12-20-2017 Inner Circle

Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 12-20-2017 -

MERRY CHRISTMAS ACROSS THE MILES

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

NO INNER CIRCLE NEXT WEEK - This is the one week in the entire year I take a break! The next weekly Inner Circle will be 1-3-2018.



OUR ANNUAL CHRISTMAS M&M’s CONTEST -

This is our biggest M&M’s contest ever. It features a Christmas Train. Both cars are fully packed with M&Ms and just the cab part of the engine is also filled with M&Ms.

HERE ARE THE RULES:

Your one single guess must be emailed direct to me [email protected] The deadline for your single guess is this Friday, December 22nd, 12 midnight. In the rare case of a tie, the earliest entry will be declared the winner. The winning entry will be the closest guess under the actual count.

The contest is open to all, except anyone connected with any of the various Turbo companies.

The winner of our annual Christmas contest will be announced in the 1-3-2018 Inner Circle.

Here is what the winner of our Christmas contest will receive - The actual Christmas train filled with M&Ms, a 12-ounce pack of Yum Yums Bake Shops Premium ground coffee, a Yum Yums plastic travel mug, and a $50 Gift Certificate good for any website parts.

PHOTO 1 - We show 4 different photos of the Christmas train and close ups of the actual metal train cars and engine. I think it took me almost as long to repackage the Christmas train back into the original box!

Here are some basic clues - The overall length of the entire Christmas train is 22 inches. Each train car is 7 inches long. They are about 3 inches wide and 3-1/4 inches high (measurements are approximate.) The cab part of the engine is about 2-½ inches long.

Your guess is how many M&Ms are in the two train cars and in the cab portion of the engine. Good luck to all our readers.!



SEVERAL NEW PRODUCTS NOW AVAILABLE -

PHOTO 2 - We just added a few new products from another supplier. First is a seatbelt release block-off stainless plates kit. This is a clever way to fix the issue if you have a broken ear on the seat belt release bracket. Nobody makes a reproduction seat belt release bracket. The top left and right photo show the actual parts in the kit plus the second photo shows where it would go if you have a broken ear on the seatbelt release bracket. The bottom left photo shows another new product, the reproduction plastic bushings for the T-Tops. A much needed part to tighten up any problematic rattles you may have with T-Tops short of cutting the roof off and welding on a solid roof. Last, but not least, is the reproduction safety hood latch. You may have a rusted one or one that is bent. All of these new parts are available now. See the New Parts section for more details.



MOTOR CITY BARN FINDS -

Motor City Barn Finds is a new hardbound book authored by Tom Cotter with photography by Michael Alan Ross. Full color and over 205 pages, it covers a lot interesting finds in and around Detroit. I bought my copy from Summit Racing. The price was $31.99 and $9.95 shipping. Their part number is MBK-780760352441. I have not yet read the book, but did glance through it. Tom Cotter also wrote the book “Cobra in the Barn,” which I did read. This makes for a great addition to your reading library for any car collector.

PHOTO 3 - We show both the cover of the “Motor City Barn Finds” and one of the pages from the book. This makes a great gift idea for that car collector.



STAR WARS -

As you read this, the latest Star Wars movie is on the big screen. There is little doubt this movie did have a monster opening this past weekend at the box office. NOTE - The totals exceeded $200 million!

I have two collectibles from the Star Wars series. One is the plastic floor model R2D2 plastic ice cooler that Pepsi used, I assume at various stores. This is probably about 10-12 years old. The really rare Star Wars figure I have is of Yoda made in resin. He weighs over 60 lbs and is roughly 2 feet tall. The current value of this version of Yoda in mint condition is nearly a grand and climbing. I purchased this Yoda about 12 years ago from one of my Turbo Regal customers who worked for Pepsi in Florida. He delivered it to me at the GS Nationals!

PHOTO 4 - The photo to the left shows the plastic R2D2 Pepsi cooler. Using ebay as a guide this has a value of around $150. The photo to the right shows the Yoda Pepsi made in resin.



SHIFTER HANDLE PROJECT UPDATE -

We are moving ahead with this shifter handle project. Our end plan is to make it work on the 1983-1988 Monte Carlos and also the 1980s Firebirds and Camaros. I already have shifter mechanisms for those other GM cars to work with. My research has shown that very few handles/knobs are available new from GM for the automatic GM cars of that time period.

It looks like we will have 3 or possibly 4 different handles to choose from. One version would be a brand new GM handle. We stumbled on a particular knob by dumb luck. It was on a car at the bid lot I go to where we buy cars! It is amazing that it is still available new from GM. The problem is, I have no way of knowing how many are in inventory at GM.

The other three handles would be used. These used handles would be thoroughly cleaned. What has made this project difficult is that GM changed the location of the locking clip from car model to car model. We may even have some very limited number of other knobs, some of which may be leather.

Our plan will probably eliminate that clip, which can be problematic. If you have ever changed out your handle, you know what I am talking about. You try to position the handle at the right height for the clip to slide in on the chrome stick and catch the grooved edge. Usually this can take several tries to lock it on the groove on the chrome stick.

What has made this project hard to do is the fact GM changed angles of the grove on the stick on their other GM models. This would make it difficult to position the handle correctly on our cars if we retained the locking clip format. I realize various custom-made handles exist, but most that I have seen still have that dainty look. The ones we hope will work are not only all original GM handles, but all have an extended shoulder that will extend down the chrome shaft. We hope to do this at a very reasonable price structure, making it a bargain while providing a beefier handle that our cars surely deserve. The other issue is supplies, which can be limited depending on demand. This way you could keep your original dainty handle for shows, thus avoiding possible breakage and wear issues.



BY THE NUMBERS -

As most of my readers know, for the last several years I’ve been going to the major salvage yards and you pull it yards in my area. I have seen G-body cars become less and less available each year as the inventory gets newer. I would estimate between the 10 or so I go to on a regular basis there are over 15,000 cars and trucks. Most are You Pull it yards. The few that are not, I know the owner of those yards personally for a number of years, so I can go through those yards. This gives me access to a huge variety of cars and trucks. It’s not only great exercise but a huge learning process as I constantly try and see what will work on our cars or what holds value.

Foreign cars are hugely popular - everything from Hondas to BMW to Mercedes and even Porsche. I just wish I knew what parts certain companies were seeking from this assortment of foreign cars. If you know of a company in your area that specializes in a certain foreign model, email me their info. Currently, we do supply several vendors with GM parts.



CUSTOM-MADE VINYL BANNERS UPDATE -

Currently we are working with a company that is fully GM licensed for GM banners. They have agreements for all the GM models except Chevrolet and Corvette. They have submitted samples to GM license department. Watch for word on these custom-made vinyl banners early next month.



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 Specials, must be ordered by phone as they can’t be ordered thru the website, 215-766-1611 x 0. The deadline is fast approaching - January 5th, 2018.



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 -



WANTED TO BUY - 1965 or 1967 Buick Skylark GranSport/GS400, will discuss any condition, but it must be a real GranSport/GS, no clones. Possible trade involved. I am in the Cleveland, Ohio area. Call Ken at 440-655-8731. Okay to leave a voice mail, if I don’t pick up. Or email me at [email protected] Week 1 of 4.



FOR SALE - 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 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 3 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 3 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 -

Sometimes it’s the little improvements you do that make the biggest difference. One example is simply putting a dab of grease on the rubber hood stoppers. That alone can eliminate the sound of the windshield cracking.



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 -

SEATBELT RELEASE BLOCK-OFF STAINLESS PLATES (2) KIT

In many cases, the factory plastic seatbelt release mechanism may be broken. It is the plastic lever that triggers the seat belt, which is located in each door jamb.

That seat belt mechanism is no longer available from GM or in the aftermarket.

You can easily remove that mechanism and install this block-off plate. It is made in stainless. If you want, you can polish the plate or paint it to match your car. Since it’s stainless steel, it will not rust.

Each kit comes with new screws and gaskets.

Another excellent replacement for any interior restoration.

7813 - 1978-1988 Buick Regal (All Models) - Seatbelt Release Block-off Stainless Plates (2) Kit - $17.95

Here is a link to this block-off plates kit on our website.



1978-1988 G-BODY WITH T-TOPS (Including Buick Regal T-Tops Models) -
T-TOPS REPAIR BUSHINGS (2)

Over time, the factory bushing that surrounds the locking pin on the T-Top is probably badly worn or may be totally missing.

This is a new bushing to replace the factory bushing. It’s one improvement to help eliminate possible rattles and water leaks.

Bushings are packaged as a pair.

Another excellent replacement for any exterior restoration.

7814 - 1978-1988 G-Body with T-Tops (Including Buick Regal T-Tops Models) - T-Tops Repair Bushings (2) - $15.95

Here is a link to these T-Tops repair bushings on our website.



1978-1988 Buick Regal (All Models) -
HOOD LATCH SAFETY CATCH

Over time, the hood latch safety catch may become rusted or bent. This is a steel replacement catch. You will need to paint it.

Another excellent replacement for any exterior restoration.

7815 - 1978-1988 Buick Regal (All Models) - Hood Latch Safety Catch - $35.95

Here is a link to this hood latch safety catch 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 -

Remember there is no Inner Circle next week. The next Inner Circle will be emailed Wednesday, January 3, 2018.

Enjoy the Holidays and remember the reason for the season is the birth of our Lord and Savior.

Email Deals

Be the first to receive exclusive promotions, updates and product announcements. Subscribe to our mailing list now.