01-28-2015 Inner Circle

Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 01-28-2015

CHICAGO ZONE BUICK DEALERS -

In my collection I have a two-page letter dated January 26, 1987 addressed to all Chicago Zone Buick Dealers. The subject is “PRODUCTION CHANGES FOR SPRING 1987 PRODUCTION.”

Here is what was said about the Regal models in this January 26, 1987 letter.

"We receive our Regals from the Pontiac, Michigan plant. Our share of the national production runs approximately 50 cars per week. Grand Nationals are on a weekly production constraint due to the CAFE restriction. We are receiving an average of five (5) per week, and are strongly recommending that you attempt to switch your customers to the WE4 "Look Alike" Buick Regal T-Type rather than taking a Grand National order and not being able to promise a delivery date."

I would imagine similar letters were probably sent to other Zone Buick Dealers as well. It’s interesting in the letter they call it a T-Type when in 1987 it was called a Turbo-T.

PHOTO 1 - Shows this original two-page letter listing the various 1987 Buick models and changes for the Spring of 1987.



1987 BUICK DEALER ALBUM -

As many of you know, one of the toughest items to acquire in 1987 literature is an original 1987 Buick Dealer Album. This is because only a few were sent to each dealership and, in many cases, at the start of the next model year these got thrown out.

The next photos are from pages in a 1987 Buick Dealer Album. Today I imagine the three-ring Dealer Album has been replaced with the information on the internet.



1987 DESIGNER ACCENT PAINT TREATMENTS -

This is what Buick called the two-tone paint schemes that they offered on the Regals The two-tone colors were dark blue and light blue, gray and silver, brown and light brown, and dark red and rosewood. All these paints were metallic.

Of the 4 two-tone combinations, without a doubt in my mind, the brown and light brown is the most rare combination. This can be verified by the fact on March 20th 1987 a Production Information Bulletin noted that the brown and light brown Designers Accent paint treatment was cancelled for the remainder of the 1987 model year. The reason was it would reduce overall build complexity and help improve Regals paint quality. As most 1987 Grand National owners know, if their car has original paint quality was not that great! I think one good reason this two-tone color treatment was cancelled was because of lack of sales.

PHOTO 2 - The photo on the left shows the Regal 1987 Designed Accent Paint Treatments and the photo on the right shows the actual Product Information sheet. Of the 320 plus 1986-1987 Turbo Regals that have passed through my hands, I can’t recall ever having one. I did have several of the other 3 versions.

The most colorful pages under the Regal model in the 1987 Buick Dealer album can be seen in Photo 3 and Photo 4.

PHOTO 3 - The photo on the left shows the Grand National and the Turbo with T package. The photo on the right explains what’s new for 1987 on the Regal and duplicates what appears to be a WE4 model. What is interesting is at the bottom of the left photo it says, “Revised 8/86” and on the right photo it says, “Revised 12/86.”

PHOTO 4 - Shows the two pages under the Regal section explaining the various Touring Options. What is unusual about the car shown at the bottom of the page on the left is the fact it is a brown Limited with the T-package option, meaning it has the "T" Package option, code Y56. This package includes the following options: Gran Touring suspension, leather wrapped sport steering wheel-color keyed to the interior, 15" by 6" Turbo aluminum wheels, P215/65R15 Eagle GT blackwall tires, fast-ratio power steering, gas shock absorbers, and "T" ornamentation. One mistake they made in this listing is the Turbo aluminum wheels actually are 15" by 7", not 15" by 6". In all my years, I have never seen a 1987 Limited model that had the "T" package.

Remember, the "T" package shown would have had a flat hood and a regular V6 or V8 engine, not the turbo engine. This would be a very rare example.

At the bottom of the photo on the right they show almost an identical Limited Coupe that not only has the "T" package but it also has the exterior sport package, known as code WO2. Again, a model I have never seen in person. The WO2 option, also is known as the black-out package, meaning all the trim, grille and bezels are black.



PHILADELPHIA AUTO SHOW -

Jim Chaudrue informs me that Carlisle is putting the display together at the Philadelphia Auto Show, January 31 - February 8. Jim’s Grand National will be on display, so be sure to check it out.

Here is the link for the Philadelphia auto show.
http://www.carlisleevents.com/carlisle-events/carlisle-philadelphia-auto/default.aspx

Jim also informs me that they are working on the MAGNA calendar for 2015.
To keep informed here is their website - http://www.magnabuick.com



PARTS AND SHIPPING ISSUES -

I am sure most mail-order companies would agree, not everything goes smoothly when companies place orders for parts. We deal with two suppliers that make parts for GM. GM sales are up, so the parts they make for us get put on the back burner.

We supply many of the major Mustang companies with billet adjustable fuel regulators. One version only fits up to the 1993 V8 5.0 engine. Looking at the numbers from last year, we actually sold about 100 more than the year before. Weird since it’s been over 20-plus years since the car has been in production, yet our sales increased!

Hopefully, next week we will have the 1986-1987 coil packs available. They will come with a new reproduction gasket and 6 new screws. This eliminates the worry of dropping one of those little black screws and realizing, if it does not hit the ground under your car, you will never ever see it again!

Both parts - the coil pack and the ignition module - have been tested by Richard Clark. Both are made by the same company and have a One-year Warranty. The ignition module is currently in stock. It is quite reasonable at $99.95 each, part #7639.

Here is a link to the Ignition Module on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44223/AFTERMARKET+IGNITION+MODULE+%237639.html



SPOOL FOOL FILLER PANELS - IN STOCK - NO WAITING -

We just got another shipment of the front and rear one-piece Spoolfool fillers. Excellent time to get a set and put on your car for the upcoming Spring weather, which is just around the corner.

Here is a link to the Spoolfool fillers on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=spoolfool&submit_button=



MORE NEWS ON THE MULTI-FUNCTION JUMP STARTERS -

We have more of the larger modules in route to us. It is one of the most powerful ones on the market, putting out 250 cranking amps and 500 peak amps for less than $100. It is this larger module that has very few limitations on what it can do. The new micro one does not have a flashlight.

Here is a link to these Multi-Function Jump Starter parts on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7629&submit_button=



DISTRIBUTORS WANTED -

The company is starting to get inquiries on their products, which they forward to us since we are their U.S. distributor.

Now that we are the only supplier for the Multi-Function Jump Starter for this company is the U.S.A., we want to line up more distributors.

We are looking for distributors for this product. We currently have two price breaks - 5-9 units or 10 or more.

The product is very easy to sell and not limited to any specific car or truck owner. For pricing and more details, email me personally - [email protected]



NEW PRODUCTS IN THE WORKS -

I have this new company making several parts for us. He already makes similar parts for another car model. Watch for updates shortly.



WE WANT YOUR INPUT -

If you have any ideas for usage of small batteries, we welcome your suggestions. Who knows, your idea may prove to be a winner for everyone.



URGENT REQUEST FROM US -

Once again we need stock used 1986-1987 Turbo Regal turbo cores. Currently we will issue a $100 Letter of Credit for any you send us. Turbos need not be good, but must be complete with exhaust housing.

Email me first - [email protected] for shipping details. This helps us help others keep their cars on the road.



SPECIAL LOWER PRICE
ON THE REMAINING REPRODUCTION 1984-1985 TURBO REGAL PLUG WIRES -

We had a special run made of the correct length 1984-1985 Turbo Regal grey spark plug wires.

I don’t believe any other source has these available in the proper lengths. These are not on our website. You must call our office to order - 215-766-1611 x 0 - specify 1984-1985 Turbo Regal Custom-Cut High-Performance Plug Wires. We have about 3 sets left. If you own a 1984 or 1985 Turbo Regal, don’t wait as we will not be running these again.

NEW SPECIAL LOWER PRICE - $39.95 plus $6 shipping.



VEHICLES FOR SALE -

From time to time, whenever we spot an unusual or an exceptional car or truck for sale, or one we have for sale, we will put a blurb in our weekly Inner Circle. Also any cars that our customers have for sale will be featured here and you can see their car with photos on our website as well. In this category we will run the descriptions for two to three weeks and, if there is no interest in that particular vehicle, it will be deleted the following week. Any new vehicles that we add will appear first, so the oldest listing would be at the end of this section.

If any of these vehicles perk your interest, email me personally - [email protected] - for more information and photos.

No vehicles for sale at this time.



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]



NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -

1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
AFTERMARKET HEATER WATER VALVE

Since GM discontinued their original heater water valve, we now offer this black plastic aftermarket heater water valve.

Although it looks different, it will work.

It’s a good idea to replace this heater water valve to avoid leakage problems.

Another great under-the-hood restoration item.

7648 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Aftermarket Heater Water Valve - $19.95

Here is a link to this Heater Water Valve on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44224/AFTERMARKET+HEATER+WATER+VALVE+%237648.html



1986 and 1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
REBUILT CRUISE CONTROL SERVOS

These are the factory cruise control units, which have been rebuilt. No core is required.

The smaller one is the correct one for the 1987 Turbo Regals, part #7647. The larger one is correct for the 1986 Turbo Regals, part #7646.

These have a One-year Warranty.

Ideal to replace if the diaphragm is damaged.

Great engine restoration items.

7646 - 1986 Buick Turbo Regal - Rebuilt Cruise Control Servo - $79.95
7647 - 1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Rebuilt Cruise Control Servo - $79.95

Here is a link to these Servos on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7646&submit_button=



1986-1987 G-Body with Factory GM T-Tops (Including Buick Turbo Regal) -
OE T-TOPS LOCK CYLINDER WITH 2 MATCHING KEYS

We have found a source for OE original key and lock sets.

Set includes 2 black lock cylinders, 2 pre-cut keys, and 2 locking clips. You need to re-use the pawls from the original cylinder locks.

Excellent replacements for any restoration project or to have matching keys.

7654 - 1986-1987 G-Body with Factory GM T-Tops (Including Buick Turbo Regal) -
OE T-Tops Lock Cylinder with 2 Pre-cut Keys Set - $49.95

Here is a link to this Lock and Keys Set on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44222/OE+T-TOPS+LOCK+CYLINDER+WITH+2+MATCHING%E2%80%88KEYS+%237654.html



1979-1987 Buick (Including Buick Turbo Regal) -
OE & ORIGINAL GM IGNITION CYLINDER, GLOVE BOX CYLINDER, and DOOR & TRUNK CYLINDERS SETS WITH MATCHING  KEYS

We have found a source for OE and original GM key and lock sets.

These keys are brand new and are made by the same company that made them for GM. These locks come already pre-assembled with the keys pre-cut.

You get two keys in each set.

The glove box lock cylinder and knob is NOS GM.

Ideal to replace when you have your car repainted or if your door locks are not keyed alike.

Make sure you order the correct part number for your application. NOTE - Turbo Regals with the black-out package (including the GNX and Grand National) have the black bezels, not the bright bezels around the doors and trunk lock assemblies.

Each door and trunk set comes complete with lock cylinders, all the hardware, gaskets, and related keys.

Excellent replacements for any restoration project or to have matching keys.

7650 - 1979-1987 Buick (Including Buick Turbo Regal) -
OE GM Ignition Cylinder with 2 Pre-cut Keys Set - $13.95

7651 - 1981-1987 Buick (Including Buick Turbo Regal) -
OE GM Doors (2) and Trunk (1) Cylinders with BLACK Bezels with 2 Pre-cut Keys Set - $29.95

7652 - 1981-1987 Buick (Including Buick Turbo Regal) -
OE GM Doors (2) and Trunk (1) Cylinders with BRIGHT Bezels with 2 Pre-cut Keys Set - $28.95

7653 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal All Models (Including Turbo Regal) -
NOS GM Glove Box Cylinder and Knob with 2 Pre-cut Keys Set - $16.95

Here's a link to these lock kits on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7650&submit_button=



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, 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 use 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 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 - Until recently our area has escaped much of the snow. Now it seems we are getting hit every 4-5 days with snow.

It’s a shame that this year’s Super Bowl seems more about deflated footballs than the upcoming actual event.


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