Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 01-22-2014
THE BUICK TRI-SHIELD EMBLEM -
The Buick tri-shield emblem has three shields inside a circle. It can be traced directly to the ancestral coat of arms of the automaker’s Scottish founder - David Dunbar Buick. Originally, it was one shield. This changed in 1960 with the new 1959 Buick models. It was that year that three shields appeared overlapping each other. The colors were red, white and blue in that order. Each emblem had the deer with the antlers in the top right of each of the three shields with a silver band going across each shield. In the bottom left of each of the three shields was a small symbol.
It’s ironic at least for me as years ago I hit a deer with my Turbo-T Limited. The Turbo Regals had the tri-shield emblem on the header panel and in a shade of grey was on center medallion of each of the center caps. The Grand National models only received the tri-shield logo in light grey on the horn center medallion.
In recent years with some of the new Buick models the tri-shield emblem is all chrome and plastic.
Buick did at least two versions of the tri-shield when they used the three colors red white and blue. One version has the deer with the antlers in the top right of each of the shields with another smaller symbol in the lower left of each of the three shields. Another version did not have the deer with the antlers nor did it have the smaller symbols.
PHOTO 1 - The top photo shows two of the later tri-shield Buick emblems. Note that both of them do not depict the deer with the antlers nor the small symbol. I removed them from various Buicks in the U-Pull-It yards over the summer. Both are plastic. The rectangle one is an interior emblem from a door panel. The bottom photo shows a brand new Buick hood ornament that is diecast and was for the Collectors Edition LeSabre in 1985. It is a two-sided emblem and depicts the deer with antlers and the small symbol as well. This is a beautiful ornament that measures 2-½ inches in diameter. The 1985 marked the end of the large rear wheel drive platform for the LeSabre, which may explain the Collectors Edition for the 1985 LeSabre model.
PHOTO 2 - The photo shows a diecast grille emblem. It measures 4 inches in diameter and I believe it is from an early 1960s Buick. Diecast emblems are seldom used today on cars as plastic emblems has replaced them.
PHOTO 3 - Shows the largest tri-shield Buick emblem I have that hangs in my pole building. It probably weighs over 100 pounds and lights up from behind the tri-shield. It measures just under 4 feet in diameter! You can see that it does not feature the deer with the antlers nor the small symbol on each of the shields. This was a Buick dealer display probably from the mid-1980s. I can’t recall what I paid for it. Of course, the Buick logo that has probably more meaning to a Turbo Regal owner would be the Hawk shown in flight. It was used in the mid-1980’s both in print ads and TV commercials.
MORE ANNIVERSARIES NOTED IN 2014 -
The Mac computer turns 30 years old this year. It was first introduced during the Super Bowl game in January of 1984. If only we knew to invest in Steve Jobs' creation back then or at least offer him some office space!
In the automotive performance world one four letter word has always denoted power celebrates 50 years in 2014. I am referring to the all mighty 426 Hemi that Chrysler stuffed into some of their cars beginning with the 1964 models. Even if you are not a fan of the Chrysler models, it’s a pretty safe bet you would make room in your garage for a vintage 426 Hemi powered example.
MORE MEMORIES FROM MY PAST -
I have one memory of a 426 Hemi car that we owned around 1977-1978. At the time, I was buying original muscle cars mostly GTOs and some Mopars. Those two brands were my major focus.
I especially liked the 1967 Plymouth GTX models. The GTX was an upscale version of the Belvedere and the 1967 marked the last year for that smaller body style. Also, the GTX only had two different engines - the 440 and the potent 426 Hemi.
I eventually bought and sold 3 of the 1967 440 GTX models. One in particular, was black outside with a black interior. Back then I had no idea how rare a convertible 1967 GTX was. Also, black was not a popular color for most muscle cars in the 1960s, unlike today. I always wanted to own at least one of the 426 Hemi GTXs but even then, they were difficult to find.
One day I got the idea to place an ad in the "The Bulletin" Philadelphia newspaper. The ad simply stated words to the effect, “Wanted - 1967 GTX Hemi car - Willing to pay over local value for a nice example” along with my contact information.
In response to the ad, I got a call from a person who lived near the Philadelphia airport. He said he had such a car with only 22,000 miles on it. It was a hardtop and everything worked, even the clock. He did not want me to come to his house, so we arranged to meet in a shopping center one night.
He told me up front, that it takes $5,000 to buy it.
Having sold the 3 other versions through Hemmings Motor News, I knew the market would be profitable if the car was everything the seller said it was. Turns out it was, and I bought the car. The car was 99% stock with the exception of it having a magneto.
The car was difficult to enjoy because pumped gas at the time was severely lacking in octane, which a properly running Hemi car needed.
I still remember going to my parent's house for dinner with my wife in the car and having it die on the street. The magneto failed. I had to pull it out and ship it to the manufacturer to get it fixed. I locked up the car on the street in front of my parent's house for probably a week. Not something you would do today!
I have an October 1972 N.A.D.A. Official Used Car Guide. What I find strange is it doesn’t even show the 426 Hemi engine under any of the Dodge or Plymouth cars to either deduct or add value. It does show to deduct $125 if the 1967 GTX has a manual transmission. It also shows the convertible being worth less than the hardtop back in 1972.
In checking under Pontiac for the 1969 GTO, it makes no mention of the potent Ram Air III or Ram Air IV engines, nor does it say to add or deduct for the Judge model.
So, at least N.A.D.A. is consistent in not recognizing various options, even though it fails to mention options that impact the value.
PHOTO 4 - The photo on the left shows the Hemi engine with its huge chrome factory air cleaner. The photo on the right shows the 1867 GTX with the hood up, probably taken when I realized something was wrong with the car. The car was dark green and had that crinkle style roof on it.
I sold the car in Hemmings Motor News for $9,000, which I thought was all the money in the world for the car. A statement today that has proven to be wrong!
BARRETT-JACKSON AUCTION CONTEST WINNERS -
The total price paid on the GNX with a mere 11 actual miles was $104,500. This included the 10% buyers commission, which was on top of the winning bid of $95,000.
I ran this contest on two forums one being the turbobuick.com forum and the other being the py on-line forum (Pontiac forum). Both forums produced about the same total of entries. The Turbo Buick forum actually had a winner nail the amount exact at $104,500. The first place winner on the Pontiac forum came very close with a guess of $103,250.
In each case, I had to scroll through about 7-8 pages of guesses to determine the three winners in each of the two forums.
The first place winner on the Turbo Buick forum was Tim Brock who nailed the price exact at $104,500. Tim actually owns two of our cars and resides in a town near our warehouse.
To see all the winners go to turbobuick.com - scroll down the home page to the MISCELLANEOUS Section. Click on and under "TURBO LOUNGE" look for the thread with the heading "BARRETT-JACKSON AUCTION - CONTEST."
MORE STORIES FROM DAWAYNE NELSON -
Dawayne Nelson, who worked for Delco Electronics in the early 1980s, emailed me more information to share with you.
"I was involved with the 1983 Buick Riviera Pace Car. This was 4.1 liter V6 dual turbo engine that developed over 600 horsepower. It was very fast, with a very low 0 to 60 time. I can remember that the Chief Engineer at Buick would drive it around Detroit blowing the doors off of all the supposed muscle cars. Obviously they were very surprised to be left in the dust by a Buick Riviera. He had a lot of fun.
Another interesting fact, the Ignition Engineer developed his system so that the 3.6 Litre V6 would start within one revolution of the engine. I used to check this all the time on my Buick. Most cars take more than one revolution. Test it sometime for yourself.
Dawayne"
CAR FOR SALE 1987 GRAND NATONAL -
This 1987 Grand National For Sale is located in Georgia and has just under 21,000 actual miles. It has factory T-Tops and runs out extremely nice. The current owner only put about 500 miles on it since buying it over a year ago.
Reason he is selling is they are expecting a baby. Car has been garaged. I will have more information on this car shortly. We originally handled this deal when the car was owned previously in New Jersey. The car does have some minor paint issues and needs a few things done to be perfect. It needs a power antenna, A/C charged, front bumper fillers, and the radio repaired. The price is $17,900.
For more info, contact me at - [email protected]
JAPANESE WORLD WAR II VET DIES -
One of the most unusual stories to come out of World War II really did not surface until March of 1974, almost forty years ago. This is when Hiroo Onoda was the last Japanese Imperial Soldier to emerge from hiding and surrender. He was an intelligent office who came out of hiding on Lubang Island in the Philippines and surrendered only when his former commander flew there to reverse his 1945 orders to stay behind. Onoda and Sgt. Shoichi Yokoi, who had emerged from the jungle in 1972, was the other World War II hold out. Onoda lived a full life and died last week at the age of 91.
I remember reading about this when it happened in March of 1974. This is a remarkable chain of events when you think about it. The span of almost 30 years of hiding is just about unimaginable with today's communication advances!
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]
LOCAL REQUEST FROM US -
As part of our growing business, we need to see if there are any local customers with the good fortune of owning a new 2014 Corvette.
We need to examine it under the hood to see what parts we can make for that market.
If you have one locally to us, contact me direct - [email protected]
COMING SOON -
Watch for word and pricing on Spoolfools' popular one-piece hand-laid rear bumper filler. We will also be offering his front fillers, which are two pieces. Spoolfool's one-piece design makes for a better appearance than the GM format of two sides interlocking together in the center of the rear bumper area. The quality is excellent.
UPDATE ON OUR #7371 MINI STARTER –
Our mini starter has steel gears, unlike some suppliers that have plastic gears. Steel gears insure longer life and are much better.
Here is a link to this #7371 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) - Brand New Mini Starter on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/43914/BRAND+NEW+MINI+STARTER+%237371.html
COMING SOON - T-TYPE FENDER COVERS -
We will soon have available our new T-Type fender covers from Fender Grippers. Covers are silk-screened in color and have the catch phrase, "T-TYPE - A BOOST OF BUICK PERFORMANCE."
These are made in the U.S.A., are fully GM licensed, and will be available from all the other turbo Buick vendors.
These should be available later this month.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
VDO VISION SERIES
30 inHg VACUUM and 25 psi BOOST 2-1/16" GAUGE & INSTALLATION KIT
This attractive VDO vision series gauge measures both vacuum and boost. It has a 2-1/16" diameter face, which fits any of the single or twin gauge A-Pillar holders we offer. It reads up to 30 inHg vacuum and up to 25 psi boost.
The quality is excellent and features a black flat bezel face, red needle, and white numbers. This is a VDO Vision gauge. It has a black bezel, like the Cockpit Series, but this bezel is flat, not rounded like the Cockpit Series. VDO does not make a Cockpit Series gauge that show s30 inHg and 25 psi.
Gauge comes with an installation kit for any 1986-1987 Turbo Regal. It will also fit older applications. The kit will allow your current gauge and this gauge to function at the same time. It comes with two different color inserts - red and green - in case you want to change the color of the light in the gauge.
NOTE - We also offer the VDO Cockpit Series 2-1/16″ 30 lb. Boost Gauge (includes installation kit), Part #6627.
NOTE - When purchasing this item you may also want to consider the Grey Plastic Single A-Pillar Windshield Gauge Holder #1530, the Grey Plastic Windshield A-Pillar Twin Gauge Holder #6712 or the Grey Plastic Console Twin Gauge Holder #1529.
#7552 - VDO Vision Series 30 inHg Vacuum and 25 psi Boost 2-1/16" Gauge & Installation Kit - $54.95 / kit
Here is a link to this Vacuum/Boost Gauge on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44132/VDO+VISION+SERIES+30+inHg+VACUUM+and+25+psi+BOOST+2+1+16++GAUGE+and+INSTALLATION+KIT+%237552.html
1984-1987 Buick Regal -
TRANSMISSION CROSSMEMBER UPGRADED BLACK POLY BUSHINGS (4) SET
These are factory-style replacement crossmember black poly bushings, complete with new hardware. The polyurethane material is far stronger and tougher than the factory GM rubber bushings. The GM bushings are no longer available.
These four black poly bushings sandwich the factory transmission crossmember at the ends to each side of the frame rail. Unlike the factory original bushings, these have a metal insert.
Each kit comes with four zinc-plated grade 10.9 bolts, two zinc-plated steel brackets and four black poly isolators, which will do both ends of the factory crossmember brace.
The four new grade 10.9 bolts and metal bracket are zinc plated to prevent rust.
Because of age, exposure and weather, the original GM rubber bushings can become compressed and deteriorate. They can also retain moisture and cause the ends of the crossmember to rust out. If these bushings in your car are severely compressed, it can alter the angle of the transmission in relationship to the rear.
An excellent time to replace these bushings is when you are having the transmission rebuilt. (You do not have to remove the transmission to install these, however you do have to support the transmission in order to remove and reinstall these new bushings.)
This is just another item that should be replaced to retain a firm support for the transmission. You may also want to replace the Rear Transmission Mount, Part #6941, at the same time. You may also want to replace the Engine Mounts, our Part #6891.
Another good restoration item.
#7554 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal -
Transmission Crossmember Upgraded Black Poly Bushings (4) Set - $79.95 / set
Here is a link to the transmission crossmember upgraded black poly bushing set on our website
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44133/TRANSMISSION+CROSSMEMBER+UPGRADED+BLACK+POLY+BUSHINGS+SET+%23+7554.html
1986-1987 Turbo Regal -
STOCK APPEARING INTERCOOLER and TURBO HEAVY-DUTY HOSES SET
The only weak links in the intercooler turbo system are the three factory connecting hoses that GM used (#1, #2 & #3 in the illustration.)
The smallest hose connects the intercooler to the turbo and the other two connect the tube to the throttle body. The hose is cut rather short leaving very little to clamp against and the material is quite flimsy. When subjected to heat and flex, they could split or come off. If this happens, the car will sputter and choke.
This stock appearing hoses set is made from the identical fabric-style material and black color as the original. So, the outward appearance looks factory.
These hoses are twice as thick as the original GM equipment and slightly longer for a better fit.
A MUST improvement for your Buick… it's a good idea to keep a spare set on hand.
7553 - 1986-1987 Turbo Regal -
Stock Appearing Intercooler and Turbo Heavy-Duty Hoses (3) Set - $34.95 / set
Here is a link to these heavy-duty hoses on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44131/STOCK+APPEARING+INTERCOOLER+and+TURBO+HEAVY-DUTY+HOSES+SET+%23+7553.html
UPCOMING TURBO REGAL EVENTS FOR 2014 -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE OPEN HOUSE - SATURDAY - APRIL 12, 2014 -
This event has no rain date and runs from 9 am until 3 pm. We will have our usual program, including a freshly prepared lunch by chef Russ and Nancy doing all the cooking. Our usual M & M contest, a no reserve auction, Free Yum Yum donuts in the AM with coffee. Special sale prices and new products will be on display.
So far Chris’ Custom Apparel has confirmed they will be at our event. Pete Hoffman will have parts for sale, and I will also have used parts for sale.
More information will follow later this Spring.
This is one of the first major events of 2014 for the Turbo Regal owner. Don't miss it.
GS NATIONALS - OCTOBER 15TH thru 18th, 2014 -
Beech Bend Raceway, 798 Beech Bend Road, Bowling Green, Kentucky
Ron Joseph informs me that the dates for the 2014 GS Nationals are October 15th thru the 18th.
The intent to move it to September has been shelved at least for a year according to Ron.
We will share more info as it becomes available.
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 WORKS -
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, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE -
We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these have to 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 -
Like many of you, I can’t wait for this unusually cold and wet weather to give way to Spring time. Even my outside cats seldom come out of our pole building except to tell me when they want to be fed.
THE BUICK TRI-SHIELD EMBLEM -
The Buick tri-shield emblem has three shields inside a circle. It can be traced directly to the ancestral coat of arms of the automaker’s Scottish founder - David Dunbar Buick. Originally, it was one shield. This changed in 1960 with the new 1959 Buick models. It was that year that three shields appeared overlapping each other. The colors were red, white and blue in that order. Each emblem had the deer with the antlers in the top right of each of the three shields with a silver band going across each shield. In the bottom left of each of the three shields was a small symbol.
It’s ironic at least for me as years ago I hit a deer with my Turbo-T Limited. The Turbo Regals had the tri-shield emblem on the header panel and in a shade of grey was on center medallion of each of the center caps. The Grand National models only received the tri-shield logo in light grey on the horn center medallion.
In recent years with some of the new Buick models the tri-shield emblem is all chrome and plastic.
Buick did at least two versions of the tri-shield when they used the three colors red white and blue. One version has the deer with the antlers in the top right of each of the shields with another smaller symbol in the lower left of each of the three shields. Another version did not have the deer with the antlers nor did it have the smaller symbols.
PHOTO 1 - The top photo shows two of the later tri-shield Buick emblems. Note that both of them do not depict the deer with the antlers nor the small symbol. I removed them from various Buicks in the U-Pull-It yards over the summer. Both are plastic. The rectangle one is an interior emblem from a door panel. The bottom photo shows a brand new Buick hood ornament that is diecast and was for the Collectors Edition LeSabre in 1985. It is a two-sided emblem and depicts the deer with antlers and the small symbol as well. This is a beautiful ornament that measures 2-½ inches in diameter. The 1985 marked the end of the large rear wheel drive platform for the LeSabre, which may explain the Collectors Edition for the 1985 LeSabre model.
PHOTO 2 - The photo shows a diecast grille emblem. It measures 4 inches in diameter and I believe it is from an early 1960s Buick. Diecast emblems are seldom used today on cars as plastic emblems has replaced them.
PHOTO 3 - Shows the largest tri-shield Buick emblem I have that hangs in my pole building. It probably weighs over 100 pounds and lights up from behind the tri-shield. It measures just under 4 feet in diameter! You can see that it does not feature the deer with the antlers nor the small symbol on each of the shields. This was a Buick dealer display probably from the mid-1980s. I can’t recall what I paid for it. Of course, the Buick logo that has probably more meaning to a Turbo Regal owner would be the Hawk shown in flight. It was used in the mid-1980’s both in print ads and TV commercials.
MORE ANNIVERSARIES NOTED IN 2014 -
The Mac computer turns 30 years old this year. It was first introduced during the Super Bowl game in January of 1984. If only we knew to invest in Steve Jobs' creation back then or at least offer him some office space!
In the automotive performance world one four letter word has always denoted power celebrates 50 years in 2014. I am referring to the all mighty 426 Hemi that Chrysler stuffed into some of their cars beginning with the 1964 models. Even if you are not a fan of the Chrysler models, it’s a pretty safe bet you would make room in your garage for a vintage 426 Hemi powered example.
MORE MEMORIES FROM MY PAST -
I have one memory of a 426 Hemi car that we owned around 1977-1978. At the time, I was buying original muscle cars mostly GTOs and some Mopars. Those two brands were my major focus.
I especially liked the 1967 Plymouth GTX models. The GTX was an upscale version of the Belvedere and the 1967 marked the last year for that smaller body style. Also, the GTX only had two different engines - the 440 and the potent 426 Hemi.
I eventually bought and sold 3 of the 1967 440 GTX models. One in particular, was black outside with a black interior. Back then I had no idea how rare a convertible 1967 GTX was. Also, black was not a popular color for most muscle cars in the 1960s, unlike today. I always wanted to own at least one of the 426 Hemi GTXs but even then, they were difficult to find.
One day I got the idea to place an ad in the "The Bulletin" Philadelphia newspaper. The ad simply stated words to the effect, “Wanted - 1967 GTX Hemi car - Willing to pay over local value for a nice example” along with my contact information.
In response to the ad, I got a call from a person who lived near the Philadelphia airport. He said he had such a car with only 22,000 miles on it. It was a hardtop and everything worked, even the clock. He did not want me to come to his house, so we arranged to meet in a shopping center one night.
He told me up front, that it takes $5,000 to buy it.
Having sold the 3 other versions through Hemmings Motor News, I knew the market would be profitable if the car was everything the seller said it was. Turns out it was, and I bought the car. The car was 99% stock with the exception of it having a magneto.
The car was difficult to enjoy because pumped gas at the time was severely lacking in octane, which a properly running Hemi car needed.
I still remember going to my parent's house for dinner with my wife in the car and having it die on the street. The magneto failed. I had to pull it out and ship it to the manufacturer to get it fixed. I locked up the car on the street in front of my parent's house for probably a week. Not something you would do today!
I have an October 1972 N.A.D.A. Official Used Car Guide. What I find strange is it doesn’t even show the 426 Hemi engine under any of the Dodge or Plymouth cars to either deduct or add value. It does show to deduct $125 if the 1967 GTX has a manual transmission. It also shows the convertible being worth less than the hardtop back in 1972.
In checking under Pontiac for the 1969 GTO, it makes no mention of the potent Ram Air III or Ram Air IV engines, nor does it say to add or deduct for the Judge model.
So, at least N.A.D.A. is consistent in not recognizing various options, even though it fails to mention options that impact the value.
PHOTO 4 - The photo on the left shows the Hemi engine with its huge chrome factory air cleaner. The photo on the right shows the 1867 GTX with the hood up, probably taken when I realized something was wrong with the car. The car was dark green and had that crinkle style roof on it.
I sold the car in Hemmings Motor News for $9,000, which I thought was all the money in the world for the car. A statement today that has proven to be wrong!
BARRETT-JACKSON AUCTION CONTEST WINNERS -
The total price paid on the GNX with a mere 11 actual miles was $104,500. This included the 10% buyers commission, which was on top of the winning bid of $95,000.
I ran this contest on two forums one being the turbobuick.com forum and the other being the py on-line forum (Pontiac forum). Both forums produced about the same total of entries. The Turbo Buick forum actually had a winner nail the amount exact at $104,500. The first place winner on the Pontiac forum came very close with a guess of $103,250.
In each case, I had to scroll through about 7-8 pages of guesses to determine the three winners in each of the two forums.
The first place winner on the Turbo Buick forum was Tim Brock who nailed the price exact at $104,500. Tim actually owns two of our cars and resides in a town near our warehouse.
To see all the winners go to turbobuick.com - scroll down the home page to the MISCELLANEOUS Section. Click on and under "TURBO LOUNGE" look for the thread with the heading "BARRETT-JACKSON AUCTION - CONTEST."
MORE STORIES FROM DAWAYNE NELSON -
Dawayne Nelson, who worked for Delco Electronics in the early 1980s, emailed me more information to share with you.
"I was involved with the 1983 Buick Riviera Pace Car. This was 4.1 liter V6 dual turbo engine that developed over 600 horsepower. It was very fast, with a very low 0 to 60 time. I can remember that the Chief Engineer at Buick would drive it around Detroit blowing the doors off of all the supposed muscle cars. Obviously they were very surprised to be left in the dust by a Buick Riviera. He had a lot of fun.
Another interesting fact, the Ignition Engineer developed his system so that the 3.6 Litre V6 would start within one revolution of the engine. I used to check this all the time on my Buick. Most cars take more than one revolution. Test it sometime for yourself.
Dawayne"
CAR FOR SALE 1987 GRAND NATONAL -
This 1987 Grand National For Sale is located in Georgia and has just under 21,000 actual miles. It has factory T-Tops and runs out extremely nice. The current owner only put about 500 miles on it since buying it over a year ago.
Reason he is selling is they are expecting a baby. Car has been garaged. I will have more information on this car shortly. We originally handled this deal when the car was owned previously in New Jersey. The car does have some minor paint issues and needs a few things done to be perfect. It needs a power antenna, A/C charged, front bumper fillers, and the radio repaired. The price is $17,900.
For more info, contact me at - [email protected]
JAPANESE WORLD WAR II VET DIES -
One of the most unusual stories to come out of World War II really did not surface until March of 1974, almost forty years ago. This is when Hiroo Onoda was the last Japanese Imperial Soldier to emerge from hiding and surrender. He was an intelligent office who came out of hiding on Lubang Island in the Philippines and surrendered only when his former commander flew there to reverse his 1945 orders to stay behind. Onoda and Sgt. Shoichi Yokoi, who had emerged from the jungle in 1972, was the other World War II hold out. Onoda lived a full life and died last week at the age of 91.
I remember reading about this when it happened in March of 1974. This is a remarkable chain of events when you think about it. The span of almost 30 years of hiding is just about unimaginable with today's communication advances!
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]
LOCAL REQUEST FROM US -
As part of our growing business, we need to see if there are any local customers with the good fortune of owning a new 2014 Corvette.
We need to examine it under the hood to see what parts we can make for that market.
If you have one locally to us, contact me direct - [email protected]
COMING SOON -
Watch for word and pricing on Spoolfools' popular one-piece hand-laid rear bumper filler. We will also be offering his front fillers, which are two pieces. Spoolfool's one-piece design makes for a better appearance than the GM format of two sides interlocking together in the center of the rear bumper area. The quality is excellent.
UPDATE ON OUR #7371 MINI STARTER –
Our mini starter has steel gears, unlike some suppliers that have plastic gears. Steel gears insure longer life and are much better.
Here is a link to this #7371 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) - Brand New Mini Starter on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/43914/BRAND+NEW+MINI+STARTER+%237371.html
COMING SOON - T-TYPE FENDER COVERS -
We will soon have available our new T-Type fender covers from Fender Grippers. Covers are silk-screened in color and have the catch phrase, "T-TYPE - A BOOST OF BUICK PERFORMANCE."
These are made in the U.S.A., are fully GM licensed, and will be available from all the other turbo Buick vendors.
These should be available later this month.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
VDO VISION SERIES
30 inHg VACUUM and 25 psi BOOST 2-1/16" GAUGE & INSTALLATION KIT
This attractive VDO vision series gauge measures both vacuum and boost. It has a 2-1/16" diameter face, which fits any of the single or twin gauge A-Pillar holders we offer. It reads up to 30 inHg vacuum and up to 25 psi boost.
The quality is excellent and features a black flat bezel face, red needle, and white numbers. This is a VDO Vision gauge. It has a black bezel, like the Cockpit Series, but this bezel is flat, not rounded like the Cockpit Series. VDO does not make a Cockpit Series gauge that show s30 inHg and 25 psi.
Gauge comes with an installation kit for any 1986-1987 Turbo Regal. It will also fit older applications. The kit will allow your current gauge and this gauge to function at the same time. It comes with two different color inserts - red and green - in case you want to change the color of the light in the gauge.
NOTE - We also offer the VDO Cockpit Series 2-1/16″ 30 lb. Boost Gauge (includes installation kit), Part #6627.
NOTE - When purchasing this item you may also want to consider the Grey Plastic Single A-Pillar Windshield Gauge Holder #1530, the Grey Plastic Windshield A-Pillar Twin Gauge Holder #6712 or the Grey Plastic Console Twin Gauge Holder #1529.
#7552 - VDO Vision Series 30 inHg Vacuum and 25 psi Boost 2-1/16" Gauge & Installation Kit - $54.95 / kit
Here is a link to this Vacuum/Boost Gauge on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44132/VDO+VISION+SERIES+30+inHg+VACUUM+and+25+psi+BOOST+2+1+16++GAUGE+and+INSTALLATION+KIT+%237552.html
1984-1987 Buick Regal -
TRANSMISSION CROSSMEMBER UPGRADED BLACK POLY BUSHINGS (4) SET
These are factory-style replacement crossmember black poly bushings, complete with new hardware. The polyurethane material is far stronger and tougher than the factory GM rubber bushings. The GM bushings are no longer available.
These four black poly bushings sandwich the factory transmission crossmember at the ends to each side of the frame rail. Unlike the factory original bushings, these have a metal insert.
Each kit comes with four zinc-plated grade 10.9 bolts, two zinc-plated steel brackets and four black poly isolators, which will do both ends of the factory crossmember brace.
The four new grade 10.9 bolts and metal bracket are zinc plated to prevent rust.
Because of age, exposure and weather, the original GM rubber bushings can become compressed and deteriorate. They can also retain moisture and cause the ends of the crossmember to rust out. If these bushings in your car are severely compressed, it can alter the angle of the transmission in relationship to the rear.
An excellent time to replace these bushings is when you are having the transmission rebuilt. (You do not have to remove the transmission to install these, however you do have to support the transmission in order to remove and reinstall these new bushings.)
This is just another item that should be replaced to retain a firm support for the transmission. You may also want to replace the Rear Transmission Mount, Part #6941, at the same time. You may also want to replace the Engine Mounts, our Part #6891.
Another good restoration item.
#7554 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal -
Transmission Crossmember Upgraded Black Poly Bushings (4) Set - $79.95 / set
Here is a link to the transmission crossmember upgraded black poly bushing set on our website
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44133/TRANSMISSION+CROSSMEMBER+UPGRADED+BLACK+POLY+BUSHINGS+SET+%23+7554.html
1986-1987 Turbo Regal -
STOCK APPEARING INTERCOOLER and TURBO HEAVY-DUTY HOSES SET
The only weak links in the intercooler turbo system are the three factory connecting hoses that GM used (#1, #2 & #3 in the illustration.)
The smallest hose connects the intercooler to the turbo and the other two connect the tube to the throttle body. The hose is cut rather short leaving very little to clamp against and the material is quite flimsy. When subjected to heat and flex, they could split or come off. If this happens, the car will sputter and choke.
This stock appearing hoses set is made from the identical fabric-style material and black color as the original. So, the outward appearance looks factory.
These hoses are twice as thick as the original GM equipment and slightly longer for a better fit.
A MUST improvement for your Buick… it's a good idea to keep a spare set on hand.
7553 - 1986-1987 Turbo Regal -
Stock Appearing Intercooler and Turbo Heavy-Duty Hoses (3) Set - $34.95 / set
Here is a link to these heavy-duty hoses on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44131/STOCK+APPEARING+INTERCOOLER+and+TURBO+HEAVY-DUTY+HOSES+SET+%23+7553.html
UPCOMING TURBO REGAL EVENTS FOR 2014 -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE OPEN HOUSE - SATURDAY - APRIL 12, 2014 -
This event has no rain date and runs from 9 am until 3 pm. We will have our usual program, including a freshly prepared lunch by chef Russ and Nancy doing all the cooking. Our usual M & M contest, a no reserve auction, Free Yum Yum donuts in the AM with coffee. Special sale prices and new products will be on display.
So far Chris’ Custom Apparel has confirmed they will be at our event. Pete Hoffman will have parts for sale, and I will also have used parts for sale.
More information will follow later this Spring.
This is one of the first major events of 2014 for the Turbo Regal owner. Don't miss it.
GS NATIONALS - OCTOBER 15TH thru 18th, 2014 -
Beech Bend Raceway, 798 Beech Bend Road, Bowling Green, Kentucky
Ron Joseph informs me that the dates for the 2014 GS Nationals are October 15th thru the 18th.
The intent to move it to September has been shelved at least for a year according to Ron.
We will share more info as it becomes available.
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 WORKS -
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, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE -
We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these have to 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 -
Like many of you, I can’t wait for this unusually cold and wet weather to give way to Spring time. Even my outside cats seldom come out of our pole building except to tell me when they want to be fed.