Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 08-31-2016 -
GMP TURBO REGAL DIECAST MODELS -
As you might have guessed, at the Corvettes at Carlisle event I spotted very few Turbo Regal items. I did however find a vendor that had 4 of the 1987 Turbo-T GMP diecast cars for sale. These are the 1:18th scale models.
According to the box cover, they made 3,882 of the 1987 Turbo-T in the 1:18th scale. I also have a new in the box GMP 1987 Grand National in the 1:24th scale. According to the box cover, they made 3,750. See the Rare Parts section for pricing and availability.
PHOTO 1 - The photo on the left shows the 1:18th scale grey 1987 Turbo-T produced by GMP. Brand new in the double box complete with Window Sticker as show. The photo of the right shows the 1:24th scale 1987 Grand National with both of the boxes it came in. I do not have a Window Sticker for the Grand National. This version may not have had a copy of the Window Sticker? It does come with both of the small booklets shown in the photo.
PHOTO 2 - Barn finds or cars that have had many years of storage continue to be popular. The photo on the top left shows a mid-1950s Corvette that had been stored for 44 years and just now has seen the sunlight! The price tag was a mere $49,000. The Corvette appears to be complete. Perhaps more than any other car group, the Corvette owner wants every piece of factory information they can get about their car, starting with the Window Sticker. The photo on the top right shows a rare ZR1 Corvette that had a display board that showed all the particular invoices and Broadcast sheets related to their car.
DECIDING ON WHICH EXHAUST SYSTEM TO BUY -
Deciding which exhaust system to buy for your Corvette is made easy at Carlisle. At Corvettes at Carlisle all the major exhaust companies have figured it out how to successfully market their exhaust systems.
PHOTO 2 - The photo on the lower left shows a lineup of all late model C7 Corvettes. Behind each Corvette was a company banner showing which exhaust system was on the Corvette in front of the banner. Owners would rev up the engine, so potential buyers could then decide which exhaust tone hit the right notes for them. Then they could buy the system of their choice and get it installed minutes later. The photo on the lower right shows an original 1963 split-window Corvette with the desirable optional fuel injection system. The sign on this original car said it had been in the same family for 45 years. It had a price tag of $100,000 or best offer. I wonder what that owner paid for this car over 45 years ago.
PHOTO 3 - The photo on the top left shows me with some of the items I had on display for the 2 seminars I conducted. The other 3 photos show various shots of the enormous amount of Corvettes on display.
PHOTO 4 - We still have this beautiful factory Mopar Hellcat vinyl display banner. It measures 3 feet by 6 feet. It was one of just 4 different Hellcat Banners Mopar produced when the Hellcat was first introduced to the public. I would possibly trade for Turbo Regal parts. See Rare Parts listing for price.
PRIVATE 5 BUICKS COLLECTION FOR SALE -
The collection consists of 5 1980s Buick Regals. They are a 1987 Grand National with 26,000 original miles, 1982 Buick Grand National with 61,500 miles, a 1981 Buick Regal Pace Car #35 with 55,000 miles, a 1982 Buick Regal Sports Coupe with 26,000 miles, and a 1987 Buick Regal T with the Y56 option. This is the V8 version which is quite rare today.
Also with the package is about a half ton of parts. All 5 cars are on the road and run great.
To see more information and photos appear on our website. It has taken over 20 years to amass this unusual collection. The price tag is $90,000. Cars are located in Canada.
Contact Randy Horton at 705-292-7369.
Here is the link for photos and more information:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44323/CAR+FOR+SALE+-+5+BUICK+CARS+COLLECTION+-+CFS042.html
1986 AND 1987 REPRODUCTION TURBO REGAL WINDOW STICKERS UPDATE -
ECS Automotive Concepts is now all set up to produce the 1986 and 1987 Turbo Regal Window Stickers in the correct format on the correct original paper. There are subtle differences between the 1986 and 1987 Buick Window Stickers, besides the GM part number. Some of the key features also include having the original GM part number in the bottom right hand corner and having the correct wording and font style on the back, which says how to remove the Window Stickers. In other words, these will be correct looking.
What we can’t guarantee is if the information that you - the owner - provide us with is 100% correct. You need to make sure you have the correct information. Once we get this program up and running, you would get a proof copy to approve prior to it going in the correct font style on the correct paper.
If you currently do not have an original Window Stickers, you need to gather up all the information you can so we can create one for you. One good source to contact for information on your Regal is - gmmediaarchives.com
Their Buick files go back to 1982. Their email is - [email protected]
They have files to verify options and, in most cases, the selling dealership for your specific car. Their fee is $50 and this can take 2 to 3 weeks to complete. Keep in mind in some cases, they may not be able to provide you with all the information you need because some of the files may not be readable.
As far as determining the original dealership that sold the car, you need all the codes associated with that dealership to make your Window Stickers accurate. Again, I have no idea if this information will be available from the files you get from GM Media Archives. Since all this takes 2 or 3 weeks you may want to get the ball rolling now so you have as much information as possible to provide us when you want to get a Window Stickers reproduced for your 1986 or 1987 Turbo Regal.
If you already have an original Window Stickers, it will be easier for us to get you an exact copy made so you can display it with your car and not risk something happening to your original one.
REPORT FROM CORVETTES AT CARLISLE 2016 -
My report from Corvettes at Carlisle in two words - Super Hot!
My granddaughter Devyn drove out Thursday night to assist me Friday as I was speaking at 10 am. I also spoke Saturday at 11 am. I had a bigger audience on Saturday than I did on Friday. Since I was a substitute speaker, my talk was not promoted in time so people did not realize I would also be talking about Hurst. Those that did hear me speak enjoyed the talk, especially the M&M contest that I did at both seminars.
If I had to guess there had to be more than 3,000-plus Corvettes on the show grounds. The grounds were packed, even at 9 am on Friday morning. By early Friday afternoon Devyn and I were dragging in the heat, even after drinking several bottles of water. Saturday was a tad bit less humid but I left early afternoon for home.
I did spot a 1970 four-speed GS Buick for sale.
At the Callaway booth I met one of their sales guys. I bought his Grand National over a dozen years ago. He said two guys came from Maryland and did the deal for me. This was the first time he had met me personally. He said his wife hated the Grand National, which is why he sold it. He lived in Virginia.
Long-time members may recall that I did have two guys that would go look at cars for me in Maryland and Virginia. I would send them a check from the dealership and a transit tag to bring the car up to my location.
Back then they brought me over 40 Turbo Regals, a handful of 5.0 notch back Mustangs, and several BMWs. They even brought me one Saab. I actually sold this Saab to a car dealer as they had a customer looking for a specific Turbo Saab. (It’s not often you can buy a used car and turn a profit selling it to a dealership).
In all those dealings every car made the trip! Somewhere I have an entire printout of the cars they brought me. I call them suit and tie guys as both of them worked at the headquarters for the 7th Day Adventist Group in Silver Spring, Maryland so they were both usually in a suit. Both of them originally had Grand Nationals, so they had the proper background on what to look for and did a great job. The other advantage was the cars generally were a lot nicer in that area than in my immediate area.
I also met up with Mike Furman at the event, who works for Criswell Chevrolet in Maryland. They sell a lot of Corvettes every month. He remembers bringing his early Oldsmobile 442 to one of our Reunion events at the Navy airbase in 1990 or 1991. It was his original plug wires that we used to produce the 442 wires for those early Olds 442 models. He sold his award winning Olds 442 years ago and recently found out it sold at an auction for over $125,000.
KIRBAN-STYLE GNX WHEELS UPDATE -
The Kirban-style GNX wheels we featured last week sold within 1 hour of our email newsletter being sent to our members that subscribe to our weekly Inner Circle. Remember, you have to subscribe to see the listing of the rare parts and prices. Otherwise just the newsletter portion and photos appear on the website.
I could have easily sold 5 or 6 sets if I had them available. Ironically, at the same time, a similar set was for sale on ebay. They were advertised as a Kirban-style 16 by 8 Enkei wheel with a 4 inch offset and a built date of 1987. Since the offset is close to the wheels we had made, I think they would also fit with no issues. This set on ebay was for more money than my set. Enkei did make a very similar wheel during the 1980s. As noted last week, our wheels did not become available until 1989.
THE BUYER OF OUR KIRBAN-STYLE WHEELS -
The buyer has always been around Grand Nationals since his Dad bought a new Grand National in 1988. As a kid he remembers going with his Dad to many of the Reunion events we did, including the ones at the Navy Air Base in Warminster, Pennsylvania. He even took his driver’s test in his Dad’s Grand National. It was his Dad’s daily driver for many years and had just over 400,000 miles on the engine - yes 400,000 miles.
So the car had many memories for the son. He recently acquired his own 16,000-mile Grand National that he plans to put the Kirban-style GNX wheels on.
WHAT HAS BEEN MISSING FROM THE MOVIES -
One thing that has been missing for years from the movies is the Western genre movies. I miss the old westerns, especially the ones starring Henry Fonda, Clint Eastwood, Steve McQueen, Jimmy Stewart, John Wayne, and others. (I am showing my age). The last western movie I remember was 3:10 to Yuma starring Russell Crowe, which came out about 10-12 years ago.
The good news for western fans is September 23rd a remake of the Magnificent Seven is coming out. I plan to see it. Now if only the USA Today would insert comics in their daily newspaper! If nothing else, it would offset all the terrible headlines on the front page!
In this past Monday’s edition of USA Today's newspaper the new movie The Magnificent Seven is rated as one of the top ten movies coming out this fall.
LOOKING FOR A BIG TIME FORD COLLECTOR - UPDATE -
This group of parts and cars is still available. We are still entertaining offers and the cars and parts may be split up, depending on what the 1969 Mustang Shelby GT 500 KR brings by itself. Part of the issue has been the 1969 Mustang Shelby GT 500 KR car is not 100% complete with original parts. The 1971 Mach One 429 is quite rough requiring a full restoration. The seller also has a wide assortment of gym equipment, including weights, tread mill, etc.
If you are local to our company and are interested, email me for photos [email protected] The seller would like to sell the gym equipment as a package deal. Buyer would have to disassemble the equipment.
Currently we are selling some of the 2008 Shelby parts on ebay for the owner, since the 2008 Shelby GT 500 car has been sold. This has been a challenging project for me since I have very little knowledge of Ford Cobra Shelby parts. I know eventually we will have everything sold for the owner.
IMPORTANT NEWS ON REPRODUCTION ALUMINUM DRUMS UPDATE -
I hoping to get an exact delivery date from A1 Cardone this week as I hope to have them in time for the East Coast Buick Regionals on September 16th and 17th. I will be set up at this event on the Saturday the 17th, 2016.
We welcome cores for a Letters of Credit. Also we are a buyer of any good 1986-1987 Turbo Regal parts.
Watch for details as we may have a special price on this next shipment of aluminum drums that you could pick up at the East Coast Buick Regionals in a few weeks. They would have to be paid for in advance.
GNX SPID DATA NEXT WEEK -
GOOD NEWS - CCCI SensorCheck Module - #7723 - AVAILABLE AGAIN -
CCCI (Computer Controlled Coil Ignition) SensorCheck Module - This is one of the best sensor check tools that Caspers Electronics makes and it is now available again. The delay was because he was waiting on the special plug needed for the units. This is a must-have tool to check cam sensor and the crank sensor, as well as fuses related to the Computer Controlled Coil Ignition and the dreaded no start issues! See part #7723 for more details.
Here is a link to the CCCI SensorCheck Module on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44305/CCCI+%28Computer+Controlled+Coil+Ignition%29+SensorCheck+MODULE+%237723.html
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
We currently need original good 1986-1987 AC Delco mass air flow sensors. We allow $40 Letter of Credit for each correct AC Delco core. See photo 2 in 7-13-2016 Inner Circle to determine if you have the proper mass air flow sensor we need.
URGENT NEED - TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $100 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
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 -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADSVILLE, PA 18949
UPS - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
6201 Kellers Church Road
PLUMSTEADSVILLE, PA 18949-1199
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. Keep in mind I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
CARS 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. 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]
TIP FROM KIRBAN -
Here is something I can’t preach enough about. Whether you own a hardtop or a T-Top Turbo Regal, before you replace any roof rail weatherstrips, you first need to make sure you have installed any of the missing body bushings and do the rear seat brace and front braces under the front end. It makes little sense to do the weatherstripping when the body of your car will continue to flex and create air pockets for wind and rain to get into your interior.
I personally installed the missing body bushings on every car we sold. I also installed the front frame braces and front connecting brace. This was not to increase my costs per car, but to have the tightest car possibly when a buyer came to inspect and drive it. (I did not do the rear seat braces as they are very time consuming!) In some cases, buyers had gone and looked at other cars prior to looking at the one I had for sale. By doing these minor upgrades to the suspension, it makes a difference in the ride quality.
Buick did a marvelous job creating a V6 power plant that was superior to any other GM G-body car during those glory years but the suspension, and body fit seemed to be a forgotten area of concern.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models including Turbo Regal) -
Reproduction RADIO BRACKETS (2) AND ATTACHING SCREWS (4) SET
The brackets to secure the factory radio in the 1984-1987 Buick Regals is unique to these cars.
You need these brackets to secure it the factory radio to the dash opening. The brackets are the same for both sides. You also need to have the factory 4 clips in order to attach these two reproduction brackets to the radio (see photo 2.)
The reproduction brackets are made in aluminum, so they will not rust. Set includes 2 brackets and 4 screws.
NOTE - You need to have the original 4 factory clips on the radio. If you do not have these clips, contact our office - 215-766-1611 x 0. We may have some used clips available, but they are not on the website.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7702 Rebuild Service for Original Power Antenna, #7703 Kirban Performance Products Rebuilt Power Antenna, #7684 Radio/Cassette Buttons Reproduction Aluminum ID Inserts (3) Set, or #7685 TWO Radio/Cassette Buttons Reproduction Aluminum ID Inserts (3) Sets.
7719 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models including Turbo Regal) -
Reproduction Radio Brackets (2) and Attaching Screws (4) Set - $19.95 / set
Here is a link to this to these brackets on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44324/Reproduction+RADIO+BRACKETS+%282%29+AND+ATTACHING+SCREWS+%284%29+SET+%237719.html
1987 Buick GNX -
Reproduction ascMcLaren DOOR JAMB DECAL
This is an exact reproduction of the original ascMcLaren decal done in vinyl, like the original.
It was on the driver’s door jamb on the GNX models. It was part of the GNX package, showing it came through ascMcLaren. Decal measures 4" x 1-1/2", is printed in red and black on a white vinyl material.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related items - #7900, #7901 and #7902 GM LICENSED DOOR JAMB VIN DATA DECALS.
Another excellent restoration item.
7731 - 1987 Buick GNX - Reproduction ascMcLaren Door Jamb Decal - $14.95
Here is a link to this decal on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44322/Reproduction+ascMcLaren+DOOR+JAMB+DECAL+%237731.html
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
INTAKE MANIFOLD TO HEATER PIPE REPRODUCTION FITTING -
BLACK OR ALUMINUM ANODIZED
This is a reproduction the 1/2" NPT fitting nipple that is required to install the coolant line to the intake manifold. It replaces the GM part #25518895, which is made in steel and is prone to rust.
This is an aluminum Black or aluminum anodized fitting. It replaces the old used steel unit that is over 30 years old.
It saves weight and gives that nice clean look to an old or new ported intake manifold.
Whether you are restoring or simply lost this fitting, this is an excellent replacement.
The fitting can be stripped or painted a color like the fitting painted blue shown in the photo.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #1508 160-Degree Thermostat, #6706 Reproduction Stainless Thermostat Housing and 0-Ring, #7269 Aftermarket DAYCO Molded Upper Radiator Hose, and #7299 Reproduction Rubber By-Pass “S” Hose, and #7300 Reproduction Upgraded Silicone By-Pass “S” Hose.
7644 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Intake Manifold to Heater Pipe Reproduction Fitting - ALUMINUM BLACK - $9.95
7645 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Intake Manifold to Heater Pipe Reproduction Fitting - ALUMINUM ANODIZED - $9.95
Here is a link to these fittings on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7644&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]
2016 CALENDAR OF EVENTS -
GS NATIONALS - September 14th-17th, 2016 -
Beach Bend Raceway in Bowling Green, Kentucky
See the GSXtra for more details, or their website - gsnationals.com
EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS - September 16th-17th, 2016 at Cecil County Dragway in Rising Sun, Maryland
Event includes a judged car show on Saturday open to all Buick makes and anything Buick powered. Free Vending. Saturday race classes must be Buick powered. For more information, contact - [email protected] or [email protected]
NOTE - This is not a misprint. Both the GS Nationals and East Coast Buick Regionals fall on the same weekend. We will be attending the East Coast Buick Regionals as a vendor on Saturday only September 17th. Bring any parts you want to trade also any cores you want to cash in for credit as we need mass air flow sensor cores, steering wheel cores, and could use a few powermaster cores.
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 -
The last two big major Buick events for the season are just a couple weeks away. If you’re going to either of these with your Turbo Regal, be sure you are prepared. Always take two sets of car keys. Make sure you have secured your car properly. Don’t make it an easy target for thieves. Have a great summer.
GMP TURBO REGAL DIECAST MODELS -
As you might have guessed, at the Corvettes at Carlisle event I spotted very few Turbo Regal items. I did however find a vendor that had 4 of the 1987 Turbo-T GMP diecast cars for sale. These are the 1:18th scale models.
According to the box cover, they made 3,882 of the 1987 Turbo-T in the 1:18th scale. I also have a new in the box GMP 1987 Grand National in the 1:24th scale. According to the box cover, they made 3,750. See the Rare Parts section for pricing and availability.
PHOTO 1 - The photo on the left shows the 1:18th scale grey 1987 Turbo-T produced by GMP. Brand new in the double box complete with Window Sticker as show. The photo of the right shows the 1:24th scale 1987 Grand National with both of the boxes it came in. I do not have a Window Sticker for the Grand National. This version may not have had a copy of the Window Sticker? It does come with both of the small booklets shown in the photo.
PHOTO 2 - Barn finds or cars that have had many years of storage continue to be popular. The photo on the top left shows a mid-1950s Corvette that had been stored for 44 years and just now has seen the sunlight! The price tag was a mere $49,000. The Corvette appears to be complete. Perhaps more than any other car group, the Corvette owner wants every piece of factory information they can get about their car, starting with the Window Sticker. The photo on the top right shows a rare ZR1 Corvette that had a display board that showed all the particular invoices and Broadcast sheets related to their car.
DECIDING ON WHICH EXHAUST SYSTEM TO BUY -
Deciding which exhaust system to buy for your Corvette is made easy at Carlisle. At Corvettes at Carlisle all the major exhaust companies have figured it out how to successfully market their exhaust systems.
PHOTO 2 - The photo on the lower left shows a lineup of all late model C7 Corvettes. Behind each Corvette was a company banner showing which exhaust system was on the Corvette in front of the banner. Owners would rev up the engine, so potential buyers could then decide which exhaust tone hit the right notes for them. Then they could buy the system of their choice and get it installed minutes later. The photo on the lower right shows an original 1963 split-window Corvette with the desirable optional fuel injection system. The sign on this original car said it had been in the same family for 45 years. It had a price tag of $100,000 or best offer. I wonder what that owner paid for this car over 45 years ago.
PHOTO 3 - The photo on the top left shows me with some of the items I had on display for the 2 seminars I conducted. The other 3 photos show various shots of the enormous amount of Corvettes on display.
PHOTO 4 - We still have this beautiful factory Mopar Hellcat vinyl display banner. It measures 3 feet by 6 feet. It was one of just 4 different Hellcat Banners Mopar produced when the Hellcat was first introduced to the public. I would possibly trade for Turbo Regal parts. See Rare Parts listing for price.
PRIVATE 5 BUICKS COLLECTION FOR SALE -
The collection consists of 5 1980s Buick Regals. They are a 1987 Grand National with 26,000 original miles, 1982 Buick Grand National with 61,500 miles, a 1981 Buick Regal Pace Car #35 with 55,000 miles, a 1982 Buick Regal Sports Coupe with 26,000 miles, and a 1987 Buick Regal T with the Y56 option. This is the V8 version which is quite rare today.
Also with the package is about a half ton of parts. All 5 cars are on the road and run great.
To see more information and photos appear on our website. It has taken over 20 years to amass this unusual collection. The price tag is $90,000. Cars are located in Canada.
Contact Randy Horton at 705-292-7369.
Here is the link for photos and more information:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44323/CAR+FOR+SALE+-+5+BUICK+CARS+COLLECTION+-+CFS042.html
1986 AND 1987 REPRODUCTION TURBO REGAL WINDOW STICKERS UPDATE -
ECS Automotive Concepts is now all set up to produce the 1986 and 1987 Turbo Regal Window Stickers in the correct format on the correct original paper. There are subtle differences between the 1986 and 1987 Buick Window Stickers, besides the GM part number. Some of the key features also include having the original GM part number in the bottom right hand corner and having the correct wording and font style on the back, which says how to remove the Window Stickers. In other words, these will be correct looking.
What we can’t guarantee is if the information that you - the owner - provide us with is 100% correct. You need to make sure you have the correct information. Once we get this program up and running, you would get a proof copy to approve prior to it going in the correct font style on the correct paper.
If you currently do not have an original Window Stickers, you need to gather up all the information you can so we can create one for you. One good source to contact for information on your Regal is - gmmediaarchives.com
Their Buick files go back to 1982. Their email is - [email protected]
They have files to verify options and, in most cases, the selling dealership for your specific car. Their fee is $50 and this can take 2 to 3 weeks to complete. Keep in mind in some cases, they may not be able to provide you with all the information you need because some of the files may not be readable.
As far as determining the original dealership that sold the car, you need all the codes associated with that dealership to make your Window Stickers accurate. Again, I have no idea if this information will be available from the files you get from GM Media Archives. Since all this takes 2 or 3 weeks you may want to get the ball rolling now so you have as much information as possible to provide us when you want to get a Window Stickers reproduced for your 1986 or 1987 Turbo Regal.
If you already have an original Window Stickers, it will be easier for us to get you an exact copy made so you can display it with your car and not risk something happening to your original one.
REPORT FROM CORVETTES AT CARLISLE 2016 -
My report from Corvettes at Carlisle in two words - Super Hot!
My granddaughter Devyn drove out Thursday night to assist me Friday as I was speaking at 10 am. I also spoke Saturday at 11 am. I had a bigger audience on Saturday than I did on Friday. Since I was a substitute speaker, my talk was not promoted in time so people did not realize I would also be talking about Hurst. Those that did hear me speak enjoyed the talk, especially the M&M contest that I did at both seminars.
If I had to guess there had to be more than 3,000-plus Corvettes on the show grounds. The grounds were packed, even at 9 am on Friday morning. By early Friday afternoon Devyn and I were dragging in the heat, even after drinking several bottles of water. Saturday was a tad bit less humid but I left early afternoon for home.
I did spot a 1970 four-speed GS Buick for sale.
At the Callaway booth I met one of their sales guys. I bought his Grand National over a dozen years ago. He said two guys came from Maryland and did the deal for me. This was the first time he had met me personally. He said his wife hated the Grand National, which is why he sold it. He lived in Virginia.
Long-time members may recall that I did have two guys that would go look at cars for me in Maryland and Virginia. I would send them a check from the dealership and a transit tag to bring the car up to my location.
Back then they brought me over 40 Turbo Regals, a handful of 5.0 notch back Mustangs, and several BMWs. They even brought me one Saab. I actually sold this Saab to a car dealer as they had a customer looking for a specific Turbo Saab. (It’s not often you can buy a used car and turn a profit selling it to a dealership).
In all those dealings every car made the trip! Somewhere I have an entire printout of the cars they brought me. I call them suit and tie guys as both of them worked at the headquarters for the 7th Day Adventist Group in Silver Spring, Maryland so they were both usually in a suit. Both of them originally had Grand Nationals, so they had the proper background on what to look for and did a great job. The other advantage was the cars generally were a lot nicer in that area than in my immediate area.
I also met up with Mike Furman at the event, who works for Criswell Chevrolet in Maryland. They sell a lot of Corvettes every month. He remembers bringing his early Oldsmobile 442 to one of our Reunion events at the Navy airbase in 1990 or 1991. It was his original plug wires that we used to produce the 442 wires for those early Olds 442 models. He sold his award winning Olds 442 years ago and recently found out it sold at an auction for over $125,000.
KIRBAN-STYLE GNX WHEELS UPDATE -
The Kirban-style GNX wheels we featured last week sold within 1 hour of our email newsletter being sent to our members that subscribe to our weekly Inner Circle. Remember, you have to subscribe to see the listing of the rare parts and prices. Otherwise just the newsletter portion and photos appear on the website.
I could have easily sold 5 or 6 sets if I had them available. Ironically, at the same time, a similar set was for sale on ebay. They were advertised as a Kirban-style 16 by 8 Enkei wheel with a 4 inch offset and a built date of 1987. Since the offset is close to the wheels we had made, I think they would also fit with no issues. This set on ebay was for more money than my set. Enkei did make a very similar wheel during the 1980s. As noted last week, our wheels did not become available until 1989.
THE BUYER OF OUR KIRBAN-STYLE WHEELS -
The buyer has always been around Grand Nationals since his Dad bought a new Grand National in 1988. As a kid he remembers going with his Dad to many of the Reunion events we did, including the ones at the Navy Air Base in Warminster, Pennsylvania. He even took his driver’s test in his Dad’s Grand National. It was his Dad’s daily driver for many years and had just over 400,000 miles on the engine - yes 400,000 miles.
So the car had many memories for the son. He recently acquired his own 16,000-mile Grand National that he plans to put the Kirban-style GNX wheels on.
WHAT HAS BEEN MISSING FROM THE MOVIES -
One thing that has been missing for years from the movies is the Western genre movies. I miss the old westerns, especially the ones starring Henry Fonda, Clint Eastwood, Steve McQueen, Jimmy Stewart, John Wayne, and others. (I am showing my age). The last western movie I remember was 3:10 to Yuma starring Russell Crowe, which came out about 10-12 years ago.
The good news for western fans is September 23rd a remake of the Magnificent Seven is coming out. I plan to see it. Now if only the USA Today would insert comics in their daily newspaper! If nothing else, it would offset all the terrible headlines on the front page!
In this past Monday’s edition of USA Today's newspaper the new movie The Magnificent Seven is rated as one of the top ten movies coming out this fall.
LOOKING FOR A BIG TIME FORD COLLECTOR - UPDATE -
This group of parts and cars is still available. We are still entertaining offers and the cars and parts may be split up, depending on what the 1969 Mustang Shelby GT 500 KR brings by itself. Part of the issue has been the 1969 Mustang Shelby GT 500 KR car is not 100% complete with original parts. The 1971 Mach One 429 is quite rough requiring a full restoration. The seller also has a wide assortment of gym equipment, including weights, tread mill, etc.
If you are local to our company and are interested, email me for photos [email protected] The seller would like to sell the gym equipment as a package deal. Buyer would have to disassemble the equipment.
Currently we are selling some of the 2008 Shelby parts on ebay for the owner, since the 2008 Shelby GT 500 car has been sold. This has been a challenging project for me since I have very little knowledge of Ford Cobra Shelby parts. I know eventually we will have everything sold for the owner.
IMPORTANT NEWS ON REPRODUCTION ALUMINUM DRUMS UPDATE -
I hoping to get an exact delivery date from A1 Cardone this week as I hope to have them in time for the East Coast Buick Regionals on September 16th and 17th. I will be set up at this event on the Saturday the 17th, 2016.
We welcome cores for a Letters of Credit. Also we are a buyer of any good 1986-1987 Turbo Regal parts.
Watch for details as we may have a special price on this next shipment of aluminum drums that you could pick up at the East Coast Buick Regionals in a few weeks. They would have to be paid for in advance.
GNX SPID DATA NEXT WEEK -
GOOD NEWS - CCCI SensorCheck Module - #7723 - AVAILABLE AGAIN -
CCCI (Computer Controlled Coil Ignition) SensorCheck Module - This is one of the best sensor check tools that Caspers Electronics makes and it is now available again. The delay was because he was waiting on the special plug needed for the units. This is a must-have tool to check cam sensor and the crank sensor, as well as fuses related to the Computer Controlled Coil Ignition and the dreaded no start issues! See part #7723 for more details.
Here is a link to the CCCI SensorCheck Module on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44305/CCCI+%28Computer+Controlled+Coil+Ignition%29+SensorCheck+MODULE+%237723.html
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
We currently need original good 1986-1987 AC Delco mass air flow sensors. We allow $40 Letter of Credit for each correct AC Delco core. See photo 2 in 7-13-2016 Inner Circle to determine if you have the proper mass air flow sensor we need.
URGENT NEED - TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $100 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
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 -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADSVILLE, PA 18949
UPS - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
6201 Kellers Church Road
PLUMSTEADSVILLE, PA 18949-1199
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. Keep in mind I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
CARS 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. 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]
TIP FROM KIRBAN -
Here is something I can’t preach enough about. Whether you own a hardtop or a T-Top Turbo Regal, before you replace any roof rail weatherstrips, you first need to make sure you have installed any of the missing body bushings and do the rear seat brace and front braces under the front end. It makes little sense to do the weatherstripping when the body of your car will continue to flex and create air pockets for wind and rain to get into your interior.
I personally installed the missing body bushings on every car we sold. I also installed the front frame braces and front connecting brace. This was not to increase my costs per car, but to have the tightest car possibly when a buyer came to inspect and drive it. (I did not do the rear seat braces as they are very time consuming!) In some cases, buyers had gone and looked at other cars prior to looking at the one I had for sale. By doing these minor upgrades to the suspension, it makes a difference in the ride quality.
Buick did a marvelous job creating a V6 power plant that was superior to any other GM G-body car during those glory years but the suspension, and body fit seemed to be a forgotten area of concern.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models including Turbo Regal) -
Reproduction RADIO BRACKETS (2) AND ATTACHING SCREWS (4) SET
The brackets to secure the factory radio in the 1984-1987 Buick Regals is unique to these cars.
You need these brackets to secure it the factory radio to the dash opening. The brackets are the same for both sides. You also need to have the factory 4 clips in order to attach these two reproduction brackets to the radio (see photo 2.)
The reproduction brackets are made in aluminum, so they will not rust. Set includes 2 brackets and 4 screws.
NOTE - You need to have the original 4 factory clips on the radio. If you do not have these clips, contact our office - 215-766-1611 x 0. We may have some used clips available, but they are not on the website.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7702 Rebuild Service for Original Power Antenna, #7703 Kirban Performance Products Rebuilt Power Antenna, #7684 Radio/Cassette Buttons Reproduction Aluminum ID Inserts (3) Set, or #7685 TWO Radio/Cassette Buttons Reproduction Aluminum ID Inserts (3) Sets.
7719 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models including Turbo Regal) -
Reproduction Radio Brackets (2) and Attaching Screws (4) Set - $19.95 / set
Here is a link to this to these brackets on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44324/Reproduction+RADIO+BRACKETS+%282%29+AND+ATTACHING+SCREWS+%284%29+SET+%237719.html
1987 Buick GNX -
Reproduction ascMcLaren DOOR JAMB DECAL
This is an exact reproduction of the original ascMcLaren decal done in vinyl, like the original.
It was on the driver’s door jamb on the GNX models. It was part of the GNX package, showing it came through ascMcLaren. Decal measures 4" x 1-1/2", is printed in red and black on a white vinyl material.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related items - #7900, #7901 and #7902 GM LICENSED DOOR JAMB VIN DATA DECALS.
Another excellent restoration item.
7731 - 1987 Buick GNX - Reproduction ascMcLaren Door Jamb Decal - $14.95
Here is a link to this decal on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44322/Reproduction+ascMcLaren+DOOR+JAMB+DECAL+%237731.html
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
INTAKE MANIFOLD TO HEATER PIPE REPRODUCTION FITTING -
BLACK OR ALUMINUM ANODIZED
This is a reproduction the 1/2" NPT fitting nipple that is required to install the coolant line to the intake manifold. It replaces the GM part #25518895, which is made in steel and is prone to rust.
This is an aluminum Black or aluminum anodized fitting. It replaces the old used steel unit that is over 30 years old.
It saves weight and gives that nice clean look to an old or new ported intake manifold.
Whether you are restoring or simply lost this fitting, this is an excellent replacement.
The fitting can be stripped or painted a color like the fitting painted blue shown in the photo.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #1508 160-Degree Thermostat, #6706 Reproduction Stainless Thermostat Housing and 0-Ring, #7269 Aftermarket DAYCO Molded Upper Radiator Hose, and #7299 Reproduction Rubber By-Pass “S” Hose, and #7300 Reproduction Upgraded Silicone By-Pass “S” Hose.
7644 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Intake Manifold to Heater Pipe Reproduction Fitting - ALUMINUM BLACK - $9.95
7645 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Intake Manifold to Heater Pipe Reproduction Fitting - ALUMINUM ANODIZED - $9.95
Here is a link to these fittings on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7644&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]
2016 CALENDAR OF EVENTS -
GS NATIONALS - September 14th-17th, 2016 -
Beach Bend Raceway in Bowling Green, Kentucky
See the GSXtra for more details, or their website - gsnationals.com
EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS - September 16th-17th, 2016 at Cecil County Dragway in Rising Sun, Maryland
Event includes a judged car show on Saturday open to all Buick makes and anything Buick powered. Free Vending. Saturday race classes must be Buick powered. For more information, contact - [email protected] or [email protected]
NOTE - This is not a misprint. Both the GS Nationals and East Coast Buick Regionals fall on the same weekend. We will be attending the East Coast Buick Regionals as a vendor on Saturday only September 17th. Bring any parts you want to trade also any cores you want to cash in for credit as we need mass air flow sensor cores, steering wheel cores, and could use a few powermaster cores.
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 -
The last two big major Buick events for the season are just a couple weeks away. If you’re going to either of these with your Turbo Regal, be sure you are prepared. Always take two sets of car keys. Make sure you have secured your car properly. Don’t make it an easy target for thieves. Have a great summer.