Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 12-13-2017 -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS - HOLIDAY SCHEDULE -
Here are the dates our office will be closed for the holidays. No orders will be processed or shipped on these dates:
CLOSED
CHRISTMAS - Friday, December 22nd and Monday, December 25th
NEW YEARS - Friday, December 29th and Monday, January 1th
TURBO REGAL RELATED LITERATURE -
As these cars continue to age, the demand for Turbo Regal related literature will only increase as collectors will want to display various items with their pride and joy. As many of you know, I started collecting related literature on these cars back when they were new.
Also, when I go to various You Pull It Yards, I sometimes find related literature for certain model years. For example, it appears at some point some Buick dealers gave various Molly Buick clothing brochures to car owners.
In the first photo, we show a few items we have available for sale under Rare Parts in this email.
As a subscriber, you get to see the Rare Parts section.
PHOTO 1 - The top left photo shows 2 metal logo license plates wrapped in plastic. The Grand National plate I picked up at Carlisle earlier this year. The top right photo shows a mint 1988 Kenne Bell catalog wrapped in plastic. Kenne Bell was one of the major Turbo Regal suppliers back when these cars were still virtually new. The lower left photo shows an original GM Maintenance booklet with the Goodyear Warranty booklet. These are two of the booklets would have come in every glove box of the 1987 Turbo Regals. Last, but not least, we show two different full-color Molly clothing brochures in the lower right photo. Within a few years of the turbo cars being built, Molly discontinued his Buick clothing line. Both Molly brochures feature several Grand National coats and T-shirts.
BACK TRACKING TO THE BODY TRIM PLATE -
Last week we discussed the metal Body Trim Plate and explained where it is located and how difficult it is to read the letter/numbers on it because it is painted all black.
PHOTO 2 - The photo to the left shows the actual location of the Body Trim Plate. In this case, this is the plate on my personal Turbo-T. The Body Trim Plate is partially obscured by the driver’s wiper arm. The photo to the right is interesting as it is the Body Trim Plate from the 1950 Ford sedan I owned back in 1966-1967. My future wife drove it to school in her senior year while I served in the Army.
We kept that car for a number of years, storing it at her Mom’s house. One day I read an article about this salvage yard down in Philadelphia that would take a full-size car and instead of flattening it, they would crush the car into the shape of a square cube.
I decided to tow the 1950 Ford down to this salvage yard and have it crushed into a cube with the intention of keeping it. It was a great idea on paper, until we moved. I left the cube at the rental house rather than haul it up to our new house. The cube weighed probably over 2,000 lbs. That body Trim Plate is the only item I saved from the car prior to it being made into a cube!
A WORD OF CAUTION -
If you are like me, you may have the tendency to over-tighten a screw or a clamp. One particular area where you need to be careful is when tightening the clamps that secure the mass air hose to the mass air flow sensor on your 1986 or 1987 Turbo Regal. This is especially true if you are running the stock mass air flow sensor.
Those original AC Delco mass air flow sensors that have the plug pointing downward are extremely rare, since no other GM car used that exact same mass air flow sensor. Only the original one looks correct.
PHOTO 3 - This photo clearly shows what happens if you over-tighten one of the camps against the plastic hosing on the mass air flow sensor. It bows inward, making it difficult to fix properly.
THE LOWLY YUGO -
It may be hard to believe, but 1987 was not only a banner year for the Turbo Regal with the biggest production, but the Yugo enjoyed its best sales that year as well. The Yugo continued to be produced until the early 1990s.
While I was searching through some of my files, I came across some artwork I had a local artist draw for me. This artwork is probably almost from 30 years ago.
PHOTO 4 - The photo to the left is the artwork of the Yugo I had a local artist draw. The idea was to get a T-shirt made with the caption “No Go Yugo.” I figured that was the perfect catch phrase for the Yugo! The photo to the right I bought off ebay years ago; an original lighted Yugo Parts dealer sign. I did sell it to a friend of mine and recently bought it back. Granted, it probably has very little value unless I find some loyal Yugo owner, but it does qualify as being rare!
MAGNA CHRISTMAS PARTY 2017 -
The Magna Club held their annual Christmas party this past Saturday. Unfortunately, it was also the first snow storm of the season at the same time. However, they had a decent turn out. I did a M&Ms contest. The food was excellent!
Congrats to this group. It has been going strong for so many years.
ON THE NEWSFRONT -
Although not exactly Turbo Regal news, a recent Corvette Magazine did an article giving the current values of the C5 Corvettes. The C5 Corvettes (1997-2004) appear to be at their lowest value, making them a good investment. If you shop around, you can see some of them priced in the $15 grand to $20 grand range. The ZO6, of course, would be slightly more and the desirable fixed roof coupes of 1999 and 2000 also are tad more valuable. They are all manual 6 speeds.
In the northern climates, prices may even be better to buy a Corvette from a dealer in the winter. With snow on the ground, a better deal can probably be done.
A Corvette is a good value for the money, although their interiors, especially their seats, are not the greatest. My 2004 Honda Accord has better seats in it! I have owned a 1999 and a 2000 Corvette fixed roof coupe in the past. The fixed roof models are great cars and a bit quicker and tighter than the coupes and convertibles.
It reminds me of when the GNX bottomed out around the $28,000-to-$30,000 for a number of years in the 1990s. That was when I purchased several GNXs.
It will be interesting to see how low in value the Hellcat will go in a few years before it climbs in value. That would be the car to possibly buy as an investment, if you’re young enough now to see it happen. The Hellcat is probably the most streetable American car to buy that you could drive every day. Again, this is all strictly my opinion.
UNUSUAL FINDINGS THIS WEEK -
First, we heard from a first-time customer who resides in France. He owns a WE4 Turbo Regal. According to him, there are 3 other Turbo Regals in France.
Also, we getting a powermaster rebuilt for a shop in New England for a 1986 LeSabre Hearse. When the 1986 LeSabre was new, I doubt that many were converted into Hearse wagons, let alone how many can possibly be left 30-plus years later. Cadillac still seems to be the Hearse of choice, even today. However, you do see some Lincoln Hearse’s as well.
A LOOK AT OPTIONS OR LACK OF OPTIONS -
Once in a while I hear from someone wanting to install various options in a Turbo Regal.
Some of the strange options some owners want to add are a power antenna or the power window setup. I discourage owners from adding either of these two options because of the work involved.
In the case of the power antenna, if and when it fails, it is a major job to remove it. Installing power windows is also a waste of time because the speed of travel is not that great.
Fortunately, no one has called me about installing T-Tops or an astro roof. Both of these options would be a major mistake.
While having many options in a Turbo Regal, there are also buyers that look for a very low-optioned Turbo Regals. This is for several reasons. In no particular order - they are rare to find, there are less problems with less options, and it makes it a lighter-weight car.
A Grand National with a few options is difficult to find, because many original owners would specify a long list of options. Some options are almost automatic, for example - a tilt column. It was a very inexpensive option. If I had to guess on the 325-plus Turbo Regals that passed thru my hands, at most I had maybe 2 that had no tilt column.
That would be the rarest option not to find in a Turbo Regal. This is my opinion.
If you are thinking about adding options two that are easy to install would be the 9 piece trunk kit and the power trunk release. Neither is difficult to add and nothing gets cut to install them.
I find it strange that GM put the power trunk release button all the way over in the glove box. I believe most of the later production cars I have owned have the trunk release button near the driver on the dash or the driver’s door panel area.
Either way, both a loaded-optioned Turbo Regal and a low-optioned car are highly desirable. In other words, both versions are easy to sell since the demand is high for either car.
Personally, it’s the low-optioned Turbo Regal that I like for all 3 reasons I mentioned earlier.
On the other side of the coin, for personal vehicles I usually look for a well-optioned vehicle because they hold their value better. The 2005 Tahoe we own, according to the print out, I have cost over $50,000 in 2005. We bought it used and it has virtually every option, including a DVD player in the ceiling, air suspension, astro roof, captain leather heated seats, satellite radio with navigation, tow package, etc. Just to name a few. I did put later GM 17-inch wheels on the Tahoe. Although we have no plans to sell it, I know it would be an easy to sell vehicle because it is well optioned and has had excellent care.
SHIFTER HANDLE PROJECT -
We currently are working on a solution to offer better options for a shifter handle. I think most turbo owners would agree the stock handle is getting pricey and is very dainty looking. GM used that same dainty shifter handle since 1978. It easily breaks because the handle shaft does not extend down the shaft of the stick. Watch for updates on this project soon. This way you could preserve your original handle while having the use of a beefier handle at a fraction of the cost.
CUSTOM VINYL BANNERS -
We will soon have various sizes of custom-made vinyl banners available. You would submit a photo of your car and we would get a high-quality 13-ounce-materal banner made. It would be ideal for your garage. We plan to possibly offer 3 different sizes and you should be able to also add copy to your photo. Watch for details on this project in the next several weeks.
ANNUAL CHRISTMAS SPECIALS -
Here is a link to these specials on our website.
Please note it’s best to order early to be assured the item(s) will be shipped to you in time and that we have ample stock. These Christmas Special, must be ordered by phone as they can’t be ordered thru the website, 215-766-1611X0
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.
My Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!
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.
THIS WEEK’S CLASSIFIED ADS -
Here is the link to buy the new 2018 Grand National/GNX calendar. The price is $20 each. If you buy 3 you get the 4th one free!
Here is a link to the website.
Or you can “copy and paste” this information in the URL - http://buick-grand-national.webstarts.com
If the link does not work, you can email Duane directly at [email protected]
Remember, when you buy 3 of the new 2018 Grand National/GNX calendars you will get 1 free! Week 2 of 4.
FOR SALE - 1971 Nova SS 43k original mi 4 speed m20 …. 3.55 posi rear all original untouched car 2 owners since new never ever driven in the rain…90% original paint that shines great never left outside never undercoated…factory radio delete and factory no power steering the car was found thru a church member just an incredible story…. ALL orig paperwork window sticker protect plate sales order and so much more…. one of those cars that only comes around once in a while… when car was found 7 years ago it was sitting for 10 years at mothers house recent work just done in the last 7 years new gas tank fuel lines new tires new radio under dash complete MAJOR tune up new exhaust all new belts and hoses have originals orig carb was just restored drives like a dream NEVER EVER ABUSED OR DRIVEN HARD CALL to discuss... this car would win any survivor class event 26500.00 firm STEALS IT GREGG DAVIDIAN 732 406 6285 car is in Jackson, New Jersey OR CAN DELIVER TO KIRBANS Week 3 of 4.
WANTED TO BUY: For a 1987 Buick Turbo Regal. NOS left and right exhaust manifolds, NOS transmission throttle valve/detent cable, NOS throttle/accelerator cable, NOS dipstick, NOS transmission dipstick, NOS left and right rear bumper fillers, NOS left and right black side markers lights, NOS left and right black metal parking light bezels, NOS left and rite black metal door edge guards, NOS black metal hood molding. Prefer parts to be in original GM factory sealed packaging or GM factory box with original GM part number tag and GM dealer tag. Serious buyer. Please e-mail clear pictures and description of part or call and leave message. All calls will be returned. Jason Maxfield, Niagara Falls, NY 14303. Telephone 416-399-7265 email [email protected] Thank You! Week 2 of 4.
FOR SALE - 1987 Buick Turbo-T with WO2 black out option. Car is a hardtop. Car has a burgundy interior and exterior. One family owned since new. Garaged and covered since new. Car has 90,600 original miles. The car has been repainted once the correct burgundy color. No bodywork ever no accidents and no rust ever. Interior is unblemished and all original. Car comes with several extras. Car has all new weatherstripping, door seals, and trunk seal. Never raced and factory stock with only alcohol cooling added, dual exhaust, and a performance chip. Car has a new A/C system. New vacuum brakes (original powermaster goes with the car as well). Original owner’s manual, window sticker, and build sheet. $24,900 negotiable. Car is located in Georgia. For more details and photos email Pamela at [email protected] or call 229-221-8634. Week 2 of 4.
FOR SALE - GNX 270 with 31,000 miles on it. All the records, GNX jacket and GNX book are with the car. This is one you can drive and enjoy for just $70 grand. Email me [email protected] and we will forward your info to the seller. GNX is located about 75 miles from us.
FOR SALE - 1994 Pontiac Trans Am Anniversary model, white with blue stripe. Garaged in mint condition and comes with all the documents, etc. Car has a mere 34,000 actual miles. Owner is selling it due to health issues. Price tag is $15,900. Contact me direct [email protected]
FOR SALE - 1978 Corvette Coupe. It has the L82 engine 4-speed format. Car has one repaint with 52,000 original miles. The price tag is $11,900. Health issues forces sale. Contact me direct [email protected]
FOR SALE - Remember, if you are local to us check out the inventory of used vehicles 611 Auto Sales. They are located near us at 8307 Easton Road in Ottsville, PA. Their website is - 611autosalespa.com We recently added a 2011 one-owner Ford Focus to their inventory. Many of their cars are priced under $3,995. Mention my name and it may save you a few bucks! They have several one-owner cars to choose from. Their office number is 610-847-0100.
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.
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 you have a tip or a discovery that you found that works on your Turbo Regal, drop us an email giving us the details so we can pass the info on to our readers. Remember, even with my knowledge, I don’t know it all. Simply email me at - [email protected]
TIP FROM KIRBAN -
Christmas Special #8584 is a Packaged Deal for the Battery Butler and the Extreme Duty tan car cover. What you may not realize is the car cover carries a 10-year warranty. We already have replaced a few of these for our customers that purchased them several years ago! This is a great value for both items for $83.95, you save $13.95. Fabric just doesn’t last for many years, so a 10-year warranty makes this a great buy, and it is an outdoor/indoor car cover.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
NEED - Stock original AC Delco 1986-1987 Turbo Regal mass air flow sensor cores. Units can’t be cracked or broken. Currently we will issue a Letter of Credit for $40 for each acceptable core.
NEED - Powermaster brake units. The must be complete. We will issue you a Letter of Credit for $125 for each acceptable core. Currently we will also buy them outright.
NEED - 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering wheels. They must not be bent or rusted. We will issue a $75 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
NEED - 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.
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 -
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
REPRODUCTION 8-HOLE MOLDED
UNDER HOOD INSULATOR LINER PAD (NO WORDING)
Over time, an original under hood (insulator liner) pad can deteriorate or rodents may have eaten holes in the material.
GM has not had the factory 9-hole molded hood pad available for several years. GM later made an 8-hole molded hood pad which eliminated the center back hole.
This hood pad is an exact reproduction of that GM 8-hole molded hood pad. A new mold was made from a brand new GM hood pad.
This molded hood pad does not have the wording on it, otherwise it is exact to the 8-hole style pad.
Whenever an original 9-hole hood pad with the wording is advertised on ebay, it brings big money.
NOTE - From time to time on the internet you can find someone that has the pattern or decal for the exact wording, if you want it to look original.
Because they are oversized to ship, we have a flat shipping charge as shown. This item is shipped direct from the manufacturer to you. NOTE - We have a flat shipping rate, since the box is oversized.
*NOTE - Price includes the shipping and handling UPS Ground Shipping to 48 U.S. continental states.
Another excellent restoration item.
7770 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction 8-Hole Molded Under Hood Insulator Liner Pad (No Wording) - $229.95 Plus $75 UPS shipping to basic 48 states - TOTAL $304.95
Here is a link to this Hood Pad 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. 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 -
Next week we will have our annual Christmas M&Ms contest. This one will be the biggest M&Ms container ever. Stay tuned!
Next week is the last Inner Circle email until January 3, 2018. Every year we take that week off between Christmas and New Years.
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS - HOLIDAY SCHEDULE -
Here are the dates our office will be closed for the holidays. No orders will be processed or shipped on these dates:
CLOSED
CHRISTMAS - Friday, December 22nd and Monday, December 25th
NEW YEARS - Friday, December 29th and Monday, January 1th
TURBO REGAL RELATED LITERATURE -
As these cars continue to age, the demand for Turbo Regal related literature will only increase as collectors will want to display various items with their pride and joy. As many of you know, I started collecting related literature on these cars back when they were new.
Also, when I go to various You Pull It Yards, I sometimes find related literature for certain model years. For example, it appears at some point some Buick dealers gave various Molly Buick clothing brochures to car owners.
In the first photo, we show a few items we have available for sale under Rare Parts in this email.
As a subscriber, you get to see the Rare Parts section.
PHOTO 1 - The top left photo shows 2 metal logo license plates wrapped in plastic. The Grand National plate I picked up at Carlisle earlier this year. The top right photo shows a mint 1988 Kenne Bell catalog wrapped in plastic. Kenne Bell was one of the major Turbo Regal suppliers back when these cars were still virtually new. The lower left photo shows an original GM Maintenance booklet with the Goodyear Warranty booklet. These are two of the booklets would have come in every glove box of the 1987 Turbo Regals. Last, but not least, we show two different full-color Molly clothing brochures in the lower right photo. Within a few years of the turbo cars being built, Molly discontinued his Buick clothing line. Both Molly brochures feature several Grand National coats and T-shirts.
BACK TRACKING TO THE BODY TRIM PLATE -
Last week we discussed the metal Body Trim Plate and explained where it is located and how difficult it is to read the letter/numbers on it because it is painted all black.
PHOTO 2 - The photo to the left shows the actual location of the Body Trim Plate. In this case, this is the plate on my personal Turbo-T. The Body Trim Plate is partially obscured by the driver’s wiper arm. The photo to the right is interesting as it is the Body Trim Plate from the 1950 Ford sedan I owned back in 1966-1967. My future wife drove it to school in her senior year while I served in the Army.
We kept that car for a number of years, storing it at her Mom’s house. One day I read an article about this salvage yard down in Philadelphia that would take a full-size car and instead of flattening it, they would crush the car into the shape of a square cube.
I decided to tow the 1950 Ford down to this salvage yard and have it crushed into a cube with the intention of keeping it. It was a great idea on paper, until we moved. I left the cube at the rental house rather than haul it up to our new house. The cube weighed probably over 2,000 lbs. That body Trim Plate is the only item I saved from the car prior to it being made into a cube!
A WORD OF CAUTION -
If you are like me, you may have the tendency to over-tighten a screw or a clamp. One particular area where you need to be careful is when tightening the clamps that secure the mass air hose to the mass air flow sensor on your 1986 or 1987 Turbo Regal. This is especially true if you are running the stock mass air flow sensor.
Those original AC Delco mass air flow sensors that have the plug pointing downward are extremely rare, since no other GM car used that exact same mass air flow sensor. Only the original one looks correct.
PHOTO 3 - This photo clearly shows what happens if you over-tighten one of the camps against the plastic hosing on the mass air flow sensor. It bows inward, making it difficult to fix properly.
THE LOWLY YUGO -
It may be hard to believe, but 1987 was not only a banner year for the Turbo Regal with the biggest production, but the Yugo enjoyed its best sales that year as well. The Yugo continued to be produced until the early 1990s.
While I was searching through some of my files, I came across some artwork I had a local artist draw for me. This artwork is probably almost from 30 years ago.
PHOTO 4 - The photo to the left is the artwork of the Yugo I had a local artist draw. The idea was to get a T-shirt made with the caption “No Go Yugo.” I figured that was the perfect catch phrase for the Yugo! The photo to the right I bought off ebay years ago; an original lighted Yugo Parts dealer sign. I did sell it to a friend of mine and recently bought it back. Granted, it probably has very little value unless I find some loyal Yugo owner, but it does qualify as being rare!
MAGNA CHRISTMAS PARTY 2017 -
The Magna Club held their annual Christmas party this past Saturday. Unfortunately, it was also the first snow storm of the season at the same time. However, they had a decent turn out. I did a M&Ms contest. The food was excellent!
Congrats to this group. It has been going strong for so many years.
ON THE NEWSFRONT -
Although not exactly Turbo Regal news, a recent Corvette Magazine did an article giving the current values of the C5 Corvettes. The C5 Corvettes (1997-2004) appear to be at their lowest value, making them a good investment. If you shop around, you can see some of them priced in the $15 grand to $20 grand range. The ZO6, of course, would be slightly more and the desirable fixed roof coupes of 1999 and 2000 also are tad more valuable. They are all manual 6 speeds.
In the northern climates, prices may even be better to buy a Corvette from a dealer in the winter. With snow on the ground, a better deal can probably be done.
A Corvette is a good value for the money, although their interiors, especially their seats, are not the greatest. My 2004 Honda Accord has better seats in it! I have owned a 1999 and a 2000 Corvette fixed roof coupe in the past. The fixed roof models are great cars and a bit quicker and tighter than the coupes and convertibles.
It reminds me of when the GNX bottomed out around the $28,000-to-$30,000 for a number of years in the 1990s. That was when I purchased several GNXs.
It will be interesting to see how low in value the Hellcat will go in a few years before it climbs in value. That would be the car to possibly buy as an investment, if you’re young enough now to see it happen. The Hellcat is probably the most streetable American car to buy that you could drive every day. Again, this is all strictly my opinion.
UNUSUAL FINDINGS THIS WEEK -
First, we heard from a first-time customer who resides in France. He owns a WE4 Turbo Regal. According to him, there are 3 other Turbo Regals in France.
Also, we getting a powermaster rebuilt for a shop in New England for a 1986 LeSabre Hearse. When the 1986 LeSabre was new, I doubt that many were converted into Hearse wagons, let alone how many can possibly be left 30-plus years later. Cadillac still seems to be the Hearse of choice, even today. However, you do see some Lincoln Hearse’s as well.
A LOOK AT OPTIONS OR LACK OF OPTIONS -
Once in a while I hear from someone wanting to install various options in a Turbo Regal.
Some of the strange options some owners want to add are a power antenna or the power window setup. I discourage owners from adding either of these two options because of the work involved.
In the case of the power antenna, if and when it fails, it is a major job to remove it. Installing power windows is also a waste of time because the speed of travel is not that great.
Fortunately, no one has called me about installing T-Tops or an astro roof. Both of these options would be a major mistake.
While having many options in a Turbo Regal, there are also buyers that look for a very low-optioned Turbo Regals. This is for several reasons. In no particular order - they are rare to find, there are less problems with less options, and it makes it a lighter-weight car.
A Grand National with a few options is difficult to find, because many original owners would specify a long list of options. Some options are almost automatic, for example - a tilt column. It was a very inexpensive option. If I had to guess on the 325-plus Turbo Regals that passed thru my hands, at most I had maybe 2 that had no tilt column.
That would be the rarest option not to find in a Turbo Regal. This is my opinion.
If you are thinking about adding options two that are easy to install would be the 9 piece trunk kit and the power trunk release. Neither is difficult to add and nothing gets cut to install them.
I find it strange that GM put the power trunk release button all the way over in the glove box. I believe most of the later production cars I have owned have the trunk release button near the driver on the dash or the driver’s door panel area.
Either way, both a loaded-optioned Turbo Regal and a low-optioned car are highly desirable. In other words, both versions are easy to sell since the demand is high for either car.
Personally, it’s the low-optioned Turbo Regal that I like for all 3 reasons I mentioned earlier.
On the other side of the coin, for personal vehicles I usually look for a well-optioned vehicle because they hold their value better. The 2005 Tahoe we own, according to the print out, I have cost over $50,000 in 2005. We bought it used and it has virtually every option, including a DVD player in the ceiling, air suspension, astro roof, captain leather heated seats, satellite radio with navigation, tow package, etc. Just to name a few. I did put later GM 17-inch wheels on the Tahoe. Although we have no plans to sell it, I know it would be an easy to sell vehicle because it is well optioned and has had excellent care.
SHIFTER HANDLE PROJECT -
We currently are working on a solution to offer better options for a shifter handle. I think most turbo owners would agree the stock handle is getting pricey and is very dainty looking. GM used that same dainty shifter handle since 1978. It easily breaks because the handle shaft does not extend down the shaft of the stick. Watch for updates on this project soon. This way you could preserve your original handle while having the use of a beefier handle at a fraction of the cost.
CUSTOM VINYL BANNERS -
We will soon have various sizes of custom-made vinyl banners available. You would submit a photo of your car and we would get a high-quality 13-ounce-materal banner made. It would be ideal for your garage. We plan to possibly offer 3 different sizes and you should be able to also add copy to your photo. Watch for details on this project in the next several weeks.
ANNUAL CHRISTMAS SPECIALS -
Here is a link to these specials on our website.
Please note it’s best to order early to be assured the item(s) will be shipped to you in time and that we have ample stock. These Christmas Special, must be ordered by phone as they can’t be ordered thru the website, 215-766-1611X0
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.
My Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!
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.
THIS WEEK’S CLASSIFIED ADS -
Here is the link to buy the new 2018 Grand National/GNX calendar. The price is $20 each. If you buy 3 you get the 4th one free!
Here is a link to the website.
Or you can “copy and paste” this information in the URL - http://buick-grand-national.webstarts.com
If the link does not work, you can email Duane directly at [email protected]
Remember, when you buy 3 of the new 2018 Grand National/GNX calendars you will get 1 free! Week 2 of 4.
FOR SALE - 1971 Nova SS 43k original mi 4 speed m20 …. 3.55 posi rear all original untouched car 2 owners since new never ever driven in the rain…90% original paint that shines great never left outside never undercoated…factory radio delete and factory no power steering the car was found thru a church member just an incredible story…. ALL orig paperwork window sticker protect plate sales order and so much more…. one of those cars that only comes around once in a while… when car was found 7 years ago it was sitting for 10 years at mothers house recent work just done in the last 7 years new gas tank fuel lines new tires new radio under dash complete MAJOR tune up new exhaust all new belts and hoses have originals orig carb was just restored drives like a dream NEVER EVER ABUSED OR DRIVEN HARD CALL to discuss... this car would win any survivor class event 26500.00 firm STEALS IT GREGG DAVIDIAN 732 406 6285 car is in Jackson, New Jersey OR CAN DELIVER TO KIRBANS Week 3 of 4.
WANTED TO BUY: For a 1987 Buick Turbo Regal. NOS left and right exhaust manifolds, NOS transmission throttle valve/detent cable, NOS throttle/accelerator cable, NOS dipstick, NOS transmission dipstick, NOS left and right rear bumper fillers, NOS left and right black side markers lights, NOS left and right black metal parking light bezels, NOS left and rite black metal door edge guards, NOS black metal hood molding. Prefer parts to be in original GM factory sealed packaging or GM factory box with original GM part number tag and GM dealer tag. Serious buyer. Please e-mail clear pictures and description of part or call and leave message. All calls will be returned. Jason Maxfield, Niagara Falls, NY 14303. Telephone 416-399-7265 email [email protected] Thank You! Week 2 of 4.
FOR SALE - 1987 Buick Turbo-T with WO2 black out option. Car is a hardtop. Car has a burgundy interior and exterior. One family owned since new. Garaged and covered since new. Car has 90,600 original miles. The car has been repainted once the correct burgundy color. No bodywork ever no accidents and no rust ever. Interior is unblemished and all original. Car comes with several extras. Car has all new weatherstripping, door seals, and trunk seal. Never raced and factory stock with only alcohol cooling added, dual exhaust, and a performance chip. Car has a new A/C system. New vacuum brakes (original powermaster goes with the car as well). Original owner’s manual, window sticker, and build sheet. $24,900 negotiable. Car is located in Georgia. For more details and photos email Pamela at [email protected] or call 229-221-8634. Week 2 of 4.
FOR SALE - GNX 270 with 31,000 miles on it. All the records, GNX jacket and GNX book are with the car. This is one you can drive and enjoy for just $70 grand. Email me [email protected] and we will forward your info to the seller. GNX is located about 75 miles from us.
FOR SALE - 1994 Pontiac Trans Am Anniversary model, white with blue stripe. Garaged in mint condition and comes with all the documents, etc. Car has a mere 34,000 actual miles. Owner is selling it due to health issues. Price tag is $15,900. Contact me direct [email protected]
FOR SALE - 1978 Corvette Coupe. It has the L82 engine 4-speed format. Car has one repaint with 52,000 original miles. The price tag is $11,900. Health issues forces sale. Contact me direct [email protected]
FOR SALE - Remember, if you are local to us check out the inventory of used vehicles 611 Auto Sales. They are located near us at 8307 Easton Road in Ottsville, PA. Their website is - 611autosalespa.com We recently added a 2011 one-owner Ford Focus to their inventory. Many of their cars are priced under $3,995. Mention my name and it may save you a few bucks! They have several one-owner cars to choose from. Their office number is 610-847-0100.
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.
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 you have a tip or a discovery that you found that works on your Turbo Regal, drop us an email giving us the details so we can pass the info on to our readers. Remember, even with my knowledge, I don’t know it all. Simply email me at - [email protected]
TIP FROM KIRBAN -
Christmas Special #8584 is a Packaged Deal for the Battery Butler and the Extreme Duty tan car cover. What you may not realize is the car cover carries a 10-year warranty. We already have replaced a few of these for our customers that purchased them several years ago! This is a great value for both items for $83.95, you save $13.95. Fabric just doesn’t last for many years, so a 10-year warranty makes this a great buy, and it is an outdoor/indoor car cover.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
NEED - Stock original AC Delco 1986-1987 Turbo Regal mass air flow sensor cores. Units can’t be cracked or broken. Currently we will issue a Letter of Credit for $40 for each acceptable core.
NEED - Powermaster brake units. The must be complete. We will issue you a Letter of Credit for $125 for each acceptable core. Currently we will also buy them outright.
NEED - 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering wheels. They must not be bent or rusted. We will issue a $75 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
NEED - 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.
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 -
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
REPRODUCTION 8-HOLE MOLDED
UNDER HOOD INSULATOR LINER PAD (NO WORDING)
Over time, an original under hood (insulator liner) pad can deteriorate or rodents may have eaten holes in the material.
GM has not had the factory 9-hole molded hood pad available for several years. GM later made an 8-hole molded hood pad which eliminated the center back hole.
This hood pad is an exact reproduction of that GM 8-hole molded hood pad. A new mold was made from a brand new GM hood pad.
This molded hood pad does not have the wording on it, otherwise it is exact to the 8-hole style pad.
Whenever an original 9-hole hood pad with the wording is advertised on ebay, it brings big money.
NOTE - From time to time on the internet you can find someone that has the pattern or decal for the exact wording, if you want it to look original.
Because they are oversized to ship, we have a flat shipping charge as shown. This item is shipped direct from the manufacturer to you. NOTE - We have a flat shipping rate, since the box is oversized.
*NOTE - Price includes the shipping and handling UPS Ground Shipping to 48 U.S. continental states.
Another excellent restoration item.
7770 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction 8-Hole Molded Under Hood Insulator Liner Pad (No Wording) - $229.95 Plus $75 UPS shipping to basic 48 states - TOTAL $304.95
Here is a link to this Hood Pad 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. 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 -
Next week we will have our annual Christmas M&Ms contest. This one will be the biggest M&Ms container ever. Stay tuned!
Next week is the last Inner Circle email until January 3, 2018. Every year we take that week off between Christmas and New Years.