Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members - 02-15-2012
AROUND THE WORLD FOR GM PARTS PRODUCTION -
I know some car owners like to only buy GM parts whenever possible, rather than buy the same part from another aftermarket brand name. Years ago, most GM parts came either from the U.S., Canada or Mexico. It was not uncommon to see "Made in Canada" for example on some of the parts you would buy for your Turbo Regal.
Today its a far different story as GM parts can be made in virtually almost any country in the world. We happen to buy certain new Camaro parts and found this to be true. All the SS and RS emblems you see on the exterior of the new Camaros are made in South Korea. I find this strange since the Camaro is so much an American car you would think that GM would have had a US company at least make the visible exterior emblems for such an iconic car model. Another part we buy for the new Camaro comes from Sweden of all places!
For another GM car I recently acquired I bought a new rubber brake pedal pad. On the actual GM bag the label was imprinted "MADE IN CHINA" but also the actual rubber pad had a sticker on it that said "MADE IN CHINA." This is the first time I seen a new GM part that said "MADE IN CHINA" on it.
PHOTO 1 - This top photo shows the unopened GM bag with the back of the brake pedal pad at the top. Although it may not be readable, it says, "MADE IN CHINA" on the GM bag. The lower photo is a close up of the white label that says "MADE IN CHINA" that is affixed to the back of the brake pedal pad still in the unopened GM bag.
As many of you know, China now has cornered a huge chunk of our industry. In one respect, the Buick nameplate remains in business today because of the huge sales of Buicks in China.
ANOTHER GNX TIDBIT OF HISTORY -
Like most car companies, ASC put out a brochure showcasing some of their automotive accomplishments during the 1980s. This ASC brochure we show here was printed in 1988.
PHOTO 2 - In our Photo 2 we show 3 of the car spreads from this rare ASC brochure. The top left photo shows a Firebird they customized called the "Firebird Suntour." The car showcased ASC design and engineering capabilities. It may not be visible in the photo, but the car also has a sunroof as well. I have no idea where this car is today.
The top right photo shows a car that did make it into production, the ASC/McLaren.
Of course, from our standpoint, the crowning touch in the mid-1980s was the GNX project ASC did with Buick. The lower photo shows the GNX in the brochure. In the ad copy accompanying the photo it has production at 500 cars not 547, even though the brochure was not printed until 1988.
This brochure is extremely rare as it was not something that is easily found at swap meets.
The cover of this 8-1/4" x 11" brochure is very plain - bright red with the asc logo embossed in the upper right corner. We've shown the cover in the lower center inset box.
When our cars were new, Buick had several different Service Bulletins printed to not only keep their dealers informed, but car owners as well if a recall was necessary.
PHOTO 3 - We show a basic Recall letter from Buick Motor Division to a Buick owner that concerned the issues with the powermaster brake units. It not only affected the 1985, 1986, and 1987 Regals and 1986 LeSabre, but the Electra Estate Wagons too. This letter dealt with a possible problem with the brake switch and the combination valve (also known as the proportioning valve.) It is dated May 1992 and was printed on the front and back.
In the photo on the right we show a postcard that owners probably also received concerning the "URGENT RECALL" regarding the brake issues. The fluorescent red color of the postcard caught your attention, since this recall was a safety issue. They urged owners to get it taken care of immediately.
The powermaster brake system to this day remains probably the most troublesome part many owners face. The power antenna is probably a close second for failures, if you have this option. The quick fix back then related to the brake switch was to replace the black top brake switch with a new grey top switch. Both of these switches were made by General Electric.
The powermaster brake system was probably a major issue for Buick dealers based on the number of Turbo Regals that were sold. In my collection, I have at least 3 different Dealer Service Bulletins pertaining to the powermaster brake system.
PHOTO 4 - The first dealer Service Bulletin we show on the top left is dated May 1987 and deals with repair kits GM had available and the labor time allowance. The top right photo shows the Dealer Service Bulletin dated June 1987 and gave a little more information and where the service procedures could be found in the 1987 Buick Chassis Service Manual. The lower photos show the first page and an illustrated page from a multi-page Service Bulletin further showing that the problem was still an issue. This Dealer Service Bulletin is dated February, 1993, a full 6 years after production had ended for the Turbo Regal! Unlike the earlier Dealer Service Bulletins that were only a single page, this one is at least 12 pages. Unfortunately, the pages are not numbered and I am not sure if I have all the pages associated with this Service Bulletin. There may have been other Service Bulletins related to the powermaster brake system besides the three we mention here.
Now we are 25 years later and our company still sells a remarkably high number of rebuilt powermaster brake units and new reproduction brake accumulator bowls!
I am far from being an expert on the powermaster system, but I can offer one bit of advice that GM never indicated to owners. Be sure to flush the brake fluid in the reservoir at least once every two years. The brake fluid should be almost clear in color. If it looks like Pepsi, it's dirty. Dirt and moisture are two ingredients that can cause problems.
I have a standard rule on every used vehicle I buy to keep - all the fluids get flushed. This includes rear ends, radiators, and brake fluids. I have found by experience, most of the previous owners don't do this.
MARKING 12 YEARS WITH KIRBAN PERFORMANCE -
Over the years, if you have called and placed an order, you have probably talked to Christina. This week marks her 12-year anniversary with our company. Several Buick companies have tried to lure her away, but to no avail! She is the employee that has worked for us the longest.
Nobody knows our part number system better than she does! She's always pleasant and handles anything that comes her way. Thanks for the great work, Christina!
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS - SPRING OPEN HOUSE -
SATURDAY, APRIL 14th, 2012 - 9 am - 3 pm - RAIN or SHINE
Once again, we will be holding our Annual Spring Open House on Saturday, April 14th, 2012 from 9 am until 3 pm.
A generous supply of Yum Yum donuts and coffee will be available, as usual. Special raffle items including our famous M & M contest. Paul Castle of World of Motorworks will be selling his parts, as will Pete Hoffman and myself. There will be special pricing on our website parts. If there are any big items you wish to pick up, we highly recommend you call us at least 10 days in advance so they can be put aside for pick up.
This event happens rain or shine. The location is our Plumsteadville warehouse at 6201 Kellers Church Road, Plumsteadville, PA 18949. Located about 30 miles north of Philadelphia.
Our Open House is one of the first Buick events of the 2012 season.
Here's a link to this event on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/inner_circle.php?nak=172
2012 TurboBuicks.com NATIONALS - BURLINGTON, NORTH CAROLINA
MAY 2-5, 2012 - WEDNESDAY-SATURDAY - RAIN OR SHINE
Sponsored by ZDDPlus™
This is one of the first major Turbo Buick events for the upcoming 2012 season. There are lots of plans for all Turbo Regal enthusiasts at this 4-day event, including seminars, vendors, free lunch on Thursday, and door prizes. Don't miss it!
MAY 2nd & 3rd - Wednesday and Thursday - The event is held at Richard Clark's massive shop at 2557 Faucette Lane, Burlington, North Carolina 27217.
MAY 4th & 5th - Friday and Saturday - Racing at the Piedmont Dragway, 6750 Holts Store Road, Julian, North Carolina 27283 (Greensboro.)
FREE LUNCH - THURSDAY, MAY 3rd at RICHARD'S SHOP
M&M GUESS CONTEST - Door Prizes
YOU MUST REGISTER for the free lunch - email - [email protected]
SPEAKERS
Bob Bailey - Brian Bissonette - Dusty Bradford
Richard Clark - Paul Ferry - Cal Hartline - Nick Micale
VENDORS
ALKY CONTROL - www.alkycontrol.com
ArizonaGN.com - www.arizonagn.com
CASPERS ELECTRONICS - www.casperselectronics.com
CHAMPION RACING HEADS - www.championgn1.com
FULL THROTTLE SPEED - www.fullthrottlespeed.com
GBodyParts.COM - www.gbodyparts.com
GNS PERFORMANCE.com - www.gnsperformance.com
HARTLINE PERFORMANCE - www.hartlineperformance.com
PETE HOFFMAN
HRPartsNStuff - www.HRpartsandstuff.com
JANIS TRANSMISSION
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS - www.kirbanperformance.com
METCO MOTORSPORTS SOLUTIONS - www.metcomotorsports.com
PRECISION TURBO & ENGINE - www.precisionturbo.net
WORLD OF MOTORWORKS - www.worldofmotorworks.com
ZDDPlus™ - www.zddplus.com
For the most up-to-date information on Race Classes and other activities, go to -http://turbobuick.com/forums/forums/2012-turbobuick-com-nationals-may-2nd-5th-sponsore.168/
Here's a link to this event on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/inner_circle.php?nak=173
SLP FIREBIRD FORMULA - FOR SALE -
This car is still available at $20,900. This is for the 400-mile red 2002 SLP Formula Firebird we pictured in the 11-16-2011 Inner Circle. This car will be finding a new home at some point.
COMING SOON -
We will soon be offering a high-quality reproduction of original state inspection stickers that would have been on your car back in 1986 and 1987 for various states that have state inspections. We will be carrying the inspection stickers for Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, Ohio and Pennsylvania for sure. Our source will also be able to supply stickers from other states, and ones that are dated earlier than 1987.
REPRODUCTION GNX SUSPENSION - NOW AVAILABLE -
Pete Hoffman has a limited number of the reproduction GNX Suspension Systems available. These are the Richard Clark systems that he has had made locally.
They are nearly exact to the originals, down to the welds and material used. They come with complete detailed instructions.
Limited Availability!
Call or email Pete
215-778-1036
[email protected]
WE BADLY NEED MASS AIR FLOW SENSOR CORES -
We need stock original 1986-1987 AC Delco mass air flow sensors. They are worth a $25 Letter of Credit.
We do not pay cash. You must pay the shipping to us and pack the item well. Using the postal system is probably the cheapest method to ship.
Remember, cores help us help others keep their Turbo Regals on the road using factory parts. Without cores, a valuable portion of what customers need get discontinued.
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION WORKS -
Got any turbo 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 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].
2012 CALENDAR OF EVENTS -
KIRBAN OPEN HOUSE - SATURDAY, APRIL 14, 2012 - 9 am until 3 pm.
6201 Kellers Church Road, Plumsteadville, PA 18949.
Yum Yum donuts, raffle items, M & M contest, and 5% discount on in-stock catalog items. Save on shipping! Pete Hoffman, and myself will have used parts for sale. Paul Castle from World of Motorworks will also be at this event.
TURBOBUICK.COM NATIONALS 2012 - MAY 2 - MAY 5, 2012 - Burlington, NC
For the latest information, go to - www.turbobuick.com/forums or - [email protected]
Event will feature free food, dyno, tech sessions, drag racing, and Auto-X. This is one of the first Turbo Buick events for the year 2012. Already they have many of the top vendors confirmed that will be at this event. Several key speakers are also confirmed. You must email my wife Eileen if you are going to be there for the free Thursday lunch. Her email is - [email protected] The luncheon is absolutely free.
31st ANNUAL PEACH BLOSSOM B.O.P.C. - MAY 4th and 5th, 2012 - Car Show & Swap Meet
Marriott Atlanta Northeast, 200 Interstate North Parkway, Atlanta, GA
Open to all Buicks, Oldsmobiles, Pontiacs and Cadillacs. Hosted by the Southeastern GTO Association. Reception Friday night and Car Show on Saturday. For more info, contact Ed Bellair at 770-428-4934 or email - [email protected]
3RD ANNUAL BUICK RACE DAY - May 26th, 2012
Lebanon Valley Dragway, Lebanon, New York.
For more info, phone number for the racetrack is 518-794-7130. To reach John Csordas - 845-528-GSGN or his cell is 914-447-6068.
22ND ANNUAL BUICK RACEDAY - JUNE 15th, 16th and 17th, 2012
Summit Motorsports Park, Norwalk, Ohio.
Hotels - Best Western Norwalk - 419-663-3501 or All American Inn Norwalk - 419-663-1922.
For more info, contact Roberta Vasilow 810-655-8277 email - [email protected]
or Bill Wills 330-747-1029 email [email protected]
2012 BUICK PERFORMANCE GROUP "CLASS OF 1987" and "BIG BOAT BASH"
AUGUST 3rd and 4th, 2012
National Trail Raceway, Hebron, Ohio
The theme this year is the "Class of 1987." Open to all Buick models built in 1987.
2012 GS NATIONALS - OCTOBER 17-20, 2012 (NEW DATES)
Beach Bend Raceway, Bowling Green, Kentucky
Racing is FREE on Wednesday, October 17th. The new dates are Oct. 17-20, 2012. Because of the reschedule, they have negotiated FREE racing on Wednesday, October 17th. This includes "everyone" who comes thru the gate and pays the usual nominal entrance fee. There is NO usual additional charge to race your Buick powered cars on Wednesday.
The Gallina/Duttweiler 6-second 200 mph doorslammer is already confirmed for this event.
We just received word that the BCA (Buick Club of America) will be joining the GSCA event. This combination will make for a well-rounded event featuring all kinds of Buicks. This is one fall event you do not want to miss!
EBAY LISTINGS -
If you would like to see any of the Kirban Performance Products items listed on eBay, here is a link to our store and auctions - http://stores.ebay.com/Kirban-Performance-Products-Inc_W0QQssPageNameZl2QQtZ%20km
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 - Finally getting around to sorting all my files of all the reference papers I have on original Buick literature, so I can find things more easily. Watch for more indepth articles and memories from the early days of the Turbo Regals.
AROUND THE WORLD FOR GM PARTS PRODUCTION -
I know some car owners like to only buy GM parts whenever possible, rather than buy the same part from another aftermarket brand name. Years ago, most GM parts came either from the U.S., Canada or Mexico. It was not uncommon to see "Made in Canada" for example on some of the parts you would buy for your Turbo Regal.
Today its a far different story as GM parts can be made in virtually almost any country in the world. We happen to buy certain new Camaro parts and found this to be true. All the SS and RS emblems you see on the exterior of the new Camaros are made in South Korea. I find this strange since the Camaro is so much an American car you would think that GM would have had a US company at least make the visible exterior emblems for such an iconic car model. Another part we buy for the new Camaro comes from Sweden of all places!
For another GM car I recently acquired I bought a new rubber brake pedal pad. On the actual GM bag the label was imprinted "MADE IN CHINA" but also the actual rubber pad had a sticker on it that said "MADE IN CHINA." This is the first time I seen a new GM part that said "MADE IN CHINA" on it.
PHOTO 1 - This top photo shows the unopened GM bag with the back of the brake pedal pad at the top. Although it may not be readable, it says, "MADE IN CHINA" on the GM bag. The lower photo is a close up of the white label that says "MADE IN CHINA" that is affixed to the back of the brake pedal pad still in the unopened GM bag.
As many of you know, China now has cornered a huge chunk of our industry. In one respect, the Buick nameplate remains in business today because of the huge sales of Buicks in China.
ANOTHER GNX TIDBIT OF HISTORY -
Like most car companies, ASC put out a brochure showcasing some of their automotive accomplishments during the 1980s. This ASC brochure we show here was printed in 1988.
PHOTO 2 - In our Photo 2 we show 3 of the car spreads from this rare ASC brochure. The top left photo shows a Firebird they customized called the "Firebird Suntour." The car showcased ASC design and engineering capabilities. It may not be visible in the photo, but the car also has a sunroof as well. I have no idea where this car is today.
The top right photo shows a car that did make it into production, the ASC/McLaren.
Of course, from our standpoint, the crowning touch in the mid-1980s was the GNX project ASC did with Buick. The lower photo shows the GNX in the brochure. In the ad copy accompanying the photo it has production at 500 cars not 547, even though the brochure was not printed until 1988.
This brochure is extremely rare as it was not something that is easily found at swap meets.
The cover of this 8-1/4" x 11" brochure is very plain - bright red with the asc logo embossed in the upper right corner. We've shown the cover in the lower center inset box.
When our cars were new, Buick had several different Service Bulletins printed to not only keep their dealers informed, but car owners as well if a recall was necessary.
PHOTO 3 - We show a basic Recall letter from Buick Motor Division to a Buick owner that concerned the issues with the powermaster brake units. It not only affected the 1985, 1986, and 1987 Regals and 1986 LeSabre, but the Electra Estate Wagons too. This letter dealt with a possible problem with the brake switch and the combination valve (also known as the proportioning valve.) It is dated May 1992 and was printed on the front and back.
In the photo on the right we show a postcard that owners probably also received concerning the "URGENT RECALL" regarding the brake issues. The fluorescent red color of the postcard caught your attention, since this recall was a safety issue. They urged owners to get it taken care of immediately.
The powermaster brake system to this day remains probably the most troublesome part many owners face. The power antenna is probably a close second for failures, if you have this option. The quick fix back then related to the brake switch was to replace the black top brake switch with a new grey top switch. Both of these switches were made by General Electric.
The powermaster brake system was probably a major issue for Buick dealers based on the number of Turbo Regals that were sold. In my collection, I have at least 3 different Dealer Service Bulletins pertaining to the powermaster brake system.
PHOTO 4 - The first dealer Service Bulletin we show on the top left is dated May 1987 and deals with repair kits GM had available and the labor time allowance. The top right photo shows the Dealer Service Bulletin dated June 1987 and gave a little more information and where the service procedures could be found in the 1987 Buick Chassis Service Manual. The lower photos show the first page and an illustrated page from a multi-page Service Bulletin further showing that the problem was still an issue. This Dealer Service Bulletin is dated February, 1993, a full 6 years after production had ended for the Turbo Regal! Unlike the earlier Dealer Service Bulletins that were only a single page, this one is at least 12 pages. Unfortunately, the pages are not numbered and I am not sure if I have all the pages associated with this Service Bulletin. There may have been other Service Bulletins related to the powermaster brake system besides the three we mention here.
Now we are 25 years later and our company still sells a remarkably high number of rebuilt powermaster brake units and new reproduction brake accumulator bowls!
I am far from being an expert on the powermaster system, but I can offer one bit of advice that GM never indicated to owners. Be sure to flush the brake fluid in the reservoir at least once every two years. The brake fluid should be almost clear in color. If it looks like Pepsi, it's dirty. Dirt and moisture are two ingredients that can cause problems.
I have a standard rule on every used vehicle I buy to keep - all the fluids get flushed. This includes rear ends, radiators, and brake fluids. I have found by experience, most of the previous owners don't do this.
MARKING 12 YEARS WITH KIRBAN PERFORMANCE -
Over the years, if you have called and placed an order, you have probably talked to Christina. This week marks her 12-year anniversary with our company. Several Buick companies have tried to lure her away, but to no avail! She is the employee that has worked for us the longest.
Nobody knows our part number system better than she does! She's always pleasant and handles anything that comes her way. Thanks for the great work, Christina!
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS - SPRING OPEN HOUSE -
SATURDAY, APRIL 14th, 2012 - 9 am - 3 pm - RAIN or SHINE
Once again, we will be holding our Annual Spring Open House on Saturday, April 14th, 2012 from 9 am until 3 pm.
A generous supply of Yum Yum donuts and coffee will be available, as usual. Special raffle items including our famous M & M contest. Paul Castle of World of Motorworks will be selling his parts, as will Pete Hoffman and myself. There will be special pricing on our website parts. If there are any big items you wish to pick up, we highly recommend you call us at least 10 days in advance so they can be put aside for pick up.
This event happens rain or shine. The location is our Plumsteadville warehouse at 6201 Kellers Church Road, Plumsteadville, PA 18949. Located about 30 miles north of Philadelphia.
Our Open House is one of the first Buick events of the 2012 season.
Here's a link to this event on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/inner_circle.php?nak=172
2012 TurboBuicks.com NATIONALS - BURLINGTON, NORTH CAROLINA
MAY 2-5, 2012 - WEDNESDAY-SATURDAY - RAIN OR SHINE
Sponsored by ZDDPlus™
This is one of the first major Turbo Buick events for the upcoming 2012 season. There are lots of plans for all Turbo Regal enthusiasts at this 4-day event, including seminars, vendors, free lunch on Thursday, and door prizes. Don't miss it!
MAY 2nd & 3rd - Wednesday and Thursday - The event is held at Richard Clark's massive shop at 2557 Faucette Lane, Burlington, North Carolina 27217.
MAY 4th & 5th - Friday and Saturday - Racing at the Piedmont Dragway, 6750 Holts Store Road, Julian, North Carolina 27283 (Greensboro.)
FREE LUNCH - THURSDAY, MAY 3rd at RICHARD'S SHOP
M&M GUESS CONTEST - Door Prizes
YOU MUST REGISTER for the free lunch - email - [email protected]
SPEAKERS
Bob Bailey - Brian Bissonette - Dusty Bradford
Richard Clark - Paul Ferry - Cal Hartline - Nick Micale
VENDORS
ALKY CONTROL - www.alkycontrol.com
ArizonaGN.com - www.arizonagn.com
CASPERS ELECTRONICS - www.casperselectronics.com
CHAMPION RACING HEADS - www.championgn1.com
FULL THROTTLE SPEED - www.fullthrottlespeed.com
GBodyParts.COM - www.gbodyparts.com
GNS PERFORMANCE.com - www.gnsperformance.com
HARTLINE PERFORMANCE - www.hartlineperformance.com
PETE HOFFMAN
HRPartsNStuff - www.HRpartsandstuff.com
JANIS TRANSMISSION
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS - www.kirbanperformance.com
METCO MOTORSPORTS SOLUTIONS - www.metcomotorsports.com
PRECISION TURBO & ENGINE - www.precisionturbo.net
WORLD OF MOTORWORKS - www.worldofmotorworks.com
ZDDPlus™ - www.zddplus.com
For the most up-to-date information on Race Classes and other activities, go to -http://turbobuick.com/forums/forums/2012-turbobuick-com-nationals-may-2nd-5th-sponsore.168/
Here's a link to this event on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/inner_circle.php?nak=173
SLP FIREBIRD FORMULA - FOR SALE -
This car is still available at $20,900. This is for the 400-mile red 2002 SLP Formula Firebird we pictured in the 11-16-2011 Inner Circle. This car will be finding a new home at some point.
COMING SOON -
We will soon be offering a high-quality reproduction of original state inspection stickers that would have been on your car back in 1986 and 1987 for various states that have state inspections. We will be carrying the inspection stickers for Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, Ohio and Pennsylvania for sure. Our source will also be able to supply stickers from other states, and ones that are dated earlier than 1987.
REPRODUCTION GNX SUSPENSION - NOW AVAILABLE -
Pete Hoffman has a limited number of the reproduction GNX Suspension Systems available. These are the Richard Clark systems that he has had made locally.
They are nearly exact to the originals, down to the welds and material used. They come with complete detailed instructions.
Limited Availability!
Call or email Pete
215-778-1036
[email protected]
WE BADLY NEED MASS AIR FLOW SENSOR CORES -
We need stock original 1986-1987 AC Delco mass air flow sensors. They are worth a $25 Letter of Credit.
We do not pay cash. You must pay the shipping to us and pack the item well. Using the postal system is probably the cheapest method to ship.
Remember, cores help us help others keep their Turbo Regals on the road using factory parts. Without cores, a valuable portion of what customers need get discontinued.
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION WORKS -
Got any turbo 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 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].
2012 CALENDAR OF EVENTS -
KIRBAN OPEN HOUSE - SATURDAY, APRIL 14, 2012 - 9 am until 3 pm.
6201 Kellers Church Road, Plumsteadville, PA 18949.
Yum Yum donuts, raffle items, M & M contest, and 5% discount on in-stock catalog items. Save on shipping! Pete Hoffman, and myself will have used parts for sale. Paul Castle from World of Motorworks will also be at this event.
TURBOBUICK.COM NATIONALS 2012 - MAY 2 - MAY 5, 2012 - Burlington, NC
For the latest information, go to - www.turbobuick.com/forums or - [email protected]
Event will feature free food, dyno, tech sessions, drag racing, and Auto-X. This is one of the first Turbo Buick events for the year 2012. Already they have many of the top vendors confirmed that will be at this event. Several key speakers are also confirmed. You must email my wife Eileen if you are going to be there for the free Thursday lunch. Her email is - [email protected] The luncheon is absolutely free.
31st ANNUAL PEACH BLOSSOM B.O.P.C. - MAY 4th and 5th, 2012 - Car Show & Swap Meet
Marriott Atlanta Northeast, 200 Interstate North Parkway, Atlanta, GA
Open to all Buicks, Oldsmobiles, Pontiacs and Cadillacs. Hosted by the Southeastern GTO Association. Reception Friday night and Car Show on Saturday. For more info, contact Ed Bellair at 770-428-4934 or email - [email protected]
3RD ANNUAL BUICK RACE DAY - May 26th, 2012
Lebanon Valley Dragway, Lebanon, New York.
For more info, phone number for the racetrack is 518-794-7130. To reach John Csordas - 845-528-GSGN or his cell is 914-447-6068.
22ND ANNUAL BUICK RACEDAY - JUNE 15th, 16th and 17th, 2012
Summit Motorsports Park, Norwalk, Ohio.
Hotels - Best Western Norwalk - 419-663-3501 or All American Inn Norwalk - 419-663-1922.
For more info, contact Roberta Vasilow 810-655-8277 email - [email protected]
or Bill Wills 330-747-1029 email [email protected]
2012 BUICK PERFORMANCE GROUP "CLASS OF 1987" and "BIG BOAT BASH"
AUGUST 3rd and 4th, 2012
National Trail Raceway, Hebron, Ohio
The theme this year is the "Class of 1987." Open to all Buick models built in 1987.
2012 GS NATIONALS - OCTOBER 17-20, 2012 (NEW DATES)
Beach Bend Raceway, Bowling Green, Kentucky
Racing is FREE on Wednesday, October 17th. The new dates are Oct. 17-20, 2012. Because of the reschedule, they have negotiated FREE racing on Wednesday, October 17th. This includes "everyone" who comes thru the gate and pays the usual nominal entrance fee. There is NO usual additional charge to race your Buick powered cars on Wednesday.
The Gallina/Duttweiler 6-second 200 mph doorslammer is already confirmed for this event.
We just received word that the BCA (Buick Club of America) will be joining the GSCA event. This combination will make for a well-rounded event featuring all kinds of Buicks. This is one fall event you do not want to miss!
EBAY LISTINGS -
If you would like to see any of the Kirban Performance Products items listed on eBay, here is a link to our store and auctions - http://stores.ebay.com/Kirban-Performance-Products-Inc_W0QQssPageNameZl2QQtZ%20km
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 - Finally getting around to sorting all my files of all the reference papers I have on original Buick literature, so I can find things more easily. Watch for more indepth articles and memories from the early days of the Turbo Regals.