Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members - 08-21-2013
GRAND NATIONAL IN NEW MOVIE - COLD IN JULY -
One of our New York customers, Rich Warner, has had their 1987 Grand National used in a new movie. The movie takes place in Texas, but it is being filmed in Kingston, New York
Rich's car was used in some still shots with two FBI agents and also used pulling away. They placed a vinyl license plate over Rick's New York plates and covered up the New York inspection stickers on his windshield.
You can Google this movie by typing the name of the movie "COLD IN JULY." Not much is said about this movie since, I assume, production is just under way. The movie takes place in the 1980s, so the cars used have to be that vintage.
Rich says he got a lot of compliments on the car from both the spectators and members of the crew. Two of the actors that were there that day were Michael C. Hall from "Dexter" and "Six Feet Under" and Don Johnson from "Miami Vice" fame. The movie is scheduled to be released in 2014.
UPGRADED H4 HEADLIGHTS FOR ALL G-BODY CARS -
We finally have this product available. As you are all aware, our stock sealed beam headlights are way behind the technology that automotive companies use today for headlights. It was sometime in the 1950s when it was a law that headlights had to be circular and a certain diameter. It was also during the 1950s that car manufacturers made the gigantic leap from 6-volt systems to 12-volt systems to handle the various new options that were coming out.
The problem with the G-Body cars (Turbo Regals included) is the factory headlight wiring may not be able to handle any upgrade you decide to do with the headlights. In some cases, if you switch to a different headlight system, the headlights may flicker on and off when driving. Or, the factory plastic plugs that go to the headlights may get hot.
Several well-known companies make various headlight harnesses. Prices for just the harness can run $100 or more. Usually they have 30 or 40 amp relays.
Our source makes a plug-and-play harness and uses two 80 amp relays. They have tested their harness up to 100 watts.
However, even this company did not make one specifically for the 1981-1988 A-Body and G-Body cars. Various companies make this plug-and-play harness for all cars that have the four rectangle headlight format. Unfortunately, this may work for some car makes, but not all, since the wiring sequence can vary from the various car companies.
I wanted a plug-and-play harness that had the proper ends on it for the ground circuit, and the correct terminal end for the battery. Most important of all, I wanted the wires in the main feed plug to be correct for the wiring in our A-Body and G-Body cars, specifically the Regals.
This was another reason I have been going to various car shows and junkyards. I wanted to see if all the A-Body and G-Body cars that utilize the rectangle four-headlight format have the same color wires to the headlights.
It appears that they do use the same basic three colors - tan - green - black. Black is the ground wire and sometimes it has a thin white stripe on it.
Using our personal Turbo-T as the test car, we worked with a company to specifically make the harness for our cars.
It worked out great. The wires were the proper lengths. And, at least for the Turbo Regals, I did not have to drill one single hole in the car. I was able to attach the four ground wires (2 per side) to existing grounds on both inner fenders. I was able to slip the harness across the top between the header panel and core support in front of the radiator and AC condenser. The two inline 80 amp relays I mounted to an existing hole in front of the battery. The hot lead with an inline 30 amp fuse laid nicely along side the battery tray leading up to the positive battery cable.
The other part of the project was locating H4 headlights that were glass and closely resembled the original design of the factory sealed beam headlights. At least from my prospective and my desire to keep our car as stock appearing as possible I did not want to have headlights that looked much different than the originals.
This same supplier that makes this plug-and-play harness for us also had the headlights that I chose to go with our kit. This special harness also has four ceramic plugs on it to handle any heat issues from your upgraded headlights. We will be wholesaling this kit to all the other companies that are interested. You can buy the entire kit, which includes the plug-and-play harness and the headlights which come with new 55/60 watt bulbs included or you can buy just the harness, if you want to get a different headlight system. The key is your car needs this harness to avoid any issues if you plan to upgrade your headlights to either the H4 format or the HID format.
Once the new plug and play harness is installed your headlight switch is merely used to turn on your headlights like normal then the new harness takes the current directly from the battery. In many cases if you test your current headlights, low beam then high beam you may discover your low beam dims slightly when your high beam switch is activated. I know they did on my car. That problem doesn’t happen with this new system.
See New Products in this Inner Circle as we have a special price in effect until September 30th, 2013. You save $20, if you purchase the entire kit. At our upcoming Open House we will have our car on display showing this new kit.
So, in quick review, we now have an upgraded light system for nighttime driving and we also have the upgraded light system for the dash cluster as well as the standard interior dome light.
Of the three formats, I think the headlights are probably the most important ones, especially for old guys like me that have trouble seeing in the dark!
PHOTO 1 - Our Photo 1 shows the complete kit, which includes 55/60 bulbs already installed in the glass H4 headlights. Our entire kit is Part #7530 and the special introductory price is $109.95 until September 30th, 2013. Regular retail price is $129.95. We would not charge your credit card until we can ship your kit. Our first initial order is due in the next 2-3 days.
OUR SON'S RECENT BIRTHDAY -
Our son's birthday was earlier this month. As a special gift, I had Fred Boatman (our cartoonist) make a special cartoon for him featuring his wife Carrie, our granddaughter Devyn, their dog Dexter and their body shop Kirban Customs. I had seen a cartoon recently that gave me the idea for the cartoon for our son.
PHOTO 2 - Shows the cartoon that we had done for our son. From the artwork we had a huge banner made that he will hang in his body shop.
THE LOCAL AUTOMOTIVE GRAVE YARD -
The article last week and the one I been writing about for the last several weeks have perked the most emails I have gotten from our readers.
This is an interesting place to say the least. I spent some time there last week with the original owner. One of his specialties in this graveyard was collecting police cars. If I had to guess, there were probably about 50 Ford sedans in the yard. They are great vehicles for demolition derbies as some were sold for that use. They all have beefed up frames, wider tires, etc.
He showed me a K-9 cop car. It was very interesting. The entire back seat area was all done in aluminum.
PHOTO 3 - The top photo shows the back seat area for the K-9 dog. Even the inside door panels had been removed and covered with aluminum. Apparently, even when these cars go to auction, the dog's bed and toys go with the car! The bottom photo shows the front seat area. The control box on the center console area has a sensor. If the car is running, it turns the AC on automatically if it gets too hot inside for the dog.
If the dog is in the car and the car is not running, it sends a signal to the officer, so they know to turn the car on for the dog. Again, I thought it was unusual that this piece of equipment would stay with the car after it was removed from service.
I am not an expert on Cop cars, nor do I wish to ever have to ride in the back of one!
Among the items in the trunk of the one Turbo car we did get in the deal was a copy of MOTOR TREND's "1987 NEW CAR BUYERS’ GUIDE." It featured 170 models. I specifically liked the last few lines under the Buick Regal copy. It reads, “The Regal fills that dubious marketing niche with great success, offering a variety of combinations ranging from the frivolous Limited to the ferocious Grand National turbo, humiliator of the almighty Corvette. Admirers of the latter should be aware that this is the last year for that very enjoyable (and even more powerful) throwback.”
So, even back then with the 1987 models just coming out, the magazine writers knew! In the same magazine, under the cars from Europe, the Yugo is listed. What I did not realize and it was pointed out in this magazine is Yugo was going to release a high-performance model of their Yugo in March of 1987. It was called the "Yugo GVX." Buick had the GNX high-performance version and Yugo had the GVX. What a difference one letter makes on a car model!
PHOTO 4 - Here is a photo of the Motor Trend 1987 NEW CAR BUYERS’ GUIDE. It's an interesting read, if you happen to buy one on eBay. If you look at last week's Inner Circle (08-14-2013). This same magazine is clearly laying on top in the trunk photo in the first photo in Photo 2!
ONCE IN A WHILE I GET LUCKY -
As you might expect, I was really surprised last week when I opened the trunk and saw what appeared to be our old wheel boxes. I was glad to discover the boxes were indeed still full and were the 16 by 8 version and not the 15 by 7 version wheels that we also made.
It reminded me of another time about 30-32 years ago when I was buying dead GTOs.
I had made a deal on a 1966 convertible that had been sitting for years behind an auto bodyshop and was already partially stripped. The intake was gone it and it had some sort of aftermarket headers on it. In other words, at a quick visual glance, I did not see much value in the car for parts.
I bought it anyhow and towed it to the gas station that was taking my cars apart for me.
If you know anything about Pontiac V8 engines, they all basically look the same, unlike Chevy that has small blocks and big blocks. For some reason, I had my buddy remove the headers and I noticed the exhaust ports were round not D-shaped like the regular 389 and 400 engines.
Upon closer examination, I saw the magic number on the port that identified the heads as being Ram Air IV heads! (In the GTO world, this is the Holy Grail.)
Even back then, these were worth good money. It was strange, since the Ram Air IV engines did not come out until 1969 and this car was a basket case 1966 model. So, once in a while you can get lucky in the buying and selling business.
Both deals were totally unexpected, which makes it even more rewarding. In case you're wondering, did I ever get burned on a deal? The answer is yes and I am sure it has happened to everyone in the business. It's tough to be sharp all the time.
GOOD NEWS - POWER ANTENNA CABLE REPAIR KIT AVAILABLE AGAIN
We have them available again - Part #7433, 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Power Antenna Cable Reproduction Repair Kit
CLOSE OUT SPECIAL -
We recently bought out another company’s billet-style oil tube and breather assembly. This fits all the 1986-1987 Turbo Regals driver’s side valve cover. All billet construction with o-ring and a new chrome-plated top breather is included. Overall height is 4 inches. (See Inner Circle 08-14-2013 Photo 4)
We have 25 of them at $34.95 each. You must call Christiana - 215-766-1611 or email - [email protected] - to purchase this, since it has no part number and supplies are limited. The company has no plans to make this part again. It normally sold for over $40 each.
URGENT REQUEST - WE NEED STOCK 1986-1987 TURBO CORES -
We really need stock 1986-1987 Turbo Regal cores in order to keep getting them rebuilt and used for our TA 49 rebuilds. You will receive a $75 in Letter of Credit for any acceptable Turbo core. Help us help others
ANOTHER URGENT REQUEST -
Once again we find ourselves needing original stock AC Delco correct 1986-1987 Turbo Regal mass air flow sensors. The housing CANNOT be broken. Screens are not important. Each one that meets these requirements is worth a $40 Letter of Credit to us. Help us help other owners keep their cars original.
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS ON YouTube -
Here is a link to the videos we currently have up on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/user/KirbanPerformance?feature=guide
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1981-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
UPGRADED H4 55/60 HEADLIGHTS (4) KIT, HARNESS & HEADLIGHT
This kit will fit every GM car that takes this same size four headlight system, including all 1981-1988 A-Body and G-Body models.
We have examined several of the various H4 headlight systems available and have found one that closely resembles the original style headlight. The headlight is glass and looks very close to the original glass face of your sealed beam headlight. To eliminate possible problems with the factory headlight switch and its ability to handle higher wattage bulbs, we also include a special plug-in harness. This plug-in harness takes the current directly from the battery after you turn on the headlights. The headlight switch is merely used to turn them on. This eliminates any possible problems with the 25-year-old headlight switch.
The stock seal beam headlights are 45/55 watts. These new H4 formatted headlights already have a 55/60 watt bulbs installed. The plug-in harness that comes with this kit has two 80 amp relays and an in-line fuse to prevent any overloads.
The custom-made plug-in harness is highly recommended in the G-Body cars to eliminate any possible issues with the original headlight switch. Issues with higher wattage bulbs can cause the headlights to flicker or turn off completely.
This plug-in harness also allows you to upgrade to even higher wattage bulbs (maximum 80 watts), if you want. It has been tested by our source running four 100 watt bulbs for over one hour with no problems. The plug-in harness is designed to be virtually undetectable under the hood.
Just upgrading to the 55/60 watt H4 setup will be an improvement on overall lighting, compared to what now is the antique sealed beam format. Once you get this H4 upgrade, you can easily upgrade to higher wattage bulbs, if desired.
Another upgrade that improves lighting while keeping your car stock appearing.
NOTE - We offer the set of four, or individually if you wish to purchase an extra H4 headlight the 55/60 watt H4 bulb as a spare (Part #7532.)
NOTE - We offer the Upgraded Plug-and-Play Harness (Part #7531) if you want to install a headlight kit from another source. This harness will work with all upgraded systems.
Another great upgrade to improve the brightness of the headlights, while retaining a stock appearance.
7530 - 1981-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Upgraded H4 Headlights (4) Kit $129.95 / kit
Includes Four 55/60 H4 Bulbs and Plug-and-Play Harness
INTRODUCTORY PRICE - EXPIRES SEPTEMBER 30th, 2013 - $109.95 / kit
7531 - 1981-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
H4 Headlights Upgraded Plug-and-Play HARNESS - $67.95
7532 - 1981-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
SINGLE Upgraded H4 Headlight with 55/60 Bulb Installed - $22.95 each
These will be up on the website soon. If you want to place an order, call our office - 215-766-1611 x 0.
1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Reproduction HEATER CORE
Over time, the original heater core may start to leak and needs to be replaced. This new heater core is a reproduction of the original heater core.
Another great restoration item for the heating system.
7521 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Reproduction Heater Core $29.95
Here is a link to this 1984-1987 Reproduction Heater Core on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44101/Reproduction+HEATER+CORE+%237521.html
CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS FOR 2013 -
EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS - Cecil County Dragway, MD - September 20th & 21st, 2013 -
The East Coast Buick Regionals are held at Cecil County Dragway, Maryland. Saturday, the 21st, features a judged car show for all Buick-powered cars.
For more info, contact Doug Doughtery at 302-653-2201 or email - [email protected], John Csordas 914-447-6068 or email - [email protected]
The website is - tristategsclub.com
KIRBAN SEPTEMBERFEST OPEN HOUSE - SATURDAY - SEPTEMBER 28TH - 9 am - 3 pm
We will be holding our annual fall “SEPTEMBERFEST” Open House on Saturday, September 28th, at our Plumsteadville location - 6201 Kellers Church Road, Plumsteadville. Rain or Shine, 9 am until 3 pm. Open to all cars, not just Turbo Buicks.
Free Yum Yum donuts and coffee will be provided in the morning.
Pete and I will have our usual array of used parts. Some of the highlights for the Open House will be the raffle prizes, M&M contest, and a no reserve auction. We will have some really neat items for the no reserve auction including several items from Jays GN that we purchased.
Our personal Turbo-T will be on display and I will show our new plug-and-play H4 headlight system.
Once again, Chef Russ and Nancy will be preparing a full-course gourmet luncheon, like they did at our Spring Open House. This time the menu will be expanded. We are very fortunate to have Nancy and Russ, our local Turbo Buick Chef who loves to cook, generously offer to prepare the entire luncheon menu. So bring your appetite.
2013 GS NATIONALS - October 16-19, 2013 - Beech Bend Raceway, Bowling Green, KY -
This is the 33rd Annual consecutive event held at Beech Bend Raceway, 798 Beech Bend Road, Bowling Green, Kentucky.
Jim Bell, of Kenne-Bell fame, will be in attendance to present honorary car and race show awards to both V8 & V6 cars.
Also attending is Art Carr and his wife. Art is one of the top transmission specialists for many years.
Working on having the 2015 models of the new GNX and Grand National display along with a GM rep to hold a seminar on the car's development and performance capabilities.
For more info log onto - http://www.gsnationals.com/
BOPAPALOOZA 2013 - November 2, 2013 - Atco Raceway, New Jersey -
Buick-Olds-Pontiac Show and Go, Saturday, November 2nd, 2013. Gates open 9:00 AM. Show registration until 12 noon. Day of event rain info - 856-768-2167. Location is Atco Raceway, Jackson Road, Atco, New Jersey. For race info, call 856-768-2167. For more show info, call Tom at 856-524-2588 or email [email protected] Race Information - www.atcoraceway.com
I know Tom personally, as he is the editor of the GTO THE LEGEND, which is the GTO National club monthly publication. I often contribute articles for their publication.
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 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 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 -
Remember to mark your calendar - Septemberfest Kirban Open House - September 28th 2013 - rain or shine - luncheon once again prepared by Chef Russ and Nancy, featuring a variety of food prepared on location and free! A real treat! The no reserve auction will feature several neat items. Don’t miss this event!
GRAND NATIONAL IN NEW MOVIE - COLD IN JULY -
One of our New York customers, Rich Warner, has had their 1987 Grand National used in a new movie. The movie takes place in Texas, but it is being filmed in Kingston, New York
Rich's car was used in some still shots with two FBI agents and also used pulling away. They placed a vinyl license plate over Rick's New York plates and covered up the New York inspection stickers on his windshield.
You can Google this movie by typing the name of the movie "COLD IN JULY." Not much is said about this movie since, I assume, production is just under way. The movie takes place in the 1980s, so the cars used have to be that vintage.
Rich says he got a lot of compliments on the car from both the spectators and members of the crew. Two of the actors that were there that day were Michael C. Hall from "Dexter" and "Six Feet Under" and Don Johnson from "Miami Vice" fame. The movie is scheduled to be released in 2014.
UPGRADED H4 HEADLIGHTS FOR ALL G-BODY CARS -
We finally have this product available. As you are all aware, our stock sealed beam headlights are way behind the technology that automotive companies use today for headlights. It was sometime in the 1950s when it was a law that headlights had to be circular and a certain diameter. It was also during the 1950s that car manufacturers made the gigantic leap from 6-volt systems to 12-volt systems to handle the various new options that were coming out.
The problem with the G-Body cars (Turbo Regals included) is the factory headlight wiring may not be able to handle any upgrade you decide to do with the headlights. In some cases, if you switch to a different headlight system, the headlights may flicker on and off when driving. Or, the factory plastic plugs that go to the headlights may get hot.
Several well-known companies make various headlight harnesses. Prices for just the harness can run $100 or more. Usually they have 30 or 40 amp relays.
Our source makes a plug-and-play harness and uses two 80 amp relays. They have tested their harness up to 100 watts.
However, even this company did not make one specifically for the 1981-1988 A-Body and G-Body cars. Various companies make this plug-and-play harness for all cars that have the four rectangle headlight format. Unfortunately, this may work for some car makes, but not all, since the wiring sequence can vary from the various car companies.
I wanted a plug-and-play harness that had the proper ends on it for the ground circuit, and the correct terminal end for the battery. Most important of all, I wanted the wires in the main feed plug to be correct for the wiring in our A-Body and G-Body cars, specifically the Regals.
This was another reason I have been going to various car shows and junkyards. I wanted to see if all the A-Body and G-Body cars that utilize the rectangle four-headlight format have the same color wires to the headlights.
It appears that they do use the same basic three colors - tan - green - black. Black is the ground wire and sometimes it has a thin white stripe on it.
Using our personal Turbo-T as the test car, we worked with a company to specifically make the harness for our cars.
It worked out great. The wires were the proper lengths. And, at least for the Turbo Regals, I did not have to drill one single hole in the car. I was able to attach the four ground wires (2 per side) to existing grounds on both inner fenders. I was able to slip the harness across the top between the header panel and core support in front of the radiator and AC condenser. The two inline 80 amp relays I mounted to an existing hole in front of the battery. The hot lead with an inline 30 amp fuse laid nicely along side the battery tray leading up to the positive battery cable.
The other part of the project was locating H4 headlights that were glass and closely resembled the original design of the factory sealed beam headlights. At least from my prospective and my desire to keep our car as stock appearing as possible I did not want to have headlights that looked much different than the originals.
This same supplier that makes this plug-and-play harness for us also had the headlights that I chose to go with our kit. This special harness also has four ceramic plugs on it to handle any heat issues from your upgraded headlights. We will be wholesaling this kit to all the other companies that are interested. You can buy the entire kit, which includes the plug-and-play harness and the headlights which come with new 55/60 watt bulbs included or you can buy just the harness, if you want to get a different headlight system. The key is your car needs this harness to avoid any issues if you plan to upgrade your headlights to either the H4 format or the HID format.
Once the new plug and play harness is installed your headlight switch is merely used to turn on your headlights like normal then the new harness takes the current directly from the battery. In many cases if you test your current headlights, low beam then high beam you may discover your low beam dims slightly when your high beam switch is activated. I know they did on my car. That problem doesn’t happen with this new system.
See New Products in this Inner Circle as we have a special price in effect until September 30th, 2013. You save $20, if you purchase the entire kit. At our upcoming Open House we will have our car on display showing this new kit.
So, in quick review, we now have an upgraded light system for nighttime driving and we also have the upgraded light system for the dash cluster as well as the standard interior dome light.
Of the three formats, I think the headlights are probably the most important ones, especially for old guys like me that have trouble seeing in the dark!
PHOTO 1 - Our Photo 1 shows the complete kit, which includes 55/60 bulbs already installed in the glass H4 headlights. Our entire kit is Part #7530 and the special introductory price is $109.95 until September 30th, 2013. Regular retail price is $129.95. We would not charge your credit card until we can ship your kit. Our first initial order is due in the next 2-3 days.
OUR SON'S RECENT BIRTHDAY -
Our son's birthday was earlier this month. As a special gift, I had Fred Boatman (our cartoonist) make a special cartoon for him featuring his wife Carrie, our granddaughter Devyn, their dog Dexter and their body shop Kirban Customs. I had seen a cartoon recently that gave me the idea for the cartoon for our son.
PHOTO 2 - Shows the cartoon that we had done for our son. From the artwork we had a huge banner made that he will hang in his body shop.
THE LOCAL AUTOMOTIVE GRAVE YARD -
The article last week and the one I been writing about for the last several weeks have perked the most emails I have gotten from our readers.
This is an interesting place to say the least. I spent some time there last week with the original owner. One of his specialties in this graveyard was collecting police cars. If I had to guess, there were probably about 50 Ford sedans in the yard. They are great vehicles for demolition derbies as some were sold for that use. They all have beefed up frames, wider tires, etc.
He showed me a K-9 cop car. It was very interesting. The entire back seat area was all done in aluminum.
PHOTO 3 - The top photo shows the back seat area for the K-9 dog. Even the inside door panels had been removed and covered with aluminum. Apparently, even when these cars go to auction, the dog's bed and toys go with the car! The bottom photo shows the front seat area. The control box on the center console area has a sensor. If the car is running, it turns the AC on automatically if it gets too hot inside for the dog.
If the dog is in the car and the car is not running, it sends a signal to the officer, so they know to turn the car on for the dog. Again, I thought it was unusual that this piece of equipment would stay with the car after it was removed from service.
I am not an expert on Cop cars, nor do I wish to ever have to ride in the back of one!
Among the items in the trunk of the one Turbo car we did get in the deal was a copy of MOTOR TREND's "1987 NEW CAR BUYERS’ GUIDE." It featured 170 models. I specifically liked the last few lines under the Buick Regal copy. It reads, “The Regal fills that dubious marketing niche with great success, offering a variety of combinations ranging from the frivolous Limited to the ferocious Grand National turbo, humiliator of the almighty Corvette. Admirers of the latter should be aware that this is the last year for that very enjoyable (and even more powerful) throwback.”
So, even back then with the 1987 models just coming out, the magazine writers knew! In the same magazine, under the cars from Europe, the Yugo is listed. What I did not realize and it was pointed out in this magazine is Yugo was going to release a high-performance model of their Yugo in March of 1987. It was called the "Yugo GVX." Buick had the GNX high-performance version and Yugo had the GVX. What a difference one letter makes on a car model!
PHOTO 4 - Here is a photo of the Motor Trend 1987 NEW CAR BUYERS’ GUIDE. It's an interesting read, if you happen to buy one on eBay. If you look at last week's Inner Circle (08-14-2013). This same magazine is clearly laying on top in the trunk photo in the first photo in Photo 2!
ONCE IN A WHILE I GET LUCKY -
As you might expect, I was really surprised last week when I opened the trunk and saw what appeared to be our old wheel boxes. I was glad to discover the boxes were indeed still full and were the 16 by 8 version and not the 15 by 7 version wheels that we also made.
It reminded me of another time about 30-32 years ago when I was buying dead GTOs.
I had made a deal on a 1966 convertible that had been sitting for years behind an auto bodyshop and was already partially stripped. The intake was gone it and it had some sort of aftermarket headers on it. In other words, at a quick visual glance, I did not see much value in the car for parts.
I bought it anyhow and towed it to the gas station that was taking my cars apart for me.
If you know anything about Pontiac V8 engines, they all basically look the same, unlike Chevy that has small blocks and big blocks. For some reason, I had my buddy remove the headers and I noticed the exhaust ports were round not D-shaped like the regular 389 and 400 engines.
Upon closer examination, I saw the magic number on the port that identified the heads as being Ram Air IV heads! (In the GTO world, this is the Holy Grail.)
Even back then, these were worth good money. It was strange, since the Ram Air IV engines did not come out until 1969 and this car was a basket case 1966 model. So, once in a while you can get lucky in the buying and selling business.
Both deals were totally unexpected, which makes it even more rewarding. In case you're wondering, did I ever get burned on a deal? The answer is yes and I am sure it has happened to everyone in the business. It's tough to be sharp all the time.
GOOD NEWS - POWER ANTENNA CABLE REPAIR KIT AVAILABLE AGAIN
We have them available again - Part #7433, 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Power Antenna Cable Reproduction Repair Kit
CLOSE OUT SPECIAL -
We recently bought out another company’s billet-style oil tube and breather assembly. This fits all the 1986-1987 Turbo Regals driver’s side valve cover. All billet construction with o-ring and a new chrome-plated top breather is included. Overall height is 4 inches. (See Inner Circle 08-14-2013 Photo 4)
We have 25 of them at $34.95 each. You must call Christiana - 215-766-1611 or email - [email protected] - to purchase this, since it has no part number and supplies are limited. The company has no plans to make this part again. It normally sold for over $40 each.
URGENT REQUEST - WE NEED STOCK 1986-1987 TURBO CORES -
We really need stock 1986-1987 Turbo Regal cores in order to keep getting them rebuilt and used for our TA 49 rebuilds. You will receive a $75 in Letter of Credit for any acceptable Turbo core. Help us help others
ANOTHER URGENT REQUEST -
Once again we find ourselves needing original stock AC Delco correct 1986-1987 Turbo Regal mass air flow sensors. The housing CANNOT be broken. Screens are not important. Each one that meets these requirements is worth a $40 Letter of Credit to us. Help us help other owners keep their cars original.
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS ON YouTube -
Here is a link to the videos we currently have up on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/user/KirbanPerformance?feature=guide
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1981-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
UPGRADED H4 55/60 HEADLIGHTS (4) KIT, HARNESS & HEADLIGHT
This kit will fit every GM car that takes this same size four headlight system, including all 1981-1988 A-Body and G-Body models.
We have examined several of the various H4 headlight systems available and have found one that closely resembles the original style headlight. The headlight is glass and looks very close to the original glass face of your sealed beam headlight. To eliminate possible problems with the factory headlight switch and its ability to handle higher wattage bulbs, we also include a special plug-in harness. This plug-in harness takes the current directly from the battery after you turn on the headlights. The headlight switch is merely used to turn them on. This eliminates any possible problems with the 25-year-old headlight switch.
The stock seal beam headlights are 45/55 watts. These new H4 formatted headlights already have a 55/60 watt bulbs installed. The plug-in harness that comes with this kit has two 80 amp relays and an in-line fuse to prevent any overloads.
The custom-made plug-in harness is highly recommended in the G-Body cars to eliminate any possible issues with the original headlight switch. Issues with higher wattage bulbs can cause the headlights to flicker or turn off completely.
This plug-in harness also allows you to upgrade to even higher wattage bulbs (maximum 80 watts), if you want. It has been tested by our source running four 100 watt bulbs for over one hour with no problems. The plug-in harness is designed to be virtually undetectable under the hood.
Just upgrading to the 55/60 watt H4 setup will be an improvement on overall lighting, compared to what now is the antique sealed beam format. Once you get this H4 upgrade, you can easily upgrade to higher wattage bulbs, if desired.
Another upgrade that improves lighting while keeping your car stock appearing.
NOTE - We offer the set of four, or individually if you wish to purchase an extra H4 headlight the 55/60 watt H4 bulb as a spare (Part #7532.)
NOTE - We offer the Upgraded Plug-and-Play Harness (Part #7531) if you want to install a headlight kit from another source. This harness will work with all upgraded systems.
Another great upgrade to improve the brightness of the headlights, while retaining a stock appearance.
7530 - 1981-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Upgraded H4 Headlights (4) Kit $129.95 / kit
Includes Four 55/60 H4 Bulbs and Plug-and-Play Harness
INTRODUCTORY PRICE - EXPIRES SEPTEMBER 30th, 2013 - $109.95 / kit
7531 - 1981-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
H4 Headlights Upgraded Plug-and-Play HARNESS - $67.95
7532 - 1981-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
SINGLE Upgraded H4 Headlight with 55/60 Bulb Installed - $22.95 each
These will be up on the website soon. If you want to place an order, call our office - 215-766-1611 x 0.
1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Reproduction HEATER CORE
Over time, the original heater core may start to leak and needs to be replaced. This new heater core is a reproduction of the original heater core.
Another great restoration item for the heating system.
7521 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Reproduction Heater Core $29.95
Here is a link to this 1984-1987 Reproduction Heater Core on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44101/Reproduction+HEATER+CORE+%237521.html
CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS FOR 2013 -
EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS - Cecil County Dragway, MD - September 20th & 21st, 2013 -
The East Coast Buick Regionals are held at Cecil County Dragway, Maryland. Saturday, the 21st, features a judged car show for all Buick-powered cars.
For more info, contact Doug Doughtery at 302-653-2201 or email - [email protected], John Csordas 914-447-6068 or email - [email protected]
The website is - tristategsclub.com
KIRBAN SEPTEMBERFEST OPEN HOUSE - SATURDAY - SEPTEMBER 28TH - 9 am - 3 pm
We will be holding our annual fall “SEPTEMBERFEST” Open House on Saturday, September 28th, at our Plumsteadville location - 6201 Kellers Church Road, Plumsteadville. Rain or Shine, 9 am until 3 pm. Open to all cars, not just Turbo Buicks.
Free Yum Yum donuts and coffee will be provided in the morning.
Pete and I will have our usual array of used parts. Some of the highlights for the Open House will be the raffle prizes, M&M contest, and a no reserve auction. We will have some really neat items for the no reserve auction including several items from Jays GN that we purchased.
Our personal Turbo-T will be on display and I will show our new plug-and-play H4 headlight system.
Once again, Chef Russ and Nancy will be preparing a full-course gourmet luncheon, like they did at our Spring Open House. This time the menu will be expanded. We are very fortunate to have Nancy and Russ, our local Turbo Buick Chef who loves to cook, generously offer to prepare the entire luncheon menu. So bring your appetite.
2013 GS NATIONALS - October 16-19, 2013 - Beech Bend Raceway, Bowling Green, KY -
This is the 33rd Annual consecutive event held at Beech Bend Raceway, 798 Beech Bend Road, Bowling Green, Kentucky.
Jim Bell, of Kenne-Bell fame, will be in attendance to present honorary car and race show awards to both V8 & V6 cars.
Also attending is Art Carr and his wife. Art is one of the top transmission specialists for many years.
Working on having the 2015 models of the new GNX and Grand National display along with a GM rep to hold a seminar on the car's development and performance capabilities.
For more info log onto - http://www.gsnationals.com/
BOPAPALOOZA 2013 - November 2, 2013 - Atco Raceway, New Jersey -
Buick-Olds-Pontiac Show and Go, Saturday, November 2nd, 2013. Gates open 9:00 AM. Show registration until 12 noon. Day of event rain info - 856-768-2167. Location is Atco Raceway, Jackson Road, Atco, New Jersey. For race info, call 856-768-2167. For more show info, call Tom at 856-524-2588 or email [email protected] Race Information - www.atcoraceway.com
I know Tom personally, as he is the editor of the GTO THE LEGEND, which is the GTO National club monthly publication. I often contribute articles for their publication.
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 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 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 -
Remember to mark your calendar - Septemberfest Kirban Open House - September 28th 2013 - rain or shine - luncheon once again prepared by Chef Russ and Nancy, featuring a variety of food prepared on location and free! A real treat! The no reserve auction will feature several neat items. Don’t miss this event!