10-05-2022 Kirban Inner Circle

Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 10-05-2022 -

 

OUR LATEST TURBO REGAL INFORMATION BOOKLET IS NOW AVAILABLE -

 

I think this now makes 10 of these handy 5 ½ by 8 ½ booklets we did.  This one is 44 pages in length with about 15 of them in color.  This one is titled “The History of the Buick Grand National in Pictures” Bonus pages include all the part numbers for the 1982 ½ Grand National, pictures of the prototype Grand National that Molly built (in color) factory photos of every year 1984 thru 1987, explanation of the Power Six logo, Buick Stage 1 and Stage 2  heavy duty parts. Plus as a bonus we list all 300 plus 1986-1987 Turbo Regals we sold from 1993 thru 2009.  We show the model, the price we sold it for, the actual miles, and where it went in the USA.  This is probably the only documented list sold by one individual selling over 300 covering the years 1993 through 2009.  I had forgotten I made  this chart years ago.  Course I have sold overs since 2009 but never charted them unfortunately.  This chart alone covers the last 7-pages of this latest booklet.  Note: Finding any information on the 1982 ½ Grand National is really hard to find today!

 

The part number for this booklet is #8034 and the price is $16.95.  It is in stock. It may not be on our website yet. If it isn't, simply call our office to order it.  Remember to check out the other Turbo Regal information booklets on our website as I am sure the shipping is not any different due to their compact size whether you buy 1 or 10.  All of them are in stock!

 

PHOTO 1 - We show the cover of this latest Buick Turbo Regal booklet and various pages from this latest booklet. Note: Here is an interesting fact which you probably can’t read the copy, but on the color photo of the 1985 Grand National that appears on an angle in the copy it gives the size of the tires and states it rides on 15 by 6 aluminum wheels!  The wheels are actually 15 by 7 as Turbo Regals never had a 15 by 6 aluminum wheel!  It's funny because on the 1984 shown in a previous photo they only mention the tire size and make no mention of the actual wheel size!  It is important to note most advertising literature always was printed before the actual vehicle went up for sale so mistakes are bound to happen.  I just saw that minor mistake! We even note this error in the caption we added below the photo in this latest booklet. 

 

  

EARLY FALL BLOW OUT - #8020 GN EMBLEM EMBOSSED METAL SIGNS -

 

Normal retail on this embossed metal sign was $249.95.  Now while our initial supply lasts, pay just $179 with free shipping included to the basic 48 states.  Go to our website under search put Part #8020 to see the picture and details but recommend calling the office to order it.  Stock is limited as we have around 30 left! Great Christmas gift to keep hidden from your spouse.  Quality is excellent. It is GM licensed and Made in the USA. The size is 34 inches by 12 inches.  

   

COMING SOON CUSTOM MADE POLISHED STAINLESS TURBO SHIELD -

 

Old time owners may recall years ago when a company in the Midwest called DC Tech made a very nice high quality stainless turbo shield.  I believe also on the west coast another company made an impressive looking stainless turbo shield as well.  This is a complete new design similar in format to what DC Tech made many years ago.  Let's face it there's not much you can do with the stock shield to enhance its appearance. The turbo shield is one of the most visible parts under the hood.  Watch for photos in next week’s inner circle with prices. I actually have a sample in hand already.  

 

 

BREAKING NEWS #8020 GRAND NATIONAL EMBLEM EMBOSSED METAL SIGN -

 

I didn’t realize we still had maybe 2 dozen of these embossed metal GM licensed Grand National wall signs in stock. We have maybe 24 left.  Special buy it now price just $179.00 each with free shipping. They were selling for $229.00! Best to call the office 215-766-1611.  These are really nice signs and we have priced them to move them out. Part number is #8020 on our website.

 

  

GNX #010 FOR SALE -

 

I already have some pictures of this latest GNX that the seller wants me to sell for him. It is GNX #010.  I expect to have more details once I talk to him.  The GNX from what I understand is mostly original.  The original turbo needs to be rebuilt.  Owner has the GNX jacket and book.   For more info email me direct [email protected]  The location is in the Midwest. I know the owner has had it for several years.  Car has under 36,000 miles on it Owner drove it about 4500 miles since purchasing it back in 2005.  Asking price is $112,900. Runs 100%. Fresh tune up, and new front brakes and rotors. AC converted to R343 and even the power antenna works!

 

1984 OLDSMOBILE CALAIS COUPE FOR SALE -

 

We now have photos of the engine compartment, interior, exterior of this original 1984 Olds Calais coupe.  Seller also has the original window sticker.  Car appears to be 100% original inside and out.  Zero rust.  AC blows ice cold.  Car runs and drives but needs a tune-up since it has hardly been used in the last several years.  Actual miles are a mere 36,900!  The Calais I believe is the upgraded model.  Has bucket seats, center console, and full gauge package with the tachometer.  Factory rally wheels and upgraded steering wheel.  The seller is selling like $7500 but I believe it can be bought for probably $6500.  As I have talked to the guy whose lawn the car is sitting on.  He happens to know me.  He likes it gone from his lawn.  It's his buddy's car!  Car is located about 3 miles from my old house in Furlong. 

 

PHOTO 2 - We show 4 views of this 1984 original 36,900-mile 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass Calais coupe.  One photo shows the actual window sticker.  This car is a prime candidate for a late model V8 engine!  For more info and photos email me direct [email protected]  

 

 

MY OBSERVATIONS FROM FALL CARLISLE -

 

It's been several years since I have taken the time to attend the annual Fall Carlisle event.  I went last Thursday to avoid the crowds.  The Carlisle swap meets have to be some of the biggest in the country.  Starting in 1974 I probably went to my first ones around 1978-79 as I can remember back then you could park in the infield.  I would buy GTO parts which back then were easy to come by.  I didn't walk the entire field, but I did not see one single turbo Regal of any vintage for sale.  Not even a single part or even a model of a Turbo Regal.  I did see some weird and rare cars, even a BMW Isetta for sale.  If you were building a Chevy model any year you could easily find your choice of parts!  I spotted very few young people.

 

Actually, by the one main gate was one of the largest arrays of electric scooters that were available for rent.  Sad to say the collector market average age is getting up in years.  I don’t see much of the youth picking up the torch to restore or enjoy any older muscle car.  Trucks seem to be popular. Electric bikes are gaining market share as I saw several vendors selling various new electric bikes.  Some even fold up and can travel 40 plus miles on a single charge with speeds of 20 mph.  Boy where were they when I had a paper route as a teenager in the 1960s! Original metal signs are one of the most popular things for sale regardless of condition.  I saw one on the back of a big truck, an actual Hooters restaurant sign.  This would probably require a crane to lift off the truck if you were to buy it.  Not sure if your spouse would let you hang on the side of your house or man cave! Saw at least 3-coin operated pay phones all priced at $800 or more! 

 

If you have never been to a Spring or Fall Carlisle event it is well worth the trip providing the weather is good.  One recommendation is to go on one of the first days to avoid massive traffic problems and parking issues. Some of the biggest summer events there are Ford-Mopar-Corvette.  The GM Nationals always lags behind in spectators. 

 

PHOTO 3 - The top left photo shows the Monte Carlo SS that needed a full restoration priced around $7500. The top right photo shows 2 of the El Caminos I spotted for sale.  They were priced between 10 and 12 grand each. The bottom left photo shows a wide array of what appears to be brand new take off leather seats.  The bottom right photo shows one of the strangest custom cars that appears to have been built over 40 years ago based on a Studebaker Hawk?

 

PARTS FOR SALE IN PHOTO 4 INCLUDING OUR NEXT AUCTION See Photo 4 below.  For prices on the parts and auction information go to the Rare Parts section. 

 

PHOTO 4 - The top left photo shows what is our next auction item: a complete used 1986-1987 analog Turbo Regal Gauge cluster.  Nothing cut or missing.  It has been stored inside for many years., Miles shown is 99,200. Unit is complete as pictured.  This is a no reserve auction as long as the starting price has been met.  The highest single bid submitted to [email protected] before midnight eastern time Friday October 7th, 2022 will be the winner!  Free shipping is included in your bid to the basic 48 states.  If you reside in PA and win 6% tax will need to be added. Starting bid is $65.  Highest bid over $65 will be the winner.  Only one bid can be submitted. The top right photo shows two versions of the Buick Facts and Figures book.  Both are long out of print. The bottom left photo shows a new gray single-a-pillar gauge holder and a new VDO 30 psi boost gauge (same one we used to sell) with all the parts and directions. The bottom right photo shows a flip down stay down license plate bracket, NOS hood spring, burgundy 1986 T-Type center cap, good used factory oil cap, and NOS temp sensor #25036371. See Rare Parts section for prices also the no reserve auction for the Turbo Regal gauge cluster featured in the top left photo!

 

 

TOP TEN REASONS I OWN A BUICK GRAND NATIONAL - BANNER/POSTER UPDATE -

 

We should have the Grand National version in a vinyl banner and poster available by next week as a set.  It looks like the vinyl banner size will be about 15.5 inches by 23.5 inches.  Once we have that one done, we plan to do a similar one for the T-Types and Turbo-T.  We welcome any suggestions you may have for Top Ten Reasons You Own a T-Type or Turbo-T.  Email me personally with your suggestions  [email protected]   If we use your “quote” you will get a free vinyl banner once we have them made. 

 

 

 

COMING NEXT WEEK WE WILL SHOW SOMETHING QUITE UNUSUAL I PURCHASED -

 

It is not Turbo Regal related, but something I found that was quite interesting. The skill level is simply incredible. I hope to meet this craftsman personally later this week.  

 

  

I AM STILL SEEKING A STARVING ARTIST THAT CAN DO DETAILED CAR ART -

 

I am still seeking a struggling automotive artist that can do detailed car art in color.  A chance to do some work that will be sold by many vendors. Email me direct [email protected]  Work would involve more than one job! Still looking!!!!

  

IN STOCK FOR IMMEDIATE DELIVERY POWERMASTER BRAKE BOWLS -

 

We have a limited supply of the new brake bowls in stock. To avoid any issues, it is best to call the office 215-766-1611 to order and be assured of obtaining one form this latest shipment we just received.

  

WINDOW RACER –

 

Our part number is #8036 for this clever part to vastly increase the speed of your Turbo Regal power window.  On the website it says it is in stock.  I think years ago a Buick employee told me the motors Buick used in the Regal coupes was the same ones they used in the 4 door sedans.  I assume the 4 door sedan windows were small and lighter and therefore the stock motor worked as it should. However, if that same motor went into the Regal coupe that glass is heavier and the end result is a very slow operating power window.  Regardless of the history there is no denying the fact the Regal power window motor lacks “speed” in either direction. 

 

VACUUM BRAKE KITS #7625 & #7679 -

 

Currently we should have all the parts. The hardest part is getting the vacuum brake pedal. If you have any pedals whether it's for the turbo format or vacuum, we are a buyer.  We get the turbo one rewelded with the correct diameter pin and in the correct spot for the vacuum format.  I think currently we are the only company that offers the vacuum kit with the vacuum brake pedal.  We also sell the vacuum brake kit with the correct size pin instead of the complete pedal and specs so you can have the proper pin welded to your Turbo Regal pedal and cut off the Turbo Regal pin off the original pedal. That kit is part number #7679. 

   

GOT TURBO REGAL PARTS TO SELL? -

 

We are always in the market for buying collections if you have sold your car.  Granted we will not pay retail, but it can be far easier and quicker to sell everything at one time rather than deal with all the questions you get from any advertising you do. We can also set up someone to pick up the parts if it’s a distance from my location and you can't ship. 

 

HERE IS A COMPLETE RUN DOWN ON THE CARS I CURRENTLY REPRESENT -

 

In each case email me specifically which car perks your interest.  We give the car model, location and price on each of the ones we now are working with the sellers.  Each case there is some wiggle room as we realize in most cases you got transport costs involved.  Remember we are hooked up with a broker that can get you a good price for an enclosed or open transport. 

 

Here is the current listing in no particular order. It does not include the 2 Turbo Regals mentioned above.  I now represent a total of 9 of the desirable 1986-1987 Turbo Regals.  I can supply more photos and information on any of the below cars I represent. Email me [email protected] 

 

1986 GRAND NATIONAL HARDTOP - Owned since 1989. Actual miles approximately 123,00. Car runs out great.  Still operates on the powermaster brake format! It was repainted about 5 years ago. The car is mostly stock. Located in NJ. Seats need attention; however, the seller has a complete new repro seat material that goes with the car for all the seats in black and gray. The asking price is $24,900. NEW LOWER  PRICE!.

 

1987     TURBO REGAL WE4 T-TOP - Belongs to a longtime customer of ours that used to live near us years ago and now resides in Florida.  Car recently had over 5 grand in work done on it at KDK in Orlando.  The seller is willing to consider as partial trade another Turbo Regal that may require work. Car was repainted in 2007.  He is the second owner; actual miles are 36,000 miles.  AC works. Asking price is $44,900. See Photo 3 in this issue. 

 

1986 GRAND NATIONAL CANADIAN CAR - Same owner since brand new. Car has every possible option offered in 1986!  Including the power sliding sunroof. If you are a US buyer, be sure to do your homework on what is required to bring a car across the border. Asking price has been lowered to $40,000 US. 

 

1987 GRAND NATIONAL HARDTOP - Same owner since 1992.  Was purchased back then with less than 400 miles on it.  Now has 3,062 actual miles 100% original paint all stock. Original tires have been saved.  Car has had proper climate-controlled storage since 1992!  One of the best original examples you can find.  Located in New York. Price tag is $67,900. If you are seeking a near perfect example this is the one to buy!

 

1987 TURBO-T HARDTOP - Rare black exterior with black out package which could not be ordered after the WE4 was introduced. Same family since new. Tons of work done to this rare example. Looking for the best offer. A chance to get a really rare example with paperwork to back it up.  Work was all done by Steve’s Automotive in Virginia.  Car is in Virginia.   They are seeking the best offer. SELLER ANXIOUS TO SELL.

 

1987 TURBO-T LIMITED HARDTOP - chestnut brown.  Car resides and always has in California so no exposure to issues with rust, Same owner since 1995. Actual miles 129,000. Asking price is $28,900. This is a great buy! NEW LOWER PRICE $26,900.

 

1987 GRAND NATIONAL HARDTOP - Car resides in Michigan being sold by the owner's sister as the owner passed away suddenly.  He was a top-notch mechanic. Actual Miles 58,666. Highly modified many upgrades including TA 49 Turbo. She has receipts from my company for over two grand.  Car has a high dollar repaint. Asking price is $40,000.  MAJOR PRICE DROP!!!!! Originally it was priced over $50 grand! Seller has a lot of receipts!  

 

1968 OLDS 442 W30 package. Car resides in Michigan again purchased by her brother who passed away unexpectedly. Owned since the early 1980s purchased from the original owner when it had just 3,000 actual miles. A super rare car. The asking price is $80,000. 

 

Again we can provide more information and photos on any of the above. My email is [email protected] 

  

WE CAN MARKET YOUR CAR -

 

When the time comes you need to downsize or simply move on, we can market your car for you.  Especially now with Spring and Summer fast approaching. We handle the advertising and answering the questions and weeding out the tire kickers. We never give out the exact location of your car.  You decide on the price after any bargaining is done.  The money goes directly from the buyer to your bank account.  I have a flat commission based on the price span. This format has worked out very well for me for both the buyer and the seller.  The buyer has more confidence about the car especially if you are a long-time owner and a customer of ours. The seller is not bothered with phone calls or emails.  

 

Most potential buyers know who I am.  So, whenever the time comes you want to sell your car, email me the particulars.  I can explain the process to you which also allows you to sell the car as well. My email is [email protected] I can also help you determine the price.  I can also take in a trade and pay you the seller the difference.  I have worked with JJ Best in the past which is quite generous in granting loans.  So, you have plenty of options.  We also work with a broker that can handle transport both open and enclosed. This transport broker is a customer of ours and owns personally a 9,000 mile Grand National!  He just had the last 3 cars I sold transported to their new homes! The car needs not be a Turbo Regal. 

 

NEED A CAR TRANSPORTED? -

 

Whether you need an open transport or enclosed transport we highly recommend Sal Hamed. Sal is a broker with several transporters and can get you the best price.  He knows what you expect as he personally owns a 9,000 mile original Grand National and is a customer of ours.  You must use my name when contacting him to get a special price. His email is [email protected]  We highly recommend his services! His phone number is 919-808-8483.

  

CANADIAN CUSTOMERS -

 

You must contact our office.  Because of the many issues and fees in shipping to Canada we have suspended shipping to Canada.  You need to hook up with a US address as shipping has become quite costly. 

   

IMPORTANT - INFORMATION ABOUT OUR SHIPPING ADDRESS –

 

If you are returning any cores for a Letter of Credit or cores that we charged you for, it is important that you send them to the address below. Please make sure you put a note in the box with your information.

 

KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS

529 HAYCOCK RUN ROAD

KINTNERSVILLE, PA 18930

 

For all other returns such as a part you purchased that is incorrect or defective you must call Christina and get a RA number. She will determine if it goes to our main warehouse in Kintnersville, PA or our distribution center. 

  

CORES NEEDED - URGENT REQUEST –

 

Here is the information on our credits for cores.

 

POWERMASTER BRAKE UNITS. Currently, we NOT accepting powermaster brake units. This is due to the fact we have a huge supply of cores, and we have no exact timetable when our supplier will get brake bowls.  Everyone is in the same boat that rebuilds powermaster brake units. The key ingredient is the brake bowl.  

TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $150 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core. We need cores now. Or we will pay $135 cash for each complete stock turbo core.

 

BRAKE PEDALS we issue a letter of credit for $50 for each powermaster brake pedal or we will pay $40 cash for each pedal. 

 

MASS AIR FLOW SENSORS we need original non cracked 1986-1987 Turbo Regal mass air sensors.  We issue a $40 letter of credit for each unit.  They are a gamble for us as some of these can’t be rebuilt.  

 

If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number.

 

UPS or MAIL - Ship to Address –

KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS

529 HAYCOCK RUN ROAD

KINTNERSVILLE, PA 18930

 

CLASSIFIED ADS -

 

We 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. Email me [email protected] for details and prices.

  

NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE BUICK RARE PARTS SECTION -

 

If you are not able to see the Buick Rare Parts section at the end of this Inner Circle, it is because you are not an actual Inner Circle member, but instead are reading this on the website. You must subscribe to see the Rare Parts section each week. It would go directly to your inbox every Wednesday at 3 pm eastern time. It is FREE, probably one reason why nobody complains about what I write about. To subscribe simply email – [email protected] - to get our free weekly Wednesday Inner Circle email. This allows everyone to have the same opportunity on the parts we list each week.  We currently have over 3,600 members. 

   

EMAILS TO KIRBAN PERFORMANCE -

 

NOTE - If you email us and do NOT get a timely reply, be sure to check your “SPAM” folder. Some emails do not go through.

 

If you need to email us, use - [email protected]  

  

TECH CALLS - If you need technical information, it’s best to email - [email protected]  - rather than call us. We will do our best to answer any technical questions within 24 hours. Please remember I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine. 

  

NEW PRODUCTS FROM US –

 

1984-1987 TURBO REGAL 3.8 SFI HOOD DECALS -

 

Part number #8040 and #8041. #8040 is for one set and #8041 is for 2 sets.  Done on chrome vinyl it duplicates exactly the original or reproduction plastic hood emblems which now cost $55 to $60 a set.  This set of decals is only $16.95/set or 2 sets for $30 you save $3.90.

 

1984-1987 TURBO REGAL HIGH OUTPUT V6 HOOD DECALS -

 

Part number #8042 and #8043.  #8042 is for one set and #8043 is for 2 sets. Done on chrome vinyl it duplicates the font style and length of the .38 sfi turbo emblems.  If you have a modified V6 this decal makes more sense!  Plus a lot cheaper than the reproduction plastic 3.8 sfi turbo emblems which sell for $55 to $60 a set.  These are $16.95 per set or 2 sets for $30 you save $3.90 by purchasing 2 sets!

 

1981-1987 REGAL ALL TWO MODELS DOOR SHELLS -

 

Part number is #8035 for the pair of door shells.  See website for price and freight shipping. They must ship to a commercial address. We will only ship to the 48 states. 

 

INFORMATION BOOKLETS -

 

We now have a total of 10 booklets printed and in stock for immediate delivery.  Here are the part numbers #7989, #7990, #7991, #7992, #8025, #8026 #8027, 8028, and #8029. All can be found on our website and in stock. We now have 10 different information booklets available all focused on the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal/GNX.  The latest booklet is shown in Photo 1 in this Inner Circle and is in stock although may not be on website yet. 

 

1986-1987 TURBO REGAL REPRODUCTION AC LINES -

 

The #7995 This is a high-quality reproduction of a much needed part. 

 

1984-1987 TURBO REGAL REPRODUCTION DOOR SKINS -

 

The right hand is #7993. The left-hand reproduction door skin is #7994. You must call the office to get freight costs. Replacement is far easier than cutting out and doing rust repair.  

 

1984-1987 TURBO REGAL PRICE DIRECTORY & GM PRODUCTION OPTIONS –

Part number #7989 this pocket size 70-page booklet provides you with all the codes for every option, plus what the price was for that option. Also breaks down the 17-digit VIN for all 1984-1987 Turbo Regals Plus you can break down over 90% of the codes on the SPI label on your trunk lid. 

 

1984-1987 BUICK TURBO REGAL DOOR PANEL ESCUTCHEON TRIM MOLDING -

 

Part number #7808. This is a high-quality reproduction of the set of 4 inside door trim moldings including the strap caps as one kit 

 

ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION FOR TURBO REGAL PARTS -

 

Got any Turbo Buick parts you are not using? Why not cash them in for parts you need with a Letter of Credit. We also may buy your new or used parts. Simply email me a list - [email protected] 

 

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

 

NOTE - ABOUT LINKS IN THE INNER CIRCLE -

 

We have heard from a couple people that have had problems with the links in our Inner Circle.

 

When we check the links, they work fine. However, if you are not able to be directed to the exact website page or internet site, you can "copy" and "paste" the link into the URL in your browser (such as Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.

 

Most people having problems are using Internet Explorer. If you are having issues with links, try another browser to see if it works.

 

You may need to "UPDATE" your browser to be used if you are using the current version.

   

NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE -

 

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

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

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