Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 11-27-2019 –
HAPPY THANKSGIVING across the miles. Our office is closed Thursday and Friday for the holiday. Any website orders will be processed on Monday.
RIP - RICHARD ZIPIN -
We just received sad news that a long-time local customer of ours Richard Zipin has passed away at age 77. Richard got his GNX in 1990 for $26,500 from a customer of ours that showed it at our very first Reunion event in 1988.
Richard and his family came to virtually every one of our Open House and Reunion Events. They are always willing to help out in any way, including helping to serve food.
It’s always sad to hear news like this, especially this time of the year.
He was a true diehard Turbo owner who actually enjoyed his GNX rather than just let it sit. Our sympathies go out to his family and friends.
EBAY SALES –
We have been placing some of our special items on ebay. We post under two company names - Kirban Performance for new parts. Kirban Enterprises for used and rare items. If you search for sellers – kirbanperformance – kirbanenterprises (Do not put a space between kirban and second word.) Or bookmark the links below. Be sure to check it out.
Here is a link to the Kirban Performance ebay listings –
https://www.ebay.com/sch/kirbanperformance/m.html?item=333406745159&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2562
Here is a link to the Kirban Enterprises ebay listings –
https://www.ebay.com/sch/kirbanenterprises/m.html?item=264511012420&ssPageName=STRK%3AMESELX%3AIT&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2562
COLLECTIBLES –
Since we moved, I’ve come across lots of collectibles and things I didn’t even know I had. As we go through the items, we will make some unique items available to our readers before we put items on eBay.
IMPORTANT NOTE ON RARE PARTS FOR SALE –
In order for our Inner Circle members to have an equal opportunity on the Rare Parts, no emails regarding orders on rare parts will be honored prior to 3 pm Wednesday. This way Inner Circle members get the opportunity first to purchase any of the rare items that may be pictured in the main body of the Inner Circle which may go on our website earlier in the day each week. Inner Circle members get to see the Rare Parts listing and see the prices first.
RIP MICHAEL POLLARD –
Michael Pollard died last week at age 80. He is probably best known for his role in the 1967 movie “Bonnie & Clyde.” That movie has special meaning to me as that was the first movie I remember them showing us in Vietnam in 1967 when I served in the Army there.
A RARE EBAY FIND –
The other day on eBay Eileen spotted something that my Dad produced way back in 1983. I had completely forgotten that my Dad had done this project.
My Dad was never a car person, so it was a surprise that he did this. He hired one of the well- known automotive artist at the time, Russell J von Sauers. He had done the cover of the book “The Hot Ones.” The Hot Ones refers to the popular 1955, 1956, 1957 Chevrolets. Those 3 years of Chevrolets in the 1950s are by far the most sought after and have been highly collectible for several decades.
I can’t be sure but I think that artwork cost my Dad $1,000 back in 1983. My Dad then had these 9-inch china plates made featuring the artwork of the 3 vintage Chevrolets. Each plate was numbered, and the series was limited to 9500. The artwork is stunning. It shows the 1955 hardtop, the 1956 Nomad and the 1957 convertible.
I know the plates were not a good seller as I have very little memory of them. If I had to guess, I would say fewer than 250 were ever made. We had top bid for the plate on eBay. When the package came, it brought back a flood of memories to me, since it was still in the original box mailed from my childhood home.
Once I saw the tape used to seal the box, I remember exactly what that metal tape machine looked like in the basement. The label to the buyer was hand typed.
Fortunately, we actually have the original artwork and have it framed in my office. Not having a GM or Chevrolet license, it’s a shame I can’t really market anything featuring this stunning artwork. If any readers have a connection with someone holding a GM Chevrolet license, I would be willing to strike a deal to use this artwork. I think looking back it was cool that my Dad at least tried his hand at something in the automotive field. I certainly was involved in his other ventures for many years traveling around the country with him and working for him when I was in high school.
PHOTO 1 - The top photo shows the actual artwork that I have framed in my office at home. The lower left we show the original outside box from 1983. The lower midde photo shows the front side of this 9-inch diameter china plate. The artwork is stunning. The lower right photo shows the info on the back stating this is 244 of 9500 with my Dad’s name and it simply says, “Huntingdon Valley, PA.” For many years, my Dad was the single biggest mailer in Huntingdon Valley, so it never really had to have our street address on mail in order for us to get our mail.
THE YEAR WAS 1950 AND A FIRST CLASS POSTAGE STAMP WAS 3 CENTS –
While looking for something else in one of my file cabinets, I came across an envelope from a Lincoln Dealer. It was sent from Ray Price Motors Inc. out of Stroudsburg, PA to a resident in the same town.
With this hand-typed letter was a personal invitation flyer to come drive a great new 1950 Lincoln. The hand-typed letter also was a sales pitch to come test drive the new 1950 Lincoln, which assured the person there would be no heavy sales pitch to sign on the dotted line. Simply come drive the new Lincoln.
I don’t think you can see it in the photo of the letter, but one thing caught my eye immediately in the letterhead. Something that I had to look at twice. The phone number for Ray Price Motors was a simply 3 digit phone number - 911.
I have no idea when 911 became the emergency number nationwide, but in 1950 Ray Price Motors had that as their actual phone number! I was intrigued so I went on the internet to see if Ray Price Motors was still in business. Sure enough, they are and still sell Lincolns. According to the lady that emailed me back, they been in business about 100 years! I had emailed her a copy of the letter and envelope.
The owner of Price Motors will be in touch with me next week to give me a bit of their history as I am curious. Being in business for 100 years is an impressive run. I figure they will want this bit of history for their dealership.
PHOTO 2 – The photo to the left shows the hand-typed letter from 1950. The photos to the right shows two sides of the 1950 Lincoln brochure. It was a small brochure. The lower phot on the right shows the mailing envelope.
IN CASE YOU’RE WONDERING –
In the 1960s and 1970s my Dad did a lot of marketing for major insurance companies. Most people would call this “junk mail.” I would agree with that assumption. At one time, my Dad had 3 automatic typewriters that would auto-type full-page letters for mailings. They looked like they were personally typed letters to individuals. These typewriters worked similar to a player piano working off a roll with holes it. One person could run 3 machines at once. He also had a machine (not sure what it was called) that using a fountain pen and could duplicate a hand-signed signature of a person. This was pretty advanced stuff for the 1970s. I worked with this equipment as well as ran inserting machines back in the day.
SEVERAL MORE CLOTH PROOF SAMPLES OF OUR T-SHIRT DESIGNS FROM THE PAST
Be sure to check eBay under user name kirbanenterprises (one word) as we have a number of different designs from T- shirts we did in the 1990s up for sale. In a few cases, we have more than one. It’s time we share some of our collectible items with our customers.
CAR SHOW DISPLAY STANDS –
This new part may not yet be on our website. Our supplier who had them made has them in stock and will drop ship direct for us. Display stands are available in powder-coated glossy silver or powder-coated matte black finish.
To order now in time for, call Christina at 215-766-1611 during normal work hours. Refer to the part number listed below for either the powder-coated glossy silver display stand or the powder-coated matte black display stand.
This new car display stand solves the issue of having a display sign for your show car or truck being blown over by the wind or having someone trip over it if it’s leaning against your show vehicle. This stays secure by either of the front tires. The area you put your actual information on has 3 different positons so it can face in 3 different directions.
SPECIFICATIONS -This plate is angled at the perfect height for easy reading. It is made in steel. Each part is then powder coated. The display stand is comprised of 3 parts and no tools are needed to assemble. Each end of the stand locks into the base and the top display plate. Once assembled, it’s overall height is 45 inches high. It weighs 12 lbs. The pole length 41 inches. The pole angles out from the fender. The top plate that the information goes on is an 8-inch square surface. The base plate secured by either front tire is 10-½ inches by 18 inches.
#7878 - Car Show Steel Display Stand – Powered-Coated Gloss Silver - $169.95 plus $18 shipping*
#7879 - Car Show Steel Display Stand – Powered-Coated Matte - $169.95 plus $18 shipping*
*Shipping rate noted above is for the 48 states only.
PA residents add 6% sales tax.
PHOTO 3 - We show several photos of the powder-coated glossy silver Steel Car Display Stand. The rectangle post locks into the base and locks into the top plate. The end result is a very attractive display stand. The pictures were taken in my pole building. The vehicle is my personal near-mint 1996 Ford Ranger. In this photo, we simply affixed a flyer on the Turbo Regal on the display plate. You would mount your description of the car you have on display on this part.
MORE COLLECTIBLE FOR SALE –
Here is a chance to buy a rare collectible item from our personal collection. See the Rare Parts section or prices.
PHOTO 4 – The top left shows the diecast 1969 Mercury featuring Bobby Allison’s autograph on the car roof, the box and the poster insert. The top right is a Carroll Shelby bottle of his special Olive Oil. It comes with the cloth bag both featuring Carroll Shelby on the label. The bottom left shows one of the Monkees album that was autographed by Davy Jones at one of our 1990s Reunions events. The bottom right shows the 5th edition of The Complete Buick History book, over 450 pages, with a GNX baseball-style cap which is being included with the book.
UPDATE ON POWERMASTERS AND BRAKE BOWLS –
As many of you realize we have not been able to get brake bowls from Cardone since mid-June. The latest word is they expect to have brake bowls just before Christmas. Don’t count on seeing a brake bowl under you Christmas tree, but it could be soon after. Right now, we are basically getting warranty units every few weeks as those have newer Cardone brake bowls on them.
Our company is a very, very, small buyer to them. We have over 40 cores sitting at Cardone. Also, Cardone has new ownership and the two suit and tie guys I knew personally have retired, which were our main connections. They only build powermasters for our company and it has been that way for the last 3 or 4 years. We will keep our readers informed. They have been very good to us, especially with warranty issues, even repairing them as far back as 10 years or more.
IN STOCK FOR IMMEDIATE DELIVERY - LIMITED SUPPLIES –
We have a few redone grey leather-wrapped steering wheels, part #7135, in stock. Also, we have several of the MAF Translator #7326, the Rebuilt AC Delco LT1 Mass Air Sensor #7342, and the Translator custom-made bracket #7785. It’s a great time to buy the 3 items needed to make the conversion from the stock mass air flow sensor.
1986-1987 BUICK TURBO REGAL DATA BOOKLET & 1987 PRICE DIRECTORY –
Note - See Rare Parts section we still have a few copies of both booklets available.
Few years ago, we did a small run of these popular booklets - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal Data Booklet and 1987 Price Directory. I recently came across a few more copies of both booklets. The 1987 Price Directory is pocket size and runs 66 pages. It lists every 1987 Buick model with every option, the price of that option, and most important the order code for that option.
It is that order code that appears on your SPID label (also referred to as the trunk ID label.) Those codes appear on several lines depending on the number of options, and are in alphabetical order.
This little handy pocket-size booklet is great to have and to keep in your glove box as you can quickly decode any option found on a 1987 Turbo Regal. This copy is identical to the original.
The other booklet I found was the 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal Data Booklet. This runs 55 pages, is 8½ by 11, and is spiral bound.
It covers both Drivability and Emissions in detail, explaining various codes such issues as rough, unstable, or incorrect idle. The booklet also has a section on turbos including the specs to tighten all the various parts to the turbo. It also covers the exhaust manifolds, intake, and intercooler. Again, all original factory critical information at your fingertips with this booklet.
This Data booklet and the pocket size 1987 Price Directory are listed in the Rare Parts section for sale. The best deal to save shipping costs is to buy both, as shipping is virtually the same.
This breaks down every option possible.
COMING SOON - OUR ANNUAL CHRISTMAS SPECIALS
This list of Christmas Specials will be available for the entire month of December. You will have to contact our office in order to buy any of the Christmas Specials. Watch for this listing later this month.
WELL-OPTIONED LOW-MILEAGE 1987 GRAND NATIONAL - FOR SALE –
This Grand National is still available. This extremely well-optioned, low-mileage 1987 Grand National that is for sale. The owner wants me to sell it for him. He has had it 6 years. The miles on this Grand National is a mere 48,200. Options include factory moonroof, power windows, power locks, tilt, cruise, delay wipers, concert sound, power trunk, digital dash, power seat, working power antenna, and posi rear. The Grand National is located in Maryland.
It has a beautiful repaint done prior to his owning it. He had paint correction done and ceramic coating this past Spring. The car really shines, probably 100%, better than original. Everything functions 100%, even the original AC.
Additional features include embroidered floor mats, few chrome goodies under the hood, Kirban adjustable fuel regulator, hot wire kit, 60lb injectors, adjustable wastegate, TT chip, new bumper fillers, new fuel tank, and has dual a-pillar gauges and console gauge package. He checked the car with a magnet and shows no putty or filler anywhere. It has the factory chip guard along bottom of the car.
According to the owner Mike, the Grand National has had 4 previous owners. The car shows no accidents or any indication that mileage is not accurate.
The price is $26,900. This Grand National is priced to sell. You would be hard pressed to find a better example of a well-optioned 1987 Grand National that would measure up to the quality of this one at this price. A factory moon roof with a power seat option is extremely rare. This car next Spring would easily bring several grand more than it is priced at this fall.
This car is show quality from any angle. For more information and photos, email me direct [email protected]
Pass the word along to your friends who may be looking for a great-looking well-optioned Grand National.
CORES NEEDED - URGENT REQUEST –
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
POWERMASTER BRAKE UNITS. Currently, due to issues getting brake bowls we are not accepting any additional powermaster cores until I get word Cardone has brake bowls again.
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.
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. This is the only item 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
529 HAYCOCK RUN ROAD
KINTNERSVILLE, PA 18930
CARSMARTS RADIO IS ON THE AIR AND ON THE WEB! –
Turbo V6 enthusiast Steve Saffier (who produced “Dennis Kirban” story on YouTube) is producer and host of CarSmarts Radio which is in its third season! The show is heard in eastern PA on 610 ESPN Radio every Saturday from 11 am – 12 noon and on WOND 1400 in southern New Jersey, Sundays from 10am – 11am. You can also listen to the live stream at that time - download the podcast on http://www.610 espn.com (Live and Local)
Past guests have included me (Dennis Kirban) Brock Yates Jr, Steve Magnante, as well as car photographers, car museum staff, tech students, car clubs, and much more. Tune up and Tune in! More info at http://www.carsmartsradio.com
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 –
Be sure to check out our eBay offerings under kirbanenterprises or kirbanperformance as Christina puts items up every few days.
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 3,300 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.
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 Inner Circle member, but instead are reading this on the website. You must subscribe to see the Rare Parts section each week. It would go directly to your inbox every Wednesday afternoon. It is FREE, probably one reason why nobody complains about what I write about. To subscribe simply email – [email protected] - to get our free weekly Inner Circle email.
The Buick 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]
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 –
MAGIC GUARD®
MAGIC GUARD® is a new patented multi-use product that protects wheels, prevents rust and repels rain. It is used as a wheel sealant that works on all wheels (chrome, mag, aluminum, etc.) by providing a hydrophobic barrier that decreases brake dust contamination and decreases wheel cleaning time by up to 50% post-application,
Another use for Magic Guard® is to protect plated and coated metals from rust and corrosion,
Because of Magic Guard’s hydrophobic nature, customers also apply it to their window glass to enhance visibility due to its superior water beading.
WHEEL SEALANT - Protect chrome, aluminum and all other wheels from brake dust, road grime, saltwater and more.
RUST PREVENTION - Protects all bare, coated and plated metal from mother nature with its durable barrier.
RAIN REPELLENT - Enhances visibility with superior water beading technology, and prevents water spots.
These two products - Magic Guard® #8002 and Rust Prevention Magic® #8003 - were created and patented by Dave Walden, who is the founder of ECS Automotive Concepts. He is also a three-time Mopar Nationals OE Gold and Best of Show winner (2005, 2008 & 2010). A rare accomplishment and Dave did it with 3 different Mopars!
Dave invented these two products out of necessity because what was available for protecting metals was not effective, and his hard work began to flash rust soon after completion.
When applied to bare metal it creates a durable barrier and prevents rust.
Comes in an easy-to-use 4-ounce container, complete with soft application cloth and easy-to-follow directions.
*NOTE - Price includes the USPS shipping and handling in the U.S.
NOTE - Because of a problem with the website, we note the final cost of this product which INCLUDES a predetermined shipping rate. The “FREE SHIPPING” box that shows on this page is there in error
8002 - MAGIC GUARD®, 4 oz jar - $14.99 + $5 shipping = $19.99
Here is the link to Magic Guard® on our website.
RUST PREVENTION MAGIC®
Rust Prevention Magic® is a patented and lab certified rust/corrosion prevention product. RPM provides a near impenetrable barrier on bare metals such as alloys, aluminum, copper, iron, brass, cast iron, stainless steel and many other metals to protect them from the harmful effects of acids, corrosion, moisture, salt water, rust and more!
US Patented Product, winner of the Top New Product Award at SEMA show, 100% Lab Certified by Dale Institute LLC, featured on My Classic Car with Dennis Gage, and over 25 articles in various automotive publications.
Comes in an easy-to-use 4-ounce container, complete with brush and easy-to-follow directions. There is no better way to maintain a 100% correct automotive restoration project.
These two products - Magic Guard® #8002 and Rust Prevention Magic® #8003 - were created and patented by Dave Walden, who is the founder of ECS Automotive Concepts. He is also a three-time Mopar Nationals OE Gold and Best of Show winner (2005, 2008 & 2010). A rare accomplishment and Dave did it with 3 different Mopars!
Dave invented these two products out of necessity because what was available for protecting metals was not effective, and his hard work began to flash rust soon after completion
*NOTE - Price includes the USPS shipping and handling in the U.S.
NOTE - Because of a problem with the website, we note the final cost of this product which INCLUDES a predetermined shipping rate. The “FREE SHIPPING” box that shows on this page is there in error
8003 - RUST PREVENTION MAGIC®, 4 oz jar - $19.99 + $5 shipping = $24.99
Here is a link to this Rust Prevention Magic® 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] - and I will answer you. However, if I fail to answer you within 24 hours, please email us again. Since expanding into used parts, I get a lot of emails and sometimes I may forget your request or may not remember who requested the item.
IN CLOSING –
Hoping all our customers have a Happy Thanksgiving and don’t overdo it at turkey time. I think there is 3 NFL games on TV.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING across the miles. Our office is closed Thursday and Friday for the holiday. Any website orders will be processed on Monday.
RIP - RICHARD ZIPIN -
We just received sad news that a long-time local customer of ours Richard Zipin has passed away at age 77. Richard got his GNX in 1990 for $26,500 from a customer of ours that showed it at our very first Reunion event in 1988.
Richard and his family came to virtually every one of our Open House and Reunion Events. They are always willing to help out in any way, including helping to serve food.
It’s always sad to hear news like this, especially this time of the year.
He was a true diehard Turbo owner who actually enjoyed his GNX rather than just let it sit. Our sympathies go out to his family and friends.
EBAY SALES –
We have been placing some of our special items on ebay. We post under two company names - Kirban Performance for new parts. Kirban Enterprises for used and rare items. If you search for sellers – kirbanperformance – kirbanenterprises (Do not put a space between kirban and second word.) Or bookmark the links below. Be sure to check it out.
Here is a link to the Kirban Performance ebay listings –
https://www.ebay.com/sch/kirbanperformance/m.html?item=333406745159&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2562
Here is a link to the Kirban Enterprises ebay listings –
https://www.ebay.com/sch/kirbanenterprises/m.html?item=264511012420&ssPageName=STRK%3AMESELX%3AIT&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2562
COLLECTIBLES –
Since we moved, I’ve come across lots of collectibles and things I didn’t even know I had. As we go through the items, we will make some unique items available to our readers before we put items on eBay.
IMPORTANT NOTE ON RARE PARTS FOR SALE –
In order for our Inner Circle members to have an equal opportunity on the Rare Parts, no emails regarding orders on rare parts will be honored prior to 3 pm Wednesday. This way Inner Circle members get the opportunity first to purchase any of the rare items that may be pictured in the main body of the Inner Circle which may go on our website earlier in the day each week. Inner Circle members get to see the Rare Parts listing and see the prices first.
RIP MICHAEL POLLARD –
Michael Pollard died last week at age 80. He is probably best known for his role in the 1967 movie “Bonnie & Clyde.” That movie has special meaning to me as that was the first movie I remember them showing us in Vietnam in 1967 when I served in the Army there.
A RARE EBAY FIND –
The other day on eBay Eileen spotted something that my Dad produced way back in 1983. I had completely forgotten that my Dad had done this project.
My Dad was never a car person, so it was a surprise that he did this. He hired one of the well- known automotive artist at the time, Russell J von Sauers. He had done the cover of the book “The Hot Ones.” The Hot Ones refers to the popular 1955, 1956, 1957 Chevrolets. Those 3 years of Chevrolets in the 1950s are by far the most sought after and have been highly collectible for several decades.
I can’t be sure but I think that artwork cost my Dad $1,000 back in 1983. My Dad then had these 9-inch china plates made featuring the artwork of the 3 vintage Chevrolets. Each plate was numbered, and the series was limited to 9500. The artwork is stunning. It shows the 1955 hardtop, the 1956 Nomad and the 1957 convertible.
I know the plates were not a good seller as I have very little memory of them. If I had to guess, I would say fewer than 250 were ever made. We had top bid for the plate on eBay. When the package came, it brought back a flood of memories to me, since it was still in the original box mailed from my childhood home.
Once I saw the tape used to seal the box, I remember exactly what that metal tape machine looked like in the basement. The label to the buyer was hand typed.
Fortunately, we actually have the original artwork and have it framed in my office. Not having a GM or Chevrolet license, it’s a shame I can’t really market anything featuring this stunning artwork. If any readers have a connection with someone holding a GM Chevrolet license, I would be willing to strike a deal to use this artwork. I think looking back it was cool that my Dad at least tried his hand at something in the automotive field. I certainly was involved in his other ventures for many years traveling around the country with him and working for him when I was in high school.
PHOTO 1 - The top photo shows the actual artwork that I have framed in my office at home. The lower left we show the original outside box from 1983. The lower midde photo shows the front side of this 9-inch diameter china plate. The artwork is stunning. The lower right photo shows the info on the back stating this is 244 of 9500 with my Dad’s name and it simply says, “Huntingdon Valley, PA.” For many years, my Dad was the single biggest mailer in Huntingdon Valley, so it never really had to have our street address on mail in order for us to get our mail.
THE YEAR WAS 1950 AND A FIRST CLASS POSTAGE STAMP WAS 3 CENTS –
While looking for something else in one of my file cabinets, I came across an envelope from a Lincoln Dealer. It was sent from Ray Price Motors Inc. out of Stroudsburg, PA to a resident in the same town.
With this hand-typed letter was a personal invitation flyer to come drive a great new 1950 Lincoln. The hand-typed letter also was a sales pitch to come test drive the new 1950 Lincoln, which assured the person there would be no heavy sales pitch to sign on the dotted line. Simply come drive the new Lincoln.
I don’t think you can see it in the photo of the letter, but one thing caught my eye immediately in the letterhead. Something that I had to look at twice. The phone number for Ray Price Motors was a simply 3 digit phone number - 911.
I have no idea when 911 became the emergency number nationwide, but in 1950 Ray Price Motors had that as their actual phone number! I was intrigued so I went on the internet to see if Ray Price Motors was still in business. Sure enough, they are and still sell Lincolns. According to the lady that emailed me back, they been in business about 100 years! I had emailed her a copy of the letter and envelope.
The owner of Price Motors will be in touch with me next week to give me a bit of their history as I am curious. Being in business for 100 years is an impressive run. I figure they will want this bit of history for their dealership.
PHOTO 2 – The photo to the left shows the hand-typed letter from 1950. The photos to the right shows two sides of the 1950 Lincoln brochure. It was a small brochure. The lower phot on the right shows the mailing envelope.
IN CASE YOU’RE WONDERING –
In the 1960s and 1970s my Dad did a lot of marketing for major insurance companies. Most people would call this “junk mail.” I would agree with that assumption. At one time, my Dad had 3 automatic typewriters that would auto-type full-page letters for mailings. They looked like they were personally typed letters to individuals. These typewriters worked similar to a player piano working off a roll with holes it. One person could run 3 machines at once. He also had a machine (not sure what it was called) that using a fountain pen and could duplicate a hand-signed signature of a person. This was pretty advanced stuff for the 1970s. I worked with this equipment as well as ran inserting machines back in the day.
SEVERAL MORE CLOTH PROOF SAMPLES OF OUR T-SHIRT DESIGNS FROM THE PAST
Be sure to check eBay under user name kirbanenterprises (one word) as we have a number of different designs from T- shirts we did in the 1990s up for sale. In a few cases, we have more than one. It’s time we share some of our collectible items with our customers.
CAR SHOW DISPLAY STANDS –
This new part may not yet be on our website. Our supplier who had them made has them in stock and will drop ship direct for us. Display stands are available in powder-coated glossy silver or powder-coated matte black finish.
To order now in time for, call Christina at 215-766-1611 during normal work hours. Refer to the part number listed below for either the powder-coated glossy silver display stand or the powder-coated matte black display stand.
This new car display stand solves the issue of having a display sign for your show car or truck being blown over by the wind or having someone trip over it if it’s leaning against your show vehicle. This stays secure by either of the front tires. The area you put your actual information on has 3 different positons so it can face in 3 different directions.
SPECIFICATIONS -This plate is angled at the perfect height for easy reading. It is made in steel. Each part is then powder coated. The display stand is comprised of 3 parts and no tools are needed to assemble. Each end of the stand locks into the base and the top display plate. Once assembled, it’s overall height is 45 inches high. It weighs 12 lbs. The pole length 41 inches. The pole angles out from the fender. The top plate that the information goes on is an 8-inch square surface. The base plate secured by either front tire is 10-½ inches by 18 inches.
#7878 - Car Show Steel Display Stand – Powered-Coated Gloss Silver - $169.95 plus $18 shipping*
#7879 - Car Show Steel Display Stand – Powered-Coated Matte - $169.95 plus $18 shipping*
*Shipping rate noted above is for the 48 states only.
PA residents add 6% sales tax.
PHOTO 3 - We show several photos of the powder-coated glossy silver Steel Car Display Stand. The rectangle post locks into the base and locks into the top plate. The end result is a very attractive display stand. The pictures were taken in my pole building. The vehicle is my personal near-mint 1996 Ford Ranger. In this photo, we simply affixed a flyer on the Turbo Regal on the display plate. You would mount your description of the car you have on display on this part.
MORE COLLECTIBLE FOR SALE –
Here is a chance to buy a rare collectible item from our personal collection. See the Rare Parts section or prices.
PHOTO 4 – The top left shows the diecast 1969 Mercury featuring Bobby Allison’s autograph on the car roof, the box and the poster insert. The top right is a Carroll Shelby bottle of his special Olive Oil. It comes with the cloth bag both featuring Carroll Shelby on the label. The bottom left shows one of the Monkees album that was autographed by Davy Jones at one of our 1990s Reunions events. The bottom right shows the 5th edition of The Complete Buick History book, over 450 pages, with a GNX baseball-style cap which is being included with the book.
UPDATE ON POWERMASTERS AND BRAKE BOWLS –
As many of you realize we have not been able to get brake bowls from Cardone since mid-June. The latest word is they expect to have brake bowls just before Christmas. Don’t count on seeing a brake bowl under you Christmas tree, but it could be soon after. Right now, we are basically getting warranty units every few weeks as those have newer Cardone brake bowls on them.
Our company is a very, very, small buyer to them. We have over 40 cores sitting at Cardone. Also, Cardone has new ownership and the two suit and tie guys I knew personally have retired, which were our main connections. They only build powermasters for our company and it has been that way for the last 3 or 4 years. We will keep our readers informed. They have been very good to us, especially with warranty issues, even repairing them as far back as 10 years or more.
IN STOCK FOR IMMEDIATE DELIVERY - LIMITED SUPPLIES –
We have a few redone grey leather-wrapped steering wheels, part #7135, in stock. Also, we have several of the MAF Translator #7326, the Rebuilt AC Delco LT1 Mass Air Sensor #7342, and the Translator custom-made bracket #7785. It’s a great time to buy the 3 items needed to make the conversion from the stock mass air flow sensor.
1986-1987 BUICK TURBO REGAL DATA BOOKLET & 1987 PRICE DIRECTORY –
Note - See Rare Parts section we still have a few copies of both booklets available.
Few years ago, we did a small run of these popular booklets - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal Data Booklet and 1987 Price Directory. I recently came across a few more copies of both booklets. The 1987 Price Directory is pocket size and runs 66 pages. It lists every 1987 Buick model with every option, the price of that option, and most important the order code for that option.
It is that order code that appears on your SPID label (also referred to as the trunk ID label.) Those codes appear on several lines depending on the number of options, and are in alphabetical order.
This little handy pocket-size booklet is great to have and to keep in your glove box as you can quickly decode any option found on a 1987 Turbo Regal. This copy is identical to the original.
The other booklet I found was the 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal Data Booklet. This runs 55 pages, is 8½ by 11, and is spiral bound.
It covers both Drivability and Emissions in detail, explaining various codes such issues as rough, unstable, or incorrect idle. The booklet also has a section on turbos including the specs to tighten all the various parts to the turbo. It also covers the exhaust manifolds, intake, and intercooler. Again, all original factory critical information at your fingertips with this booklet.
This Data booklet and the pocket size 1987 Price Directory are listed in the Rare Parts section for sale. The best deal to save shipping costs is to buy both, as shipping is virtually the same.
This breaks down every option possible.
COMING SOON - OUR ANNUAL CHRISTMAS SPECIALS
This list of Christmas Specials will be available for the entire month of December. You will have to contact our office in order to buy any of the Christmas Specials. Watch for this listing later this month.
WELL-OPTIONED LOW-MILEAGE 1987 GRAND NATIONAL - FOR SALE –
This Grand National is still available. This extremely well-optioned, low-mileage 1987 Grand National that is for sale. The owner wants me to sell it for him. He has had it 6 years. The miles on this Grand National is a mere 48,200. Options include factory moonroof, power windows, power locks, tilt, cruise, delay wipers, concert sound, power trunk, digital dash, power seat, working power antenna, and posi rear. The Grand National is located in Maryland.
It has a beautiful repaint done prior to his owning it. He had paint correction done and ceramic coating this past Spring. The car really shines, probably 100%, better than original. Everything functions 100%, even the original AC.
Additional features include embroidered floor mats, few chrome goodies under the hood, Kirban adjustable fuel regulator, hot wire kit, 60lb injectors, adjustable wastegate, TT chip, new bumper fillers, new fuel tank, and has dual a-pillar gauges and console gauge package. He checked the car with a magnet and shows no putty or filler anywhere. It has the factory chip guard along bottom of the car.
According to the owner Mike, the Grand National has had 4 previous owners. The car shows no accidents or any indication that mileage is not accurate.
The price is $26,900. This Grand National is priced to sell. You would be hard pressed to find a better example of a well-optioned 1987 Grand National that would measure up to the quality of this one at this price. A factory moon roof with a power seat option is extremely rare. This car next Spring would easily bring several grand more than it is priced at this fall.
This car is show quality from any angle. For more information and photos, email me direct [email protected]
Pass the word along to your friends who may be looking for a great-looking well-optioned Grand National.
CORES NEEDED - URGENT REQUEST –
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
POWERMASTER BRAKE UNITS. Currently, due to issues getting brake bowls we are not accepting any additional powermaster cores until I get word Cardone has brake bowls again.
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.
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. This is the only item 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
529 HAYCOCK RUN ROAD
KINTNERSVILLE, PA 18930
CARSMARTS RADIO IS ON THE AIR AND ON THE WEB! –
Turbo V6 enthusiast Steve Saffier (who produced “Dennis Kirban” story on YouTube) is producer and host of CarSmarts Radio which is in its third season! The show is heard in eastern PA on 610 ESPN Radio every Saturday from 11 am – 12 noon and on WOND 1400 in southern New Jersey, Sundays from 10am – 11am. You can also listen to the live stream at that time - download the podcast on http://www.610 espn.com (Live and Local)
Past guests have included me (Dennis Kirban) Brock Yates Jr, Steve Magnante, as well as car photographers, car museum staff, tech students, car clubs, and much more. Tune up and Tune in! More info at http://www.carsmartsradio.com
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 –
Be sure to check out our eBay offerings under kirbanenterprises or kirbanperformance as Christina puts items up every few days.
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 3,300 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.
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 Inner Circle member, but instead are reading this on the website. You must subscribe to see the Rare Parts section each week. It would go directly to your inbox every Wednesday afternoon. It is FREE, probably one reason why nobody complains about what I write about. To subscribe simply email – [email protected] - to get our free weekly Inner Circle email.
The Buick 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]
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 –
MAGIC GUARD®
MAGIC GUARD® is a new patented multi-use product that protects wheels, prevents rust and repels rain. It is used as a wheel sealant that works on all wheels (chrome, mag, aluminum, etc.) by providing a hydrophobic barrier that decreases brake dust contamination and decreases wheel cleaning time by up to 50% post-application,
Another use for Magic Guard® is to protect plated and coated metals from rust and corrosion,
Because of Magic Guard’s hydrophobic nature, customers also apply it to their window glass to enhance visibility due to its superior water beading.
WHEEL SEALANT - Protect chrome, aluminum and all other wheels from brake dust, road grime, saltwater and more.
RUST PREVENTION - Protects all bare, coated and plated metal from mother nature with its durable barrier.
RAIN REPELLENT - Enhances visibility with superior water beading technology, and prevents water spots.
These two products - Magic Guard® #8002 and Rust Prevention Magic® #8003 - were created and patented by Dave Walden, who is the founder of ECS Automotive Concepts. He is also a three-time Mopar Nationals OE Gold and Best of Show winner (2005, 2008 & 2010). A rare accomplishment and Dave did it with 3 different Mopars!
Dave invented these two products out of necessity because what was available for protecting metals was not effective, and his hard work began to flash rust soon after completion.
When applied to bare metal it creates a durable barrier and prevents rust.
Comes in an easy-to-use 4-ounce container, complete with soft application cloth and easy-to-follow directions.
*NOTE - Price includes the USPS shipping and handling in the U.S.
NOTE - Because of a problem with the website, we note the final cost of this product which INCLUDES a predetermined shipping rate. The “FREE SHIPPING” box that shows on this page is there in error
8002 - MAGIC GUARD®, 4 oz jar - $14.99 + $5 shipping = $19.99
Here is the link to Magic Guard® on our website.
RUST PREVENTION MAGIC®
Rust Prevention Magic® is a patented and lab certified rust/corrosion prevention product. RPM provides a near impenetrable barrier on bare metals such as alloys, aluminum, copper, iron, brass, cast iron, stainless steel and many other metals to protect them from the harmful effects of acids, corrosion, moisture, salt water, rust and more!
US Patented Product, winner of the Top New Product Award at SEMA show, 100% Lab Certified by Dale Institute LLC, featured on My Classic Car with Dennis Gage, and over 25 articles in various automotive publications.
Comes in an easy-to-use 4-ounce container, complete with brush and easy-to-follow directions. There is no better way to maintain a 100% correct automotive restoration project.
These two products - Magic Guard® #8002 and Rust Prevention Magic® #8003 - were created and patented by Dave Walden, who is the founder of ECS Automotive Concepts. He is also a three-time Mopar Nationals OE Gold and Best of Show winner (2005, 2008 & 2010). A rare accomplishment and Dave did it with 3 different Mopars!
Dave invented these two products out of necessity because what was available for protecting metals was not effective, and his hard work began to flash rust soon after completion
*NOTE - Price includes the USPS shipping and handling in the U.S.
NOTE - Because of a problem with the website, we note the final cost of this product which INCLUDES a predetermined shipping rate. The “FREE SHIPPING” box that shows on this page is there in error
8003 - RUST PREVENTION MAGIC®, 4 oz jar - $19.99 + $5 shipping = $24.99
Here is a link to this Rust Prevention Magic® 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] - and I will answer you. However, if I fail to answer you within 24 hours, please email us again. Since expanding into used parts, I get a lot of emails and sometimes I may forget your request or may not remember who requested the item.
IN CLOSING –
Hoping all our customers have a Happy Thanksgiving and don’t overdo it at turkey time. I think there is 3 NFL games on TV.