Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 06-28-2017 -
HOLIDAY HOURS -
Kirban Performance Products will be closed on Monday and Tuesday - July 3rd and 4th - in honor of Independence Day. Any orders from the website will not be processed until Wednesday, July 5th.
PYPES EXHAUST/MAX PERFORMANCE CAR & TRUCK SHOW RESULTS -
The main event was Saturday, June 17th. That morning the skies opened up and it poured until about 10:30. I took my Turbo Regal anyhow, even in the rain. Actually, as a favor to Max Performance, I have only taken my Turbo Regal to their events. They have a special section for VIP people with show cars. I qualify as a VIP, even though my car is not in the same league as most of the show cars. It was, however, the only Turbo Regal in the section!
Had the weather cooperated, they would have had over 350 cars on the show field. This event has really grown in recent years. This area is a hot bed for all kinds of muscle cars and the grounds where Max Performance is located, is the perfect setting for car shows.
PHOTO 1 - The top left photo shows a pair of the Turbo Trans Ams. The top right photo shows my white Turbo-T to the far left and a 1969 Trans Am to the right. That owner remembers coming to our old house in 1984 and buying a set of Ralley I wheels for $400 that he still has on his 1966 GTO today. The bottom left photo shows the very complex ram air system on the 1969 Pontiac Trans Am. The bottom right shows a glimpse of the ram air cast iron headers on the Trans Am. Those factory headers require a special angle adapter for the oil filter.
PHOTO 2 - The top left photo shows a white 455 Super Duty Firebird that was parked on my right at the show - 3 white cars together. The top right photo shows one of the very rare desirable Pontiac bubble top cars. Powered by a dual quad 421 set up, these cars have really gained in value over the years. The bottom left photo shows a black tri-power 1965 GTO. The bottom right photo shows the pristine engine compartment. That owner says the tri-power carburetors came from me over 25 years ago!
PHOTO 3 - The top left photo shows the interior in this national winner 1969 4-speed GTO. The top right photo shows a closeup of the right-side taillight bezel. The owner says I had them re-chromed for him over 25 years ago and they still looked new. The company that I had do them for him is the same company that made our Kirban-style GNX wheels over 20 years ago. The bottom left photo shows some of the signatures that owner has collected on his inside trunk lid. He was so honored to meet me, he had me sign his trunk lid as well. The photo on the bottom right shows my signature, which is now on his trunk lid. His car has won at the national level.
In building across from Pypes they were also conducting an auction the same time. Many of the items were from a local speed shop that had closed. What I found interesting was an 80-year-old man who had brought a few items to be auctioned off. Unfortunately, I did not stay to see what they sold for.
PHOTO 4 - The photo to the left shows a Corvette engine on a skid with the Corvette front suspension. You can tell it has been sitting out in the weather a long time. In talking to the 80-year-old owner, he said it belonged to a friend of his. It was a 1961 or 1962 Corvette that was stolen from his friend when the Corvette was fairly new. The thieves burned the car and the engine and front suspension is what they recovered. It is probably not visible, but some of the melted fiberglass is still on the suspension What a shame. Almost equally as bad is the fact that it was left to sit for probably 35 to 40 years. The photo to the right shows something he also had for sale. I recognized the Oldsmobile engine as being around 1951-1952 vintage. Oldsmobile was one of the first in the GM family to have an overhead V8 I think beginning around 1949. The owner claimed the engine ran. This would qualify in my opinion, as a value grade #6 “lawn ornament.” I can’t imagine that engine firing up without a lot of effort!
UPDATE MEMORIES OF ALFRED “TREY” CREASE III -
I appreciate the emails we received about the recent passing of Trey Crease. Once we have a date for a memorial, we will inform our readers. Those of you that remember Trey can email me if you have a story that I would read to those that attend the memorial. He was a hard core car guy and his brief time working for me was one that he always cherished.
A SHORTENED INNER CIRCLE THIS WEEK -
I apologize for this shortened Inner Circle this week. Between GM Carlisle this past weekend, our granddaughter’s big graduation bash, and leaving for the mid-west, I have been really busy.
VALVE COVER DESK TOP LAMP UPDATE -
We have both the factory Corvette valve cover desk top lamps available and the two Edelbrock valve cover lamps available. Email me if you are interested in purchasing any of these lamps - [email protected]
URGENT NEED FOR CORRECT STEERING WHEEL CORES -
We have an urgent need for correct 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering wheel cores that are not bent. They can have minor rust on the spokes but cannot be pitted. If you owe us a steering wheel core, please send it in to get your core deposit back.
We have had to raise the core price in order to continue this service. Without cores, owners can’t get a redone leather wrapped steering wheel. Help us continue this needed service. We now issue a Letter for $100, if you have a correct 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering wheel core.
EMAILS TO KIRBAN PERFORMANCE -
NOTE - If you email us and do NOT get a timely reply, be sure to check your “SPAM” folder. Some emails do not go thru.
If you need to email us, use - [email protected]
TIP FROM KIRBAN -
With your Turbo Regal trunk lid in the closed position, see if you can still depress the lid.
If so, open the trunk and locate the rubber bumper in each of the back corners. Screw them outward a few turns and shut the trunk lid again. That will tighten up your trunk lid when it’s in the closed position. That is about the only adjustment you can make to align the trunk lid with the rear quarter panels.
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]
UPCOMING RELATED CAR SHOW EVENTS FOR 2017 -
38th ANNUAL GTOAA NATIONALS -
JUNE 27-JULY 2, 2017
Crowne Plaza Hotel and Convention Center, Springfield, Illinois
This event is held in Springfield, Illinois at the Crowne Plaza Hotel and Convention Center. I am guest speaker Thursday, June 29th at 8:30 am until 10 am. I checked with a friend of mine and, although this event is not advertised to the public, you can come as a guest to see some of the finest GTOs in the country. You can use my name and say you are a guest of mine, if you plan to come Thursday.
CARLISLE CHRYSLER NATIONALS -
JULY 14-16, 2017
Carlisle Fairgrounds, Carlisle, PA
Already they have 80 Hurst cars confirmed for this first time ever Hurst Nationals. This event is one you don’t want to miss. I still do not have my exact speaking times yet. Watch for updates shortly.
The Hemi-Under-Glass car and driver Bob Riggle will be making an appearance at the Hurst Nationals at Carlisle. Many of you may have seen where it flipped over several times when Bob took Jay Leno for a ride awhile ago. The car has been completely repaired.
This year’s Chrysler event has a special all new Hurst Nationals July 14th and 15th in conjunction with the Chrysler Nationals. I have been asked to conduct a seminar on Hurst both days, July 14th and 15th. The location of my seminars as well as the other seminars is held just off the grounds from Gate 3 at the Carlisle Expo Center. They have not yet told me my speaking times.
My granddaughter, Devyn hopes to go with me to help. With Chrysler introducing the Demon this April, my guess is they will have several Demons on display at Carlisle. Hope to see some of my customers at this event. I am as well versed with early Hurst history as I am with Turbo Regals.
As with all my seminars, I will be doing a M&Ms contest in honor of my parents. The Don Garlits autographed connecting rod will make a nice prize!
21ST EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS -
SEPTEMBER 15th-16th, 2017
Cecil County Dragway in Cecil Maryland
This is a very well attended event. Once again, we plan to be there as a vendor. It is the same weekend as the annual GS Nationals held in Bowling Green, Kentucky.
For more up to date information go to their website www.magnabuick.com
37th ANNUAL GS NATIONALS -
SEPTEMBER 13-16, 2017
Beech Bend Race Park, Bowling Green, Kentucky
For more details, go to their website or go to turbobuick.com and scroll down to the event section.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED - Powermaster brake units. The must be complete. We will issue you a letter of credit for $125 for each acceptable core. Currently we will also buy them outright.
URGENT NEED - 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering wheels. They must not be bent or rusted. We will issue a $75 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
URGENT NEED - TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $150 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number.
MAIL - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949
UPS - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
6201 Kellers Church Road
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949-1199
TECH CALLS -
If you need technical information, it’s best to email - [email protected] rather than call us. We will do our best to answer any technical questions within 24 hours. Please remember I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1984-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) -
GM FLUSH MOUNT KIT FOR AFTERMARKET RADIO
Some Turbo Regal owners may want to upgrade their radio to any of the various aftermarket radios available today.
Most of the radio mounting kits sold today for doing an aftermarket radio installation do not allow the radio to sit back in the factory bezel.
The end result is it looks tacky. This special mounting kit uses the factory radio side brackets which attach to the side of this mounting kit.
By using this method it allows any aftermarket radio/CD, etc. player to sit flush with the factory radio bezel. As the one photo shows it accepts two different size radio units, which will work with most Pioneer units as well as many of the other aftermarket brands.
You must have the factory brackets, which we show in the lower center photo. Those brackets do NOT come with the new kit.
This kit was made possible by one of our Turbo Regal customers who is in the radio installation business and has it in his personal Turbo-T.
See part #7803 if you want to purchase a complete Pioneer radio with the mounting kit included. That part number also shows you how it will look once installed in a Turbo Regal.
Photo on the top left shows all the pieces included in this kit.
Photo on the lower left shows the insert installed into the main housing, which you may use depending on the size of the radio you are installing.
Photo on the lower center shows the original radio brackets that you need to re-use from your stock radio to make this new mounting kit fit flush in the radio bezel opening. We do NOT include these brackets.
Photo on the right photo shows this kit installed on a Pioneer radio/CD player, so it sits flush in the radio bezel opening.
NOTE - You may also be interested in this related part - #7789 Reproduction 4″ x 10″ REAR SPEAKERS (2) SET
Another excellent replacement for any interior restoration.
7802 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (including Turbo Regal) -
GM Flush Mount Kit for Aftermarket Radio - $21.95
Here is a link to this kit on our website:
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
SPEEDOMETER CABLE GROMMET
REPRODUCTION ALUMINUM BRACKET
Over time, the original speedometer cable grommet bracket can break, since it’s only plastic. This reproduction bracket is made in aluminum, so it will last.
It is the only part that holds the grommet in place on the firewall to secure the speedometer cable.
I do not know if cars with the digital dash had this bracket or not. Regular Regals did not use this bracket, from what I can determine. I am also not aware if the 1984 and 1985 Turbo Regals used it. It can be difficult to see because it’s somewhat hidden by the harness behind the engine, which is also held in place with a metal bracket.
I have no idea why Buick used a plastic bracket secured by two 7mm screws for this connection. Check this bracket on your car. There’s probably a good chance it is broken.
NOTE - You can paint this bracket semi-gloss black or satin black to match the original bracket.
Another excellent replacement for any engine restoration.
7801 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Speedometer Cable Grommet Reproduction Aluminum Bracket - $12.95
Here is a link to this aluminum bracket on our website:
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal & 1989 Turbo Trans Am -
Fel-Pro® HEAD BOLTS (16) SET
This is a brand new complete 16-piece set of the correct Fel-Pro hardened head bolts in both of the sizes and quantity required.
These bolts have the proper sealant on the threads.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7060 Fel-Pro® Valve Cover Gaskets (2), #7626 Intake Manifold Gasket Kit, #7576 Original Victor Reinz Head Gaskets (2) Set.
This are must-have bolts if you are rebuilding the engine.
7799 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal & 1989 Turbo Trans Am - Fel-Pro® Head Bolts (16) Set - $24.95 / set
Here is a link to these Fel-Pro head bolts on our website.
1984-1987 G-Body (Including Buick Turbo Regal) -
GM BLACK WINDSHIELD WIPER BLADES (2)
These are the factory correct GM black metal wiper blades that are correct for all 1984-1987 Turbo Regals, except for the 1987 Turbo Regals that have the chrome package.
None of the available aftermarket wiper blades look like the original Trico metal black ones. Trico was the original supplier to GM. These are original GM wiper blades.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7237 Reproduction Windshield Washer Bottle, #7632 Reproduction Windshield Washer Cap, #7518 Reproduction Windshield Washer Squirters (2) Set, and #7468 Rebuilt Wiper Motor.
An excellent cosmetic enhancement for the engine compartment!
7800 1984-1987 G-Body (including Buick Turbo Regal) -
GM Black Wiper Blades (2) - $32.95
Here’s a link to these black wiper blades on our website:
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
UPGRADED ALUMINUM RADIATOR
Because of the age of these cars, the radiator has lost some of its efficency. Also the factory core size is marginal at best.
These upgraded radiators are 100% brand new, and made by COLD-CASE, a division of Max Performance, who also owns Pypes Exhaust.
This new radiator is bare aluminum. It has two 1" tubes, which are bigger than stock. The core size is 1/4" wider and the end tanks are 1/4" wider.
This radiator has undergone several months of testing by Nick Micale in his car in Arizona.
The original radiator weighs 25.6 lbs, this radiator weighs 15.2 lbs. The overall weigh savings over the stock radiator is about 10 lbs.
This upgraded radiator is designed so it fits exactly like the factory radiator and accepts all the factory original oil and transmission coolant fittings. The factory radiator cap will also fit this radiator. The reproduction radiator top plate and the custom top plate will also fit.
Our first photo shows this new upgraded aluminum radiator. Our other photos show a comparison views of an original radiator and this new aluminum radiator.
NOTE - If you plan to paint the radiator, we highly recommend Eastwood’s Radiator Black 12 oz Satin Finish, part #10340Z @ $12.99 per can. A typical radiator requires 2 coats of paint. Normal engine paints are too thick for radiator use, which will interfere with heat transfer and block air flow over the cooling fins. Also, standard paint tends to flake off metal radiator tanks. The Radiator Black is specially formulated to solve these problems, will not interfere with heat transfer, and is heat resistant to 300°F.
NOTE - Shipping cost is based on an oversized package.
Another nice engine restoration item.
NOTE - This radiator is currently out of stock. The manufacturer expects to have the next batch ready in mid-July. If you would like to be called when radiators are back in stock, call Christina - 215-766-1611 x 0.
7457 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Upgraded Aluminum Radiator - $379.95
Here is a link to this upgraded aluminum radiator on our website:
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
CUSTOM RADIATOR TOP PLATE & HARDWARE
In many cases, the original metal radiator top plate that holds the top of the radiator and secures the housing for the electric fan may be rusted or bent.
This radiator top plate is unique to the 1986-1987 Turbo Regals, making it difficult to find a nice used one today.
This radiator top plate is made by Spoolfool but does not look like the stock original steel radiator top plate. It is fiberglass and not metal. It attaches the same way, however the top surface is smooth. This gives it a more custom look.
Each one is done in black gelcoat polished to a high gloss shine. It weighs only 1 pound versus 3 pounds for the metal plate. It saves a small amount of weight, but more importantly, it will never rust!
It comes with 5 powder-coated black bolts, which are the correct size for this plate, and easy-to-follow directions.
NOTE - Our first picture show this new CUSTOM Radiator Top Plate and Hardware, #7776. Our second photo shows the stock Reproduction Radiator Top Plate & Hardware, #7774. The second photo also shows the placement of this plate in the lower photos.
A nice finishing touch for under the hood.
7776 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - CUSTOM Radiator Top Plate & Hardware - $128.95
Here is a link to this CUSTOM Radiator Top Plate on our website:
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
POWDER-COATED GLOSSY BLACK BOLTS (5) SET for Radiator Top Plate
If you have an original radiator top plate, you may want to purchase our new powder-coated glossy black bolts set to replace the rusted original bolts.
These are special bolts for this plate.
NOTE - These 5 bolts come with the Reproduction Radiator Top Plate and Hardware, part #7774, and the Custom Radiator Top Plate & Hardware, Part #7776.
A nice finishing touch for under the hood.
7775 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Powder-coated Black Bolts (5) Set for Radiator Top Plate - $5.95
Here is a link to these powder-coated black bolts on our website:
ALWAYS LOOKING FOR IDEAS -
If you have any product ideas that would fit our Turbo Buick market that you would like to see available, email me direct [email protected]
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION FOR TURBO REGAL PARTS -
Got any Turbo Buick parts you are not using? Why not cash them in for parts you need with a Letter of Credit. Simply email me a list - [email protected]. Also, we are still buying dead or partially dead 1984-1987 Turbo Regals under $4,000 that are within 250 to 350 miles of our location.
NOTE - ABOUT LINKS IN THE INNER CIRCLE -
We have heard from a couple people that have had problems with the links in our Inner Circle.
When we check the links, they work fine. However, if you are not able to be directed to the exact website page or internet site, you can "copy" and "paste" the link into the URL in your browser (such as Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
Most people having problems are using Internet Explorer. If you are having issues with links, try another browser to see if it works.
You may need to "UPDATE" your browser to be use you are using the current version.
NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE -
We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these must be low-resolution photos to work on the Inner Circle segments on the website, any photos of text don't appear clear when enlarged. This is a problem when you are trying to see numbers, such as those on the VIN labels or pages from Options booklet. Also, because of photo reproduction and computer screen variations, the colors may not be true to the actual product or photo.
If you would like to have us email you any photo at the higher resolution for viewing, just email us and we will email them to you. Be sure to be specific on which pictures you want to see - Reference Inner Circle date and photo number 1, 2, 3 or 4 - [email protected]
ABOUT OUR EMAILS -
Any inquiries concerning used parts, you must email me direct - [email protected] - I will answer you. However, if I fail to answer you within 24 hours, please email us again. Since expanding into used parts, I get a lot of emails and sometimes I may forget your request or may not remember who requested the item.
RARE PARTS FROM US -
Due to my travel plans to the Midwest, we will not be listing any Rare Parts again until the July 5th Inner Circle.
IN CLOSING -
Hope everyone is having an enjoyable summer. It seems extreme heat has struck the southwest part of the country for a number of days.
HOLIDAY HOURS -
Kirban Performance Products will be closed on Monday and Tuesday - July 3rd and 4th - in honor of Independence Day. Any orders from the website will not be processed until Wednesday, July 5th.
PYPES EXHAUST/MAX PERFORMANCE CAR & TRUCK SHOW RESULTS -
The main event was Saturday, June 17th. That morning the skies opened up and it poured until about 10:30. I took my Turbo Regal anyhow, even in the rain. Actually, as a favor to Max Performance, I have only taken my Turbo Regal to their events. They have a special section for VIP people with show cars. I qualify as a VIP, even though my car is not in the same league as most of the show cars. It was, however, the only Turbo Regal in the section!
Had the weather cooperated, they would have had over 350 cars on the show field. This event has really grown in recent years. This area is a hot bed for all kinds of muscle cars and the grounds where Max Performance is located, is the perfect setting for car shows.
PHOTO 1 - The top left photo shows a pair of the Turbo Trans Ams. The top right photo shows my white Turbo-T to the far left and a 1969 Trans Am to the right. That owner remembers coming to our old house in 1984 and buying a set of Ralley I wheels for $400 that he still has on his 1966 GTO today. The bottom left photo shows the very complex ram air system on the 1969 Pontiac Trans Am. The bottom right shows a glimpse of the ram air cast iron headers on the Trans Am. Those factory headers require a special angle adapter for the oil filter.
PHOTO 2 - The top left photo shows a white 455 Super Duty Firebird that was parked on my right at the show - 3 white cars together. The top right photo shows one of the very rare desirable Pontiac bubble top cars. Powered by a dual quad 421 set up, these cars have really gained in value over the years. The bottom left photo shows a black tri-power 1965 GTO. The bottom right photo shows the pristine engine compartment. That owner says the tri-power carburetors came from me over 25 years ago!
PHOTO 3 - The top left photo shows the interior in this national winner 1969 4-speed GTO. The top right photo shows a closeup of the right-side taillight bezel. The owner says I had them re-chromed for him over 25 years ago and they still looked new. The company that I had do them for him is the same company that made our Kirban-style GNX wheels over 20 years ago. The bottom left photo shows some of the signatures that owner has collected on his inside trunk lid. He was so honored to meet me, he had me sign his trunk lid as well. The photo on the bottom right shows my signature, which is now on his trunk lid. His car has won at the national level.
In building across from Pypes they were also conducting an auction the same time. Many of the items were from a local speed shop that had closed. What I found interesting was an 80-year-old man who had brought a few items to be auctioned off. Unfortunately, I did not stay to see what they sold for.
PHOTO 4 - The photo to the left shows a Corvette engine on a skid with the Corvette front suspension. You can tell it has been sitting out in the weather a long time. In talking to the 80-year-old owner, he said it belonged to a friend of his. It was a 1961 or 1962 Corvette that was stolen from his friend when the Corvette was fairly new. The thieves burned the car and the engine and front suspension is what they recovered. It is probably not visible, but some of the melted fiberglass is still on the suspension What a shame. Almost equally as bad is the fact that it was left to sit for probably 35 to 40 years. The photo to the right shows something he also had for sale. I recognized the Oldsmobile engine as being around 1951-1952 vintage. Oldsmobile was one of the first in the GM family to have an overhead V8 I think beginning around 1949. The owner claimed the engine ran. This would qualify in my opinion, as a value grade #6 “lawn ornament.” I can’t imagine that engine firing up without a lot of effort!
UPDATE MEMORIES OF ALFRED “TREY” CREASE III -
I appreciate the emails we received about the recent passing of Trey Crease. Once we have a date for a memorial, we will inform our readers. Those of you that remember Trey can email me if you have a story that I would read to those that attend the memorial. He was a hard core car guy and his brief time working for me was one that he always cherished.
A SHORTENED INNER CIRCLE THIS WEEK -
I apologize for this shortened Inner Circle this week. Between GM Carlisle this past weekend, our granddaughter’s big graduation bash, and leaving for the mid-west, I have been really busy.
VALVE COVER DESK TOP LAMP UPDATE -
We have both the factory Corvette valve cover desk top lamps available and the two Edelbrock valve cover lamps available. Email me if you are interested in purchasing any of these lamps - [email protected]
URGENT NEED FOR CORRECT STEERING WHEEL CORES -
We have an urgent need for correct 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering wheel cores that are not bent. They can have minor rust on the spokes but cannot be pitted. If you owe us a steering wheel core, please send it in to get your core deposit back.
We have had to raise the core price in order to continue this service. Without cores, owners can’t get a redone leather wrapped steering wheel. Help us continue this needed service. We now issue a Letter for $100, if you have a correct 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering wheel core.
EMAILS TO KIRBAN PERFORMANCE -
NOTE - If you email us and do NOT get a timely reply, be sure to check your “SPAM” folder. Some emails do not go thru.
If you need to email us, use - [email protected]
TIP FROM KIRBAN -
With your Turbo Regal trunk lid in the closed position, see if you can still depress the lid.
If so, open the trunk and locate the rubber bumper in each of the back corners. Screw them outward a few turns and shut the trunk lid again. That will tighten up your trunk lid when it’s in the closed position. That is about the only adjustment you can make to align the trunk lid with the rear quarter panels.
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]
UPCOMING RELATED CAR SHOW EVENTS FOR 2017 -
38th ANNUAL GTOAA NATIONALS -
JUNE 27-JULY 2, 2017
Crowne Plaza Hotel and Convention Center, Springfield, Illinois
This event is held in Springfield, Illinois at the Crowne Plaza Hotel and Convention Center. I am guest speaker Thursday, June 29th at 8:30 am until 10 am. I checked with a friend of mine and, although this event is not advertised to the public, you can come as a guest to see some of the finest GTOs in the country. You can use my name and say you are a guest of mine, if you plan to come Thursday.
CARLISLE CHRYSLER NATIONALS -
JULY 14-16, 2017
Carlisle Fairgrounds, Carlisle, PA
Already they have 80 Hurst cars confirmed for this first time ever Hurst Nationals. This event is one you don’t want to miss. I still do not have my exact speaking times yet. Watch for updates shortly.
The Hemi-Under-Glass car and driver Bob Riggle will be making an appearance at the Hurst Nationals at Carlisle. Many of you may have seen where it flipped over several times when Bob took Jay Leno for a ride awhile ago. The car has been completely repaired.
This year’s Chrysler event has a special all new Hurst Nationals July 14th and 15th in conjunction with the Chrysler Nationals. I have been asked to conduct a seminar on Hurst both days, July 14th and 15th. The location of my seminars as well as the other seminars is held just off the grounds from Gate 3 at the Carlisle Expo Center. They have not yet told me my speaking times.
My granddaughter, Devyn hopes to go with me to help. With Chrysler introducing the Demon this April, my guess is they will have several Demons on display at Carlisle. Hope to see some of my customers at this event. I am as well versed with early Hurst history as I am with Turbo Regals.
As with all my seminars, I will be doing a M&Ms contest in honor of my parents. The Don Garlits autographed connecting rod will make a nice prize!
21ST EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS -
SEPTEMBER 15th-16th, 2017
Cecil County Dragway in Cecil Maryland
This is a very well attended event. Once again, we plan to be there as a vendor. It is the same weekend as the annual GS Nationals held in Bowling Green, Kentucky.
For more up to date information go to their website www.magnabuick.com
37th ANNUAL GS NATIONALS -
SEPTEMBER 13-16, 2017
Beech Bend Race Park, Bowling Green, Kentucky
For more details, go to their website or go to turbobuick.com and scroll down to the event section.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED - Powermaster brake units. The must be complete. We will issue you a letter of credit for $125 for each acceptable core. Currently we will also buy them outright.
URGENT NEED - 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering wheels. They must not be bent or rusted. We will issue a $75 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
URGENT NEED - TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $150 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number.
MAIL - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949
UPS - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
6201 Kellers Church Road
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949-1199
TECH CALLS -
If you need technical information, it’s best to email - [email protected] rather than call us. We will do our best to answer any technical questions within 24 hours. Please remember I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1984-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) -
GM FLUSH MOUNT KIT FOR AFTERMARKET RADIO
Some Turbo Regal owners may want to upgrade their radio to any of the various aftermarket radios available today.
Most of the radio mounting kits sold today for doing an aftermarket radio installation do not allow the radio to sit back in the factory bezel.
The end result is it looks tacky. This special mounting kit uses the factory radio side brackets which attach to the side of this mounting kit.
By using this method it allows any aftermarket radio/CD, etc. player to sit flush with the factory radio bezel. As the one photo shows it accepts two different size radio units, which will work with most Pioneer units as well as many of the other aftermarket brands.
You must have the factory brackets, which we show in the lower center photo. Those brackets do NOT come with the new kit.
This kit was made possible by one of our Turbo Regal customers who is in the radio installation business and has it in his personal Turbo-T.
See part #7803 if you want to purchase a complete Pioneer radio with the mounting kit included. That part number also shows you how it will look once installed in a Turbo Regal.
Photo on the top left shows all the pieces included in this kit.
Photo on the lower left shows the insert installed into the main housing, which you may use depending on the size of the radio you are installing.
Photo on the lower center shows the original radio brackets that you need to re-use from your stock radio to make this new mounting kit fit flush in the radio bezel opening. We do NOT include these brackets.
Photo on the right photo shows this kit installed on a Pioneer radio/CD player, so it sits flush in the radio bezel opening.
NOTE - You may also be interested in this related part - #7789 Reproduction 4″ x 10″ REAR SPEAKERS (2) SET
Another excellent replacement for any interior restoration.
7802 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (including Turbo Regal) -
GM Flush Mount Kit for Aftermarket Radio - $21.95
Here is a link to this kit on our website:
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
SPEEDOMETER CABLE GROMMET
REPRODUCTION ALUMINUM BRACKET
Over time, the original speedometer cable grommet bracket can break, since it’s only plastic. This reproduction bracket is made in aluminum, so it will last.
It is the only part that holds the grommet in place on the firewall to secure the speedometer cable.
I do not know if cars with the digital dash had this bracket or not. Regular Regals did not use this bracket, from what I can determine. I am also not aware if the 1984 and 1985 Turbo Regals used it. It can be difficult to see because it’s somewhat hidden by the harness behind the engine, which is also held in place with a metal bracket.
I have no idea why Buick used a plastic bracket secured by two 7mm screws for this connection. Check this bracket on your car. There’s probably a good chance it is broken.
NOTE - You can paint this bracket semi-gloss black or satin black to match the original bracket.
Another excellent replacement for any engine restoration.
7801 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Speedometer Cable Grommet Reproduction Aluminum Bracket - $12.95
Here is a link to this aluminum bracket on our website:
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal & 1989 Turbo Trans Am -
Fel-Pro® HEAD BOLTS (16) SET
This is a brand new complete 16-piece set of the correct Fel-Pro hardened head bolts in both of the sizes and quantity required.
These bolts have the proper sealant on the threads.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7060 Fel-Pro® Valve Cover Gaskets (2), #7626 Intake Manifold Gasket Kit, #7576 Original Victor Reinz Head Gaskets (2) Set.
This are must-have bolts if you are rebuilding the engine.
7799 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal & 1989 Turbo Trans Am - Fel-Pro® Head Bolts (16) Set - $24.95 / set
Here is a link to these Fel-Pro head bolts on our website.
1984-1987 G-Body (Including Buick Turbo Regal) -
GM BLACK WINDSHIELD WIPER BLADES (2)
These are the factory correct GM black metal wiper blades that are correct for all 1984-1987 Turbo Regals, except for the 1987 Turbo Regals that have the chrome package.
None of the available aftermarket wiper blades look like the original Trico metal black ones. Trico was the original supplier to GM. These are original GM wiper blades.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7237 Reproduction Windshield Washer Bottle, #7632 Reproduction Windshield Washer Cap, #7518 Reproduction Windshield Washer Squirters (2) Set, and #7468 Rebuilt Wiper Motor.
An excellent cosmetic enhancement for the engine compartment!
7800 1984-1987 G-Body (including Buick Turbo Regal) -
GM Black Wiper Blades (2) - $32.95
Here’s a link to these black wiper blades on our website:
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
UPGRADED ALUMINUM RADIATOR
Because of the age of these cars, the radiator has lost some of its efficency. Also the factory core size is marginal at best.
These upgraded radiators are 100% brand new, and made by COLD-CASE, a division of Max Performance, who also owns Pypes Exhaust.
This new radiator is bare aluminum. It has two 1" tubes, which are bigger than stock. The core size is 1/4" wider and the end tanks are 1/4" wider.
This radiator has undergone several months of testing by Nick Micale in his car in Arizona.
The original radiator weighs 25.6 lbs, this radiator weighs 15.2 lbs. The overall weigh savings over the stock radiator is about 10 lbs.
This upgraded radiator is designed so it fits exactly like the factory radiator and accepts all the factory original oil and transmission coolant fittings. The factory radiator cap will also fit this radiator. The reproduction radiator top plate and the custom top plate will also fit.
Our first photo shows this new upgraded aluminum radiator. Our other photos show a comparison views of an original radiator and this new aluminum radiator.
NOTE - If you plan to paint the radiator, we highly recommend Eastwood’s Radiator Black 12 oz Satin Finish, part #10340Z @ $12.99 per can. A typical radiator requires 2 coats of paint. Normal engine paints are too thick for radiator use, which will interfere with heat transfer and block air flow over the cooling fins. Also, standard paint tends to flake off metal radiator tanks. The Radiator Black is specially formulated to solve these problems, will not interfere with heat transfer, and is heat resistant to 300°F.
NOTE - Shipping cost is based on an oversized package.
Another nice engine restoration item.
NOTE - This radiator is currently out of stock. The manufacturer expects to have the next batch ready in mid-July. If you would like to be called when radiators are back in stock, call Christina - 215-766-1611 x 0.
7457 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Upgraded Aluminum Radiator - $379.95
Here is a link to this upgraded aluminum radiator on our website:
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
CUSTOM RADIATOR TOP PLATE & HARDWARE
In many cases, the original metal radiator top plate that holds the top of the radiator and secures the housing for the electric fan may be rusted or bent.
This radiator top plate is unique to the 1986-1987 Turbo Regals, making it difficult to find a nice used one today.
This radiator top plate is made by Spoolfool but does not look like the stock original steel radiator top plate. It is fiberglass and not metal. It attaches the same way, however the top surface is smooth. This gives it a more custom look.
Each one is done in black gelcoat polished to a high gloss shine. It weighs only 1 pound versus 3 pounds for the metal plate. It saves a small amount of weight, but more importantly, it will never rust!
It comes with 5 powder-coated black bolts, which are the correct size for this plate, and easy-to-follow directions.
NOTE - Our first picture show this new CUSTOM Radiator Top Plate and Hardware, #7776. Our second photo shows the stock Reproduction Radiator Top Plate & Hardware, #7774. The second photo also shows the placement of this plate in the lower photos.
A nice finishing touch for under the hood.
7776 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - CUSTOM Radiator Top Plate & Hardware - $128.95
Here is a link to this CUSTOM Radiator Top Plate on our website:
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
POWDER-COATED GLOSSY BLACK BOLTS (5) SET for Radiator Top Plate
If you have an original radiator top plate, you may want to purchase our new powder-coated glossy black bolts set to replace the rusted original bolts.
These are special bolts for this plate.
NOTE - These 5 bolts come with the Reproduction Radiator Top Plate and Hardware, part #7774, and the Custom Radiator Top Plate & Hardware, Part #7776.
A nice finishing touch for under the hood.
7775 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Powder-coated Black Bolts (5) Set for Radiator Top Plate - $5.95
Here is a link to these powder-coated black bolts on our website:
ALWAYS LOOKING FOR IDEAS -
If you have any product ideas that would fit our Turbo Buick market that you would like to see available, email me direct [email protected]
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION FOR TURBO REGAL PARTS -
Got any Turbo Buick parts you are not using? Why not cash them in for parts you need with a Letter of Credit. Simply email me a list - [email protected]. Also, we are still buying dead or partially dead 1984-1987 Turbo Regals under $4,000 that are within 250 to 350 miles of our location.
NOTE - ABOUT LINKS IN THE INNER CIRCLE -
We have heard from a couple people that have had problems with the links in our Inner Circle.
When we check the links, they work fine. However, if you are not able to be directed to the exact website page or internet site, you can "copy" and "paste" the link into the URL in your browser (such as Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
Most people having problems are using Internet Explorer. If you are having issues with links, try another browser to see if it works.
You may need to "UPDATE" your browser to be use you are using the current version.
NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE -
We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these must be low-resolution photos to work on the Inner Circle segments on the website, any photos of text don't appear clear when enlarged. This is a problem when you are trying to see numbers, such as those on the VIN labels or pages from Options booklet. Also, because of photo reproduction and computer screen variations, the colors may not be true to the actual product or photo.
If you would like to have us email you any photo at the higher resolution for viewing, just email us and we will email them to you. Be sure to be specific on which pictures you want to see - Reference Inner Circle date and photo number 1, 2, 3 or 4 - [email protected]
ABOUT OUR EMAILS -
Any inquiries concerning used parts, you must email me direct - [email protected] - I will answer you. However, if I fail to answer you within 24 hours, please email us again. Since expanding into used parts, I get a lot of emails and sometimes I may forget your request or may not remember who requested the item.
RARE PARTS FROM US -
Due to my travel plans to the Midwest, we will not be listing any Rare Parts again until the July 5th Inner Circle.
IN CLOSING -
Hope everyone is having an enjoyable summer. It seems extreme heat has struck the southwest part of the country for a number of days.