Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 09-12-2018 –
PLANS FOR EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS -
This East Coast Regionals event has no rain date. My plans are still to go this coming weekend. I will be there Saturday morning. Indications as of today is that the Hurricane would head inward south of Maryland. Weather could be cloudy with spotted showers. Having done car shows over the last 30 years, the weather is always that one factor that you have no control over that affects attendance.
If you are going, have a safe trip. We will be accepting cores. I will have our usual tagged and bagged used parts for sale. Also, some of our new products and banners.
If you are going, have a safe trip.
1986-1987 BUICK TURBO REGAL CATALYTIC CONVERTER COPPER GASKET –
This latest gasket from our gasket supplier is a Catalytic Converter gasket, part #7841, which is made in copper, so it can withstand high temperatures. This now gives us four Turbo Regal gaskets we sell made in copper for higher temperatures. See New Products section for more info and pricing.
PHOTO 1 – We show on the left the new 1986-1987 Turbo Regal Catalytic Converter Copper Gasket, part #7841. The photo on the right shows the new 1984-1987 Turbo Regal metal radio brackets, part #7838.
FRESH OFF THE TRANSPORT TRUCK –
I was going through some of my Buick literature the other day and I came across two of the original stickers or decals that would have been on the windshield of the new Turbo Regals when they arrived at the dealerships. Most buyers never got to see these stickers as the cars were prepped and cleaned so they could be put on the lot ready for sale.
PHOTO 2 – We show both original stickers or decals that would have been somewhere on the windshield of the new Turbo Regal models. Had I been a bit smarter back then I would have taken photos of the new Grand Nationals as they got unloaded from the transport trucks in my area.
POPULAR HOT RODDING APRIL 1985 ISSUE –
This Popular Hot Rodding April 1985 issue is one of the few times one of our personal cars received national attention in a magazine. It was a one-page article on the 1964 GTO test car we built in the early 1980s. What is unusual is, for several years I kept it painted primer black. Having that primer black look back in 1985 was way ahead of the curve of what you see today with various rat rods, etc. at car shows.
The last I recall this car was in the hands of a collector in New York. The hood was a one-of-kind. I had taken a 1964 Lemans hood and had the 1965-1967 GTO hood scoop molded into the flat 1964 Lemans hood, so the engine had functional ram air to the tri-power setup. I was told years ago that someone in New Jersey hounded the owner of my old car wanting to buy the hood, which he sold.
That hood is what made the exterior of my car unique besides the black primer paint job. It eliminated having to ever polish the car! A few years later our son Darrell would surprise me and put a beautiful black paint job on the car.
PHOTO 3 – Shows the cover of the 1985 April issue of Popular Hot Rodding and the one page article entitled, “A MOVER - The black sheep of the Goat family.” I had taken the best parts from later model GTOs and created this one-of-a-kind 1964 GTO.
MISCELLANEOUS ODDS AND ENDS –
Now, with the cars now being 30-plus years old, finding any of these cars in most junkyards is next to impossible. You need to seek out later GM cars and figure out what parts are the same for the Turbo Regals. Not many of the small items are the same based on my years of experience.
The shifter locking clip is the same for many years. The various radio knobs, and the c-clip that secures the wastegate actuator and cruise control cable can be found on various early 1990s GM cars. Also, the fuel rail cap is the same. See the Rare Parts section as we put together one such kit. We only have one of this kit to sell.
PHOTO 4 – We show the parts that make up this kit which includes a used (untested) powermaster brake switch, set of inner and outer radio tuner knobs, the 3 cassette push buttons, the power and Din button for the radio, 2 of the c-clips, and one fuel rail cap. As a bonus a cool looking turbo key chain. All the parts shown are used and in very nice condition.
UPGRADED LOWER STEERING SHAFT –
It has been at least 4 months since we been able to obtain of these upgraded used lower steering shafts. This is superior to the factory lower steering shaft, as these shafts have a metal universal joint at both ends. See Rare Parts section.
BURT REYNOLDS AND A GNX –
With the recent passing of movie star Burt Reynolds here is a bit of trivia you may not know. In the late 1980s Burt did own a real GNX. I recall selling him some parts back then. Unfortunate I don’t remember the car number. I recall he did have the headrests replaced with ones that have the name of the college he went to embroidered on them.
Pontiac should have given Burt a huge commission check for what he did to promote the black Trans Am in the 1970s! We had one. It was a 1976 model and the last year for the 455 and it was a manual shift car. Smog laden and lack of horsepower, I sold it with less than 3,000 miles on it. (My GTO was quicker).
COMING FULL CIRCLE –
Many of you may recall when the 1987 Grand National was new many magazines would compare it to the 1987 Corvette. In various road tests of 0-60 runs the Grand National proved to be the faster car. The Corvette has always been considered the Halo car for GM. I am not sure if it was a written rule or simply word of mouth but the Corvette was always supposed to be the quickest in the GM family. Buick had its brief moment in the sun so much so bumper stickers surfaced back then that simply said, “We Brake For Corvettes”. This bumper sticker can even be seen in the hardbound GNX book.
What I find interesting is now its 30 years later and the values of a comparable mint 1987 Corvette and a mint 1987 Grand National are vastly different. Local to me is an all original garage kept 1987 Corvette. This 1987 Corvette is the right color being red and rare manual shift. Only has 21,000 miles on it. Car has never seen the snow all the documents garage kept. It has been advertised for at least 3 weeks for $13,500 and no takers!
Take a comparable 1987 Grand National in the same condition and the real price would be close to or more than double that. Plus it would not take 3 weeks to sell it. What I find strange is in the Old Cars Price Guide May/June 2018 edition it puts a 1987 Corvette hatchback in number #1 condition at $28k. This to me is way out of line as to the real value. In the same magazine, the 1987 Grand National in #1 condition is listed at $40k. This may be just a tad too high. However, this high value helps you as a buyer if you are borrowing money to buy your investment.
Buick had its rare moment in the sun where all the attention was on the 1987 Grand National and not the 1987 Corvette. A rare moment indeed and one that I doubt will ever be repeated. Back then and more so today the 1987 Grand National and comparable Turbo-T is a far better investment than a 1987 Corvette hatchback or convertible.
JUST UNDER 3% AND DROPPING EACH YEAR –
I am referring to the number of new cars being sold in the USA having a manual shift transmission. Buying a new manual shift car is fading quickly. Of the six cars that my wife and I have, 2 are manual shift. Unless you drive in heavy traffic every day manual shift cars are fun to drive in my opinion. Good thing Hurst hit it big in the 1960s when 4-speed manual shift cars were the hot item for American muscle cars.
300-MILE 1987 GRAND NATIONAL HARDTOP –
You can now view a total of 16 photos of this 266-mile 1987 Grand National. I also have a list of all the work that was done to freshen up this prime example back to its original glory. A rare chance to own one of the lowest mileage 1987 Grand Nationals in the country.
This car has enjoyed inside storage in a warehouse in Texas since it was purchased and tucked away. Until last November 2017 it only had 50 miles on it! I am waiting for more info. Even the window sticker is still attached to the window!
Car has now been fully detailed.
Own one of the best 1987 Grand Nationals with less than 300 actual miles since new. Asking price is $62,900.
Email me personally - [email protected] for more information and photos.
Here is the link to the other photos of this pristine car on our website.
2018 TURBO BUICK RELATED CAR SHOWS EVENTS -
MAGNA - MID ATLANTIC GRAND NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
22nd EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS -
September 14th and 15th, 2018 - Cecil County Dragway, Cecil, Maryland
The MAGNA Group has their annual event September 14th and 15th at Cecil County Dragway in Cecil County, Maryland. This event grows bigger each year and is open to all Buick muscle cars not just the Turbo Regals. We expect to be attending this event. (It falls on my birthday). Be sure to bring any parts you want to trade in for credit or parts we may be interested in buying. For more details, go to turbobuick.com - or - their website - magnabuick.com
NOTE: If you are planning on attending this Fall event and want to save on shipping expenses contact our office this week so arrangements can be made for me to bring. Space is limited in my Tahoe. Items must be paid for in full in order for me to bring to this event.
ADDITIONAL NOTE – Last year they had about 100 Buicks in attendance. Event is open to any year or model Buick. This event is advertised as a Buick display so your Buick does not have to be in show condition. This year more Buick vendors are expected. This is the big Buick event for the east coast region. Hopefully, the hurricane steers clear of the east coast.
38th ANNUAL GS NATIONALS –
October 24th - 27th, 2018
The dates for this year are October 24-27, 2018. Same location, Beech Bend Race Park, Bowling Green, Kentucky. For more info, go to their website - GSnationals.com
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 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 3,200 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 3,200 potential buyers.
Ads submitted properly by the previous Sunday would appear that 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 x 0.
CLASSIFIED AD –
AD - 1987 TURBO REGAL HARDTOP FOR SALE –
This is a 73,000 mile original California survivor, 100% rust free, dark blue exterior and matching interior. Car has never been in storage, always slightly used. Factory aluminum wheels, aluminum drums, aluminum bumper inserts, all upgrades have been done, but still looks totally stock and very correct throughout. Ice cold A/C still uses R12, PW, tilt, cruise, posi, window sticker, original exhaust with correct replacement muffler, under carriage as clean as the top side. Car is fully detailed for show, drive anywhere. The car received “Award of Excellence” at 2013 East Coast Regionals. It can be seen at this year’s East Coast Buick Regionals at Cecile County Maryland Dragway on September 15th. It needs nothing, runs better than new best offer over $20k. I am a member of NE GS/GN Club and co-director local BCA Club. Contact Steve Perry 914-262-9965 for more info and pictures. Carmel, NY. Email [email protected] 1 of 4
AD - DIECAST TURBO REGAL MODELS FOR SALE –
Sold our house and selling off my Diecast Collection of GN, GNX, and Turbo Regals. All of the below diecast cars listed are in like new condition and many have never been displayed. All contain original packaging, cartons, and outer boxes. Photos any of the cars and boxes can be sent to interested parties
Four car complete set of 1:24 scale 1987 Buick Turbo Regals manufactured by “MOTOR MAX’ Blue, Black, Silver, and White Turbo Regals Manufactured and marketed and sold as a set of four with original box. $150 includes shipping to the upper 48 states.
GMP 10th Anniversary 1:18 scale Grand National. This is the special “CHROME” edition. 1 of 2,508 produced. $120 includes shipping to the upper 48 states.
Complete 4 car set of GMP 1:18 scale 1987 Buick Turbo Regal D84, Designer Series Set. This was issued in 2004 only 500 sets were made available. The set contains the four two-tone color combinations available for option D84. The set includes stock number G1800216, Brown over Light Brown, G1800217, Gray over Silver, G180218, Dark blue over Light Blue, and G1800219, Dark Red over Rosewood. $260 includes shipping to the upper 48 states.
This is the rarest set. Peachtree Limited Edition 1 of 3,504, produced #8001. 1987 Grand National complete with copy of the rare window sticker. This is the original packaging complete with the ultra-hard to find plain brown, unmarked outer shipping box. This is the first model of the GN produced by Peachtree (GMP). The car, boxes, and window sticker are in prestine unusual condition. $290 includes shipping to the upper 48 states 4 of 4.
On all the above diecast, contact - [email protected]
NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the Rare Parts section at the end of this Inner Circle, it is because you are not an 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. Simply email - [email protected] - to get on our weekly Inner Circle email.
My Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!
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 thru.
If you need to email us, use - [email protected]
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If there are any tips or ideas you want to share with our readers, email me – [email protected]
TIP FROM KIRBAN –
Remember the East Coast Buick Regionals is this Saturday and has no rain date. Hope to see you there. Bring us cores! We are a buyer for any new or good used parts you may want to sell.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED - Powermaster brake units. The must be complete. We will now issue you a Letter of Credit for $150 for each acceptable core. We currently will not buy any powermaster units outright, only Letter of Credit towards parts.
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. These are the only 2 items we are currently accepting as cores.
MAIL - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949
UPS - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
6201 Kellers Church Road
PLUMSTEADVILLE, 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. Please remember I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US –
GM Licensed - “GNX - AD from ASC” and
“1987 GRAND NATIONAL with Hub Caps Background” MUGS
Our GM licensed supplier has taken the two popular Turbo Regal banners and put that same design on a high-quality white 11-ounce ceramic coffee mug.
These GM licensed mugs make an excellent gift for any Buick enthusiast or mechanic. Ideal to for any garage, workshop, office or to display at a car show.
The GNX AD from ASC mug has the artwork repeated on both sides of the mug.
The Grand National layout wraps around the mug.
Another excellent Buick enthusiast gift idea.
7839 - GM Licensed - “GNX - AD from ASC” Mug - $12.95
7840 - GM Licensed - “1987 Grand National with Hub Caps Background” Mug - $12.95
Here is a link to these mugs on our website.
1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Reproduction METAL RADIO BRACKETS (2) SET
We now offer an excellent reproduction of the unique brackets Buick used to secure the radio in any 1984-1987, Regal including the Turbo models.
The metal bracket is the same for both sides but mounts differently on each side of the GM radio.
This is a critical part you need to install any factory correct 1984-1987 GM radio. It also fits many of the later GM radios that have the same frame and size, including some of the early factory GM CD players.
Another excellent replacement for any interior restoration.
7838 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Reproduction Metal Radio Brackets (2) Set - $25
Here is a link to these brackets on our website.
1984-1987 G-Body (Including Buick Turbo Regal) -
WINDOW RACER™
The Window Racer™ - Because everything should go fast…
Make your 30+year-old power windows fly up and down like they never have before. Even better than they ever were new! Your windows will be just as fast as a new vehicle.
Simple installation, just plug and play.
If you have a power moon roof, it’s on the same circuit so this unit will make that operate faster too.
NOTE - It will also work on other vehicles if it has a 30 amp circuit breaker.
An excellent upgrade for your car.
We also offer a Window Rattle Elimination Kit, #7170. This replaces a lot of the worn out components in the door.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7170 Window Rattle Elimination Kit, #6949 Brand New Power Window Motor Kit, #7068 Reproduction Driver’s Side Dual Power Window Switch, #7069 - Reproduction Passenger’s Side Single Power Window Switch, and #7217 Reproduction Outside Door Sill Weatherstrips (2).
Here are some of the most common questions asked of the manufacturer:
Q - How hard is it to do and long does it take to install the Window Racer?
A - It will take you longer to get some tools together to access the fuse box. Usually a flat-head screw driver, 7mm sockets, etc. You are accessing the cover of the fuse box.
You simply find the 30 amp circuit breaker in the fuse box marked for the power windows. You remove the current 30 amp circuit breaker and install into Window Racer plug end the same way you removed the circuit breaker. The plug looks just like the circuit breaker you are removing.
You then plug the Window Racer where the circuit breaker is located.
Then you take a screw #10 or smaller and ground the black wire to a suitable ground.The key turned forward the red light will come on to let you know the unit is working. If the light does not come on, verify a good ground and that your key is turned to the accessory position.
Q - How do I know if it is working? I plugged it in but my dead window still isn’t working. Why?
A - Window Racer does not fix bad wiring, a bad motor, or switch. When the you hit the window switch, the green light comes on. You know that the circuit is completed and working. Motor is good and the circuit breaker is fine. The window is now going faster than I ever thought it could.
Q - How many Window Racers do I need for my vehicle?
A - Just one. It works all the windows and the factory power moon roof, if your car has a moon roof.
Q - My power moon roof?
A - Yes, it will make your factory moon roof fly back and forth, just like your windows.
Q - Can I operate all the windows and the moon roof at the same time?
A - Yes, the speed is quicker even if you operate both at the same time. However, it is not faster if you operate only one window.
Q - Can the Window Racer burn up my wiring? Will it cause damage to my switches? What about the motor, it has to be hurting the motor right?
A - No. Actually it takes less amps to operate the motors then it did from the factory. The Amp Load is what generally causes the switches and motors to die. You know this if you have or had a weak motor. Your switch went bad and you replaced this because it was easier than replacing the motor.
Q - Well this leads me to another question. Will it make a bad motor run like new?
A - During testing we have seen motors that allow the window to go down but not go back up. When Window Racer was installed, it actually allowed the window to go back up. Of course, not as fast as a good motor.
Q - Ok, this leads me to another question. What if I am out and for some reason the Window Racer would go bad? Am I stuck with my windows up or down?
A - No, the Window Racer has an internal protection because we know there will be that one person with two bad motors who doesn't want to change them and it will eventually kill the internal protection. If for some reason the unit fails, the circuit breaker allows the vehicle to go back to the slow factory operation like normal.
Q - How long is the Warranty?
A - There is a 1-year Manufacturer Warranty.
7837 - 1984-1987 G-Body (Including Buick Turbo Regal) - Window Racer™
Here is a link to this Window Racer 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 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 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 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 –
Let’s hope the hurricane bypasses the east coast this coming weekend.
PLANS FOR EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS -
This East Coast Regionals event has no rain date. My plans are still to go this coming weekend. I will be there Saturday morning. Indications as of today is that the Hurricane would head inward south of Maryland. Weather could be cloudy with spotted showers. Having done car shows over the last 30 years, the weather is always that one factor that you have no control over that affects attendance.
If you are going, have a safe trip. We will be accepting cores. I will have our usual tagged and bagged used parts for sale. Also, some of our new products and banners.
If you are going, have a safe trip.
1986-1987 BUICK TURBO REGAL CATALYTIC CONVERTER COPPER GASKET –
This latest gasket from our gasket supplier is a Catalytic Converter gasket, part #7841, which is made in copper, so it can withstand high temperatures. This now gives us four Turbo Regal gaskets we sell made in copper for higher temperatures. See New Products section for more info and pricing.
PHOTO 1 – We show on the left the new 1986-1987 Turbo Regal Catalytic Converter Copper Gasket, part #7841. The photo on the right shows the new 1984-1987 Turbo Regal metal radio brackets, part #7838.
FRESH OFF THE TRANSPORT TRUCK –
I was going through some of my Buick literature the other day and I came across two of the original stickers or decals that would have been on the windshield of the new Turbo Regals when they arrived at the dealerships. Most buyers never got to see these stickers as the cars were prepped and cleaned so they could be put on the lot ready for sale.
PHOTO 2 – We show both original stickers or decals that would have been somewhere on the windshield of the new Turbo Regal models. Had I been a bit smarter back then I would have taken photos of the new Grand Nationals as they got unloaded from the transport trucks in my area.
POPULAR HOT RODDING APRIL 1985 ISSUE –
This Popular Hot Rodding April 1985 issue is one of the few times one of our personal cars received national attention in a magazine. It was a one-page article on the 1964 GTO test car we built in the early 1980s. What is unusual is, for several years I kept it painted primer black. Having that primer black look back in 1985 was way ahead of the curve of what you see today with various rat rods, etc. at car shows.
The last I recall this car was in the hands of a collector in New York. The hood was a one-of-kind. I had taken a 1964 Lemans hood and had the 1965-1967 GTO hood scoop molded into the flat 1964 Lemans hood, so the engine had functional ram air to the tri-power setup. I was told years ago that someone in New Jersey hounded the owner of my old car wanting to buy the hood, which he sold.
That hood is what made the exterior of my car unique besides the black primer paint job. It eliminated having to ever polish the car! A few years later our son Darrell would surprise me and put a beautiful black paint job on the car.
PHOTO 3 – Shows the cover of the 1985 April issue of Popular Hot Rodding and the one page article entitled, “A MOVER - The black sheep of the Goat family.” I had taken the best parts from later model GTOs and created this one-of-a-kind 1964 GTO.
MISCELLANEOUS ODDS AND ENDS –
Now, with the cars now being 30-plus years old, finding any of these cars in most junkyards is next to impossible. You need to seek out later GM cars and figure out what parts are the same for the Turbo Regals. Not many of the small items are the same based on my years of experience.
The shifter locking clip is the same for many years. The various radio knobs, and the c-clip that secures the wastegate actuator and cruise control cable can be found on various early 1990s GM cars. Also, the fuel rail cap is the same. See the Rare Parts section as we put together one such kit. We only have one of this kit to sell.
PHOTO 4 – We show the parts that make up this kit which includes a used (untested) powermaster brake switch, set of inner and outer radio tuner knobs, the 3 cassette push buttons, the power and Din button for the radio, 2 of the c-clips, and one fuel rail cap. As a bonus a cool looking turbo key chain. All the parts shown are used and in very nice condition.
UPGRADED LOWER STEERING SHAFT –
It has been at least 4 months since we been able to obtain of these upgraded used lower steering shafts. This is superior to the factory lower steering shaft, as these shafts have a metal universal joint at both ends. See Rare Parts section.
BURT REYNOLDS AND A GNX –
With the recent passing of movie star Burt Reynolds here is a bit of trivia you may not know. In the late 1980s Burt did own a real GNX. I recall selling him some parts back then. Unfortunate I don’t remember the car number. I recall he did have the headrests replaced with ones that have the name of the college he went to embroidered on them.
Pontiac should have given Burt a huge commission check for what he did to promote the black Trans Am in the 1970s! We had one. It was a 1976 model and the last year for the 455 and it was a manual shift car. Smog laden and lack of horsepower, I sold it with less than 3,000 miles on it. (My GTO was quicker).
COMING FULL CIRCLE –
Many of you may recall when the 1987 Grand National was new many magazines would compare it to the 1987 Corvette. In various road tests of 0-60 runs the Grand National proved to be the faster car. The Corvette has always been considered the Halo car for GM. I am not sure if it was a written rule or simply word of mouth but the Corvette was always supposed to be the quickest in the GM family. Buick had its brief moment in the sun so much so bumper stickers surfaced back then that simply said, “We Brake For Corvettes”. This bumper sticker can even be seen in the hardbound GNX book.
What I find interesting is now its 30 years later and the values of a comparable mint 1987 Corvette and a mint 1987 Grand National are vastly different. Local to me is an all original garage kept 1987 Corvette. This 1987 Corvette is the right color being red and rare manual shift. Only has 21,000 miles on it. Car has never seen the snow all the documents garage kept. It has been advertised for at least 3 weeks for $13,500 and no takers!
Take a comparable 1987 Grand National in the same condition and the real price would be close to or more than double that. Plus it would not take 3 weeks to sell it. What I find strange is in the Old Cars Price Guide May/June 2018 edition it puts a 1987 Corvette hatchback in number #1 condition at $28k. This to me is way out of line as to the real value. In the same magazine, the 1987 Grand National in #1 condition is listed at $40k. This may be just a tad too high. However, this high value helps you as a buyer if you are borrowing money to buy your investment.
Buick had its rare moment in the sun where all the attention was on the 1987 Grand National and not the 1987 Corvette. A rare moment indeed and one that I doubt will ever be repeated. Back then and more so today the 1987 Grand National and comparable Turbo-T is a far better investment than a 1987 Corvette hatchback or convertible.
JUST UNDER 3% AND DROPPING EACH YEAR –
I am referring to the number of new cars being sold in the USA having a manual shift transmission. Buying a new manual shift car is fading quickly. Of the six cars that my wife and I have, 2 are manual shift. Unless you drive in heavy traffic every day manual shift cars are fun to drive in my opinion. Good thing Hurst hit it big in the 1960s when 4-speed manual shift cars were the hot item for American muscle cars.
300-MILE 1987 GRAND NATIONAL HARDTOP –
You can now view a total of 16 photos of this 266-mile 1987 Grand National. I also have a list of all the work that was done to freshen up this prime example back to its original glory. A rare chance to own one of the lowest mileage 1987 Grand Nationals in the country.
This car has enjoyed inside storage in a warehouse in Texas since it was purchased and tucked away. Until last November 2017 it only had 50 miles on it! I am waiting for more info. Even the window sticker is still attached to the window!
Car has now been fully detailed.
Own one of the best 1987 Grand Nationals with less than 300 actual miles since new. Asking price is $62,900.
Email me personally - [email protected] for more information and photos.
Here is the link to the other photos of this pristine car on our website.
2018 TURBO BUICK RELATED CAR SHOWS EVENTS -
MAGNA - MID ATLANTIC GRAND NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
22nd EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS -
September 14th and 15th, 2018 - Cecil County Dragway, Cecil, Maryland
The MAGNA Group has their annual event September 14th and 15th at Cecil County Dragway in Cecil County, Maryland. This event grows bigger each year and is open to all Buick muscle cars not just the Turbo Regals. We expect to be attending this event. (It falls on my birthday). Be sure to bring any parts you want to trade in for credit or parts we may be interested in buying. For more details, go to turbobuick.com - or - their website - magnabuick.com
NOTE: If you are planning on attending this Fall event and want to save on shipping expenses contact our office this week so arrangements can be made for me to bring. Space is limited in my Tahoe. Items must be paid for in full in order for me to bring to this event.
ADDITIONAL NOTE – Last year they had about 100 Buicks in attendance. Event is open to any year or model Buick. This event is advertised as a Buick display so your Buick does not have to be in show condition. This year more Buick vendors are expected. This is the big Buick event for the east coast region. Hopefully, the hurricane steers clear of the east coast.
38th ANNUAL GS NATIONALS –
October 24th - 27th, 2018
The dates for this year are October 24-27, 2018. Same location, Beech Bend Race Park, Bowling Green, Kentucky. For more info, go to their website - GSnationals.com
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 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 3,200 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 3,200 potential buyers.
Ads submitted properly by the previous Sunday would appear that 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 x 0.
CLASSIFIED AD –
AD - 1987 TURBO REGAL HARDTOP FOR SALE –
This is a 73,000 mile original California survivor, 100% rust free, dark blue exterior and matching interior. Car has never been in storage, always slightly used. Factory aluminum wheels, aluminum drums, aluminum bumper inserts, all upgrades have been done, but still looks totally stock and very correct throughout. Ice cold A/C still uses R12, PW, tilt, cruise, posi, window sticker, original exhaust with correct replacement muffler, under carriage as clean as the top side. Car is fully detailed for show, drive anywhere. The car received “Award of Excellence” at 2013 East Coast Regionals. It can be seen at this year’s East Coast Buick Regionals at Cecile County Maryland Dragway on September 15th. It needs nothing, runs better than new best offer over $20k. I am a member of NE GS/GN Club and co-director local BCA Club. Contact Steve Perry 914-262-9965 for more info and pictures. Carmel, NY. Email [email protected] 1 of 4
AD - DIECAST TURBO REGAL MODELS FOR SALE –
Sold our house and selling off my Diecast Collection of GN, GNX, and Turbo Regals. All of the below diecast cars listed are in like new condition and many have never been displayed. All contain original packaging, cartons, and outer boxes. Photos any of the cars and boxes can be sent to interested parties
Four car complete set of 1:24 scale 1987 Buick Turbo Regals manufactured by “MOTOR MAX’ Blue, Black, Silver, and White Turbo Regals Manufactured and marketed and sold as a set of four with original box. $150 includes shipping to the upper 48 states.
GMP 10th Anniversary 1:18 scale Grand National. This is the special “CHROME” edition. 1 of 2,508 produced. $120 includes shipping to the upper 48 states.
Complete 4 car set of GMP 1:18 scale 1987 Buick Turbo Regal D84, Designer Series Set. This was issued in 2004 only 500 sets were made available. The set contains the four two-tone color combinations available for option D84. The set includes stock number G1800216, Brown over Light Brown, G1800217, Gray over Silver, G180218, Dark blue over Light Blue, and G1800219, Dark Red over Rosewood. $260 includes shipping to the upper 48 states.
This is the rarest set. Peachtree Limited Edition 1 of 3,504, produced #8001. 1987 Grand National complete with copy of the rare window sticker. This is the original packaging complete with the ultra-hard to find plain brown, unmarked outer shipping box. This is the first model of the GN produced by Peachtree (GMP). The car, boxes, and window sticker are in prestine unusual condition. $290 includes shipping to the upper 48 states 4 of 4.
On all the above diecast, contact - [email protected]
NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the Rare Parts section at the end of this Inner Circle, it is because you are not an 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. Simply email - [email protected] - to get on our weekly Inner Circle email.
My Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!
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 thru.
If you need to email us, use - [email protected]
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If there are any tips or ideas you want to share with our readers, email me – [email protected]
TIP FROM KIRBAN –
Remember the East Coast Buick Regionals is this Saturday and has no rain date. Hope to see you there. Bring us cores! We are a buyer for any new or good used parts you may want to sell.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED - Powermaster brake units. The must be complete. We will now issue you a Letter of Credit for $150 for each acceptable core. We currently will not buy any powermaster units outright, only Letter of Credit towards parts.
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. These are the only 2 items we are currently accepting as cores.
MAIL - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949
UPS - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
6201 Kellers Church Road
PLUMSTEADVILLE, 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. Please remember I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US –
GM Licensed - “GNX - AD from ASC” and
“1987 GRAND NATIONAL with Hub Caps Background” MUGS
Our GM licensed supplier has taken the two popular Turbo Regal banners and put that same design on a high-quality white 11-ounce ceramic coffee mug.
These GM licensed mugs make an excellent gift for any Buick enthusiast or mechanic. Ideal to for any garage, workshop, office or to display at a car show.
The GNX AD from ASC mug has the artwork repeated on both sides of the mug.
The Grand National layout wraps around the mug.
Another excellent Buick enthusiast gift idea.
7839 - GM Licensed - “GNX - AD from ASC” Mug - $12.95
7840 - GM Licensed - “1987 Grand National with Hub Caps Background” Mug - $12.95
Here is a link to these mugs on our website.
1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Reproduction METAL RADIO BRACKETS (2) SET
We now offer an excellent reproduction of the unique brackets Buick used to secure the radio in any 1984-1987, Regal including the Turbo models.
The metal bracket is the same for both sides but mounts differently on each side of the GM radio.
This is a critical part you need to install any factory correct 1984-1987 GM radio. It also fits many of the later GM radios that have the same frame and size, including some of the early factory GM CD players.
Another excellent replacement for any interior restoration.
7838 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Reproduction Metal Radio Brackets (2) Set - $25
Here is a link to these brackets on our website.
1984-1987 G-Body (Including Buick Turbo Regal) -
WINDOW RACER™
The Window Racer™ - Because everything should go fast…
Make your 30+year-old power windows fly up and down like they never have before. Even better than they ever were new! Your windows will be just as fast as a new vehicle.
Simple installation, just plug and play.
If you have a power moon roof, it’s on the same circuit so this unit will make that operate faster too.
NOTE - It will also work on other vehicles if it has a 30 amp circuit breaker.
An excellent upgrade for your car.
We also offer a Window Rattle Elimination Kit, #7170. This replaces a lot of the worn out components in the door.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7170 Window Rattle Elimination Kit, #6949 Brand New Power Window Motor Kit, #7068 Reproduction Driver’s Side Dual Power Window Switch, #7069 - Reproduction Passenger’s Side Single Power Window Switch, and #7217 Reproduction Outside Door Sill Weatherstrips (2).
Here are some of the most common questions asked of the manufacturer:
Q - How hard is it to do and long does it take to install the Window Racer?
A - It will take you longer to get some tools together to access the fuse box. Usually a flat-head screw driver, 7mm sockets, etc. You are accessing the cover of the fuse box.
You simply find the 30 amp circuit breaker in the fuse box marked for the power windows. You remove the current 30 amp circuit breaker and install into Window Racer plug end the same way you removed the circuit breaker. The plug looks just like the circuit breaker you are removing.
You then plug the Window Racer where the circuit breaker is located.
Then you take a screw #10 or smaller and ground the black wire to a suitable ground.The key turned forward the red light will come on to let you know the unit is working. If the light does not come on, verify a good ground and that your key is turned to the accessory position.
Q - How do I know if it is working? I plugged it in but my dead window still isn’t working. Why?
A - Window Racer does not fix bad wiring, a bad motor, or switch. When the you hit the window switch, the green light comes on. You know that the circuit is completed and working. Motor is good and the circuit breaker is fine. The window is now going faster than I ever thought it could.
Q - How many Window Racers do I need for my vehicle?
A - Just one. It works all the windows and the factory power moon roof, if your car has a moon roof.
Q - My power moon roof?
A - Yes, it will make your factory moon roof fly back and forth, just like your windows.
Q - Can I operate all the windows and the moon roof at the same time?
A - Yes, the speed is quicker even if you operate both at the same time. However, it is not faster if you operate only one window.
Q - Can the Window Racer burn up my wiring? Will it cause damage to my switches? What about the motor, it has to be hurting the motor right?
A - No. Actually it takes less amps to operate the motors then it did from the factory. The Amp Load is what generally causes the switches and motors to die. You know this if you have or had a weak motor. Your switch went bad and you replaced this because it was easier than replacing the motor.
Q - Well this leads me to another question. Will it make a bad motor run like new?
A - During testing we have seen motors that allow the window to go down but not go back up. When Window Racer was installed, it actually allowed the window to go back up. Of course, not as fast as a good motor.
Q - Ok, this leads me to another question. What if I am out and for some reason the Window Racer would go bad? Am I stuck with my windows up or down?
A - No, the Window Racer has an internal protection because we know there will be that one person with two bad motors who doesn't want to change them and it will eventually kill the internal protection. If for some reason the unit fails, the circuit breaker allows the vehicle to go back to the slow factory operation like normal.
Q - How long is the Warranty?
A - There is a 1-year Manufacturer Warranty.
7837 - 1984-1987 G-Body (Including Buick Turbo Regal) - Window Racer™
Here is a link to this Window Racer 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 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 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 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 –
Let’s hope the hurricane bypasses the east coast this coming weekend.