02-04-2015 Inner Circle

Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 02-04-2015

FEBRUARY CARTOON -

PHOTO 1 - Our first photo is this month’s “Adventures of Tommy Turbo” cartoon. In honor of Valentine’s Day this month the cartoon caption reads, “Hey Babe! Look what I have for you… a five pound box of chocolate covered lug-nuts!”



1986-1987 TURBO REGAL - IGNITION MODULE AND COIL PACKS -

We finally have some of each now in stock. These two parts are both made by the same manufacturer. Richard Clark has tested both of these ignition modules and the coil packs and has had excellent results. Like many of them that are available the ignition module is bare metal and not black like your original one is. Because the ignition module is the base part, it’s the most expensive of the two parts.

The coil pack does look slightly different than the original. The top surface does look almost the same showing three raised areas instead of one solid top. It is about ¼ inch taller, which is why we have included 6 new black screws with each coil pack along with a reproduction gasket. The area around each screw hole is exposed partially on the side of this coil pack. Both parts do carry a One-year Warranty. According to Richard some of the problems you may have are related to a bad connector to the ignition module or the shield around that plug is damaged and moisture has gotten into the connector.

PHOTO 2 - Shows a factory coil pack on the left and the aftermarket one on the right. You can see the height difference and also where the screws go is partially exposed on the aftermarket one we now carry.

PHOTO 3 - Shows the bottom and the top side of the aftermarket ignition module. Once installed, this looks just like the factory, except that it is not painted black.

In the last photo in this issue are two illustrations from the Buick Engine Description Manual. My guess is this was used on the Buick assembly line as a guide. You may notice in the one illustration it gives the part numbers for the various brackets, nuts and bolts that are used to install the combination coil pack and module to the back of the intake.

PHOTO 4 - The first photo shows the driver’s side view of the engine related to the coil and ignition module. This illustration shows the proper routing for the 3 plug wires on the driver’s side. The second illustration shows how the ignition module and coil pack combination is attached to the mounting bracket and what hardware is used to secure it.

More information on the aftermarket coil pack and ignition module can be found under New Products in this issue.



1987 REGAL LIMITED MODELS NON-TURBO WITH “T” PACKAGE -

Last week’s Inner Circle brought several responses from our customers. Some were confused as to the Limited models I was referring to.

The model year 1987 for the Regal and Limited Regals offered a wide variety of options, some of which were even confusing back in 1987.

For whatever reason, Buick dropped the T-Type tag line on the Regal models and it became the Turbo-T. Other Buick models in 1987 did have a T-Type option, most notably the front wheel drive LeSabre coupes.

It is confusing because it was possible to order the “T” package (which is code Y56), which basically gives the car the appearance of being a Turbo Regal, but lacks the turbo engine code LC2. These cars even had the T emblem on the fenders. Even more confusing is you could also order the WO2 option, which was the exterior sport package also called at times the “black-out” kit.

Prior to the 1987 model year, the Limited never had these available options. Most Limited models were high end and had plush features that appealed to an older buyer. When the 1987 model year rolled around, younger buyers probably were not aware that the plush Limited could be had with the Turbo engine and could be had with the turbo look without the turbo engine.

The more popular Limited models with the “T” package option that many of us have seen have the turbo engine option.

Since 1987 was the only year the Limited Regal could be purchased with the “T” package and/or the additional Turbo option, the model never saw huge sales. I have never seen a 1987 Limited Regal with the “T” package non-turbo either with the standard chrome exterior or the exterior sport package. Again, I am referring to a non-turbo option with Package “T” Limited. The “T” package cars would have the flat hood and have the smaller diameter rear end. They would however get the aluminum 15 by 7 wheels.

In looking at my chart of the 300-plus 1986-1987 Turbo Regals that I have owned and sold, of that count only 17 were Turbo Limiteds. So, you can see how rare even the Turbo Limiteds are based on the number of 1986-1987 Turbo Regals I have had out of just over 320.

With that said, I did hear from one customer who does indeed own a 1987 Regal Limited with the “T” package (non-turbo). It is powered by a V8. It has the grey leather pillow seats and crank windows. Probably, just as unusual, it has a black exterior.

I emailed that owner and said it is unlikely he would ever see a similar model in his lifetime! This is especially true since the car is black. In most cases, buyers that did not want a Grand National bought another color. Our customer did not buy the car brand new. It’s likely the original owner must have special ordered this car.

Granted, because it’s V8 powered, it does not put it in the same league as the Turbo. It is a neat piece of 1987 Buick history to have such a rare example.

Even though this is shown in detail in the 1987 Dealer Album, the Limited model just never saw much sales with the “T” package.

If you think this is confusing, in 1987 the LeSabre model introduced the T-Type package. The order code for this package is WE2. Under the Regal for 1987, as many of you know, the WE2 code was for the Grand National package. Same code just different Buick models!



BREAKING NEWS - ORIGINAL GM AC DELCO HEATER WATER VALVE -

Somehow we located 10 of the original unique-looking AC Delco GM water valves.

We have no idea if we can get anymore. The price is $60 and $10 shipping if that is the only item you want.

You must contact our office immediately if you want one - 215-766-1611.



URGENT REQUEST - WE NEED TURBO REGAL STEERING WHEEL CORES -

We currently need 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering wheels for cores. Spokes can't be bent or rusted.

We need cores to get steering wheels redone for customers. We allow $75 Letter of Credit on each core. Email me direct - [email protected] - so I am aware that you will be sending one.

Help us help other owners.



MORE NEWS ON THE MULTI-FUNCTION JUMP STARTERS -

We currently have stock on our popular Multi-Function Jump Starter, Part #7629. 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 just received some samples of these new items we will soon be offering. I have to do some testing with them first. We may have the first product available in next weeks inner circle.



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. The turbo doesn’t need to 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.



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 COIL PACK, GASKET & SCREWS

This brand new coil pack is one of the few in the aftermarket that closely resembles the original coil pack that came on these cars in 1986 and 1987. This aftermarket coil pack is about 1/4" inch taller than the original. We include 6 new longer screws and a gasket with each kit.

Many of the aftermarket coil packs do not have the 3 formed blocks, but rather one solid top piece. This one has the three formed blocks, similar to the original coil pack.

According to our Buick mechanic, if your car suffers any type of engine miss for one hour or more, it can permanently damage the coil pack. This could cause lower resistance in the amount of spark to the plugs. Coil packs suffer from corrosion on the terminals, which can cause problems as well.

We buy these coil packs and ignition modules (Part #7639) from the same manufacturer.

We had Richard Clark test several of these for us, and he highly recommends this unit.

Each coil pack comes with all new hardware (as shown) and a new reproduction gasket. It has a One-year Warranty.

This is another item you should keep on hand.

Another great engine restoration item.

NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7639 - Aftermarket Ignition Module, #1531 Custom-Cut, High-Performance Grey Plug Wire Set, and #6803 - GM Spark Plug Wire Holders (5) Set

7637 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Aftermarket Coil Pack, Gasket, and 6 New Screws - $59.95

Here is a link to this Coil Pack on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44225/AFTERMARKET+COIL+PACK%2C+GASKET+%26%E2%80%88SCREWS+%237637.html



1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
REPRODUCTION COIL PACK GASKET

We stock a reproduction coil pack gasket.

If you replace either the coil pack or the coil module, the original gasket will probably not be any good.

If you buy any of the various coil modules, you will find some do not come with a new gasket.

This reproduction coil pack gasket is exact and has the adhesive on the bottom, like the original gasket.

Another great engine restoration item.

NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7637 Aftermarket Coil Pack, Gasket, and 6 New Screws, #7639 Aftermarket Ignition Module, #1531 Custom-Cut, High-Performance Grey Plug Wire Set, and #6803 GM Spark Plug Wire Holders (5) Set

7638 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction Coil Pack Gasket - $9.95

Here is a link to this Coil Pack Gasket on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44219/REPRODUCTION+COIL+PACK+GASKET+%237638.html



1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
AFTERMARKET IGNITION MODULE

We stock the ignition module, which is subject to failure on your Turbo Regal.

The ignition module bolts under the coil pack (see our Part #7637.)

This brand new module comes from the same manufacturer/supplier that we buy the coil packs. It also has a One-year Warranty.

Richard Clark has tested several of these for us and says these work perfectly in our cars. He also said, in many cases, the Casper’s tester for the ignition module will not work because the Casper's tester generates only a crank signal. This ignition module requires a crank and cam sensor signal to operate, therefore Casper’s tester will not work. This is also true with many of the aftermarket ignition modules.

The first photo shows the bottom of this ignition module, and second photo shows the top.

Another great engine restoration item.

NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7637 - Aftermarket Coil Pack, Gasket, and 6 New Screws, #1531 Custom-Cut, High-Performance Grey Plug Wire Set, and #6803 - GM Spark Plug Wire Holders (5) Set

7639 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Aftermarket Ignition Module - $99.95

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



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=



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 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 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 -

More snow expected this week. Like most of you in the northern climates, we can’t wait until Spring.

We will be soon be announcing the date in April for our annual Spring Open House.

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