Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 02-07-2018 -
GREAT NEWS - FINALLY THE REPRODUCTION HORN RING IS BACK IN STOCK -
We now have the popular aluminum powder-coated horn ring in stock after not having them for about 2 months. The part is #1518 and the price is $54.95. This is one of those parts that looks identical to the original GM plastic one, which warps and eventually cracks. Buy this billet aluminum one and be one and done!
Don’t pay $100 or more on ebay for an original 30-year-old plastic horn ring and end up cracking it when you go to bolt it down on your steering wheel.
It’s not often that a reproduction is better than the original part. This is one of those few parts that is better than the original!
Here is a link to this horn ring on our website.
A RARE OPPORTUNITY TO BUY OUR PERSONAL WHITE 1987 TURBO-T -
We have owned this current test car, a white 1987 Turbo-T, since December of 2005. In those 13 years, we have only driven the car about 6,000 miles. The car had 77,586 miles on it when I bought it. It now shows 83,084 miles. I have been a caretaker of this fine original 1987 Turbo-T. I feel it’s time to sell it to someone that can drive it and enjoy it this upcoming summer.
If you have seen the car at any of our various Open House events, you know its condition from any angle inside outside and underneath. The car has been garaged every single day and night since we have owned it.
It comes with full documentation going back to the original owner, including the original Window Sticker and even the payment records from the selling dealership. All five booklets are in the glove box. Every decal is where it should be. Spare and jack have never touched the ground.
The car is show quality the way it sits. Whether it wins or not depends on the competition at the time. The upgrades I have done are all light weight related or suspension related to improve handling.
The car has several impressive rare features, notably crank windows and chrome mirrors.
Anyone can invest money and restore a car. One thing you can’t do is duplicate original paint and this Turbo-T has 100% original paint. A repaint will always be a repaint. You can’t duplicate a repaint and have it look like a 30-year-old original paint car.
Here is a list of the major upgrades - Kirban style GNX wheels with new Firestone Firehawk tires. The car has Bilstein shocks, front frame and connecting brace. Also has a rear seat brace kit. The Firebird Trans Am front hollow sway bar, boxed lower trailering arms and aluminum driveshaft. A GNX cover is on the rear with aluminum rear brake drums. The transmission has been completely rebuilt. The car has a one-year old AC Delco battery. The original powermaster has had no issues thus far. Car has our plug wires and adjustable fuel regulator with the hot wire kit to the fuel pump.
The car still has the original turbo and intercooler hoses. The interior dash lighting is all upgraded to the LEDs like we sell. New headliner, visors, and new steering wheel make the interior about as perfect as you can get.
Bumpers are original and could almost pass for new. Bumper supports are bright aluminum, and the floor pans are still off-white in color showing zero rust issues. The exhaust is all original with only the muffler being replaced.
Molly has signed the trunk ID label. Car has a non-working rare AM radio.
Known issues - one of the original front fillers is starting to finally crack. The AC needs a charge. The radio does not work. The rear main drips slightly. The boost gauge fluctuates at times. Some of these issues are quite common, as you know.
The car has always run on a mix of 93 and 100 proof octane gas. The car has never been smoked in.
Based on these facts and that it is probably one of the better known Turbo-Ts in the Buick world, we have it priced at $23,900. Buyer also gets 15% off any website parts for 30 days. Clear title in hand. We are open to partial interesting trades, since we hold a salesman license with a dealership.
Email me direct [email protected] with any specific questions you may have.
This is a fine example of a low-optioned light-weight desirable 1987 Turbo-T hardtop. White is one of the most popular colors on a Turbo Regal. If it wasn’t this nice, I would not have kept it all these years!
PHOTO 1 - We show four photos of our car.
PHOTO 2 - We show four more photos of our car. The photos that appear in the garage are recent ones. Outside photos would be at least one year ago.
FOLLOW UP TO LAST WEEK’S TWO BIGGEST SELLERS -
One of the biggest sellers we wrote about in last week’s Inner Circle was about the 4-piece Bearing Kit that replaces the GM version that did not use a metal bearing, but instead used 2 rubber seals on the steering shaft.
While looking for another item, I actually came across the real GM rubber seal kit that GM did use on the Turbo Regal steering shafts. I did not realize it, but it’s actually 2 seals that slips on each side of the plastic housing and then that plastic housing seats inside the metal cup. A spring-loaded metal clamp snaps over the cup to secure it in place.
PHOTO 3 - In the photo to the left we show the new kit with the metal bearing installed on the plastic housing. To the right is the original GM one and you can see the one rubber seal on top.
The metal cup for each kit is shown above. In the photo to the right we show the metal bearing on the left that replaces the 2 rubber seals that Buick used on the their 4-piece kit. A metal bearing is far superior then 2 rubber seals that are now over 30 years old on the Turbo Regals.
MORE TURBO REGAL MEMORIES FROM THE PAST -
I was going through some of my old Buick photos the other day and found these two photos from years ago.
PHOTO 4 - The photo to the left shows both doors off of Kenny Duttweiler’s red Turbo Regal race car. He was always a fan favorite when he would run at the GS Nationals or at Englishtown. Kenny and Lawrence Conley helped put Buick in print in the various car magazines at the time. The photo to the right shows Pete Serio, the original “Window Rattle Guy.” He had that special talent to fix the door windows. All you needed to test his skill when he was done was a dollar bill. Pete would later go on to create the Window Rattle Kits with the detailed directions that we sell, part #7170.
ON THE NEWSFRONT -
Muscle Machines March 2018 issue has a nice article about a one-owner 1987 Grand National that Mike Vogel purchased brand new. The article is interesting as it explains how his father helped him order the car loaded with options, which included the electric astroroof, the EQ radio along with most of the other power options. His father was also instrumental in taking care of the Grand National and keeping it all original, which Mike has done for roughly 30 years now.
In the same issue is an article about the recent Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals held in Rosement, Illinois. This year Bob Colvin brought his 100-mile very last Grand National built to the event. This was a rare sighting since Bob has seldom shown his last Grand National.
Also on display were a number of performance Studebakers. It’s probably safe to say that in 1957, Studebaker was the very first U.S. car manufacturer to create a factory muscle car by bolting on a McCulloch supercharger on its 289 V8 engine. Having owned several Hawks years ago, they may have been one of the first U.S. car manufacturers to have disc front brakes and use Stewart Warner gauges in the early 1960s.
CLINT EASTWOOD MOVIE 15:17 TO PARIS -
This coming weekend Clint’s latest film endeavor, “15:17 To Paris” is based on a true story. Clint’s last several movies have been based on true stories. What makes this movie something very special is that instead of actors in the lead roles, he used the 3 real heroes of the event playing themselves. I am not sure if this has ever been done before under these circumstances.
I have been a huge fan of Clint’s for many years and can remember watching him in black and white in the TV series Rawhide. The TV series Rawhide ran from 1959 thru 1966. He played Rowdy Yates. Whether he was in front of the camera or behind the camera, Clint has had a long list of successful movies. I think I have seen almost every movie he has been involved with.
Perhaps even more amazing is the fact that Clint is 87 years old. We should all be that lucky to be that with it at 87. I know I will be seeing his latest movie next week!
WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU -
Two weeks ago, I met with a person that has developed a very interesting product that has been on the market for a while. He already has two companies in two different fields of operation, both of which are the biggest in the field using his product exclusively. This is quite an accomplishment.
We are working out the details so we can be a distributor for this local company. This product is superior to all the competition with no downsides! If you work or own any new or used car dealership, clean out houses for estate sales, or work or own an automotive detail business, email me direct [email protected] for more details as they become available.
CUSTOM-MADE GM LICENSED VINYL BANNERS UPDATE-
Currently we are working with a company that is fully GM licensed for GM banners. They have agreements for all the GM models except Chevrolet and Corvette. They have submitted Turbo Regal Grand National banner samples to GM license department. Watch for word on availability on these custom-made vinyl banners later this month. The GM legal department moves extremely slow on granting license agreements!
GOOD NEWS - WE ARE ACCEPTING CLASSIFIED ADS -
Good news - We now accept Classified Ads in our weekly Inner Circle emails. Over the years several customers have asked about placing an ad in our weekly Inner Circle.
Here are the options and the costs.
Ads can be from any individual or company. It needs to be automotive related, meaning it does not need be specifically Turbo Regal related. It can be for something for sale or something wanted.
Maximum number of words is 125 words, which is about 7 to 9 lines of copy. No photos. You can list a website. We recommend you state your name, phone number or email, a price, and your location in your ad.
The cost for 2 consecutive weeks is $25. The cost for 4 consecutive weeks is $40. You save $10 with the 4-week plan. No changes can be made to your existing running ad. You can only run one ad at any given time. We will have a code system at the end of your ad, so we will know what week number your ad is to run - 2 or 4 weeks.
It can be an ad for something for sale or an ad for something you are looking for.
We have never missed a single week since we started the Inner Circle email format in 2009. It’s something I enjoy doing and I just always seem to have enough material to write about.
Our weekly Inner Circle reaches over 3,200 members every Wednesday direct to their inbox. The Inner Circle also appears every Wednesday on our website with the related photos. Your ad would be visible to both groups of readers. So, the exposure to your ad is well over 3,200 potential buyers.
My Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!
Ads submitted properly by the previous Sunday would appear that next Wednesday in the weekly Inner Circle. Ads must be submitted by email to - [email protected]
Payment by credit card must be done by phone to our office 215-766-1611 x 0.
THIS WEEK’S CLASSIFIED ADS –
WANTED TO BUY: For a 1987 Buick Turbo Regal: NOS left and right hardtop roof rail pillar weatherstrip seals, NOS left and right door weather strip seals, NOS hood to cowl lace weather strip seal, NOS trunk weather strip seal, NOS left and right rear bumper fillers, NOS left and right front black metal parking light bezels, NOS exhaust catalytic converter hanger, NOS left and right exhaust manifolds. Prefer parts to be in original GM factory sealed packaging or GM factory box with original GM part number tag and GM dealer tag. Serious Buyer. Please email clear pictures and description or part or call and leave message. All calls will be returned. Jason Maxfield, (416) 399-7265, email: [email protected] Niagara Falls, NY 14303. 1 of 4.
FOR SALE - Remember, if you are local to us check out the inventory of used vehicles 611 Auto Sales. They are located near us at 8307 Easton Road in Ottsville, PA. Their website is - 611autosalespa.com Some of the cars are priced under $3,995. Mention my name and it may save you a few bucks! They have several one-owner cars to choose from.
Their office number is 610-847-0100. Currently they have the 1987 Bronco II for $6,495. A new arrival is a one-owner, no accidents 2005 Passat TDI diesel with 168,000 miles. This is a mint example for $4,000. Several of their real nice 4-door sedans are priced under $3995. These are ones I bid on that checked out as 1-2 owners non smoker with real nice exterior and interiors.
NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the Rare Parts section at the end of this Inner Circle, it is because you are not an Inner Circle member, but instead are reading this on the website. You must subscribe to see the Rare Parts section each week. It would go directly to your inbox every Wednesday afternoon. It is FREE, probably one reason why nobody complains about what I write about. Simply email - [email protected] - to get on our weekly Inner Circle email.
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]
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]
TIP FROM KIRBAN -
See Photo 3 in this issue. This upgraded bearing kit is far superior to the factory pair of rubber seals Buick used at the base of the main steering column, part #7572. This is just one of the small upgrades that makes a difference without spending a lot of money.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
NEED - Stock original AC Delco 1986-1987 Turbo Regal mass air flow sensor cores. Units can’t be cracked or broken. Currently we will issue a Letter of Credit for $40 for each acceptable core.
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.
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. These are the only 2 items we are currently accepting as cores.
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.
THE RETURN OF THE 1986-1987 & 1989 REPRODUCTION TRANS AM STAINLESS STEEL ENGINE COOLANT LINES -
We are happy to announce we now have the Reproduction Stainless Steel Engine Coolant Lines, part #7296, available again. Lines are powder coated and come with the correct ends.
Here is a link to these coolant lines on our website.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) -
REPLACEMENT UPGRADED GM AUTOMATIC SHIFTER HANDLES
AND INSTALLATION KIT
Until now you had no other choice but to stay with the stock wimpy shifter handle. That GM shifter handle has been the same one from 1978 thru 1987 on the Regals with the console format. Not only is it small in size, but its short mounting shaft makes it prone to breaking due to the plastic internals. If that wasn’t bad enough, it shows wear quickly from use and the plastic chrome ends fall off!
All the 1978-1987 Buick Regal and 1978-1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass floor shifter handles are the same. They all used a locking clip on the one side of the handle to secure the handle to the shifter shaft. On all the other GM cars from that time period, including the Monte Carlo SS models, the locking clip was in the front. That format will not work on the Turbo Regal shifter shaft because the slots on the shaft need to match up to a locking clip on the side in order to secure the handle to the shaft.
We also have a new aftermarket leather shifter handle available, #7830.
This makes it difficult to install a better stronger GM automatic shifter handle from another GM car without making some modifications and adding a method to secure the handle to the shaft.
Our installation kit eliminates the locking clip altogether. You will no longer have to buy a $5 locking clip!
The stock factory handle has plastic internals plus has no depth to give it strength on the shifter shaft. This poor design leads to many of the original shifter handles breaking. Also, while the small plastic chrome rings may give the original GM handle an elegant look, over time they can fall off.
The new original replacement handle can run $40 to $100 or more depending on what actual parts you need to buy. We have come up with several various later GM handles and an installation kit to secure the later GM handles from other GM cars to the factory shifter shaft.
We have several options available including one aftermarket leather handle that is brand new. The used GM handles listed below have all been cleaned and are almost brand new in appearance. (We remove them from certain models that are only about 12-15 years old.)
All the handles are black making it a nice match to any Grand National interior or T-Type with grey interior. Each handle has been modified internally and comes with the necessary custom-made parts to secure it to the factory shaft.
These fit every 1978-1987 Turbo Regal and Oldsmobile Cutlass that has the factory floor shifter. Each handle has been pre-tested to function properly on an original Regal shaft. All of these better design GM shifter handles can be installed if desired to be angled to the driver, something the factory shifter handle you can't do. The end result is a better looking GM handle that fits your hand better and gives a stronger look to your factory shifter.
The used GM shifter handles listed below are a far less costly alternative to purchasing a new original Turbo Regal shifter handle. Not only are they stronger, but these do not show wear as quickly as the original light grey original GM handle does.
All the shifter handles come with easy-to-follow directions and parts as shown.
These replacement shifter handles allow you to keep your original shifter handle like new in storage for car shows. Handles can be switched out in a matter of minutes.
This is a nice upgrade that Buick should have done originally to compliment the engineering they did under the hood.
NOTE - Handles shown in Photo 4 and Photo 5 are extremely rare to find!
Excellent replacements for any interior restoration.
7830 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Aftermarket LEATHER Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 1 - NEW - $15.95
Includes new locking ring with allen wrench and set screws installed. These are in stock for immediate delivery.
7831 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Replacement Upgraded GM Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 2 - USED - $29.95
Includes new locking ring with allen wrench, set screw and trigger spacer
7832 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Replacement Upgraded GM Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 3 - USED - $29.95
Includes new locking ring with allen wrench, set screw and trigger spacer
7833 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Replacement Upgraded GM Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 4 - TEAR-DROP STYLE - USED - $29.95
Includes new locking ring with allen wrench, set screw and trigger spacer
7834 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Replacement Upgraded GM Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 5 - CHROME-PLATED THUMB BUTTON - USED $29.95
Includes new locking ring with set screw and trigger spacer as shown
NOTE - Only the #7830 – Aftermarket Black LEATHER Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit is in stock now and available online. Here is the link to that handle of our website.
1984-1987 Buick Grand National -
REPRODUCTION GRAND NATIONAL DASH PLAQUE INLAY
This is a new reproduction item. GM never offered this emblem as a separate replacement part as it was only part of the assembly found under GM #25504346.
This emblem is found in every Grand National (except 1982-1/2) as part of the dash plate located above the glove box door. This is an insert GM placed right below the “BUICK” lettering.
Different models/trim options used different style inserts, i.e. “Regal” or “GNX.”
After many years of sun exposure, moisture or dash cleaning products, the chrome finish on this emblem may have faded away or the inlay may have even fallen off the dash plate and is lost.
The dash plate assembly is no longer available and fetches $350+.
This reproduction inlay measures 2-5/8" x 3/8 and is made in ABS injection molded plastic, chrome plated, and painted in the correct colors. There is 3M adhesive backed tape attached for easy installation.
NOTE - This is the "Grand National" INSERT ONLY and NOT the entire dash plate!
The top photo shows this dash plaque inlay (red tab is the carrier sheet for the self-adhesive backing) and the lower photo shows its placement on the dash plaque.
This is another excellent replacement for any interior restoration.
7820 - 1984-1987 Buick Grand National - Reproduction Grand National Dash Plaque Inlay - $19.95
Here is a link to this dash plaque inlay on our website.
CUSTOM VINYL BANNERS -
ASSORTED SIZES TO SHOW YOUR PRIDE AND JOY
We’ve been having various vinyl banners made by a local company and they are giving us special pricing to offer to our customers.
The banners are printed with durable, fade resistant, full color inks on 13 ounce vinyl material suitable for indoor or outside use.
Each banner has a hem on the back on all four sides which adds to the stability.
The 2 ft x 3 ft has eyelets on the 4 corners.
The 3 ft x 5 ft and larger custom banners have eyelets on the 4 corners and also an eyelet in the center of the top and center of the bottom.
We also can have a larger banner made. If you have a photo in mind that you want larger, contact us for a quote - 215-766-1611 x 0.
We have the ability to drop in any logo or wording you want on to the picture you submit. There is no extra charge for this. We would email you a sample prior to getting the banner made.
For best results, images must be 100 dpi or larger. Acceptable format is either a jpeg or a PDF file.
Depending on your image, the banner can be horizontal or vertical.
Photo is usually printed to the edge as shown in the Kirban Performance Products banner. The design on the Kirban Customs truck banner included a grey border as part of the image design.
Once approved, we can ship within 72 hours! Digital file can be sent by email to - [email protected]. Please note “BANNER ORDER” in the Subject line of your email.
NOTE - Depending on the layout of your image, the final banner size may be slightly different to accommodate the correct proportion of your photo.
NOTE - Shipping by UPS ground is approximately $10-$15, depending on the banner size and your location.
These make a unique and lasting gift for that special car collector.
The first photo is a 2 ft by 3 ft banner of Dennis and his Turbo Regal with our logo inserted in the lower left. This lower photo shows the custom truck our son built. This 3 ft by 5 ft banner was a Christmas present and is a unique display item for his shop.
Remember, we can do any image. It can be car related or can even be an image like a family photo or business card.
This is an excellent banner for your man cave, garage or office or dorm room. Banners make a unique custom gift for any occasion.
7816 - Custom Vinyl Banner - 2 ft x 3 ft- $28.95
7817 - Custom Vinyl Banner - 3 ft x 5 ft- $56.95
7818 - Custom Vinyl Banner - Optional Size Based on Image - Call for pricing 215-766-1611 x 0
Here is a link to these banners 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.
IN CLOSING -
We appreciate all the nice emails we received concerning the death of Smokie our cat. I knew many of you have or had pets and knew the feeling first hand of what it’s like when your long-time pet dies.
GREAT NEWS - FINALLY THE REPRODUCTION HORN RING IS BACK IN STOCK -
We now have the popular aluminum powder-coated horn ring in stock after not having them for about 2 months. The part is #1518 and the price is $54.95. This is one of those parts that looks identical to the original GM plastic one, which warps and eventually cracks. Buy this billet aluminum one and be one and done!
Don’t pay $100 or more on ebay for an original 30-year-old plastic horn ring and end up cracking it when you go to bolt it down on your steering wheel.
It’s not often that a reproduction is better than the original part. This is one of those few parts that is better than the original!
Here is a link to this horn ring on our website.
A RARE OPPORTUNITY TO BUY OUR PERSONAL WHITE 1987 TURBO-T -
We have owned this current test car, a white 1987 Turbo-T, since December of 2005. In those 13 years, we have only driven the car about 6,000 miles. The car had 77,586 miles on it when I bought it. It now shows 83,084 miles. I have been a caretaker of this fine original 1987 Turbo-T. I feel it’s time to sell it to someone that can drive it and enjoy it this upcoming summer.
If you have seen the car at any of our various Open House events, you know its condition from any angle inside outside and underneath. The car has been garaged every single day and night since we have owned it.
It comes with full documentation going back to the original owner, including the original Window Sticker and even the payment records from the selling dealership. All five booklets are in the glove box. Every decal is where it should be. Spare and jack have never touched the ground.
The car is show quality the way it sits. Whether it wins or not depends on the competition at the time. The upgrades I have done are all light weight related or suspension related to improve handling.
The car has several impressive rare features, notably crank windows and chrome mirrors.
Anyone can invest money and restore a car. One thing you can’t do is duplicate original paint and this Turbo-T has 100% original paint. A repaint will always be a repaint. You can’t duplicate a repaint and have it look like a 30-year-old original paint car.
Here is a list of the major upgrades - Kirban style GNX wheels with new Firestone Firehawk tires. The car has Bilstein shocks, front frame and connecting brace. Also has a rear seat brace kit. The Firebird Trans Am front hollow sway bar, boxed lower trailering arms and aluminum driveshaft. A GNX cover is on the rear with aluminum rear brake drums. The transmission has been completely rebuilt. The car has a one-year old AC Delco battery. The original powermaster has had no issues thus far. Car has our plug wires and adjustable fuel regulator with the hot wire kit to the fuel pump.
The car still has the original turbo and intercooler hoses. The interior dash lighting is all upgraded to the LEDs like we sell. New headliner, visors, and new steering wheel make the interior about as perfect as you can get.
Bumpers are original and could almost pass for new. Bumper supports are bright aluminum, and the floor pans are still off-white in color showing zero rust issues. The exhaust is all original with only the muffler being replaced.
Molly has signed the trunk ID label. Car has a non-working rare AM radio.
Known issues - one of the original front fillers is starting to finally crack. The AC needs a charge. The radio does not work. The rear main drips slightly. The boost gauge fluctuates at times. Some of these issues are quite common, as you know.
The car has always run on a mix of 93 and 100 proof octane gas. The car has never been smoked in.
Based on these facts and that it is probably one of the better known Turbo-Ts in the Buick world, we have it priced at $23,900. Buyer also gets 15% off any website parts for 30 days. Clear title in hand. We are open to partial interesting trades, since we hold a salesman license with a dealership.
Email me direct [email protected] with any specific questions you may have.
This is a fine example of a low-optioned light-weight desirable 1987 Turbo-T hardtop. White is one of the most popular colors on a Turbo Regal. If it wasn’t this nice, I would not have kept it all these years!
PHOTO 1 - We show four photos of our car.
PHOTO 2 - We show four more photos of our car. The photos that appear in the garage are recent ones. Outside photos would be at least one year ago.
FOLLOW UP TO LAST WEEK’S TWO BIGGEST SELLERS -
One of the biggest sellers we wrote about in last week’s Inner Circle was about the 4-piece Bearing Kit that replaces the GM version that did not use a metal bearing, but instead used 2 rubber seals on the steering shaft.
While looking for another item, I actually came across the real GM rubber seal kit that GM did use on the Turbo Regal steering shafts. I did not realize it, but it’s actually 2 seals that slips on each side of the plastic housing and then that plastic housing seats inside the metal cup. A spring-loaded metal clamp snaps over the cup to secure it in place.
PHOTO 3 - In the photo to the left we show the new kit with the metal bearing installed on the plastic housing. To the right is the original GM one and you can see the one rubber seal on top.
The metal cup for each kit is shown above. In the photo to the right we show the metal bearing on the left that replaces the 2 rubber seals that Buick used on the their 4-piece kit. A metal bearing is far superior then 2 rubber seals that are now over 30 years old on the Turbo Regals.
MORE TURBO REGAL MEMORIES FROM THE PAST -
I was going through some of my old Buick photos the other day and found these two photos from years ago.
PHOTO 4 - The photo to the left shows both doors off of Kenny Duttweiler’s red Turbo Regal race car. He was always a fan favorite when he would run at the GS Nationals or at Englishtown. Kenny and Lawrence Conley helped put Buick in print in the various car magazines at the time. The photo to the right shows Pete Serio, the original “Window Rattle Guy.” He had that special talent to fix the door windows. All you needed to test his skill when he was done was a dollar bill. Pete would later go on to create the Window Rattle Kits with the detailed directions that we sell, part #7170.
ON THE NEWSFRONT -
Muscle Machines March 2018 issue has a nice article about a one-owner 1987 Grand National that Mike Vogel purchased brand new. The article is interesting as it explains how his father helped him order the car loaded with options, which included the electric astroroof, the EQ radio along with most of the other power options. His father was also instrumental in taking care of the Grand National and keeping it all original, which Mike has done for roughly 30 years now.
In the same issue is an article about the recent Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals held in Rosement, Illinois. This year Bob Colvin brought his 100-mile very last Grand National built to the event. This was a rare sighting since Bob has seldom shown his last Grand National.
Also on display were a number of performance Studebakers. It’s probably safe to say that in 1957, Studebaker was the very first U.S. car manufacturer to create a factory muscle car by bolting on a McCulloch supercharger on its 289 V8 engine. Having owned several Hawks years ago, they may have been one of the first U.S. car manufacturers to have disc front brakes and use Stewart Warner gauges in the early 1960s.
CLINT EASTWOOD MOVIE 15:17 TO PARIS -
This coming weekend Clint’s latest film endeavor, “15:17 To Paris” is based on a true story. Clint’s last several movies have been based on true stories. What makes this movie something very special is that instead of actors in the lead roles, he used the 3 real heroes of the event playing themselves. I am not sure if this has ever been done before under these circumstances.
I have been a huge fan of Clint’s for many years and can remember watching him in black and white in the TV series Rawhide. The TV series Rawhide ran from 1959 thru 1966. He played Rowdy Yates. Whether he was in front of the camera or behind the camera, Clint has had a long list of successful movies. I think I have seen almost every movie he has been involved with.
Perhaps even more amazing is the fact that Clint is 87 years old. We should all be that lucky to be that with it at 87. I know I will be seeing his latest movie next week!
WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU -
Two weeks ago, I met with a person that has developed a very interesting product that has been on the market for a while. He already has two companies in two different fields of operation, both of which are the biggest in the field using his product exclusively. This is quite an accomplishment.
We are working out the details so we can be a distributor for this local company. This product is superior to all the competition with no downsides! If you work or own any new or used car dealership, clean out houses for estate sales, or work or own an automotive detail business, email me direct [email protected] for more details as they become available.
CUSTOM-MADE GM LICENSED VINYL BANNERS UPDATE-
Currently we are working with a company that is fully GM licensed for GM banners. They have agreements for all the GM models except Chevrolet and Corvette. They have submitted Turbo Regal Grand National banner samples to GM license department. Watch for word on availability on these custom-made vinyl banners later this month. The GM legal department moves extremely slow on granting license agreements!
GOOD NEWS - WE ARE ACCEPTING CLASSIFIED ADS -
Good news - We now accept Classified Ads in our weekly Inner Circle emails. Over the years several customers have asked about placing an ad in our weekly Inner Circle.
Here are the options and the costs.
Ads can be from any individual or company. It needs to be automotive related, meaning it does not need be specifically Turbo Regal related. It can be for something for sale or something wanted.
Maximum number of words is 125 words, which is about 7 to 9 lines of copy. No photos. You can list a website. We recommend you state your name, phone number or email, a price, and your location in your ad.
The cost for 2 consecutive weeks is $25. The cost for 4 consecutive weeks is $40. You save $10 with the 4-week plan. No changes can be made to your existing running ad. You can only run one ad at any given time. We will have a code system at the end of your ad, so we will know what week number your ad is to run - 2 or 4 weeks.
It can be an ad for something for sale or an ad for something you are looking for.
We have never missed a single week since we started the Inner Circle email format in 2009. It’s something I enjoy doing and I just always seem to have enough material to write about.
Our weekly Inner Circle reaches over 3,200 members every Wednesday direct to their inbox. The Inner Circle also appears every Wednesday on our website with the related photos. Your ad would be visible to both groups of readers. So, the exposure to your ad is well over 3,200 potential buyers.
My Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!
Ads submitted properly by the previous Sunday would appear that next Wednesday in the weekly Inner Circle. Ads must be submitted by email to - [email protected]
Payment by credit card must be done by phone to our office 215-766-1611 x 0.
THIS WEEK’S CLASSIFIED ADS –
WANTED TO BUY: For a 1987 Buick Turbo Regal: NOS left and right hardtop roof rail pillar weatherstrip seals, NOS left and right door weather strip seals, NOS hood to cowl lace weather strip seal, NOS trunk weather strip seal, NOS left and right rear bumper fillers, NOS left and right front black metal parking light bezels, NOS exhaust catalytic converter hanger, NOS left and right exhaust manifolds. Prefer parts to be in original GM factory sealed packaging or GM factory box with original GM part number tag and GM dealer tag. Serious Buyer. Please email clear pictures and description or part or call and leave message. All calls will be returned. Jason Maxfield, (416) 399-7265, email: [email protected] Niagara Falls, NY 14303. 1 of 4.
FOR SALE - Remember, if you are local to us check out the inventory of used vehicles 611 Auto Sales. They are located near us at 8307 Easton Road in Ottsville, PA. Their website is - 611autosalespa.com Some of the cars are priced under $3,995. Mention my name and it may save you a few bucks! They have several one-owner cars to choose from.
Their office number is 610-847-0100. Currently they have the 1987 Bronco II for $6,495. A new arrival is a one-owner, no accidents 2005 Passat TDI diesel with 168,000 miles. This is a mint example for $4,000. Several of their real nice 4-door sedans are priced under $3995. These are ones I bid on that checked out as 1-2 owners non smoker with real nice exterior and interiors.
NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the Rare Parts section at the end of this Inner Circle, it is because you are not an Inner Circle member, but instead are reading this on the website. You must subscribe to see the Rare Parts section each week. It would go directly to your inbox every Wednesday afternoon. It is FREE, probably one reason why nobody complains about what I write about. Simply email - [email protected] - to get on our weekly Inner Circle email.
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]
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]
TIP FROM KIRBAN -
See Photo 3 in this issue. This upgraded bearing kit is far superior to the factory pair of rubber seals Buick used at the base of the main steering column, part #7572. This is just one of the small upgrades that makes a difference without spending a lot of money.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
NEED - Stock original AC Delco 1986-1987 Turbo Regal mass air flow sensor cores. Units can’t be cracked or broken. Currently we will issue a Letter of Credit for $40 for each acceptable core.
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.
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. These are the only 2 items we are currently accepting as cores.
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.
THE RETURN OF THE 1986-1987 & 1989 REPRODUCTION TRANS AM STAINLESS STEEL ENGINE COOLANT LINES -
We are happy to announce we now have the Reproduction Stainless Steel Engine Coolant Lines, part #7296, available again. Lines are powder coated and come with the correct ends.
Here is a link to these coolant lines on our website.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) -
REPLACEMENT UPGRADED GM AUTOMATIC SHIFTER HANDLES
AND INSTALLATION KIT
Until now you had no other choice but to stay with the stock wimpy shifter handle. That GM shifter handle has been the same one from 1978 thru 1987 on the Regals with the console format. Not only is it small in size, but its short mounting shaft makes it prone to breaking due to the plastic internals. If that wasn’t bad enough, it shows wear quickly from use and the plastic chrome ends fall off!
All the 1978-1987 Buick Regal and 1978-1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass floor shifter handles are the same. They all used a locking clip on the one side of the handle to secure the handle to the shifter shaft. On all the other GM cars from that time period, including the Monte Carlo SS models, the locking clip was in the front. That format will not work on the Turbo Regal shifter shaft because the slots on the shaft need to match up to a locking clip on the side in order to secure the handle to the shaft.
We also have a new aftermarket leather shifter handle available, #7830.
This makes it difficult to install a better stronger GM automatic shifter handle from another GM car without making some modifications and adding a method to secure the handle to the shaft.
Our installation kit eliminates the locking clip altogether. You will no longer have to buy a $5 locking clip!
The stock factory handle has plastic internals plus has no depth to give it strength on the shifter shaft. This poor design leads to many of the original shifter handles breaking. Also, while the small plastic chrome rings may give the original GM handle an elegant look, over time they can fall off.
The new original replacement handle can run $40 to $100 or more depending on what actual parts you need to buy. We have come up with several various later GM handles and an installation kit to secure the later GM handles from other GM cars to the factory shifter shaft.
We have several options available including one aftermarket leather handle that is brand new. The used GM handles listed below have all been cleaned and are almost brand new in appearance. (We remove them from certain models that are only about 12-15 years old.)
All the handles are black making it a nice match to any Grand National interior or T-Type with grey interior. Each handle has been modified internally and comes with the necessary custom-made parts to secure it to the factory shaft.
These fit every 1978-1987 Turbo Regal and Oldsmobile Cutlass that has the factory floor shifter. Each handle has been pre-tested to function properly on an original Regal shaft. All of these better design GM shifter handles can be installed if desired to be angled to the driver, something the factory shifter handle you can't do. The end result is a better looking GM handle that fits your hand better and gives a stronger look to your factory shifter.
The used GM shifter handles listed below are a far less costly alternative to purchasing a new original Turbo Regal shifter handle. Not only are they stronger, but these do not show wear as quickly as the original light grey original GM handle does.
All the shifter handles come with easy-to-follow directions and parts as shown.
These replacement shifter handles allow you to keep your original shifter handle like new in storage for car shows. Handles can be switched out in a matter of minutes.
This is a nice upgrade that Buick should have done originally to compliment the engineering they did under the hood.
NOTE - Handles shown in Photo 4 and Photo 5 are extremely rare to find!
Excellent replacements for any interior restoration.
7830 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Aftermarket LEATHER Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 1 - NEW - $15.95
Includes new locking ring with allen wrench and set screws installed. These are in stock for immediate delivery.
7831 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Replacement Upgraded GM Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 2 - USED - $29.95
Includes new locking ring with allen wrench, set screw and trigger spacer
7832 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Replacement Upgraded GM Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 3 - USED - $29.95
Includes new locking ring with allen wrench, set screw and trigger spacer
7833 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Replacement Upgraded GM Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 4 - TEAR-DROP STYLE - USED - $29.95
Includes new locking ring with allen wrench, set screw and trigger spacer
7834 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Replacement Upgraded GM Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 5 - CHROME-PLATED THUMB BUTTON - USED $29.95
Includes new locking ring with set screw and trigger spacer as shown
NOTE - Only the #7830 – Aftermarket Black LEATHER Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit is in stock now and available online. Here is the link to that handle of our website.
1984-1987 Buick Grand National -
REPRODUCTION GRAND NATIONAL DASH PLAQUE INLAY
This is a new reproduction item. GM never offered this emblem as a separate replacement part as it was only part of the assembly found under GM #25504346.
This emblem is found in every Grand National (except 1982-1/2) as part of the dash plate located above the glove box door. This is an insert GM placed right below the “BUICK” lettering.
Different models/trim options used different style inserts, i.e. “Regal” or “GNX.”
After many years of sun exposure, moisture or dash cleaning products, the chrome finish on this emblem may have faded away or the inlay may have even fallen off the dash plate and is lost.
The dash plate assembly is no longer available and fetches $350+.
This reproduction inlay measures 2-5/8" x 3/8 and is made in ABS injection molded plastic, chrome plated, and painted in the correct colors. There is 3M adhesive backed tape attached for easy installation.
NOTE - This is the "Grand National" INSERT ONLY and NOT the entire dash plate!
The top photo shows this dash plaque inlay (red tab is the carrier sheet for the self-adhesive backing) and the lower photo shows its placement on the dash plaque.
This is another excellent replacement for any interior restoration.
7820 - 1984-1987 Buick Grand National - Reproduction Grand National Dash Plaque Inlay - $19.95
Here is a link to this dash plaque inlay on our website.
CUSTOM VINYL BANNERS -
ASSORTED SIZES TO SHOW YOUR PRIDE AND JOY
We’ve been having various vinyl banners made by a local company and they are giving us special pricing to offer to our customers.
The banners are printed with durable, fade resistant, full color inks on 13 ounce vinyl material suitable for indoor or outside use.
Each banner has a hem on the back on all four sides which adds to the stability.
The 2 ft x 3 ft has eyelets on the 4 corners.
The 3 ft x 5 ft and larger custom banners have eyelets on the 4 corners and also an eyelet in the center of the top and center of the bottom.
We also can have a larger banner made. If you have a photo in mind that you want larger, contact us for a quote - 215-766-1611 x 0.
We have the ability to drop in any logo or wording you want on to the picture you submit. There is no extra charge for this. We would email you a sample prior to getting the banner made.
For best results, images must be 100 dpi or larger. Acceptable format is either a jpeg or a PDF file.
Depending on your image, the banner can be horizontal or vertical.
Photo is usually printed to the edge as shown in the Kirban Performance Products banner. The design on the Kirban Customs truck banner included a grey border as part of the image design.
Once approved, we can ship within 72 hours! Digital file can be sent by email to - [email protected]. Please note “BANNER ORDER” in the Subject line of your email.
NOTE - Depending on the layout of your image, the final banner size may be slightly different to accommodate the correct proportion of your photo.
NOTE - Shipping by UPS ground is approximately $10-$15, depending on the banner size and your location.
These make a unique and lasting gift for that special car collector.
The first photo is a 2 ft by 3 ft banner of Dennis and his Turbo Regal with our logo inserted in the lower left. This lower photo shows the custom truck our son built. This 3 ft by 5 ft banner was a Christmas present and is a unique display item for his shop.
Remember, we can do any image. It can be car related or can even be an image like a family photo or business card.
This is an excellent banner for your man cave, garage or office or dorm room. Banners make a unique custom gift for any occasion.
7816 - Custom Vinyl Banner - 2 ft x 3 ft- $28.95
7817 - Custom Vinyl Banner - 3 ft x 5 ft- $56.95
7818 - Custom Vinyl Banner - Optional Size Based on Image - Call for pricing 215-766-1611 x 0
Here is a link to these banners 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.
IN CLOSING -
We appreciate all the nice emails we received concerning the death of Smokie our cat. I knew many of you have or had pets and knew the feeling first hand of what it’s like when your long-time pet dies.