09-04-2013 Inner Circle

Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 09-04-2013

PHOTO 1 - Shows our September "Adventures of Tommy Turbo" cartoon. It shows two large birds hanging out over a GNX being washed saying, "LET'S WAIT UNTIL HE'S FINISHED BEFORE WE DO OUR FLY-OVER!"

I am sure many of you can relate to this photo. With fall coming, especially for those of us that reside in the northern climates, it's important you wash and wax your car prior to putting it into its yearly hibernation mode. It's also best to clay bar it first, for best results. I am sure most of you have your annual fall ritual to protect your investment(s). It helps to have some cats for rodent patrol as well. We have 3 that are residents in our pole building.



ADVENTURES IN AUTOMOTIVE GRAVEYARDS -

I've been making it a habit of going to various U-Pull-It yards in a 50-mile radius of our home. It’s interesting to discover various Buick models and some of the unique features that I didn't know about.

I recently came across two earlier-style dash clusters. Some of you have probably have seen one of these before, which came in the earlier Turbo Regal models. The unusual one I recently found came out of an early 1980s Riviera.

PHOTO 2 - The top photo shows the earlier-style Turbo Regal dash cluster. It featured five identical size pods with the turbo gauge in the bottom right pod. I have also seen another version for the clock where it was a turn wheel with the time on it, similar to an odometer format. The bottom left pod housed a coolant gauge.

The bottom photo shows a gauge cluster I removed from a early 1980s Riviera. This is very similar to the 1984-1987 Turbo Regal analog gauge cluster. This was a carburated car and did not have a turbo on it. Yet, the gauge cluster had the wording for the Turbo option. When I removed the cluster, it had no bulbs for the turbo indicator. This turbo indicator format is very similar to what appears in the Turbo Regal digital dash. This one had two lights that would come on. The photo shows it with the original bezel surround.

This year did not have the overdrive transmission, so it did not have the wording above the indicator for the transmission letters. The font style for the mph is slightly different than the 1984-1987 Turbo Regals. Also the number 55 is not in a different color. The kilometers is noted below the miles per hour instead of being on top like the Turbo Regal analog dashes are for the U.S. models. Actually they are hardly visible in this format.

You can clearly see how Buick used the same basic format on the early 1980s Riviera and then on the last of the rear-wheel-drive Regal models, including the Turbo model. These were also some of the last years to feature what is now a very outdated lighting system for the dash cluster.

PHOTO 3 - Shows a typical 1984-1987 Turbo Regal analog dash with all our upgrades installed. Visually, this cluster has a new applique surround and has the new telltale lenses that go over both sides of the indicator lights. A new clear plastic lens is over the main center cluster, which highlights our 145 speedometer face. Not visible is our LED light system that replaces all seven factory light bulb sockets inward by over 1 inch and throws a brighter light pattern on the gauges at night.

All these upgrades bring a new restored look to your 25-plus-year-old dash.

Also not visible is our low fuel indicator that would light up the Low Fuel Warning indicator when your Regal is low on fuel. For some reason, this feature was only offered in the Riviera as an option. On the Turbo Regals, it's indicated on the tell tale lens, but was never functional. All these upgrades are easy-to-do installs.

Here are the part numbers for all the parts we mention above. You can simply type these part numbers into the search block on our website to get complete details and prices.

#6508 - 1984-1987 Regal - “145-mph Speedometer Face Plate” Decal

#6973 - 1984-1987 Turbo Regal - Reproduction Applique Insert Kit, complete with all five pieces


#7234 - 1984-1987 Turbo Regal -
 Analog Dash LED Lights (7) Kit

#7244 - 1984-1987 Regal (Including Turbo Models) with Factory Analog Dash Only -
“LOW FUEL” Warning Indicator Unit

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

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



CUSTOM BUILT PATIO BENCH -

Our son has really out done himself this time. Darrell presented his mom with a unique birthday gift 2 weeks ago. It arrived that night by uniloader.

Armed with only a chain saw and an idea, he saved a huge tree that fell down during a recent storm.

For our patio he carved out what appears to be part of an arm with the hand extended. The end result is a one-of-a-kind wooden bench that will stand the test of time!

PHOTO 4 - This top left photo shows Darrell preparing the log to bring it out of the woods. The lower left photo shows him bringing the bench up to our patio with his uniloader. Once he got it in position, he raised one side up using big rocks from the yard. It's about 12 feet long and I estimate it to weigh 500 pounds or more. The top right photo shows the front side with the seats carved in the tree. It may not be visible, but he even has a cup holder between the seats! The lower right photos show the back of the bench. You can see how he carved it to look like a hand, complete with extended fingers. He even highlighted the fingernails. I am not sure if he is taking orders for building custom wooden benches, but if he is, you would own a unique one-of-a-kind wooden bench that was made in the USA!



BREAKING NEWS - STRAP CAPS COMING IN -

We are expecting our supply of Reproduction Strap Caps very soon. You can email Christina for pricing and availability. [email protected]

#6977 - 1984-1987 Turbo Regal - Reproduction Strap Caps (2) Set
#6978 - 1984-1987 Turbo Regal - Reproduction Strap Caps (4) Set



CLOSE OUT SPECIAL -

We recently bought out another company’s billet-style oil tube and breather assembly. This fits all the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal driver’s side valve cover. All billet construction with O-ring and a new chrome-plated top breather is included. Overall height is 4 inches. (See Inner Circle 08-14-2013 Photo 4)

We have 25 of them at $34.95 each. You must call Christina - 215-766-1611 or email - [email protected] - to purchase this, since it has no part number and supplies are limited. The company has no plans to make this part again. It normally sold for over $40 each.



OWN A C6 CORVETTE OR 2010-2013 CAMARO -

We now have available a Plug-and-play harness that will make your turn signals blink in sequence. The harness is a mere 5 inches long. It installs in minutes. It will not trigger a burned out light signal code. It works on all C6 Corvettes (2005-2013) and all 2010-2013 Camaros. Our Part #3134 and the price is $76.95. These are currently in stock.

2010-2013 Camaro (All Models) and
2005-2013 Corvette C6 (All Models) -
SEQUENTIAL TURN SIGNAL MODULE KIT

This kit is made in the U.S.A. using OEM spec connectors. This product is actually made by a company we have dealt with for over 25 years and who also make parts for GM.
This same kit works on the 2010-2013 Camaro (All Models) and 2005-2013 Corvettes C6 (All Models).

It’s a plug-and-play mini harness (approximately 5" long) designed for the brake/taillight bulb socket on the outside tail lamp housing on the Camaro and Corvette for the years noted above.

Two identical modules come in each kit, one for each side. The sequential delay alters the outer turn signal (brake) light.

The circuitry in each module produces a slight delay, which causes the outer turn signal light filament to come on a bit later than the inboard turn signal light. When it blinks, a sequential step between the inboard and the outboard light displays an outward flowing effect as opposed to both bulbs lighting at the same time. The delay is long enough to display a sequential effect, but short enough to prevent a diagnostics "burned out bulb" error in the vehicle.

NOTE - The brakes lights will both sequence outward when the brakes are applied.

Each kit comes with easy-to-follow directions, and takes only a few minutes to install.

#3134 - 2010-2013 Camaro (All Models) and
2005-2013 Corvette C6 (All Models) -
Sequential Turn Signal Module Kit - $76.95

Here is a link to this Sequential Turn Signal Module Kit on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44105/SEQUENTIAL+TURN+SIGNAL+MODULE+KIT+%233134.html



KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS ON YouTube -

Here is a link to the videos we currently have up on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/user/KirbanPerformance?feature=guide



A WORD ABOUT OUR ALTERNATORS -

While it is possible to buy a new 120 amp alternator elsewhere, it's not always the same as what we offer. Ours has the correct fan and pulley on it in the correct colors. Our findings have shown that some of the other sources do not come with the correct diameter fan pulley on it, which can cause problems unless you change your serpentine belt. Nobody wants to have charging issues by having an incorrect pulley on the alternator.

All our alternators are custom built by a long-time personal friend of ours that owns his own alternator shop. Each unit is tested to make sure it performs and comes with a manufacturer's warranty. All the internals and housing are brand new.

We are also one of the only sources that can offer a 200 amp upgrade in the stock housing. We also offer having your original alternator rebuilt and restored like new again.

Here are some related items to check out on the website:

#7316 - 1986-1987 Turbo Regal and 1989 Turbo Trans Am -
BRAND NEW Custom-Built 200 amp Alternator, Pre-tested with a 2-year Warranty

#7317 - 1986-1987 Turbo Regal and 1989 Turbo Trans Am -
YOUR ORIGINAL 120 amp ALTERNATOR - REBUILT with all New Internal Parts Using YOUR ORIGINAL Housing, Pre-tested with a 2-year Warranty

#7318 - 1987 Turbo Regal -
Original 120 amp Alternator Housing Kit with our stamped Part #1101 349 120A on the Housing

#7319 - 1987 Turbo Regal -
Original 120 amp ALTERNATOR - REBUILT with all New Internal Parts and our stamped Part #1101 349 120A on the Housing, Pre-tested with a 2-year Warranty

#7320 - 1986-1987 Turbo Regal and 1989 Turbo Trans Am -
UPGRADED Alternator Pulley Fan with Machined Spacer



ANOTHER URGENT REQUEST -

We have an urgent need for 5 or 6 stock turbos as cores. You can get $100 credit for sending us yours. Or, we will do an even trade for our new H4 headlight upgrade system a $129.95 retail value! You MUST email me personally [email protected] if you are interested as we only need 5 or 6 units at this time.

Help us help others by sending us your core. Cores for rebuilding are a vital part of keeping these cars on the road.



NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -

1978-1987 GM G-BODY MODELS
(Including 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal) -

GM WINDSHIELD WASHER BOTTLE and 
RADIATOR OVERFLOW BOTTLE (2) SET

These bottles will fit 1978-1987 GM G-Body models, including the 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regals. Over time, these bottles have yellowed or deteriorated. We offer these GM windshield washer bottle and radiator overflow bottles as a set. By replacing both of these bottles, it will help to refresh the engine compartment.

We only offer them as a set of two bottles.

These are more great engine restoration items.

6766 - 1978-1987 GM G-Body Models
(Including 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal) -

GM Windshield Washer Bottle and Radiator Overflow Bottle (2) Set - $49.95

Here is a link to these bottles on the website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44106/GM+WINDSHIELD+WASHER+BOTTLE+and+RADIATOR+OVERFLOW+BOTTLE+%282%29+SET+%236766.html



1981-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
UPGRADED H4 55/60 HEADLIGHTS (4) KIT, HARNESS & HEADLIGHT

This kit will fit every GM car that takes this same size four headlight system, including all 1981-1988 A-Body and G-Body models.

NOTE - Kit #7530 and Harness #7531 will not work with HID headlights.

We have examined several of the various H4 headlight systems available and have found one that closely resembles the original style headlight. The headlight is glass and looks very close to the original glass face of your sealed beam headlight. To eliminate possible problems with the factory headlight switch and its ability to handle higher wattage bulbs, we also include a special plug-in harness. This plug-in harness takes the current directly from the battery after you turn on the headlights. The headlight switch is merely used to turn them on. This eliminates any possible problems with the 25-year-old headlight switch.

The stock sealed beam headlights are 45/55 watts. These new H4 formatted headlights already have a 55/60 watt bulbs installed. The plug-in harness that comes with this kit has two 80 amp relays and an in-line fuse to prevent any overloads. This harness is designed for Halogen headlights only and not for HIDs.

The custom-made plug-in harness is highly recommended in the G-Body cars to eliminate any possible issues with the original headlight switch. Issues with higher wattage bulbs can cause the headlights to flicker or turn off completely.

This plug-in harness also allows you to upgrade to even higher halogen wattage bulbs (maximum 80 watts), if you want. It has been tested by our source running four 100 watt bulbs for over one hour with no problems. The plug-in harness is designed to be virtually undetectable under the hood.

Just upgrading to the 55/60 watt H4 setup will be an improvement on overall lighting, compared to what now is the antique sealed beam format. Once you get this H4 upgrade, you can easily upgrade to higher wattage bulbs, if desired.

Another upgrade that improves lighting while keeping your car stock appearing.

NOTE - We offer the set of four, or individually if you wish to purchase an extra H4 headlight the 55/60 watt H4 bulb as a spare (Part #7532.)

NOTE - We offer the Upgraded Plug-and-Play Harness (Part #7531) if you want to install a headlight kit from another source. This harness will work with all Halogen H4 systems.

Another great upgrade to improve the brightness of the headlights, while retaining a stock appearance.

7530 - 1981-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Upgraded H4 Headlights (4) Kit $129.95 / kit
Includes Four 55/60 H4 Bulbs and Plug-and-Play Harness
INTRODUCTORY PRICE - EXPIRES SEPTEMBER 30th, 2013 - $109.95 / kit

7531 - 1981-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
H4 Headlights Upgraded Plug-and-Play HARNESS - $67.95

7532 - 1981-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
SINGLE Upgraded H4 Headlight with 55/60 Bulb Installed - $22.95 each

Here is a link to these Headlight parts on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7530&submit_button=



CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS FOR 2013 -

EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS - Cecil County Dragway, MD - September 20th & 21st, 2013 -

The East Coast Buick Regionals are held at Cecil County Dragway, Maryland. Saturday, the 21st, features a judged car show for all Buick-powered cars.

For more info, contact Doug Doughtery at 302-653-2201 or email - [email protected], John Csordas 914-447-6068 or email - [email protected]

The website is - tristategsclub.com



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

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

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

Pete and I will have our usual array of used parts. CARS INC. and World of Motorworks will also be there with parts for sale. Some of the highlights for the Open House will be the raffle prizes, M&M contest, and a no reserve auction. We will have some really neat items for the no reserve auction including several items from Jays GN that we purchased.

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

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



2013 GS NATIONALS - October 16-19, 2013 - Beech Bend Raceway, Bowling Green, KY -

This is the 33rd Annual consecutive event held at Beech Bend Raceway, 798 Beech Bend Road, Bowling Green, Kentucky.

Jim Bell, of Kenne-Bell fame, will be in attendance to present honorary car and race show awards to both V8 & V6 cars.

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

Working on having the 2015 models of the new GNX and Grand National display along with a GM rep to hold a seminar on the car's development and performance capabilities.

For more info log onto - http://www.gsnationals.com/



BOPAPALOOZA 2013 - November 2, 2013 - Atco Raceway, New Jersey -

Buick-Olds-Pontiac Show and Go, Saturday, November 2nd, 2013. Gates open 9:00 AM. Show registration until 12 noon. Day of event rain info - 856-768-2167. Location is Atco Raceway, Jackson Road, Atco, New Jersey. For race info, call 856-768-2167. For more show info, call Tom at 856-524-2588 or email [email protected] Race Information - www.atcoraceway.com

I know Tom personally, as he is the editor of the GTO THE LEGEND, which is the GTO National club monthly publication. I often contribute articles for their publication.



LOOKING FOR IDEAS -

If you have any product ideas that would fit our Turbo Buick market that you would like to see available, email me direct - [email protected]



ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION WORKS -

Got any turbo parts you are not using? Why not cash them in for parts you need with a Letter of Credit. Simply email me a list - [email protected].

Also, we are still buying dead or partially dead 1984-1987 Turbo Regals under $4,000 that are within 250 to 350 miles of our location.



NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE - We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these have to be low-resolution photos to work on the Inner Circle segments on the website, any photos of text don't appear clear when enlarged. This is a problem when you are trying to see numbers, such as those on the VIN labels or pages from Options booklet. Also, because of photo reproduction and computer screen variations, the colors may not be true to the actual product or photo.

If you would like to have us email you any photo at the higher resolution for viewing, just email us and we will email them to you. Be sure to be specific on which pictures you want to see - Reference Inner Circle date and photo number 1, 2, 3 or 4 - [email protected].



ABOUT OUR EMAILS -

Any inquiries concerning used parts, you must email me direct - [email protected] - I will answer you. However, if I fail to answer you within 24 hours, please email us again. Since expanding into used parts, I get a lot of emails and sometimes I may forget your request or may not remember who requested the item.



IN CLOSING -

Remember to mark your calendar - Septemberfest Kirban Open House - September 28th 2013 - rain or shine - luncheon once again prepared by Chef Russ and Nancy, featuring a variety of food prepared on location and free! A real treat! The no reserve auction will feature several neat items.

Don’t miss this event!

Russ already went out and got a huge brand new barbeque for this event.

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