Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 02-08-2017 -
AC DELCO AM/FM CD PLAYER WITH EQ -
We just got in two of the extremely rare early AC Delco am/fm CD players with the EQ feature. Both of these factory am/fm CD players with EQ feature have been sold.
I may have two others that are slightly different due in next week. These are the very early 1990’s Buick radios that have the outer shell that has the proper slots so the factory threaded studs from your stock radio can attach to the sides of this radio. That allows your factory radio brackets to attach in the proper place in each side of the later model am/fm CD player. The mid-1990s and later AC Delco radios have a different outer shell, making it difficult to secure the radio properly in your dash opening.
PHOTO 1 - In the photo on the left shows this early 1990s Buick satin black face am/fm CD player with the optional EQ feature. This is the top-of-the-line radio offered by Buick in the early 1990s. The photo on the right shows the plug-in harness and antenna lead that you need that allows your factory stock radio harness to plug into this radio. We also show the special antenna adapter that is required. In the same photo, we show a set of the 1984-1987 radio knobs that I included with the radio, which the buyer can use instead of the black ones if they wish.
This is just one version of the early CD players Buick used in the various Buick models. The CD player that would have been one step down from this would not have the EQ feature, but instead had two rocker buttons. Since I don’t have any Buick books from the 1990s, I have no idea how many different versions Buick offered for radios, nor the price structure. Again, both of these radios have been sold.
EARLY 1990s BUICK AM/FM CASSETTE WITH EQ FEATURE -
This Buick am/fm cassette radio with EQ feature is also the style radio that followed the version that Buick used in our Regals. Like the CD player pictured in photo 1, this radio would be one step down from the CD option since it only had the cassette feature, but retained the EQ option. This had a different plug on the back and a more modern look than the ones that originally came in our Regals. It still retained the outer shell with its universal slots so it could be installed easily into the older G-body cars. The studs simply clipped into the slot and lined up with the factory side bracket. The later designs that came out in the mid-to-late 1990s had a shell that no longer had slots in it, making it difficult to secure it easily in your 1984-1987 Turbo Regal. See the Rare Parts section of this Inner Circle as this am/fm cassette with EQ option is for sale.
PHOTO 2 - In the photo on the left shows this early 1990s Buick am/fm cassette with EQ option. The photo on the right shows the special plug-in harness that goes with it so your factory harness and factory antenna lead will plug into it. You can even switch out the two knobs with your original knobs to make it look more like the 1984-1987 AC Delco radio. Like the earlier am/fm CD EQ radios, these are very hard to find since they were probably a $500 or more option to have the EQ upgrade. I seldom find these radios in Buicks. This is the first one I have found in years. Cadillac radios are different and are easier to find. I suspect that most Buick buyers were older clientele and did not want to spend the additional money for an upgraded cassette player. The same holds true with the CD players of this vintage. I have no idea what that option cost, but it’s evident they are very difficult to find today.
FAST AND FURIOUS -
We all are familiar with the “Fast and Furious” movies. Last year Greenlight Collectibles came out with a 1:43 scale 1987 Grand National/GNX. It looks like the movie car. Our company actually sold some of the GNX related parts to the body shop that built the car(s) for the movie. I am sure they built more than one.
PHOTO 3 - The photo shows the box and the 1:43 scale diecast Fast and Furious Grand National/GNX. None of the doors, hood, or trunk open. It has the Grand National decals on the front fenders under the GNX louvers. The Grand National emblem on the trunk lid is on the wrong side. You can see a roll bar inside the car. It does have a beautiful black paint job! Like many diecast cars it states on the box limited edition. No idea what that number is limited to as it does not say that anywhere on the box. I got a few of them from Fairfield Collectibles located in Aston, PA. They have about 60 left. See Rare Parts section as I have one or two listed there for sale.
GO BIG OR GO HOME -
“Go big or go home” is a quote I remember from somewhere. Many of you have seen some of my son’s impressive custom work that we have featured in some of our previous Inner Circles. From making snow sculptures of a Camaro SS or a Cigarette boat to carving a 20-foot-high tree stump with our last name. He also did the Grand National go cart for us back in 2007. He built the Lamborghini engine coffee table that adorns my home office, as well as smaller scale projects.
His latest project towers over anything he has made in the past. While I own a nicely restored little 1996 Ford Ranger, he has embarked in making a Ford F650 four-door truck into a six-door truck, diesel powered engine, and a Peterbilt air suspension set up.
He started with a four-door 2005 Ford F650 stake body truck. He then bought another four-door Ford truck so he could cut the cab and create two more doors onto the F650 truck. He also had to extend the truck frame.
To update the front end he incorporated the later 2016 headlights into the front end and added a Cervini F350 hood scoop molded into the stock F650 hood. He even positioned the new F650 emblems flush with the side of the hood.
The air suspension is from a Peterbilt tractor trailer. One part works the bed and a separate part works the cab. He can raise and lower the bed by 10 inches or more. Our granddaughter Devyn painted the Caterpillar C7 diesel engine and the frame was also painted.
The F650 is now ready for paint. Their attention to detail is awesome. This is nothing short of amazing, as he thinks this up in his head. There is no instruction manual to work from.
Below is the link to all the photos he has posted on this massive Ford F650 project.
https://www.facebook.com/pg/KirbanCustoms/photos/?tab=album&album_id=10154446148269926
If it asks you to sign in or log in, click "not now" and ignore it.
PHOTO 4 - The photo in the top left shows the original Ford F650 stake body truck that he started with. The photo in the top right shows the cut third set of doors being ready to be grafted to the main four-door cab. As you can imagine, this grafting must to be seamless to make it look right. The result is a better fit, unlike the gaps of your trunk lid with the rear spoiler on your Grand National. The bottom left photo shows the rear doors attached to the main cab of the F650. The bottom right photo shows the F650 assembled ready for paint. It rides on 22.5 aluminum tractor trailer wheels.
Once he has this project completed, we will take a picture of it alongside my little Ford Ranger so you can see the size difference in a future Inner Circle.
WE’RE LOOKING FOR RAFFLE ITEMS FOR OUR SPRING OPEN HOUSE -
We are looking for raffle items for our Spring Open House. Since this is our 30th year connected with the Turbo Regals, I am asking any of my customers and vendors that we sell to if they would donate something for our Spring Open House raffle.
If you are a vendor, we would also want about 50 of your flyers that we would pass out at our event. We would also mention you in our Inner Circle.
Spoolfool has already stepped up. Last week I met with the owner of Max Performance that owns Pypes exhaust. We just did a project for their GTO market for their suppliers. They will also be donating something for our Spring Open House.
We already heard from Derek Freyberger from New Jersey who is donating a hand-carved Grand National frame that he had a friend make. He had two of them and is donating one for our raffle. It measures 17-½" by 9-½" by 1-½" thick. Derek has come to several of our Open House events in the past and is planning to also come this one.
MAKING SOME CORRECTIONS FROM LAST WEEK’S INNER CIRCLE -
In last week’s Inner Circle, we stated the last Grand National was built on December 15, 1987. This was an error. The letter from GM was dated December 15, 1987. However, the Grand National was built on December 11, 1987. Jason Maxfield and Greg Horvath brought that to my attention. Both hail from Canada!
Speaking of Canada, with all the talk about trade with Mexico, can’t we work some sort of trade deal with Canada where shipping doesn’t require a four-part documentation to be filled out. Or why does it cost $1.15 to send a one-page letter to Canada compared to 49 cents to mail one in the USA.
A long-time GTO customer of mine, Marty Howard, clarified the years the GTO was listed as an option on the Window Sticker prior to being classified as a model. In 1964 and 1965 it was an option on a Lemans. It was called the GTO package. In 1966 it became a separate model. It was very easy to clone a 1964 and 1965 GTO since it was merely an option.
A CLARIFICATION ON VIN NUMBERS -
It’s important to realize only the last 10,000 Grand Nationals were sequential in number. As no other 1987 Regals were being made in the Fall of 1987. Prior to that last run, the Turbo Regals were intermixed with regular Regals as they came down the assembly line. The two we noted last week that we owned actually were produced one after another, which I assume is unusual. Also the fact that I owned both of them the same year makes it even more of a coincidence.
WE HAVE A WINNER -
If you recall, in last week’s Inner Circle we showed an early 1930s dash cluster and indicated we had no idea what car it was from. Gene Kessler came up with the answer. It is a 1930’s Buick dash cluster.
CLASSIC INDUSTRIES AND ORIGINAL PARTS GROUP -
As many of you know, Classic Industries and Original Parts Group are both expanding into the G-body market, which includes the Turbo Regals. Both companies are already placing orders with us for some of our popular products.
Both companies have been customers of ours since the early 1980s, mostly with the GTO parts. It’s a sensible move for these two companies, since the G-body is the next up and coming collectible car.
DODGE CHALLENGER SRT DEMON UPDATE -
This is probably a first for a U.S. production car. It is reported that the new Demon will only have a driver’s seat - no passenger seat and no rear seat! That cuts 100 pounds in weight. I can see deleting the rear seat, but the front passenger seat? They may want to reconsider that idea. I think they could shave weight in other areas.
Back in 1968-1969 I had a 1940 Studebaker coupe. Like many of the coupes back then, they did not have a back seat but a wood panel. Those coupes and others, I believe, were promoted as salesman cars so the rear seat was eliminated so you had space for your product.
WHY NOT AN AUTOMOTIVE BASED COMIC STRIP FOR THE NEWSPAPERS? -
Why isn’t there an automotive based comic strip in the newspapers?
I read several years ago that seven out of every ten workers are connected in some shape or form to the automotive business. That is some big numbers of workers. Probably includes thieves that steal cars and sells them off shore or for parts.
My point? Why not a comic strip based on a guy in the car related business. He could be named “Dipstick.” The automotive related ideas would be endless. Very few newspaper comic strips even have a car in their comic strips.
HAVE YOU NOTICED -
Have you noticed? Drug companies seem to be the biggest advertisers on TV. I find it amusing that no matter if it’s a 30-second ad or a 60-second ad, most of the ad time is devoted to all the possible side effects. In some cases, death can result. It sounds like you’re playing Russian Roulette.
MANUAL SHIFT CARS ARE QUICKLY DISAPPEARING -
Manual shift cars are quickly disappearing as a good many new cars now simply offer automatic cars. However, there is one exception. I recently read about where over 80% of a new car’s production is manual shift. Watch for the answer as to what car model this is in next week’s Inner Circle. All these new 6-speed, 8-speed, and 10-speed automatics are cool when they are new, but when it comes to getting them rebuilt, it won’t be cheap!
If you email me your guess, we will award a gift to the first correct response. Email - [email protected]
BREAKING NEWS - NEW SEAT COVER DESIGNS - GNX and T-TYPE -
We now have “GNX” and the “T-Type” logos of the GM Licensed Seat Armour seat covers in stock. The GNX is on a black terrycloth material and the T-Type is on a grey terrycloth material. Both logos are done in the correct logo colors. These will be on our website soon. You must contact our office to order - 215-766-1611 x 0.
MORE NEW PARTS ARE COMING FOR OUR CARS -
More new parts will be coming soon for our cars. Spoolfool has just made a very useful item for all you quarter-mile racers. It is a magnetic black vinyl rear quarter panel protector.
Old timers may remember when another company made these years ago. This is by far and away the cheapest product Mike of Spoolfool has produced for our cars.
We have the first ones in route to us with our next supply of his filler panels. The fit is perfect as it mounts flush against the rear wheel molding. The price is $30 per set of 2. You can call our office to order a set as these are not yet on our website. Because the protectors are black vinyl, they are virtually unnoticeable on a black car. This is just one new part that will soon be available from us.
UPDATE ON 1-18-2017 INNER CIRCLE ARTICLE -
We have an update on our 1-18-2017 Inner Circle from Bob Hudspid, who sent us the Grand National newspaper ad from Garden Buick. The dealership is located in Hempstead, New York and is still called Garden Buick.
1986-1987 TURBO REGAL EIGHT-HOLE HOOD PADS -
The price for the eight-hole hood pad picked up at our location is $279.95. If you want it shipped, the price is $349.95 to any of the basic 48 states.
Another option is to pay for it now and pick it up at our Spring Open House on April 22nd. We also have a source that can sell you the pattern so you can imprint the Buick logo on the hood pad.
These are not on our website. You must call our office and talk to Christina if you want one of these hood pads. You can contact Christina - 215-766-1611 x 0.
UPCOMING RELATED CAR SHOW EVENTS FOR 2017 -
KIRBAN SPRING 2017 OPEN HOUSE -
SATURDAY, APRIL 22, 2017 – 9 am - 2 pm
6201 Kellers Church Road, Plumsteadville, PA
Our Spring Open House will be held rain or shine on Saturday, April 22nd, 2017. It is the same weekend as Spring Carlisle. Spring Carlisle starts Wednesday the 19th. You could hit two events, since Carlisle is only about two hours from our location. I go to Spring Carlisle midweek every year.
Our Open House will have the usual features - Yum Yums donuts, M&Ms contest, sale prices on new parts, tagged and bagged goodies, and no reserve auction. We already are putting aside unique items for the no reserve auction, including several GNX items. Several featured items will be discounted to save shipping. As the date draws closer we will list what large items will have a special show price. The usual array of tagged and bagged used parts and literature will be for sale as well.
We are currently requesting raffle items from many of the vendors that we sell to. We want to make this event special since it is our 30th year. We have a food vendor coming. You will be able to purchase hot dogs, Kielbasas, hamburgers, chips, and various drinks.
Mike of Spoolfool has really stepped up this year and is donating for our raffle, not only a pair of front fillers but his one-piece rear filler and the new radiator top plate. This is over $700 worth of merchandise that can be won.
Russ the baker will be making some special treats for the raffle as well. So, not only can you fill your stomach, but if you win the one-piece Spoolfool rear filler, you can fill up your car!
2017 TurboBuick.com - NC TURBO BUICK NATIONALS-
MAY 3-6, 2017 - BURLINGTON, NC
The dates for the Turbo Buick Nationals in Burlington, NC are May 3rd thru May 6th, 2017. The main event is held at Richard Clark’s Garage, where you can see the largest array of turbo cars and parts. We will be attending this event.
For more up-to-date information, go to turbobuick.com, and scroll down to events.
PYPES EXHAUST/MAX PERFORMANCE CAR & TRUCK SHOW -
JUNE 16-17, 2017
Pypes Exhaust Headquarters, 2705 Clemens Road, Hatfield, PA
The annual Pypes Exhaust/Max Performance Car & Truck Show is June 16th and 17th, 2017 at Pypes Exhaust Headquarters, 2705 Clemens Road, Hatfield, PA. 19440.
This is a huge event. You can contact Mike - 267-638-5030 - for more information about registering your car for the event. I have attended this event in the past. It is located about 15 miles from our location.
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.
CARLISLE CHRYSLER NATIONALS -
JULY 14-16, 2017
Carlisle Fairgrounds, Carlisle, PA
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 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.
UPDATE ON THE ORIGINAL BLACK PALLEX SEAT MATERIAL -
I am still waiting for the original black pallex material. This source has had my money now since late November.
DROP IN PRICE FOUR 1980 REGALS FOR SALE -
Recently Tom Zemanek contacted me about putting his four pristine 1980 Regals up for sale. He built these cars over the years as a hobby. Each one is 100 percent OEM. You can clearly see Tom has a passion for the 1980 Regal coupes. He ordered one 1980 Regal brand new with every possible option. One is white, one is blue and two are black. Most are in the $8,500 price range. One is a very rare Turbo Sport Coupe and the price is a more for that one.
He does have photos of these on YouTube. To find out more on these 4 pristine 1980 Regal coupes, contact Tom personally. His email is- [email protected]
Tell him you heard about his cars on the Kirban Inner Circle.
NOTE: Tom has recently been in touch with me and has dropped the prices on several of his prestine examples of the non turbo Regals. He has reduced the price to $6,000 on the non Turbo Regals. If you have seen photos of these cars you can see Tom has a real passion for 1980 Regals. Granted the power under the hood is under whelming any of these make a great candidate for a Turbo engine or a V8 crate motor. Drop in the bigger 8.5 rear and you got a nice Regal coupe sleeper. Switch out the steering box for the one from a Turbo Regal and upgrade the wheels to 18 by 8s. You already start with a extremely nice body and interior.
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 -
Some of the Turbo Regals if you look at the steering column as it passes thru the opening of the base of your dash may be slightly off center. This can easily be rectified as the main bracket that secures the steering column under the dash the holes are slotted so you can loosen up the three nuts and move the column to dead center. I have done this more than once on many of the cars we sold.
NEW TURBO REGAL ITEMS NOW IN STOCK -
#7774 - Our newest part for the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal is a fiberglass reproduction of the radiator top plate. The originals are usually rusted.
These are being made for us by Mike at SPOOLFOOL, and our first order is in stock. The excellent quality of this item is just like his ready-to-install filler panels. The fit is excellent. The cover weighs a mere 1 pound, whereas the steel cover weighs 3 pounds.
Each one comes with 5 new powder-coated black bolts. The introductory price for this radiator top plate is $114.95. This price is only in effect until Friday, February 10th, 2017. The price will be $124.95 after that date. These radiator top plates and bolts are in stock. The Spoolfool quality has these looking like metal and will outshine a factory Grand National paint job. Mike does such a super job on these. You have to touch it to believe that it is not metal.
If you are interested, contact our office to get one of the first ones - 215-766-1611 x 0
Here is a link to this radiator top plate on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44347/REPRODUCTION+RADIATOR+TOP+PLATE+%26+HARDWARE+%237774.html
#7751 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal GM licensed Embroidered “Buick Motorsports” Seat Armour™ Seat Cover.
Here is a link to this seat cover on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7751&submit_button=
#7773 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal Reproduction Front Air Dams (2) $219.95.
Here is a link to these Front Air Dams on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44344/Reproduction+FRONT+AIR+DAMS+%282%29+%237773.html
#7772 - 1981-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regals) - Reproduction 3-Piece Baffles Set - $26.95 / 3-piece set
Here is a link to this baffles set on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44343/Reproduction+3+PIECE+BAFFLES+SET+%237772.html
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED - TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $125 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. Keep in mind, I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
REPRODUCTION 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.
We had Spoolfool make this radiator top plate exactly like the original, except it is fiberglass and not metal. 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 new bolts, which are the correct size for this plate, and easy-to-follow directions.
Our first photo shows the radiator top plate and hardware, the lower photo on the left shows an original top plate on a car, and the lower right photo shows the new radiator top plate on a car.
NOTE - The photo on the lower right shows the new plate installed with original hardware, not the new powder-coated black bolts that come with the plate. That photo also shows a new reproduction “Fan Caution” decal, part #6507 on the new plate.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #6507 Reproduction “Fan Caution” Decal, #6502 Reproduction “ACCESSORY BELT ROUTING” Decal, #7607 Dual Fan Conversion Kit and Custom-made Plug-and-Plug Harness, #7608 Dual Fan Only, and #7609 Custom-made Plug-and-Plug Harness Only (for Intrepid Dual Fan).
A nice finishing touch for under the hood.
7774 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Reproduction Radiator Top Plate & Hardware - $124.95
Here is a link to this radiator top plate on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44347/REPRODUCTION+RADIATOR+TOP+PLATE+%26+HARDWARE+%237774.html
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM LICENSED - EMBROIDERED “BUICK MOTORSPORTS”
SEAT ARMOUR™ SEAT COVER
Because of the value of original Grand National seats, it’s best to protect them from stains, odors, and fading from the sunlight.
We are the exclusive distributor for this GM licensed embroidered “Buick Motorsports” Seat Armour™ seat cover. This Seat Armour™ seat cover is a simple slip-on cover that slides over the head rest, which secures the top of the cover in place. It just covers the seat portion, not the headrest.
The cover installs in seconds. There are no straps or elastic and no other attachments are needed. You simply slide it over the headrest and it drapes over the seat.
The GM licensed “Buick Motorsport” logo is embroidered in the logo colors - red, yellow and silver on black material. The embroidered logo measures 9" x 2-1/2". It is machine washable 100% heavyweight cotton velour terry material.
It can be folded and stored in the trunk when not in use.
It is cool in the summer and warm in the winter. It’s a quick and simple way to protect the seats.
Our photo on the left shows this one-piece seat cover laid out so you can see the shape. Photo in the middle shows the original driver’s side seat, and the photo on the right shows the cover on the seat.
We offer a single cover, part #7751. If you want to cover both seats, you can order two covers, part #7752.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7750 Slip-on Grey & Black Front Seat Covers (2) and Seat Belt Covers (2) Set, #7516 GM Plastic Front Seat Belt Cap Covers (2) Set, and #7479 Reproduction Front Bucket Grey Seat Belts (4 pieces) Set.
This is another great interior item to protect your car seats.
7751 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM Licensed - Embroidered “Buick Motorsports” Seat Armour™ Seat Cover (1) - $36.95
7752 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
TWO - GM Licensed - Embroidered “Buick Motorsports” Seat Armour™ Seat Covers (2) - $69.95
NOTE - If you are interested in the T-Type or GNX embroidered seat covers currently being made, contact our office for availability. Those will be the same price as the “Buick Motorsports” covers and are not on our website yet. 215-766-1611 x 0
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction FRONT AIR DAMS (2)
Another nice dress-up item for the exterior is to replace the front air dams.
Over the years, some of the front air dams have deteriorated or become distorted, or are broken from being hit.
Because of many requests, we now offer reproduction front air dams. These air dams are a dead-on match, exact size and width, and even the texture is perfect.
Keep in mind, these are built with modern-day plastic and will last a lot longer than the GM originals. This material is a little harder to scruff compared to the OEM units.
These replace GM #25525981 and #25525980.
Photo on the left shows the two air dam pieces. Photo on the right shows the positioning on a car.
If you are having the car repainted or restored, it is a good time to replace the air dams.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7772 Reproduction 3-Piece Baffles Set, #7507 Reproduction “AMBER” Signal Lamps (2) Set, #7708 Reproduction “CLEAR” Signal Lamps (2) Set, and #7557 OEM FRONT Bumper Impact Cushion & Thread Cutting Nuts (25) Pack.
This is another great exterior restoration item.
7773 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Reproduction Front Air Dams (2) - $219.95
Here is a link to these front air dams on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44344/Reproduction+FRONT+AIR+DAMS+%282%29+%237773.html
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 have to be low-resolution photos to work on the Inner Circle segments on the website, any photos of text don't appear clear when enlarged. This is a problem when you are trying to see numbers, such as those on the VIN labels or pages from Options booklet. Also, because of photo reproduction and computer screen variations, the colors may not be true to the actual product or photo.
If you would like to have us email you any photo at the higher resolution for viewing, just email us and we will email them to you. Be sure to be specific on which pictures you want to see - Reference Inner Circle date and photo number 1, 2, 3 or 4 - [email protected]
ABOUT OUR EMAILS -
Any inquiries concerning used parts, you must email me direct - [email protected] - I will answer you. However, if I fail to answer you within 24 hours, please email us again. Since expanding into used parts, I get a lot of emails and sometimes I may forget your request or may not remember who requested the item.
IN CLOSING -
Remember, our Open House is April 22, 2017 and has no rain date. This is our 30th year, so we have a nice program planned. We will have a wide array of raffle items and a no reserve auction that will feature some GNX items including at least one GNX book.
AC DELCO AM/FM CD PLAYER WITH EQ -
We just got in two of the extremely rare early AC Delco am/fm CD players with the EQ feature. Both of these factory am/fm CD players with EQ feature have been sold.
I may have two others that are slightly different due in next week. These are the very early 1990’s Buick radios that have the outer shell that has the proper slots so the factory threaded studs from your stock radio can attach to the sides of this radio. That allows your factory radio brackets to attach in the proper place in each side of the later model am/fm CD player. The mid-1990s and later AC Delco radios have a different outer shell, making it difficult to secure the radio properly in your dash opening.
PHOTO 1 - In the photo on the left shows this early 1990s Buick satin black face am/fm CD player with the optional EQ feature. This is the top-of-the-line radio offered by Buick in the early 1990s. The photo on the right shows the plug-in harness and antenna lead that you need that allows your factory stock radio harness to plug into this radio. We also show the special antenna adapter that is required. In the same photo, we show a set of the 1984-1987 radio knobs that I included with the radio, which the buyer can use instead of the black ones if they wish.
This is just one version of the early CD players Buick used in the various Buick models. The CD player that would have been one step down from this would not have the EQ feature, but instead had two rocker buttons. Since I don’t have any Buick books from the 1990s, I have no idea how many different versions Buick offered for radios, nor the price structure. Again, both of these radios have been sold.
EARLY 1990s BUICK AM/FM CASSETTE WITH EQ FEATURE -
This Buick am/fm cassette radio with EQ feature is also the style radio that followed the version that Buick used in our Regals. Like the CD player pictured in photo 1, this radio would be one step down from the CD option since it only had the cassette feature, but retained the EQ option. This had a different plug on the back and a more modern look than the ones that originally came in our Regals. It still retained the outer shell with its universal slots so it could be installed easily into the older G-body cars. The studs simply clipped into the slot and lined up with the factory side bracket. The later designs that came out in the mid-to-late 1990s had a shell that no longer had slots in it, making it difficult to secure it easily in your 1984-1987 Turbo Regal. See the Rare Parts section of this Inner Circle as this am/fm cassette with EQ option is for sale.
PHOTO 2 - In the photo on the left shows this early 1990s Buick am/fm cassette with EQ option. The photo on the right shows the special plug-in harness that goes with it so your factory harness and factory antenna lead will plug into it. You can even switch out the two knobs with your original knobs to make it look more like the 1984-1987 AC Delco radio. Like the earlier am/fm CD EQ radios, these are very hard to find since they were probably a $500 or more option to have the EQ upgrade. I seldom find these radios in Buicks. This is the first one I have found in years. Cadillac radios are different and are easier to find. I suspect that most Buick buyers were older clientele and did not want to spend the additional money for an upgraded cassette player. The same holds true with the CD players of this vintage. I have no idea what that option cost, but it’s evident they are very difficult to find today.
FAST AND FURIOUS -
We all are familiar with the “Fast and Furious” movies. Last year Greenlight Collectibles came out with a 1:43 scale 1987 Grand National/GNX. It looks like the movie car. Our company actually sold some of the GNX related parts to the body shop that built the car(s) for the movie. I am sure they built more than one.
PHOTO 3 - The photo shows the box and the 1:43 scale diecast Fast and Furious Grand National/GNX. None of the doors, hood, or trunk open. It has the Grand National decals on the front fenders under the GNX louvers. The Grand National emblem on the trunk lid is on the wrong side. You can see a roll bar inside the car. It does have a beautiful black paint job! Like many diecast cars it states on the box limited edition. No idea what that number is limited to as it does not say that anywhere on the box. I got a few of them from Fairfield Collectibles located in Aston, PA. They have about 60 left. See Rare Parts section as I have one or two listed there for sale.
GO BIG OR GO HOME -
“Go big or go home” is a quote I remember from somewhere. Many of you have seen some of my son’s impressive custom work that we have featured in some of our previous Inner Circles. From making snow sculptures of a Camaro SS or a Cigarette boat to carving a 20-foot-high tree stump with our last name. He also did the Grand National go cart for us back in 2007. He built the Lamborghini engine coffee table that adorns my home office, as well as smaller scale projects.
His latest project towers over anything he has made in the past. While I own a nicely restored little 1996 Ford Ranger, he has embarked in making a Ford F650 four-door truck into a six-door truck, diesel powered engine, and a Peterbilt air suspension set up.
He started with a four-door 2005 Ford F650 stake body truck. He then bought another four-door Ford truck so he could cut the cab and create two more doors onto the F650 truck. He also had to extend the truck frame.
To update the front end he incorporated the later 2016 headlights into the front end and added a Cervini F350 hood scoop molded into the stock F650 hood. He even positioned the new F650 emblems flush with the side of the hood.
The air suspension is from a Peterbilt tractor trailer. One part works the bed and a separate part works the cab. He can raise and lower the bed by 10 inches or more. Our granddaughter Devyn painted the Caterpillar C7 diesel engine and the frame was also painted.
The F650 is now ready for paint. Their attention to detail is awesome. This is nothing short of amazing, as he thinks this up in his head. There is no instruction manual to work from.
Below is the link to all the photos he has posted on this massive Ford F650 project.
https://www.facebook.com/pg/KirbanCustoms/photos/?tab=album&album_id=10154446148269926
If it asks you to sign in or log in, click "not now" and ignore it.
PHOTO 4 - The photo in the top left shows the original Ford F650 stake body truck that he started with. The photo in the top right shows the cut third set of doors being ready to be grafted to the main four-door cab. As you can imagine, this grafting must to be seamless to make it look right. The result is a better fit, unlike the gaps of your trunk lid with the rear spoiler on your Grand National. The bottom left photo shows the rear doors attached to the main cab of the F650. The bottom right photo shows the F650 assembled ready for paint. It rides on 22.5 aluminum tractor trailer wheels.
Once he has this project completed, we will take a picture of it alongside my little Ford Ranger so you can see the size difference in a future Inner Circle.
WE’RE LOOKING FOR RAFFLE ITEMS FOR OUR SPRING OPEN HOUSE -
We are looking for raffle items for our Spring Open House. Since this is our 30th year connected with the Turbo Regals, I am asking any of my customers and vendors that we sell to if they would donate something for our Spring Open House raffle.
If you are a vendor, we would also want about 50 of your flyers that we would pass out at our event. We would also mention you in our Inner Circle.
Spoolfool has already stepped up. Last week I met with the owner of Max Performance that owns Pypes exhaust. We just did a project for their GTO market for their suppliers. They will also be donating something for our Spring Open House.
We already heard from Derek Freyberger from New Jersey who is donating a hand-carved Grand National frame that he had a friend make. He had two of them and is donating one for our raffle. It measures 17-½" by 9-½" by 1-½" thick. Derek has come to several of our Open House events in the past and is planning to also come this one.
MAKING SOME CORRECTIONS FROM LAST WEEK’S INNER CIRCLE -
In last week’s Inner Circle, we stated the last Grand National was built on December 15, 1987. This was an error. The letter from GM was dated December 15, 1987. However, the Grand National was built on December 11, 1987. Jason Maxfield and Greg Horvath brought that to my attention. Both hail from Canada!
Speaking of Canada, with all the talk about trade with Mexico, can’t we work some sort of trade deal with Canada where shipping doesn’t require a four-part documentation to be filled out. Or why does it cost $1.15 to send a one-page letter to Canada compared to 49 cents to mail one in the USA.
A long-time GTO customer of mine, Marty Howard, clarified the years the GTO was listed as an option on the Window Sticker prior to being classified as a model. In 1964 and 1965 it was an option on a Lemans. It was called the GTO package. In 1966 it became a separate model. It was very easy to clone a 1964 and 1965 GTO since it was merely an option.
A CLARIFICATION ON VIN NUMBERS -
It’s important to realize only the last 10,000 Grand Nationals were sequential in number. As no other 1987 Regals were being made in the Fall of 1987. Prior to that last run, the Turbo Regals were intermixed with regular Regals as they came down the assembly line. The two we noted last week that we owned actually were produced one after another, which I assume is unusual. Also the fact that I owned both of them the same year makes it even more of a coincidence.
WE HAVE A WINNER -
If you recall, in last week’s Inner Circle we showed an early 1930s dash cluster and indicated we had no idea what car it was from. Gene Kessler came up with the answer. It is a 1930’s Buick dash cluster.
CLASSIC INDUSTRIES AND ORIGINAL PARTS GROUP -
As many of you know, Classic Industries and Original Parts Group are both expanding into the G-body market, which includes the Turbo Regals. Both companies are already placing orders with us for some of our popular products.
Both companies have been customers of ours since the early 1980s, mostly with the GTO parts. It’s a sensible move for these two companies, since the G-body is the next up and coming collectible car.
DODGE CHALLENGER SRT DEMON UPDATE -
This is probably a first for a U.S. production car. It is reported that the new Demon will only have a driver’s seat - no passenger seat and no rear seat! That cuts 100 pounds in weight. I can see deleting the rear seat, but the front passenger seat? They may want to reconsider that idea. I think they could shave weight in other areas.
Back in 1968-1969 I had a 1940 Studebaker coupe. Like many of the coupes back then, they did not have a back seat but a wood panel. Those coupes and others, I believe, were promoted as salesman cars so the rear seat was eliminated so you had space for your product.
WHY NOT AN AUTOMOTIVE BASED COMIC STRIP FOR THE NEWSPAPERS? -
Why isn’t there an automotive based comic strip in the newspapers?
I read several years ago that seven out of every ten workers are connected in some shape or form to the automotive business. That is some big numbers of workers. Probably includes thieves that steal cars and sells them off shore or for parts.
My point? Why not a comic strip based on a guy in the car related business. He could be named “Dipstick.” The automotive related ideas would be endless. Very few newspaper comic strips even have a car in their comic strips.
HAVE YOU NOTICED -
Have you noticed? Drug companies seem to be the biggest advertisers on TV. I find it amusing that no matter if it’s a 30-second ad or a 60-second ad, most of the ad time is devoted to all the possible side effects. In some cases, death can result. It sounds like you’re playing Russian Roulette.
MANUAL SHIFT CARS ARE QUICKLY DISAPPEARING -
Manual shift cars are quickly disappearing as a good many new cars now simply offer automatic cars. However, there is one exception. I recently read about where over 80% of a new car’s production is manual shift. Watch for the answer as to what car model this is in next week’s Inner Circle. All these new 6-speed, 8-speed, and 10-speed automatics are cool when they are new, but when it comes to getting them rebuilt, it won’t be cheap!
If you email me your guess, we will award a gift to the first correct response. Email - [email protected]
BREAKING NEWS - NEW SEAT COVER DESIGNS - GNX and T-TYPE -
We now have “GNX” and the “T-Type” logos of the GM Licensed Seat Armour seat covers in stock. The GNX is on a black terrycloth material and the T-Type is on a grey terrycloth material. Both logos are done in the correct logo colors. These will be on our website soon. You must contact our office to order - 215-766-1611 x 0.
MORE NEW PARTS ARE COMING FOR OUR CARS -
More new parts will be coming soon for our cars. Spoolfool has just made a very useful item for all you quarter-mile racers. It is a magnetic black vinyl rear quarter panel protector.
Old timers may remember when another company made these years ago. This is by far and away the cheapest product Mike of Spoolfool has produced for our cars.
We have the first ones in route to us with our next supply of his filler panels. The fit is perfect as it mounts flush against the rear wheel molding. The price is $30 per set of 2. You can call our office to order a set as these are not yet on our website. Because the protectors are black vinyl, they are virtually unnoticeable on a black car. This is just one new part that will soon be available from us.
UPDATE ON 1-18-2017 INNER CIRCLE ARTICLE -
We have an update on our 1-18-2017 Inner Circle from Bob Hudspid, who sent us the Grand National newspaper ad from Garden Buick. The dealership is located in Hempstead, New York and is still called Garden Buick.
1986-1987 TURBO REGAL EIGHT-HOLE HOOD PADS -
The price for the eight-hole hood pad picked up at our location is $279.95. If you want it shipped, the price is $349.95 to any of the basic 48 states.
Another option is to pay for it now and pick it up at our Spring Open House on April 22nd. We also have a source that can sell you the pattern so you can imprint the Buick logo on the hood pad.
These are not on our website. You must call our office and talk to Christina if you want one of these hood pads. You can contact Christina - 215-766-1611 x 0.
UPCOMING RELATED CAR SHOW EVENTS FOR 2017 -
KIRBAN SPRING 2017 OPEN HOUSE -
SATURDAY, APRIL 22, 2017 – 9 am - 2 pm
6201 Kellers Church Road, Plumsteadville, PA
Our Spring Open House will be held rain or shine on Saturday, April 22nd, 2017. It is the same weekend as Spring Carlisle. Spring Carlisle starts Wednesday the 19th. You could hit two events, since Carlisle is only about two hours from our location. I go to Spring Carlisle midweek every year.
Our Open House will have the usual features - Yum Yums donuts, M&Ms contest, sale prices on new parts, tagged and bagged goodies, and no reserve auction. We already are putting aside unique items for the no reserve auction, including several GNX items. Several featured items will be discounted to save shipping. As the date draws closer we will list what large items will have a special show price. The usual array of tagged and bagged used parts and literature will be for sale as well.
We are currently requesting raffle items from many of the vendors that we sell to. We want to make this event special since it is our 30th year. We have a food vendor coming. You will be able to purchase hot dogs, Kielbasas, hamburgers, chips, and various drinks.
Mike of Spoolfool has really stepped up this year and is donating for our raffle, not only a pair of front fillers but his one-piece rear filler and the new radiator top plate. This is over $700 worth of merchandise that can be won.
Russ the baker will be making some special treats for the raffle as well. So, not only can you fill your stomach, but if you win the one-piece Spoolfool rear filler, you can fill up your car!
2017 TurboBuick.com - NC TURBO BUICK NATIONALS-
MAY 3-6, 2017 - BURLINGTON, NC
The dates for the Turbo Buick Nationals in Burlington, NC are May 3rd thru May 6th, 2017. The main event is held at Richard Clark’s Garage, where you can see the largest array of turbo cars and parts. We will be attending this event.
For more up-to-date information, go to turbobuick.com, and scroll down to events.
PYPES EXHAUST/MAX PERFORMANCE CAR & TRUCK SHOW -
JUNE 16-17, 2017
Pypes Exhaust Headquarters, 2705 Clemens Road, Hatfield, PA
The annual Pypes Exhaust/Max Performance Car & Truck Show is June 16th and 17th, 2017 at Pypes Exhaust Headquarters, 2705 Clemens Road, Hatfield, PA. 19440.
This is a huge event. You can contact Mike - 267-638-5030 - for more information about registering your car for the event. I have attended this event in the past. It is located about 15 miles from our location.
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.
CARLISLE CHRYSLER NATIONALS -
JULY 14-16, 2017
Carlisle Fairgrounds, Carlisle, PA
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 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.
UPDATE ON THE ORIGINAL BLACK PALLEX SEAT MATERIAL -
I am still waiting for the original black pallex material. This source has had my money now since late November.
DROP IN PRICE FOUR 1980 REGALS FOR SALE -
Recently Tom Zemanek contacted me about putting his four pristine 1980 Regals up for sale. He built these cars over the years as a hobby. Each one is 100 percent OEM. You can clearly see Tom has a passion for the 1980 Regal coupes. He ordered one 1980 Regal brand new with every possible option. One is white, one is blue and two are black. Most are in the $8,500 price range. One is a very rare Turbo Sport Coupe and the price is a more for that one.
He does have photos of these on YouTube. To find out more on these 4 pristine 1980 Regal coupes, contact Tom personally. His email is- [email protected]
Tell him you heard about his cars on the Kirban Inner Circle.
NOTE: Tom has recently been in touch with me and has dropped the prices on several of his prestine examples of the non turbo Regals. He has reduced the price to $6,000 on the non Turbo Regals. If you have seen photos of these cars you can see Tom has a real passion for 1980 Regals. Granted the power under the hood is under whelming any of these make a great candidate for a Turbo engine or a V8 crate motor. Drop in the bigger 8.5 rear and you got a nice Regal coupe sleeper. Switch out the steering box for the one from a Turbo Regal and upgrade the wheels to 18 by 8s. You already start with a extremely nice body and interior.
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 -
Some of the Turbo Regals if you look at the steering column as it passes thru the opening of the base of your dash may be slightly off center. This can easily be rectified as the main bracket that secures the steering column under the dash the holes are slotted so you can loosen up the three nuts and move the column to dead center. I have done this more than once on many of the cars we sold.
NEW TURBO REGAL ITEMS NOW IN STOCK -
#7774 - Our newest part for the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal is a fiberglass reproduction of the radiator top plate. The originals are usually rusted.
These are being made for us by Mike at SPOOLFOOL, and our first order is in stock. The excellent quality of this item is just like his ready-to-install filler panels. The fit is excellent. The cover weighs a mere 1 pound, whereas the steel cover weighs 3 pounds.
Each one comes with 5 new powder-coated black bolts. The introductory price for this radiator top plate is $114.95. This price is only in effect until Friday, February 10th, 2017. The price will be $124.95 after that date. These radiator top plates and bolts are in stock. The Spoolfool quality has these looking like metal and will outshine a factory Grand National paint job. Mike does such a super job on these. You have to touch it to believe that it is not metal.
If you are interested, contact our office to get one of the first ones - 215-766-1611 x 0
Here is a link to this radiator top plate on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44347/REPRODUCTION+RADIATOR+TOP+PLATE+%26+HARDWARE+%237774.html
#7751 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal GM licensed Embroidered “Buick Motorsports” Seat Armour™ Seat Cover.
Here is a link to this seat cover on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7751&submit_button=
#7773 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal Reproduction Front Air Dams (2) $219.95.
Here is a link to these Front Air Dams on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44344/Reproduction+FRONT+AIR+DAMS+%282%29+%237773.html
#7772 - 1981-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regals) - Reproduction 3-Piece Baffles Set - $26.95 / 3-piece set
Here is a link to this baffles set on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44343/Reproduction+3+PIECE+BAFFLES+SET+%237772.html
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED - TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $125 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. Keep in mind, I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
REPRODUCTION 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.
We had Spoolfool make this radiator top plate exactly like the original, except it is fiberglass and not metal. 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 new bolts, which are the correct size for this plate, and easy-to-follow directions.
Our first photo shows the radiator top plate and hardware, the lower photo on the left shows an original top plate on a car, and the lower right photo shows the new radiator top plate on a car.
NOTE - The photo on the lower right shows the new plate installed with original hardware, not the new powder-coated black bolts that come with the plate. That photo also shows a new reproduction “Fan Caution” decal, part #6507 on the new plate.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #6507 Reproduction “Fan Caution” Decal, #6502 Reproduction “ACCESSORY BELT ROUTING” Decal, #7607 Dual Fan Conversion Kit and Custom-made Plug-and-Plug Harness, #7608 Dual Fan Only, and #7609 Custom-made Plug-and-Plug Harness Only (for Intrepid Dual Fan).
A nice finishing touch for under the hood.
7774 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Reproduction Radiator Top Plate & Hardware - $124.95
Here is a link to this radiator top plate on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44347/REPRODUCTION+RADIATOR+TOP+PLATE+%26+HARDWARE+%237774.html
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM LICENSED - EMBROIDERED “BUICK MOTORSPORTS”
SEAT ARMOUR™ SEAT COVER
Because of the value of original Grand National seats, it’s best to protect them from stains, odors, and fading from the sunlight.
We are the exclusive distributor for this GM licensed embroidered “Buick Motorsports” Seat Armour™ seat cover. This Seat Armour™ seat cover is a simple slip-on cover that slides over the head rest, which secures the top of the cover in place. It just covers the seat portion, not the headrest.
The cover installs in seconds. There are no straps or elastic and no other attachments are needed. You simply slide it over the headrest and it drapes over the seat.
The GM licensed “Buick Motorsport” logo is embroidered in the logo colors - red, yellow and silver on black material. The embroidered logo measures 9" x 2-1/2". It is machine washable 100% heavyweight cotton velour terry material.
It can be folded and stored in the trunk when not in use.
It is cool in the summer and warm in the winter. It’s a quick and simple way to protect the seats.
Our photo on the left shows this one-piece seat cover laid out so you can see the shape. Photo in the middle shows the original driver’s side seat, and the photo on the right shows the cover on the seat.
We offer a single cover, part #7751. If you want to cover both seats, you can order two covers, part #7752.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7750 Slip-on Grey & Black Front Seat Covers (2) and Seat Belt Covers (2) Set, #7516 GM Plastic Front Seat Belt Cap Covers (2) Set, and #7479 Reproduction Front Bucket Grey Seat Belts (4 pieces) Set.
This is another great interior item to protect your car seats.
7751 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM Licensed - Embroidered “Buick Motorsports” Seat Armour™ Seat Cover (1) - $36.95
7752 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
TWO - GM Licensed - Embroidered “Buick Motorsports” Seat Armour™ Seat Covers (2) - $69.95
NOTE - If you are interested in the T-Type or GNX embroidered seat covers currently being made, contact our office for availability. Those will be the same price as the “Buick Motorsports” covers and are not on our website yet. 215-766-1611 x 0
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction FRONT AIR DAMS (2)
Another nice dress-up item for the exterior is to replace the front air dams.
Over the years, some of the front air dams have deteriorated or become distorted, or are broken from being hit.
Because of many requests, we now offer reproduction front air dams. These air dams are a dead-on match, exact size and width, and even the texture is perfect.
Keep in mind, these are built with modern-day plastic and will last a lot longer than the GM originals. This material is a little harder to scruff compared to the OEM units.
These replace GM #25525981 and #25525980.
Photo on the left shows the two air dam pieces. Photo on the right shows the positioning on a car.
If you are having the car repainted or restored, it is a good time to replace the air dams.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7772 Reproduction 3-Piece Baffles Set, #7507 Reproduction “AMBER” Signal Lamps (2) Set, #7708 Reproduction “CLEAR” Signal Lamps (2) Set, and #7557 OEM FRONT Bumper Impact Cushion & Thread Cutting Nuts (25) Pack.
This is another great exterior restoration item.
7773 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Reproduction Front Air Dams (2) - $219.95
Here is a link to these front air dams on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44344/Reproduction+FRONT+AIR+DAMS+%282%29+%237773.html
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 have to be low-resolution photos to work on the Inner Circle segments on the website, any photos of text don't appear clear when enlarged. This is a problem when you are trying to see numbers, such as those on the VIN labels or pages from Options booklet. Also, because of photo reproduction and computer screen variations, the colors may not be true to the actual product or photo.
If you would like to have us email you any photo at the higher resolution for viewing, just email us and we will email them to you. Be sure to be specific on which pictures you want to see - Reference Inner Circle date and photo number 1, 2, 3 or 4 - [email protected]
ABOUT OUR EMAILS -
Any inquiries concerning used parts, you must email me direct - [email protected] - I will answer you. However, if I fail to answer you within 24 hours, please email us again. Since expanding into used parts, I get a lot of emails and sometimes I may forget your request or may not remember who requested the item.
IN CLOSING -
Remember, our Open House is April 22, 2017 and has no rain date. This is our 30th year, so we have a nice program planned. We will have a wide array of raffle items and a no reserve auction that will feature some GNX items including at least one GNX book.