop resprayed it. Seats were original Grand National seats so he had them redone in matching grey and black leather which is a nice upgrade over the Pallex cloth format. The leather upgrade is a lot classier as I have seen other Grand National owners go that route.
So, at this past Saturday's Hatboro Moonlight Memories I saw Mike O'Neil’s restored 1935 Buick street rod. This is probably the only 1935 Buick coupe in existence powered by a Turbo Regal power plant. The end result is stunning. The combination just flat out works.
PHOTO 4 - The top left and top right photos I took when I first saw the car when Mike got it delivered to his dealership. This was about 16 years ago from what I recall. The perfect candidate for the swap! The bottom left and bottom right photos I took this past Saturday at the Hatboro Moonlight Memories event. It shows you the perfect blend of old and new Buick.
SPEAKING OF OUR SON DARRELL -
His 51st birthday is August 5th, tomorrow! Many of you have met him at our shows over the many years and seen his workmanship on various projects he has done. His skill levels far exceed anything I have ever done! If you want to wish him happy 51st birthday here is his email [email protected] To be that young again!
CURRENTLY IN STOCK -
POWER STEERING PUMPS 1986-1987 TURBO REGALS - We still have just a few of the rebuilt 1986-1987 power steering pumps in stock from Cardone. I have no idea if and when they will be able to find more to rebuild.
SPARK PLUG WIRES 1986-1987 TURBO REGALS - Basically for proper fitting 1986-1987 Turbo Regal spark plug wires you only have two choices. One supplier makes them with the proper wording on them. The other source is us. We have the correct boots on the ends and perhaps even more critical the correct lengths. Ours are also grey to closely match the original grey spark plug wires. Proper length is quite critical to avoid issues of them coming in contact with the exhaust manifold or the sharp edge of the plenum. Issues you want to avoid! Our part number #1531. Our wires are the only one that is carried by several other major suppliers as we do wholesale them to several sources. We learned over 35 years ago it is more beneficial to wholesale to your competition. They in turn wholesale to us so we both prosper.
BRAND NEW MODIFIED JEEP LOWER STEERING SHAFTS - We finally have reached the point where we have several in stock at all times. This clever upgrade is even better now since we are using brand new Jeep lower steering shafts instead of 30 year old ones. We are able to keep the pricing on the new modified Jeep steering shafts very near the pricing of the used ones we used to sell. I can’t take credit for this upgrade as someone else discovered this many years ago. I remember you could also use a GM Astro Van shaft as well and have it modified. I remember hunting them down in junk yards. It's a bit tricky getting them out of an Astro van. Normally a greasy job. I was younger then and was able to master the chore fairly quickly.
REBUILT 1986-1987 TURBO REGAL MASS AIR SENSORS - Currently we got 3 cores in and sent to Cardone in Texas to get rebuilt. These are rebuilt at their Texas facility. So if you want a stock original 1986-1987 AC Delco mass air sensor call our office 215-766-1611 to lock in on one of these from this next batch getting rebuilt. We need more cores badly.
CAN’T MAKE THIS STUFF UP -
Caught this in a recent post on Yahoo News. Seems an 84 year old gentleman has restored a World War II German Panther Tank. These tanks weigh in at over 44 tons. Authorities discovered his stash of illegal military arsenal during a 2015 raid. Pretty tough to hide a 45 ton Panther tank. Especially since during bad snow storms he would plow the roads in his town! The article went on to say he stored it in his basement among other artifacts of weapons. They want to fine him over $600 hundred thousand dollars. They already removed the Panther Tank which alone took over 9 hours and over 20 people. I had two immediate thoughts about this article, one which would be a simple solution. He surely must have had this tank a long time and they certainly must have known about it. He is 84 years old, just bide your time and not fine the guy! The other thing that came immediately to my mind is how big is this guy's basement to store a 40 plus ton tank and be able to move it in and out of his basement? Already a museum in the USA has expressed an interest in the Panther tank. While restoring an old car can be a daunting project, restoring a WW 2 German Tank has to be an even tougher project.
Latest news: His jail time was suspended. This is a good thing as he probably would have died in prison. His fine is $300,000. He has to sell his 45-ton tank or donate it and the anti-aircraft cannon to a museum or a collector within the next two years. Hopefully the sale of his arsenal will cover his $300,000 fine!
STILL AVAILABLE - A FULL SET OF REAL ORIGINAL GNX WHEELS LIKE NEW -
I am representing this set of real GNX wheels for one of my long-time customers who bought at least one car from me over the years. He resides in the New England area. The price includes all 4 center caps. No lug nuts. The price is $5895 and includes free shipping to the basic 48 states. The wheels have no scratches, and no road rash. Like new in every regard. They are the correct ones with different offset front and rears. For more info or pictures email me direct [email protected]
NEW LOWER PRICES - THREE TURBO REGALS AND ONE SYCLONE -
NEW LOWER PRICES ON ALL FOUR VEHICLES!!!! Prices may even be better if you buy more than one of the four vehicles. All 4 are still available. The 1986 blue T-Type and the 1987 Grand National he purchased were brand new. He is the 3rd owner of the white 1987 Turbo-T. The Syclone he also purchased was brand new. These vehicles are located in Tennessee. The light blue 1986 T-Type is $25,000 now just $19,000. The 1987 Grand National has the rare factory astro roof and has been repainted Corvette red. It is priced at $20,000 now just $17,000. The white 1987 Turbo-T is $25,000 now just $19,000. The Syclone has about 9,500 miles on it. It is priced at $44,900 now just $39,900 See past Inner circle for more details on these vehicles. For more photos and to reach the seller email me direct [email protected]
CAR SHOW DATES FOR 2021 SEASON -
EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS
Saturday September 11th 2021
This annual event is held at Cecil County Dragway in Rising Sun, Maryland. There is no rain date. I have gone every year for the last 5 or 6 years. Always a good event. Plenty of room and plenty of cars. This event was not held in 2020 so there is a lot of pent up demand for the return. I will be donating items for this event and I will be there as a vendor. I don’t bring many items to shows, but I do a lot of buying. So if you plan to attend, see me if you bring items to sell. Our plan is to hand out 3 special custom awards for the 3 cars that impress me the most. More details later. Bring us your cores for credit powermaster brake units and stock 1986-1987 mass air sensor cores.
EBAY LISTINGS -
Be sure to check ebay every week or so as we post parts under both Kirban Performance and Kirban Enterprises. You never know what will be posted from us.
LIST OF MECHANICS FOR THE TURBO REGAL UPDATE -
We will only post any new additions to avoid confusion. Refer to previous inner circle emails to see the entire list.
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If you have an idea or tip or a product idea, send it to my email [email protected]
TIP FROM KIRBAN -.
It is worth repeating supplies and inventory is still facing long delays for all the major vendors in getting parts.
IMPORTANT - INFORMATION ABOUT OUR SHIPPING ADDRESS –
If you are returning any cores or products, it is important that you send them to the correct address.
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
529 HAYCOCK RUN ROAD
KINTNERSVILLE, PA 18930
We discovered that FedEx will not forward any packages that are sent to the old PO Box or to our old address in Plumsteadville. Instead they deliver the packages to the old address and leave them outside or send them back to the shipper. They refuse to forward and say that we should notify the shipper. In most cases, we have no idea when we are getting packages shipped back to us.
If you have any cores that are being sent back to us, be sure to use the correct address, especially if you use FedEx. Otherwise, we may not receive your package or it may be sent back to you.
CLICK HERE - For the link to the Kirban Enterprises ebay listings.
IMPORTANT NOTE ON RARE PARTS FOR SALE –
In order for our Inner Circle members to have an equal opportunity on the Rare Parts, no emails regarding orders on rare parts will be honored prior to 3 pm Wednesday. This way Inner Circle members get the opportunity first to purchase any of the rare items that may be pictured in the main body of the Inner Circle which may go on our website earlier in the day each week. Inner Circle members are the ONLY people that get to see the Rare Parts listing and see the prices
CORES NEEDED - URGENT REQUEST –
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
STEERING WHEEL CORES. Currently we need good 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering cores. They must be straight and not have rusted spokes. We will issue a Letter of Credit of $100 for each acceptable core. You must email me [email protected] a photo first to make sure the steering wheel is acceptable.
POWERMASTER BRAKE UNITS. Currently, we are accepting powermaster brake units. We give a $150 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core. If you include the turbo pedal, add $10. You would receive a $160 Letter of Credit. To avoid having your core not accepted, you MUST first email me a photo of the core you plan to send in - [email protected] - We will NOT accept any cores that have severe rust issues or have been disassembled. Core must have the brake switch and brake bowl reservoir. Too many of the cores we have been getting are in such terrible shape they are worthless to us.
TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $175 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core. We need cores now.
MASS AIR FLOW SENSORS must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal sensors. They can not be cracked or broken. Each acceptable unit is worth a letter of credit of $40 each. We need cores now!
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.
UPS or MAIL - Ship to Address –
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
529 HAYCOCK RUN ROAD
KINTNERSVILLE, PA 18930
GOOD NEWS - WE ARE ACCEPTING CLASSIFIED ADS -
Good news - We now accept Classified Ads in our weekly Inner Circle emails. Over the years several customers have asked about placing an ad in our weekly Inner Circle.
Here are the options and the costs.
Ads can be from any individual or company. It needs to be automotive related, meaning it does not need to be specifically Turbo Regal related. It can be for something for sale or something wanted.
Maximum number of words is 125 words, which is about 7 to 9 lines of copy. No photos. You can list a website. We recommend you state your name, phone number or email, a price, and your location in your ad.
The cost for 2 consecutive weeks is $25. The cost for 4 consecutive weeks is $40. You save $10 with the 4-week plan. No changes can be made to your existing running ad. You can only run one ad at any given time. We will have a code system at the end of your ad, so we will know what week number your ad is to run 2 or 4 weeks.
It can be an ad for something for sale or an ad for something you are looking for.
We have never missed a single week since we started the Inner Circle email format in 2009. It’s something I enjoy doing and I just always seem to have enough material to write about.
Our weekly Inner Circle reaches over 3,500 members every Wednesday direct to their inbox. The Inner Circle also appears every Wednesday on our website with the related photos. Your ad would be visible to both groups of readers. So, the exposure to your ad is well over 3,400 potential buyers.
Ads submitted properly by the previous Sunday would appear next Wednesday in the weekly Inner Circle. Ads must be submitted by email to - [email protected]
Payment by credit card must be done by phone to our office 215-766-1611.
CLASSIFIED AD -
WANTED TO BUY: NOS (New Old Stock) Buick parts for 1986 to 1987 Buick Turbo Regal. Will you be attending the Magna East Coast Buick Regional’s in Maryland on Saturday September 11th and have some NOS parts you are thinking of selling or lying around at home and want to turn them into CASH? Then please contact me ahead of time by phone or e-mail and let me know what you have as I will be attending this event in person and interested in anything NOS. I travel to purchase and am a cash buyer. Please call or e-mail and leave me a message. All calls will be returned. Jason Maxfield (416) 399-7265 or [email protected] Niagara Falls, NY 14304. Thank You! 1 of 4.
NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE BUICK RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the Buick Rare Parts section at the end of this Inner Circle, it is because you are not an actual Inner Circle member, but instead are reading this on the website. You must subscribe to see the Rare Parts section each week. It would go directly to your inbox every Wednesday afternoon. It is FREE, probably one reason why nobody complains about what I write about. To subscribe simply email – [email protected] - to get our free weekly Wednesday Inner Circle email.
Remember the Buick Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe.
EMAILS TO KIRBAN PERFORMANCE -
NOTE - If you email us and do NOT get a timely reply, be sure to check your “SPAM” folder. Some emails do not go through.
If you need to email us, use - [email protected]
TECH CALLS -
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. Please remember I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US –
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
AFTERMARKET EPA CERTIFIED LOW RESTRICTIVE STOCK CATALYTIC CONVERTER
Many owners may want to replace the original pancake-style restrictive catalytic converter. This is a unique catalytic converter with the proper custom-made 4-bolt flange at the back end. The overall length is 18 inches. This is a direct bolt in replacement and similar to the one we offered over 20 years ago. This only works with the stock 2-1/2 inch diameter downpipe.
It will bolt up to the stock exhaust or to the Pypes Dual Exhaust system, Part #6996, we sell.
Original catalytic converters can easily become clogged over a long period of time. They are also a lot more restrictive due to its pancake style. Some states have very strict laws regarding emissions equipment, even on older cars.
This catalytic converter also can lower any drone sound the current mufflers may make.
We offer this low restrictive catalytic converter, which weighs less than 8 pounds and is EPA certified! It is not a universal converter, but one with the correct 4-bolt flange on the one end that will directly bolt into your Turbo Regal.
With the amount of heat turbo cars develop, the converter can begin to break down internally and clog the exhaust system.
The EPA rules dictate that replacement catalytic converters must go in the same location as the original converter. This unit bolts into that same area and has the same mounting flange.
This catalytic converter comes complete with the 4-bolt exhaust flange. This 4-bolt flange is very unique to these cars as no other G-body application has this style flange. We also offer the 4-bolt flange, Part #7947, by itself for those of you that may want to get a test pipe made for off road use only.
Another excellent replacement for any exhaust restoration.
6567 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Aftermarket EPA Certified Low Restrictive Stock Catalytic Converter - $339.95
CLICK HERE - For a link to this catalytic converter on our website.
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
REPRODUCTION SPECIAL 4-BOLT EXHAUST FLANGE
We also offer a reproduction special 4-bolt exhaust 1/4 inch flange in case you want to have a test pipe made for off-road use.
Another excellent replacement for any exhaust restoration.
7947 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Reproduction Special 4-Bolt Exhaust Flange - $54.95
CLICK HERE - For a link to this exhaust flange on our website.
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction ALTERNATOR TERMINAL BLACK CAP
This new reproduction black plastic snap-on cap is identical to the original factory terminal cap. Cap has a dual notch. It protects the hot wire lead on the back of the alternator.
You may also be interested in these related parts - #7315 Brand New 120 amp Alternator, #7316 Brand New Custom-Built 200 amp Alternator, #7733 Reproduction Belt Tensioner with New Pulley, and #6609 Replacement Serpentine Belt.
Another excellent replacement for any engine restoration.
7946 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Reproduction Alternator Terminal Black Cap - $11.95
CLICK HERE - For the link to this cap on our website.
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. We also may buy your new or used parts. 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 used if 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 must 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 directly - [email protected] - and I will answer you. However, if I fail to answer you within 24 hours, please email us again.
Since expanding into used parts, I get a lot of emails and sometimes I may forget your request or may not remember who requested the item.
IN CLOSING -
Remember the weekly Inner Circle always goes out at 3 pm eastern time so subscribers all have the same equal chance on the Rare Parts. All our parts generally are priced to sell and below what others offer. Also our used items are exactly as described. Emails are acknowledged in the order we receive them regardless of when I respond as I am not always by a computer and I only use a flip phone. It's best to email as soon as possible as many of our items sell within the first hour!
WE ACQUIRED ANOTHER STASH OF TURBO REGAL PARTS -
Some of which can be found under the Rare Parts section of this weekly Inner Circle. Remember only subscribers can view the Rare Parts section. If you are not a subscriber, simply email me [email protected] to join. It's free and it has always been free. Because of our long time in the business we do come across a stash of parts from long time customers that for one reason or another contact me about selling their hoard of parts. You never know what we may turn up from week to week. Since we number each part I think it's somewhat amazing that we now have over 4,000 in our numbering system of parts we have sold. .
FROM OUR RECENT PURCHASE -
Hard to believe we have another brand new set of 4 Grand National wheels. Like the previous set (4) this set is brand new. The entire set has had proper storage. We also acquired a very extremely nice pair of 1984-1987 Turbo Regal tail light lenses complete with the housing and back up lenses. All you need to do is reuse your outer bezels.
PHOTO 1 - We show one of the 4 Grand National wheels front and back. Also the 4 Grand National center caps are still in the original boxes. Plus a set of 20 brand new GM correct lug nuts and 4 original grey valve stem caps. The remaining photo shows the set of 1984-1987 Turbo Regal used tail lights complete with the back up lens. Good enough in appearance for a show quality restoration.
PHOTO 2 - The top left photo shows a very nice slightly used 1986-1987 mass air duct hose. The top right photo shows a brand new 1986-1987 heater water valve. These are no longer available and none of the aftermarket ones look like this. The bottom left photo shows the billet stock inlet bell. The bottom right photo shows a set of brand new 10 ohm rear speakers that we used to sell about 10 years ago. All these items can be seen in the Rare Parts section for sale.
FRED BOATMAN -
If you are a long-time subscriber, you remember the cartoonist we used several years ago - Fred Boatman. Each cartoon was entitled, “The adventures of Tommie Turbo”. I would give Fred a theme for the cartoon and he would provide the finished product. Altogether he ended up creating over 35 Tommie Turbo cartoons for us. I have kept the original artwork for each cartoon he did. He passed away a few years back. Originally he did work for Petersen Publishing company and that is where I first saw his work.
A few weeks back I was at a newsstand and noticed a magazine entitled Cartoons. It was issue number 32. In this particular issue they did a 2-page spread on Fred Boatman. In the article it covered his background and the fact he was one of the ole skool original Automotive cartoon artists!
He created characters like Granny McGo, Dipstick, and Arin Gee for various car magazines. In the two page article it showed some of the cartoons Fred did over his life. One of the cartoons they showed was the one he did for us entitled “Time to Fix that Pesky Power Antenna”.
PHOTO 3 - The top left photo shows the original artwork that Fred did for us entitled “Time to Fix the Pesky Power Antenna.” The top right shows the cover of the #32 Cartoons magazine. The bottom left photo shows the two page article on Fred Boatman. The bottom right photo shows a close up where they show our Tommie Turbo cartoon.
KIRBAN CUSTOMS - DARRELL’S CUSTOM-BUILT GTO PROJECT -
As many readers know, my son has been working on making a customized 1967/2005 GTO. He started with an actual 2005 GTO. Then he cut all the body panels off along with the roof. He then stretched the unibody structure 5-¼ inches to accommodate the 1967 GTO wheelbase. After hundreds of hours of work, he graphed the 1967 body onto the 2005 GTO.
In June of 2018 I was a guest speaker at the GTO National convention that was held near our town. Since Darrell was looking for some GTO body parts, he and Devyn went with me.
At my seminar we met Blanco Brown. At the time we had no idea who he was in the music world. Boy did that change after we researched him on YouTube.
Go on Youtube and search Blanco Brown, and watch the videos of his popular international triple platinum song sensation “The Git Up.” The official video has already been viewed more than 122 MILLION TIMES with OVER 27,000 COMMENTS! The song is quite catchy.
He has a real love for GTOs and owns a 1965 GTO, and that was one of the reasons he attended the GTO convention. He even asked me to autograph a GTO poster for his collection.
Darrell and Blanco now have an agreement on the custom GTO that Darrell has been working on and Blanco and has big plans to showcase the car on tour with him. It will be finished as the perfect present for Blanco’s birthday next spring.
When Darrell has searched for various parts, he has run into several people that have figured out that he is our son.
You can see some of the current pictures in the link below. The drivetrain is all done and it rides on some pretty wide wheels. Darrell's skill level is nothing short of amazing.
If you are on Facebook, you can go to the Kirban Customs Inc. homepage to view photos of the project.
CLICK HERE - Here is a link to Kirban Customs Inc. photos of the GTO project car.
Here is the Facebook link where Blanco announced that Darrell is building this custom GTO for him. This is an awesome project and great PR for Darrell and Kirban Customs Inc.
CLICK HERE - For the link to Blanco Brown’s announcement about the GTO.
https://m.facebook.com/158693859925/posts/10158744117089926/
SPEAKING OF DARRELL'S TALENT -
I was at the local annual Hatboro Moonlight Memories car show this past Saturday night. The weather was absolutely picture perfect and not really hot. The Hatboro Moonlight Memories event was one of the first in this area to do these car show events where they shut down the main street through town for about 6 hours on a Saturday night. The event draws all sorts of cars and trucks. I did see one Turbo-T and one highly modified Grand National. Also one G-body 442. I did not see one single G-body Monte Carlo SS, which is unusual since they made so many of them. I did see several of the popular 5.0 GT Mustangs. Also a few of the highly desirable notchback models.
Mike O'Neil of ONeil Buick/GMC is a major sponsor of the annual Hatboro Moonlight Memories event. Years ago I was a judge at this event. A difficult job with such a wide variety of cars and trucks to pick the top 50! Many of you remember that it was Mike's dealership that I held a sales license for that enabled me to purchase over 325-plus Turbo Regals and 11 GNXs through. It was during that time that on one occasion in Tennessee I was at a rug warehouse buying a Grand National and the seller happened to mention he had a 1970 GS Buick and a 1935 Buick coupe sitting in this warehouse. I called Mike figuring he may want to buy the 1935 Buick coupe as I had never seen one before. Car was very straight and rust free. Car also ran. Turns out Mike bought both the 1935 Buick coupe and the 1970 GS and had them transported back to Warminster.
Mike then had Darrell engineer installing the 1986-1987 Turbo engine into the 1935 Buick Coupe. Not an easy project due to space limitations and no manual to go by as a guide! No matter what Darrell was able to do it. Mike then had the car all redone inside and his body shop resprayed it. Seats were original Grand National seats so he had them redone in matching grey and black leather which is a nice upgrade over the Pallex cloth format. The leather upgrade is a lot classier as I have seen other Grand National owners go that route.
So, at this past Saturday's Hatboro Moonlight Memories I saw Mike O'Neil’s restored 1935 Buick street rod. This is probably the only 1935 Buick coupe in existence powered by a Turbo Regal power plant. The end result is stunning. The combination just flat out works.
PHOTO 4 - The top left and top right photos I took when I first saw the car when Mike got it delivered to his dealership. This was about 16 years ago from what I recall. The perfect candidate for the swap! The bottom left and bottom right photos I took this past Saturday at the Hatboro Moonlight Memories event. It shows you the perfect blend of old and new Buick.
SPEAKING OF OUR SON DARRELL -
His 51st birthday is August 5th, tomorrow! Many of you have met him at our shows over the many years and seen his workmanship on various projects he has done. His skill levels far exceed anything I have ever done! If you want to wish him happy 51st birthday here is his email [email protected] To be that young again!
CURRENTLY IN STOCK -
POWER STEERING PUMPS 1986-1987 TURBO REGALS - We still have just a few of the rebuilt 1986-1987 power steering pumps in stock from Cardone. I have no idea if and when they will be able to find more to rebuild.
SPARK PLUG WIRES 1986-1987 TURBO REGALS - Basically for proper fitting 1986-1987 Turbo Regal spark plug wires you only have two choices. One supplier makes them with the proper wording on them. The other source is us. We have the correct boots on the ends and perhaps even more critical the correct lengths. Ours are also grey to closely match the original grey spark plug wires. Proper length is quite critical to avoid issues of them coming in contact with the exhaust manifold or the sharp edge of the plenum. Issues you want to avoid! Our part number #1531. Our wires are the only one that is carried by several other major suppliers as we do wholesale them to several sources. We learned over 35 years ago it is more beneficial to wholesale to your competition. They in turn wholesale to us so we both prosper.
BRAND NEW MODIFIED JEEP LOWER STEERING SHAFTS - We finally have reached the point where we have several in stock at all times. This clever upgrade is even better now since we are using brand new Jeep lower steering shafts instead of 30 year old ones. We are able to keep the pricing on the new modified Jeep steering shafts very near the pricing of the used ones we used to sell. I can’t take credit for this upgrade as someone else discovered this many years ago. I remember you could also use a GM Astro Van shaft as well and have it modified. I remember hunting them down in junk yards. It's a bit tricky getting them out of an Astro van. Normally a greasy job. I was younger then and was able to master the chore fairly quickly.
REBUILT 1986-1987 TURBO REGAL MASS AIR SENSORS - Currently we got 3 cores in and sent to Cardone in Texas to get rebuilt. These are rebuilt at their Texas facility. So if you want a stock original 1986-1987 AC Delco mass air sensor call our office 215-766-1611 to lock in on one of these from this next batch getting rebuilt. We need more cores badly.
CAN’T MAKE THIS STUFF UP -
Caught this in a recent post on Yahoo News. Seems an 84 year old gentleman has restored a World War II German Panther Tank. These tanks weigh in at over 44 tons. Authorities discovered his stash of illegal military arsenal during a 2015 raid. Pretty tough to hide a 45 ton Panther tank. Especially since during bad snow storms he would plow the roads in his town! The article went on to say he stored it in his basement among other artifacts of weapons. They want to fine him over $600 hundred thousand dollars. They already removed the Panther Tank which alone took over 9 hours and over 20 people. I had two immediate thoughts about this article, one which would be a simple solution. He surely must have had this tank a long time and they certainly must have known about it. He is 84 years old, just bide your time and not fine the guy! The other thing that came immediately to my mind is how big is this guy's basement to store a 40 plus ton tank and be able to move it in and out of his basement? Already a museum in the USA has expressed an interest in the Panther tank. While restoring an old car can be a daunting project, restoring a WW 2 German Tank has to be an even tougher project.
Latest news: His jail time was suspended. This is a good thing as he probably would have died in prison. His fine is $300,000. He has to sell his 45-ton tank or donate it and the anti-aircraft cannon to a museum or a collector within the next two years. Hopefully the sale of his arsenal will cover his $300,000 fine!
STILL AVAILABLE - A FULL SET OF REAL ORIGINAL GNX WHEELS LIKE NEW -
I am representing this set of real GNX wheels for one of my long-time customers who bought at least one car from me over the years. He resides in the New England area. The price includes all 4 center caps. No lug nuts. The price is $5895 and includes free shipping to the basic 48 states. The wheels have no scratches, and no road rash. Like new in every regard. They are the correct ones with different offset front and rears. For more info or pictures email me direct [email protected]
NEW LOWER PRICES - THREE TURBO REGALS AND ONE SYCLONE -
NEW LOWER PRICES ON ALL FOUR VEHICLES!!!! Prices may even be better if you buy more than one of the four vehicles. All 4 are still available. The 1986 blue T-Type and the 1987 Grand National he purchased were brand new. He is the 3rd owner of the white 1987 Turbo-T. The Syclone he also purchased was brand new. These vehicles are located in Tennessee. The light blue 1986 T-Type is $25,000 now just $19,000. The 1987 Grand National has the rare factory astro roof and has been repainted Corvette red. It is priced at $20,000 now just $17,000. The white 1987 Turbo-T is $25,000 now just $19,000. The Syclone has about 9,500 miles on it. It is priced at $44,900 now just $39,900 See past Inner circle for more details on these vehicles. For more photos and to reach the seller email me direct [email protected]
CAR SHOW DATES FOR 2021 SEASON -
EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS
Saturday September 11th 2021
This annual event is held at Cecil County Dragway in Rising Sun, Maryland. There is no rain date. I have gone every year for the last 5 or 6 years. Always a good event. Plenty of room and plenty of cars. This event was not held in 2020 so there is a lot of pent up demand for the return. I will be donating items for this event and I will be there as a vendor. I don’t bring many items to shows, but I do a lot of buying. So if you plan to attend, see me if you bring items to sell. Our plan is to hand out 3 special custom awards for the 3 cars that impress me the most. More details later. Bring us your cores for credit powermaster brake units and stock 1986-1987 mass air sensor cores.
EBAY LISTINGS -
Be sure to check ebay every week or so as we post parts under both Kirban Performance and Kirban Enterprises. You never know what will be posted from us.
LIST OF MECHANICS FOR THE TURBO REGAL UPDATE -
We will only post any new additions to avoid confusion. Refer to previous inner circle emails to see the entire list.
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If you have an idea or tip or a product idea, send it to my email [email protected]
TIP FROM KIRBAN -.
It is worth repeating supplies and inventory is still facing long delays for all the major vendors in getting parts.
IMPORTANT - INFORMATION ABOUT OUR SHIPPING ADDRESS –
If you are returning any cores or products, it is important that you send them to the correct address.
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
529 HAYCOCK RUN ROAD
KINTNERSVILLE, PA 18930
We discovered that FedEx will not forward any packages that are sent to the old PO Box or to our old address in Plumsteadville. Instead they deliver the packages to the old address and leave them outside or send them back to the shipper. They refuse to forward and say that we should notify the shipper. In most cases, we have no idea when we are getting packages shipped back to us.
If you have any cores that are being sent back to us, be sure to use the correct address, especially if you use FedEx. Otherwise, we may not receive your package or it may be sent back to you.
CLICK HERE - For the link to the Kirban Enterprises ebay listings.
IMPORTANT NOTE ON RARE PARTS FOR SALE –
In order for our Inner Circle members to have an equal opportunity on the Rare Parts, no emails regarding orders on rare parts will be honored prior to 3 pm Wednesday. This way Inner Circle members get the opportunity first to purchase any of the rare items that may be pictured in the main body of the Inner Circle which may go on our website earlier in the day each week. Inner Circle members are the ONLY people that get to see the Rare Parts listing and see the prices
CORES NEEDED - URGENT REQUEST –
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
STEERING WHEEL CORES. Currently we need good 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering cores. They must be straight and not have rusted spokes. We will issue a Letter of Credit of $100 for each acceptable core. You must email me [email protected] a photo first to make sure the steering wheel is acceptable.
POWERMASTER BRAKE UNITS. Currently, we are accepting powermaster brake units. We give a $150 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core. If you include the turbo pedal, add $10. You would receive a $160 Letter of Credit. To avoid having your core not accepted, you MUST first email me a photo of the core you plan to send in - [email protected] - We will NOT accept any cores that have severe rust issues or have been disassembled. Core must have the brake switch and brake bowl reservoir. Too many of the cores we have been getting are in such terrible shape they are worthless to us.
TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $175 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core. We need cores now.
MASS AIR FLOW SENSORS must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal sensors. They can not be cracked or broken. Each acceptable unit is worth a letter of credit of $40 each. We need cores now!
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.
UPS or MAIL - Ship to Address –
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
529 HAYCOCK RUN ROAD
KINTNERSVILLE, PA 18930
GOOD NEWS - WE ARE ACCEPTING CLASSIFIED ADS -
Good news - We now accept Classified Ads in our weekly Inner Circle emails. Over the years several customers have asked about placing an ad in our weekly Inner Circle.
Here are the options and the costs.
Ads can be from any individual or company. It needs to be automotive related, meaning it does not need to be specifically Turbo Regal related. It can be for something for sale or something wanted.
Maximum number of words is 125 words, which is about 7 to 9 lines of copy. No photos. You can list a website. We recommend you state your name, phone number or email, a price, and your location in your ad.
The cost for 2 consecutive weeks is $25. The cost for 4 consecutive weeks is $40. You save $10 with the 4-week plan. No changes can be made to your existing running ad. You can only run one ad at any given time. We will have a code system at the end of your ad, so we will know what week number your ad is to run 2 or 4 weeks.
It can be an ad for something for sale or an ad for something you are looking for.
We have never missed a single week since we started the Inner Circle email format in 2009. It’s something I enjoy doing and I just always seem to have enough material to write about.
Our weekly Inner Circle reaches over 3,500 members every Wednesday direct to their inbox. The Inner Circle also appears every Wednesday on our website with the related photos. Your ad would be visible to both groups of readers. So, the exposure to your ad is well over 3,400 potential buyers.
Ads submitted properly by the previous Sunday would appear next Wednesday in the weekly Inner Circle. Ads must be submitted by email to - [email protected]
Payment by credit card must be done by phone to our office 215-766-1611.
CLASSIFIED AD -
WANTED TO BUY: NOS (New Old Stock) Buick parts for 1986 to 1987 Buick Turbo Regal. Will you be attending the Magna East Coast Buick Regional’s in Maryland on Saturday September 11th and have some NOS parts you are thinking of selling or lying around at home and want to turn them into CASH? Then please contact me ahead of time by phone or e-mail and let me know what you have as I will be attending this event in person and interested in anything NOS. I travel to purchase and am a cash buyer. Please call or e-mail and leave me a message. All calls will be returned. Jason Maxfield (416) 399-7265 or [email protected] Niagara Falls, NY 14304. Thank You! 1 of 4.
NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE BUICK RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the Buick Rare Parts section at the end of this Inner Circle, it is because you are not an actual Inner Circle member, but instead are reading this on the website. You must subscribe to see the Rare Parts section each week. It would go directly to your inbox every Wednesday afternoon. It is FREE, probably one reason why nobody complains about what I write about. To subscribe simply email – [email protected] - to get our free weekly Wednesday Inner Circle email.
Remember the Buick Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe.
EMAILS TO KIRBAN PERFORMANCE -
NOTE - If you email us and do NOT get a timely reply, be sure to check your “SPAM” folder. Some emails do not go through.
If you need to email us, use - [email protected]
TECH CALLS -
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. Please remember I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US –
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
AFTERMARKET EPA CERTIFIED LOW RESTRICTIVE STOCK CATALYTIC CONVERTER
Many owners may want to replace the original pancake-style restrictive catalytic converter. This is a unique catalytic converter with the proper custom-made 4-bolt flange at the back end. The overall length is 18 inches. This is a direct bolt in replacement and similar to the one we offered over 20 years ago. This only works with the stock 2-1/2 inch diameter downpipe.
It will bolt up to the stock exhaust or to the Pypes Dual Exhaust system, Part #6996, we sell.
Original catalytic converters can easily become clogged over a long period of time. They are also a lot more restrictive due to its pancake style. Some states have very strict laws regarding emissions equipment, even on older cars.
This catalytic converter also can lower any drone sound the current mufflers may make.
We offer this low restrictive catalytic converter, which weighs less than 8 pounds and is EPA certified! It is not a universal converter, but one with the correct 4-bolt flange on the one end that will directly bolt into your Turbo Regal.
With the amount of heat turbo cars develop, the converter can begin to break down internally and clog the exhaust system.
The EPA rules dictate that replacement catalytic converters must go in the same location as the original converter. This unit bolts into that same area and has the same mounting flange.
This catalytic converter comes complete with the 4-bolt exhaust flange. This 4-bolt flange is very unique to these cars as no other G-body application has this style flange. We also offer the 4-bolt flange, Part #7947, by itself for those of you that may want to get a test pipe made for off road use only.
Another excellent replacement for any exhaust restoration.
6567 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Aftermarket EPA Certified Low Restrictive Stock Catalytic Converter - $339.95
CLICK HERE - For a link to this catalytic converter on our website.
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
REPRODUCTION SPECIAL 4-BOLT EXHAUST FLANGE
We also offer a reproduction special 4-bolt exhaust 1/4 inch flange in case you want to have a test pipe made for off-road use.
Another excellent replacement for any exhaust restoration.
7947 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Reproduction Special 4-Bolt Exhaust Flange - $54.95
CLICK HERE - For a link to this exhaust flange on our website.
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction ALTERNATOR TERMINAL BLACK CAP
This new reproduction black plastic snap-on cap is identical to the original factory terminal cap. Cap has a dual notch. It protects the hot wire lead on the back of the alternator.
You may also be interested in these related parts - #7315 Brand New 120 amp Alternator, #7316 Brand New Custom-Built 200 amp Alternator, #7733 Reproduction Belt Tensioner with New Pulley, and #6609 Replacement Serpentine Belt.
Another excellent replacement for any engine restoration.
7946 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Reproduction Alternator Terminal Black Cap - $11.95
CLICK HERE - For the link to this cap on our website.
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. We also may buy your new or used parts. 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 used if 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 must 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 directly - [email protected] - and I will answer you. However, if I fail to answer you within 24 hours, please email us again.
Since expanding into used parts, I get a lot of emails and sometimes I may forget your request or may not remember who requested the item.
IN CLOSING -
Remember the weekly Inner Circle always goes out at 3 pm eastern time so subscribers all have the same equal chance on the Rare Parts. All our parts generally are priced to sell and below what others offer. Also our used items are exactly as described. Emails are acknowledged in the order we receive them regardless of when I respond as I am not always by a computer and I only use a flip phone. It's best to email as soon as possible as many of our items sell within the first hour!