Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 02-21-2018 -
UPDATE ON OUR PERSONAL WHITE 1987 TURBO-T FOR SALE -
We have a sizeable deposit on our personal Turbo-T. A retired gentleman from Texas plans to buy it.
About a dozen years ago he had a blue-on-blue Turbo-T Limited and he regretted selling it. Now that he is retired, he wanted another Turbo-T that he could drive and enjoy. He had looked at several for sale, none of which measured up to his specifications. His plan is to fly up in the next ten days to make the deal and have it transported back to Ft Worth, Texas. My car needs to pass the “eyeball” test and driving test. Unfortunately, he is not fully aware of our company and has had bad experiences looking at other Turbo cars!
1985-1987 BUICK GRAND NATIONAL ONE-PIECE BUCKET SEAT COVER -
We finally found a suitable one-piece bucket seat cover that has basically the same design of black and grey as the original Grand National buckets seats. It fits snugly on the bucket seat and requires no tools or skills to install it. This is very cheap insurance to protect your original pallex material.
PHOTO 1 - The photo in the middle shows the front side of this seat cover on my personal Turbo-T. The photo to the right shows how the back portion looks and how far it extends down the back of the seat. They are packaged individually. See the New Products section for more information, part #7821 and #7822. This may be the best $18.95 you spend to prevent any accidents on your seats!
1984-1987 TURBO REGAL BRAKE PROPORTIONING VALVE -
I know we have mentioned this several times in the past. The brake proportioning valve is located under your driver’s side floor pan, basically where your left foot would rest. It is the junction where the brake lines come together.
Part of the reason that causes brake issues is the fact Buick used three different suppliers for the brake proportioning valve. Two are plain steel and prone to rust over a period of time. Only one supplier was smart enough to make it in brass, which does not rust. Rust is what causes issues in the brake system, besides the fact Buick never told Turbo owners to flush out the brake fluid every few years to keep the fluid fresh and clean.
So, with the odds of 1 out of 3 of this valve being brass, chances are you have a rusty one! Our part number is #7189, and it has a price of $49.95 plus shipping. We highly recommend you check yours to see which you have on your Turbo Regal.
PHOTO 2 - We show a rusty steel brake proportioning valve and under it is the brass replacement we sell. It is the same one that most other suppliers sell as well.
MORE HURST T-HANDLE TRIVIA -
As we stated in last week’s Inner Circle, Hurst developed the Hurst T-handle back in the 1960s for the 4-speed shifters. This is way before Buick as well as others used the T-handle format. What you may not realize is even in the aluminum Hurst T-handles there are some very slight differences, besides the thread size between the ones Hurst made for Pontiac and the ones Hurst made for Ford. In the next photo we show both in aluminum. Note the number 4. I can’t remember exactly which version of the number 4 was for the Pontiac GTO Judge and which was for the Ford special Cobra models.
Hurst also made plastic T-handles, probably for a short time as they were prone to break if you shifted them extremely hard. In that same photo we show an extremely rare plastic T-handle as the pattern is a 3-speed!
PHOTO 3 - We show both aluminum versions of the 4-speed Hurst T-handle. Note how one has a closed number 4 and the other has the open-style number 4. The white plastic one has the very rare 3-speed pattern on it. The plastic T-handles were short lived due to breakage.
CELL PHONES AS A CAR OPTION -
I can’t be exactly sure what year in the late 1980s that cell phones became an option in the Buicks. However, I did find a Product Information Bulletin dated 9-11-86 that offered the package in the new front-wheel drive Electra models. It basically included everything but the actual telephone hand set. This was a fairly bulky unit back in those early days.
I believe the cost was over a $1,000, plus you had to buy the telephone hand set, plus the monthly subscription. It was probably more popular early on in the high-end cars on such as BMW and others. I can vaguely remember BMW having it in their center console, since all BMWs had the same basic bucket seat format.
In all the years of going to junkyards, I have only found one surviving cell phone that was in a car.
PHOTO 4 - The photo to the left shows the actual Buick 9-11-86 Bulletin with a picture of the bulky cell phone. The main receiver was mounted in the trunk. The photo to the right shows the Uniden cell phone I removed years ago from a car in one of the junkyards. I think Motorola was another huge supplier of phones back then as well. Later, GM went to a bag-style phone. Again, I am going by memory on the basic history of the cell phone related specifically to Buick and GM.
DATE FOR KIRBAN SPRING 2018 OPEN HOUSE -
The date for the Kirban Spring Open House is Saturday, April 21st, 2018. This is the same weekend as Spring Carlisle. This allows you to hit both events in the same weekend. The event has no rain date. Watch for more info in future Inner Circles.
SOME MORE GOOD NEWS -
We now have the Cold Case radiators, part #7457, back in stock. These are a tremendous bargain to upgrade your 30-year-old radiator to this new aluminum radiator in any 1986-1987 Turbo Regal. It is a direct drop-in fit for any 1986-1987 Turbo Regal. You do have to slightly modify your radiator bushings to position the slightly wider tanks at each end. Your factory coolant lines, both oil cooler and transmission cooler, attach just like they do on the original radiator.
In most cases, this radiator is cheaper than getting the stock radiator repaired. It also is far more efficient than your stock radiator and since it’s aluminum, it is considerably lighter.
ANOTHER CLEVER NEW PRODUCT COMING SHORTLY -
My friend, who has a shop directly across from us, has made a clever product that we plan to market for him. This product works on any car as a clever form of protection when storing your car or truck. Watch for word next week on what this product is. No other company makes this exact same product that can protect your car when it is stored.
TWO COLLECTIBLE VEHICLES FOR SALE -
Last week a long-time friend of ours passed away at the age of 88. He still lived by himself in his own home, drove his car and didn’t even use a cane. He died peacefully in his sleep. That is the way I think most guys, myself included, would want to leave this world, rather than spend their last days in a nursing home where we are easily outnumbered by woman 10 to 1.
He would attend our Open House events along with his son before his son moved to Arizona. We will be assisting the family by marketing his two vehicles that are in mint condition with very low mileage. One is a 2000 Harley Davidson pickup truck. The other is a 1991 Firebird Trans AM hardtop with the 350 engine. Both vehicles have been garaged since new. Both have all the original documents and Window Stickers. Both have fewer than 3,000 miles on them.
Years ago, I had seen these two vehicles. I will have photos and prices soon. We may be storing them for the family and will have them available for sale at our Spring Open House, unless they sell beforehand.
I am told the Harley truck runs and has been started every few weeks. The Firebird has not been run in several years. Both vehicles have always been garaged. The initial plan is to get the Firebird serviced, detailed and in good running order. It is red with a grey cloth interior, which is a good color combination. These are available just in time for show season. I know very little about the Harley trucks, but I believe they made them just two years.
If either of these vehicles perks your interest, email me [email protected] to obtain more information.
REARVIEW MIRRORS -
I see where some companies now offer a reproduction rearview mirror for all the G-body cars, including the Turbo Regal. I am sure this reproduction rearview mirror looks quite good, but it has a price tag of more than $130 on various websites.
Fortunately, for years we have been able to find exact original mirrors in mint condition that we clean and offer on our website. That part number is #7707 and we sell them for just $21.95. Or we sell an original GM lighted rearview mirror, part #7708, fitted with the upgraded LED bulbs for just $28.95. These come out of later GM cars but the style looks like our original rearview mirrors. Either style rearview mirror is a huge bargain and looks 100% identical to the one that came in our cars. Many of the original mirrors develop a cloudy haze on the mirror, which can be annoying.
Years ago, I had figured out what later GM models used the same mirrors and so far obtaining them in junkyards has not been a problem.
It reminds me of what I just spotted on ebay. Someone has a set of brand new factory GM carpeted floor mats on ebay for over $1,000! This is for floor mats, something you wipe your feet on!
The floor mats we sell are the ones that have that exact pattern on them. Everyone else can only obtain the pattern for the accessory style floor mats. The only difference is on the passenger floor mat. It lacks that small rubber square with the GM logo on it. You have to have a pretty expensive Grand National to warrant paying a grand for floor mats! A GNX maybe, but getting the spouse’s ok to spend that kind of money on floor mats could be an issue! Again, this is just my opinion.
Of course, there is always the possibility the seller just put the decimal point in the wrong spot in the ad on the floor mats for the Grand National/GNX!
2018 TURBO BUICK RELATED CAR SHOWS EVENTS -
Here is the current listing with dates for events to show your Turbo Regal or attend in 2018. As more information becomes available for these events, we will update them.
KIRBAN SPRING OPEN HOUSE
Saturday, April 21st, 2018 - KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS, 6201 Kellers Church Road, Plumsteadville, PA
This event has no rain date. Free Yum Yum donuts and coffee while supplies last. This event features specials on our products, M&M contest, and our popular No Reserve auction. The time is from 9 am until 3 pm. Special pricing to be announced on Pypes exhaust systems and Cold Case radiators. Spoolfool fillers can be reserved for pickup to eliminate costly shipping charges. Those are the 3 big items where you can save money by picking them up at our Open House.
2018 Turbobuick.com NATIONALS -
May 2nd thru May 5th, 2018 - Burlington, NC
This event is held at two locations. The first part of the week is at Richard Clark’s Garage, 2557 Faucette Lane, Burlington, NC. It then moves to Piedmont Race track in Burlington, NC. For more information, go to turbobuick.com and click on 2018 Turbo Buick Nationals or on Facebook.
PYPES and MAX PERFORMANCE 8th Annual American Muscle Car and Truck Show -
June 29th and June 30th, 2018 - Hatfield, PA
This show is hosted by Pypes and Max Performance. A BBQ and cruise is Friday afternoon and Saturday is the car show. The location is at their facility at 2705 Clemens Road B103, Hatfield, PA 19440. This event draws a huge amount of all kinds of GM muscle cars, including Ford and Chrysler. The company owner has been our friend for over 30-plus years. We will be attending this event. For more information, go to their website - maxperformanceinc.com
MAGNA - MID ATLANTIC GRAND NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
22nd EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS -
September 14th and 15th, 2018 - Cecil County Dragway, Cecil, Maryland
The MAGNA Group has their annual event September 14th and 15th at Cecil County Dragway in Cecil County, Maryland. This event grows bigger each year and is open to all Buick muscle cars not just the Turbo Regals. We expect to be attending this event. (It falls on my birthday). For more details, go to turbobuick.com - or - their website - magnabuick.com
WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU -
About three weeks ago, I met with a person that has developed a very interesting product that has been on the market for a while. He already has two companies in two different fields of operation, both of which are the biggest in the field using his product exclusively. This is quite an accomplishment. We already have samples of this product on hand.
We are working out the details so we can be a distributor for this local company. This product is superior to all the competition with no downsides! If you work or own any new or used car dealership, clean out houses for estate sales, or work or own an automotive detail business, email me direct - [email protected] - for more details as they become available.
CUSTOM-MADE GM LICENSED VINYL BANNERS UPDATE -
Finally, some progress to report, The GNX banner they submitted for GM approval has been approved. They still have to get approval for the Grand National and Buick Motorsports banners. All designs we submitted to the company that has the GM license for Buick/Oldsmobile/Pontiac. We hope to have all of these banners on display at our Spring Open House in April.
GOOD NEWS - WE ARE ACCEPTING CLASSIFIED ADS -
Good news - We now accept Classified Ads in our weekly Inner Circle emails. Over the years several customers have asked about placing an ad in our weekly Inner Circle.
Here are the options and the costs.
Ads can be from any individual or company. It needs to be automotive related, meaning it does not need be specifically Turbo Regal related. It can be for something for sale or something wanted.
Maximum number of words is 125 words, which is about 7 to 9 lines of copy. No photos. You can list a website. We recommend you state your name, phone number or email, a price, and your location in your ad.
The cost for 2 consecutive weeks is $25. The cost for 4 consecutive weeks is $40. You save $10 with the 4-week plan. No changes can be made to your existing running ad. You can only run one ad at any given time. We will have a code system at the end of your ad, so we will know what week number your ad is to run - 2 or 4 weeks.
It can be an ad for something for sale or an ad for something you are looking for.
We have never missed a single week since we started the Inner Circle email format in 2009. It’s something I enjoy doing and I just always seem to have enough material to write about.
Our weekly Inner Circle reaches over 3,200 members every Wednesday direct to their inbox. The Inner Circle also appears every Wednesday on our website with the related photos. Your ad would be visible to both groups of readers. So, the exposure to your ad is well over 3,200 potential buyers.
My Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!
Ads submitted properly by the previous Sunday would appear that next Wednesday in the weekly Inner Circle. Ads must be submitted by email to - [email protected]
Payment by credit card must be done by phone to our office 215-766-1611 x 0.
THIS WEEK’S CLASSIFIED ADS -
WANTED TO BUY: For a 1987 Buick Turbo Regal: NOS left and right hardtop roof rail pillar weatherstrip seals, NOS left and right door weather strip seals, NOS hood to cowl lace weather strip seal, NOS trunk weather strip seal, NOS left and right rear bumper fillers, NOS left and right front black metal parking light bezels, NOS exhaust catalytic converter hanger, NOS left and right exhaust manifolds. Prefer parts to be in original GM factory sealed packaging or GM factory box with original GM part number tag and GM dealer tag. Serious Buyer. Please email clear pictures and description or part or call and leave message. All calls will be returned. Jason Maxfield, (416) 399-7265, email: [email protected] Niagara Falls, NY 14303. 2 of 4.
FOR SALE - Remember, if you are local to us check out the inventory of used vehicles 611 Auto Sales. They are located near us at 8307 Easton Road in Ottsville, PA. Their website is -611autosalespa.com Many of the cars are priced under $3,995. Mention my name and it may save you a few bucks! They have several one-owner cars to choose from.
Their office number is 610-847-0100. Currently they have the 1987 Bronco II for $6,495. Several of their real nice 4-door sedans are priced under $3995. These are ones I bid on that checked out as 1-2 owners, non-smoker with real nice exterior and interiors.
NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the Rare Parts section at the end of this Inner Circle, it is because you are not an Inner Circle member, but instead are reading this on the website. You must subscribe to see the Rare Parts section each week. It would go directly to your inbox every Wednesday afternoon. It is FREE, probably one reason why nobody complains about what I write about. Simply email - [email protected] - to get on our weekly Inner Circle email.
EMAILS TO KIRBAN PERFORMANCE -
NOTE- If you email us and do NOT get a timely reply, be sure to check your “SPAM” folder. Some emails do not go thru.
If you need to email us, use - [email protected]
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If you have a tip or a discovery that you found that works on your Turbo Regal, drop us an email giving us the details so we can pass the info on to our readers. Remember, even with my knowledge, I don’t know it all. Simply email me at - [email protected]
TIP FROM KIRBAN -
Avoid removing the spare tire and jack because chances are you will never get it reinstalled exactly how Buick did it originally.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
NEED - Powermaster brake units. The must be complete. We will issue you a Letter of Credit for $125 for each acceptable core. We currently will not buy any powermaster units outright only letter of credit towards parts.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number. These are the only 2 items we are currently accepting as cores.
MAIL - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949
UPS - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
6201 Kellers Church Road
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949-1199
TECH CALLS -
If you need technical information, it’s best to email - [email protected] - rather than call us. We will do our best to answer any technical questions within 24 hours. Please remember I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1985-1987 Buick GRAND NATIONAL -
ONE-PIECE BUCKET SEAT COVER
Because the original grey and black pallex Grand National seat material is so costly, here is a simple and inexpensive method to protect it.
We offer a one-piece form-fitting seat cover for the front bucket seat. No tools are required and it’s easy to clean. You simply slide it over the seat. It can be removed easily.
This seat cover has the same two-color color (black and grey) design, so it looks like it was made specifically for the Grand National.
The durable and breathable material is double nylon mesh cloth with 2mm thick sponge in the middle. The spandex back provides a universal fit that conforms to the Grand National’s bucket seat.
It’s an inexpensive investment to protect your Grand National bucket seats from damage.
To purchase one cover, order #7821. To order two covers, order #7822.
Another excellent way to protect the seats.
7821 - 1985-1987 Buick Grand National - One-piece Bucket Seat Cover - $18.95
7822 - 1985-1987 Buick Grand National -
TWO One-piece Bucket Seat Covers (2) - $29.95 (Save $7.95)
Here is a link to this seat cover on our website.
1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) -
REPLACEMENT UPGRADED GM AUTOMATIC SHIFTER HANDLES
AND INSTALLATION KIT
Until now you had no other choice but to stay with the stock wimpy shifter handle. That GM shifter handle has been the same one from 1978 thru 1987 on the Regals with the console format. Not only is it small in size, but its short mounting shaft makes it prone to breaking due to the plastic internals. If that wasn’t bad enough, it shows wear quickly from use and the plastic chrome ends fall off!
All the 1978-1987 Buick Regal and 1978-1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass floor shifter handles are the same. They all used a locking clip on the one side of the handle to secure the handle to the shifter shaft. On all the other GM cars from that time period, including the Monte Carlo SS models, the locking clip was in the front. That format will not work on the Turbo Regal shifter shaft because the slots on the shaft need to match up to a locking clip on the side in order to secure the handle to the shaft.
We also have a new aftermarket leather shifter handle available, #7830.
This makes it difficult to install a better stronger GM automatic shifter handle from another GM car without making some modifications and adding a method to secure the handle to the shaft.
Our installation kit eliminates the locking clip altogether. You will no longer have to buy a $5 locking clip!
The stock factory handle has plastic internals plus has no depth to give it strength on the shifter shaft. This poor design leads to many of the original shifter handles breaking. Also, while the small plastic chrome rings may give the original GM handle an elegant look, over time they can fall off.
The new original replacement handle can run $40 to $100 or more depending on what actual parts you need to buy. We have come up with several various later GM handles and an installation kit to secure the later GM handles from other GM cars to the factory shifter shaft.
We have several options available including one aftermarket leather handle that is brand new. The used GM handles listed below have all been cleaned and are almost brand new in appearance. (We remove them from certain models that are only about 12-15 years old.)
All the handles are black making it a nice match to any Grand National interior or T-Type with grey interior. Each handle has been modified internally and comes with the necessary custom-made parts to secure it to the factory shaft.
These fit every 1978-1987 Turbo Regal and Oldsmobile Cutlass that has the factory floor shifter. Each handle has been pre-tested to function properly on an original Regal shaft. All of these better design GM shifter handles can be installed if desired to be angled to the driver, something the factory shifter handle you can't do. The end result is a better looking GM handle that fits your hand better and gives a stronger look to your factory shifter.
The used GM shifter handles listed below are a far less costly alternative to purchasing a new original Turbo Regal shifter handle. Not only are they stronger, but these do not show wear as quickly as the original light grey original GM handle does.
All the shifter handles come with easy-to-follow directions and parts as shown.
These replacement shifter handles allow you to keep your original shifter handle like new in storage for car shows. Handles can be switched out in a matter of minutes.
This is a nice upgrade that Buick should have done originally to compliment the engineering they did under the hood.
NOTE - Handles shown in Photo 4 and Photo 5 are extremely rare to find!
Excellent replacements for any interior restoration.
7830 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Aftermarket LEATHER Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 1 - NEW - $15.95
Includes new locking ring with allen wrench and set screws installed. These are in stock for immediate delivery.
7831 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Replacement Upgraded GM Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 2 - USED - $29.95
Includes new locking ring with allen wrench, set screw and trigger spacer
7832 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Replacement Upgraded GM Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 3 - USED - $29.95
Includes new locking ring with allen wrench, set screw and trigger spacer
7833 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Replacement Upgraded GM Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 4 - TEAR-DROP STYLE - USED - $29.95
Includes new locking ring with allen wrench, set screw and trigger spacer
7834 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Replacement Upgraded GM Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 5 - CHROME-PLATED THUMB BUTTON - USED $29.95
Includes new locking ring with set screw and trigger spacer as shown
NOTE - Only the #7830 – Aftermarket Black LEATHER Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit is in stock now and available online. Here is the link to that handle of our website.
ALWAYS LOOKING FOR IDEAS -
If you have any product ideas that would fit our Turbo Buick market that you would like to see available, email me direct - [email protected]
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION FOR TURBO REGAL PARTS -
Got any Turbo Buick parts you are not using? Why not cash them in for parts you need with a Letter of Credit. Simply email me a list - [email protected]. Also, we are still buying dead or partially dead 1984-1987 Turbo Regals under $4,000 that are within 250 to 350 miles of our location.
NOTE - ABOUT LINKS IN THE INNER CIRCLE -
We have heard from a couple people that have had problems with the links in our Inner Circle.
When we check the links, they work fine. However, if you are not able to be directed to the exact website page or internet site, you can "copy" and "paste" the link into the URL in your browser (such as Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
Most people having problems are using Internet Explorer. If you are having issues with links, try another browser to see if it works.
You may need to "UPDATE" your browser to be use you are using the current version.
NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE -
We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these must be low-resolution photos to work on the Inner Circle segments on the website, any photos of text don't appear clear when enlarged. This is a problem when you are trying to see numbers, such as those on the VIN labels or pages from Options booklet. Also, because of photo reproduction and computer screen variations, the colors may not be true to the actual product or photo.
If you would like to have us email you any photo at the higher resolution for viewing, just email us and we will email them to you. Be sure to be specific on which pictures you want to see - Reference Inner Circle date and photo number 1, 2, 3 or 4 - [email protected]
ABOUT OUR EMAILS -
Any inquiries concerning used parts, you must email me direct - [email protected] - I will answer you. However, if I fail to answer you within 24 hours, please email us again. Since expanding into used parts, I get a lot of emails and sometimes I may forget your request or may not remember who requested the item.
REMEMBER - On all the above letter parts, the price shown is the total price you pay. The more letter items you buy, the better the deal is for you. Many of these mini package deals are the little items you may need to make your car like new again. This is especially true concerning the radio knobs and the push buttons for the cassette option.
IN CLOSING -
Can’t wait til Spring. Mark your calendar so you remember the date of our Spring Open House - Saturday, April 21st, rain or shine. It’s always a good time.
UPDATE ON OUR PERSONAL WHITE 1987 TURBO-T FOR SALE -
We have a sizeable deposit on our personal Turbo-T. A retired gentleman from Texas plans to buy it.
About a dozen years ago he had a blue-on-blue Turbo-T Limited and he regretted selling it. Now that he is retired, he wanted another Turbo-T that he could drive and enjoy. He had looked at several for sale, none of which measured up to his specifications. His plan is to fly up in the next ten days to make the deal and have it transported back to Ft Worth, Texas. My car needs to pass the “eyeball” test and driving test. Unfortunately, he is not fully aware of our company and has had bad experiences looking at other Turbo cars!
1985-1987 BUICK GRAND NATIONAL ONE-PIECE BUCKET SEAT COVER -
We finally found a suitable one-piece bucket seat cover that has basically the same design of black and grey as the original Grand National buckets seats. It fits snugly on the bucket seat and requires no tools or skills to install it. This is very cheap insurance to protect your original pallex material.
PHOTO 1 - The photo in the middle shows the front side of this seat cover on my personal Turbo-T. The photo to the right shows how the back portion looks and how far it extends down the back of the seat. They are packaged individually. See the New Products section for more information, part #7821 and #7822. This may be the best $18.95 you spend to prevent any accidents on your seats!
1984-1987 TURBO REGAL BRAKE PROPORTIONING VALVE -
I know we have mentioned this several times in the past. The brake proportioning valve is located under your driver’s side floor pan, basically where your left foot would rest. It is the junction where the brake lines come together.
Part of the reason that causes brake issues is the fact Buick used three different suppliers for the brake proportioning valve. Two are plain steel and prone to rust over a period of time. Only one supplier was smart enough to make it in brass, which does not rust. Rust is what causes issues in the brake system, besides the fact Buick never told Turbo owners to flush out the brake fluid every few years to keep the fluid fresh and clean.
So, with the odds of 1 out of 3 of this valve being brass, chances are you have a rusty one! Our part number is #7189, and it has a price of $49.95 plus shipping. We highly recommend you check yours to see which you have on your Turbo Regal.
PHOTO 2 - We show a rusty steel brake proportioning valve and under it is the brass replacement we sell. It is the same one that most other suppliers sell as well.
MORE HURST T-HANDLE TRIVIA -
As we stated in last week’s Inner Circle, Hurst developed the Hurst T-handle back in the 1960s for the 4-speed shifters. This is way before Buick as well as others used the T-handle format. What you may not realize is even in the aluminum Hurst T-handles there are some very slight differences, besides the thread size between the ones Hurst made for Pontiac and the ones Hurst made for Ford. In the next photo we show both in aluminum. Note the number 4. I can’t remember exactly which version of the number 4 was for the Pontiac GTO Judge and which was for the Ford special Cobra models.
Hurst also made plastic T-handles, probably for a short time as they were prone to break if you shifted them extremely hard. In that same photo we show an extremely rare plastic T-handle as the pattern is a 3-speed!
PHOTO 3 - We show both aluminum versions of the 4-speed Hurst T-handle. Note how one has a closed number 4 and the other has the open-style number 4. The white plastic one has the very rare 3-speed pattern on it. The plastic T-handles were short lived due to breakage.
CELL PHONES AS A CAR OPTION -
I can’t be exactly sure what year in the late 1980s that cell phones became an option in the Buicks. However, I did find a Product Information Bulletin dated 9-11-86 that offered the package in the new front-wheel drive Electra models. It basically included everything but the actual telephone hand set. This was a fairly bulky unit back in those early days.
I believe the cost was over a $1,000, plus you had to buy the telephone hand set, plus the monthly subscription. It was probably more popular early on in the high-end cars on such as BMW and others. I can vaguely remember BMW having it in their center console, since all BMWs had the same basic bucket seat format.
In all the years of going to junkyards, I have only found one surviving cell phone that was in a car.
PHOTO 4 - The photo to the left shows the actual Buick 9-11-86 Bulletin with a picture of the bulky cell phone. The main receiver was mounted in the trunk. The photo to the right shows the Uniden cell phone I removed years ago from a car in one of the junkyards. I think Motorola was another huge supplier of phones back then as well. Later, GM went to a bag-style phone. Again, I am going by memory on the basic history of the cell phone related specifically to Buick and GM.
DATE FOR KIRBAN SPRING 2018 OPEN HOUSE -
The date for the Kirban Spring Open House is Saturday, April 21st, 2018. This is the same weekend as Spring Carlisle. This allows you to hit both events in the same weekend. The event has no rain date. Watch for more info in future Inner Circles.
SOME MORE GOOD NEWS -
We now have the Cold Case radiators, part #7457, back in stock. These are a tremendous bargain to upgrade your 30-year-old radiator to this new aluminum radiator in any 1986-1987 Turbo Regal. It is a direct drop-in fit for any 1986-1987 Turbo Regal. You do have to slightly modify your radiator bushings to position the slightly wider tanks at each end. Your factory coolant lines, both oil cooler and transmission cooler, attach just like they do on the original radiator.
In most cases, this radiator is cheaper than getting the stock radiator repaired. It also is far more efficient than your stock radiator and since it’s aluminum, it is considerably lighter.
ANOTHER CLEVER NEW PRODUCT COMING SHORTLY -
My friend, who has a shop directly across from us, has made a clever product that we plan to market for him. This product works on any car as a clever form of protection when storing your car or truck. Watch for word next week on what this product is. No other company makes this exact same product that can protect your car when it is stored.
TWO COLLECTIBLE VEHICLES FOR SALE -
Last week a long-time friend of ours passed away at the age of 88. He still lived by himself in his own home, drove his car and didn’t even use a cane. He died peacefully in his sleep. That is the way I think most guys, myself included, would want to leave this world, rather than spend their last days in a nursing home where we are easily outnumbered by woman 10 to 1.
He would attend our Open House events along with his son before his son moved to Arizona. We will be assisting the family by marketing his two vehicles that are in mint condition with very low mileage. One is a 2000 Harley Davidson pickup truck. The other is a 1991 Firebird Trans AM hardtop with the 350 engine. Both vehicles have been garaged since new. Both have all the original documents and Window Stickers. Both have fewer than 3,000 miles on them.
Years ago, I had seen these two vehicles. I will have photos and prices soon. We may be storing them for the family and will have them available for sale at our Spring Open House, unless they sell beforehand.
I am told the Harley truck runs and has been started every few weeks. The Firebird has not been run in several years. Both vehicles have always been garaged. The initial plan is to get the Firebird serviced, detailed and in good running order. It is red with a grey cloth interior, which is a good color combination. These are available just in time for show season. I know very little about the Harley trucks, but I believe they made them just two years.
If either of these vehicles perks your interest, email me [email protected] to obtain more information.
REARVIEW MIRRORS -
I see where some companies now offer a reproduction rearview mirror for all the G-body cars, including the Turbo Regal. I am sure this reproduction rearview mirror looks quite good, but it has a price tag of more than $130 on various websites.
Fortunately, for years we have been able to find exact original mirrors in mint condition that we clean and offer on our website. That part number is #7707 and we sell them for just $21.95. Or we sell an original GM lighted rearview mirror, part #7708, fitted with the upgraded LED bulbs for just $28.95. These come out of later GM cars but the style looks like our original rearview mirrors. Either style rearview mirror is a huge bargain and looks 100% identical to the one that came in our cars. Many of the original mirrors develop a cloudy haze on the mirror, which can be annoying.
Years ago, I had figured out what later GM models used the same mirrors and so far obtaining them in junkyards has not been a problem.
It reminds me of what I just spotted on ebay. Someone has a set of brand new factory GM carpeted floor mats on ebay for over $1,000! This is for floor mats, something you wipe your feet on!
The floor mats we sell are the ones that have that exact pattern on them. Everyone else can only obtain the pattern for the accessory style floor mats. The only difference is on the passenger floor mat. It lacks that small rubber square with the GM logo on it. You have to have a pretty expensive Grand National to warrant paying a grand for floor mats! A GNX maybe, but getting the spouse’s ok to spend that kind of money on floor mats could be an issue! Again, this is just my opinion.
Of course, there is always the possibility the seller just put the decimal point in the wrong spot in the ad on the floor mats for the Grand National/GNX!
2018 TURBO BUICK RELATED CAR SHOWS EVENTS -
Here is the current listing with dates for events to show your Turbo Regal or attend in 2018. As more information becomes available for these events, we will update them.
KIRBAN SPRING OPEN HOUSE
Saturday, April 21st, 2018 - KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS, 6201 Kellers Church Road, Plumsteadville, PA
This event has no rain date. Free Yum Yum donuts and coffee while supplies last. This event features specials on our products, M&M contest, and our popular No Reserve auction. The time is from 9 am until 3 pm. Special pricing to be announced on Pypes exhaust systems and Cold Case radiators. Spoolfool fillers can be reserved for pickup to eliminate costly shipping charges. Those are the 3 big items where you can save money by picking them up at our Open House.
2018 Turbobuick.com NATIONALS -
May 2nd thru May 5th, 2018 - Burlington, NC
This event is held at two locations. The first part of the week is at Richard Clark’s Garage, 2557 Faucette Lane, Burlington, NC. It then moves to Piedmont Race track in Burlington, NC. For more information, go to turbobuick.com and click on 2018 Turbo Buick Nationals or on Facebook.
PYPES and MAX PERFORMANCE 8th Annual American Muscle Car and Truck Show -
June 29th and June 30th, 2018 - Hatfield, PA
This show is hosted by Pypes and Max Performance. A BBQ and cruise is Friday afternoon and Saturday is the car show. The location is at their facility at 2705 Clemens Road B103, Hatfield, PA 19440. This event draws a huge amount of all kinds of GM muscle cars, including Ford and Chrysler. The company owner has been our friend for over 30-plus years. We will be attending this event. For more information, go to their website - maxperformanceinc.com
MAGNA - MID ATLANTIC GRAND NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
22nd EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS -
September 14th and 15th, 2018 - Cecil County Dragway, Cecil, Maryland
The MAGNA Group has their annual event September 14th and 15th at Cecil County Dragway in Cecil County, Maryland. This event grows bigger each year and is open to all Buick muscle cars not just the Turbo Regals. We expect to be attending this event. (It falls on my birthday). For more details, go to turbobuick.com - or - their website - magnabuick.com
WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU -
About three weeks ago, I met with a person that has developed a very interesting product that has been on the market for a while. He already has two companies in two different fields of operation, both of which are the biggest in the field using his product exclusively. This is quite an accomplishment. We already have samples of this product on hand.
We are working out the details so we can be a distributor for this local company. This product is superior to all the competition with no downsides! If you work or own any new or used car dealership, clean out houses for estate sales, or work or own an automotive detail business, email me direct - [email protected] - for more details as they become available.
CUSTOM-MADE GM LICENSED VINYL BANNERS UPDATE -
Finally, some progress to report, The GNX banner they submitted for GM approval has been approved. They still have to get approval for the Grand National and Buick Motorsports banners. All designs we submitted to the company that has the GM license for Buick/Oldsmobile/Pontiac. We hope to have all of these banners on display at our Spring Open House in April.
GOOD NEWS - WE ARE ACCEPTING CLASSIFIED ADS -
Good news - We now accept Classified Ads in our weekly Inner Circle emails. Over the years several customers have asked about placing an ad in our weekly Inner Circle.
Here are the options and the costs.
Ads can be from any individual or company. It needs to be automotive related, meaning it does not need be specifically Turbo Regal related. It can be for something for sale or something wanted.
Maximum number of words is 125 words, which is about 7 to 9 lines of copy. No photos. You can list a website. We recommend you state your name, phone number or email, a price, and your location in your ad.
The cost for 2 consecutive weeks is $25. The cost for 4 consecutive weeks is $40. You save $10 with the 4-week plan. No changes can be made to your existing running ad. You can only run one ad at any given time. We will have a code system at the end of your ad, so we will know what week number your ad is to run - 2 or 4 weeks.
It can be an ad for something for sale or an ad for something you are looking for.
We have never missed a single week since we started the Inner Circle email format in 2009. It’s something I enjoy doing and I just always seem to have enough material to write about.
Our weekly Inner Circle reaches over 3,200 members every Wednesday direct to their inbox. The Inner Circle also appears every Wednesday on our website with the related photos. Your ad would be visible to both groups of readers. So, the exposure to your ad is well over 3,200 potential buyers.
My Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!
Ads submitted properly by the previous Sunday would appear that next Wednesday in the weekly Inner Circle. Ads must be submitted by email to - [email protected]
Payment by credit card must be done by phone to our office 215-766-1611 x 0.
THIS WEEK’S CLASSIFIED ADS -
WANTED TO BUY: For a 1987 Buick Turbo Regal: NOS left and right hardtop roof rail pillar weatherstrip seals, NOS left and right door weather strip seals, NOS hood to cowl lace weather strip seal, NOS trunk weather strip seal, NOS left and right rear bumper fillers, NOS left and right front black metal parking light bezels, NOS exhaust catalytic converter hanger, NOS left and right exhaust manifolds. Prefer parts to be in original GM factory sealed packaging or GM factory box with original GM part number tag and GM dealer tag. Serious Buyer. Please email clear pictures and description or part or call and leave message. All calls will be returned. Jason Maxfield, (416) 399-7265, email: [email protected] Niagara Falls, NY 14303. 2 of 4.
FOR SALE - Remember, if you are local to us check out the inventory of used vehicles 611 Auto Sales. They are located near us at 8307 Easton Road in Ottsville, PA. Their website is -611autosalespa.com Many of the cars are priced under $3,995. Mention my name and it may save you a few bucks! They have several one-owner cars to choose from.
Their office number is 610-847-0100. Currently they have the 1987 Bronco II for $6,495. Several of their real nice 4-door sedans are priced under $3995. These are ones I bid on that checked out as 1-2 owners, non-smoker with real nice exterior and interiors.
NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the Rare Parts section at the end of this Inner Circle, it is because you are not an Inner Circle member, but instead are reading this on the website. You must subscribe to see the Rare Parts section each week. It would go directly to your inbox every Wednesday afternoon. It is FREE, probably one reason why nobody complains about what I write about. Simply email - [email protected] - to get on our weekly Inner Circle email.
EMAILS TO KIRBAN PERFORMANCE -
NOTE- If you email us and do NOT get a timely reply, be sure to check your “SPAM” folder. Some emails do not go thru.
If you need to email us, use - [email protected]
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If you have a tip or a discovery that you found that works on your Turbo Regal, drop us an email giving us the details so we can pass the info on to our readers. Remember, even with my knowledge, I don’t know it all. Simply email me at - [email protected]
TIP FROM KIRBAN -
Avoid removing the spare tire and jack because chances are you will never get it reinstalled exactly how Buick did it originally.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
NEED - Powermaster brake units. The must be complete. We will issue you a Letter of Credit for $125 for each acceptable core. We currently will not buy any powermaster units outright only letter of credit towards parts.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number. These are the only 2 items we are currently accepting as cores.
MAIL - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949
UPS - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
6201 Kellers Church Road
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949-1199
TECH CALLS -
If you need technical information, it’s best to email - [email protected] - rather than call us. We will do our best to answer any technical questions within 24 hours. Please remember I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1985-1987 Buick GRAND NATIONAL -
ONE-PIECE BUCKET SEAT COVER
Because the original grey and black pallex Grand National seat material is so costly, here is a simple and inexpensive method to protect it.
We offer a one-piece form-fitting seat cover for the front bucket seat. No tools are required and it’s easy to clean. You simply slide it over the seat. It can be removed easily.
This seat cover has the same two-color color (black and grey) design, so it looks like it was made specifically for the Grand National.
The durable and breathable material is double nylon mesh cloth with 2mm thick sponge in the middle. The spandex back provides a universal fit that conforms to the Grand National’s bucket seat.
It’s an inexpensive investment to protect your Grand National bucket seats from damage.
To purchase one cover, order #7821. To order two covers, order #7822.
Another excellent way to protect the seats.
7821 - 1985-1987 Buick Grand National - One-piece Bucket Seat Cover - $18.95
7822 - 1985-1987 Buick Grand National -
TWO One-piece Bucket Seat Covers (2) - $29.95 (Save $7.95)
Here is a link to this seat cover on our website.
1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) -
REPLACEMENT UPGRADED GM AUTOMATIC SHIFTER HANDLES
AND INSTALLATION KIT
Until now you had no other choice but to stay with the stock wimpy shifter handle. That GM shifter handle has been the same one from 1978 thru 1987 on the Regals with the console format. Not only is it small in size, but its short mounting shaft makes it prone to breaking due to the plastic internals. If that wasn’t bad enough, it shows wear quickly from use and the plastic chrome ends fall off!
All the 1978-1987 Buick Regal and 1978-1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass floor shifter handles are the same. They all used a locking clip on the one side of the handle to secure the handle to the shifter shaft. On all the other GM cars from that time period, including the Monte Carlo SS models, the locking clip was in the front. That format will not work on the Turbo Regal shifter shaft because the slots on the shaft need to match up to a locking clip on the side in order to secure the handle to the shaft.
We also have a new aftermarket leather shifter handle available, #7830.
This makes it difficult to install a better stronger GM automatic shifter handle from another GM car without making some modifications and adding a method to secure the handle to the shaft.
Our installation kit eliminates the locking clip altogether. You will no longer have to buy a $5 locking clip!
The stock factory handle has plastic internals plus has no depth to give it strength on the shifter shaft. This poor design leads to many of the original shifter handles breaking. Also, while the small plastic chrome rings may give the original GM handle an elegant look, over time they can fall off.
The new original replacement handle can run $40 to $100 or more depending on what actual parts you need to buy. We have come up with several various later GM handles and an installation kit to secure the later GM handles from other GM cars to the factory shifter shaft.
We have several options available including one aftermarket leather handle that is brand new. The used GM handles listed below have all been cleaned and are almost brand new in appearance. (We remove them from certain models that are only about 12-15 years old.)
All the handles are black making it a nice match to any Grand National interior or T-Type with grey interior. Each handle has been modified internally and comes with the necessary custom-made parts to secure it to the factory shaft.
These fit every 1978-1987 Turbo Regal and Oldsmobile Cutlass that has the factory floor shifter. Each handle has been pre-tested to function properly on an original Regal shaft. All of these better design GM shifter handles can be installed if desired to be angled to the driver, something the factory shifter handle you can't do. The end result is a better looking GM handle that fits your hand better and gives a stronger look to your factory shifter.
The used GM shifter handles listed below are a far less costly alternative to purchasing a new original Turbo Regal shifter handle. Not only are they stronger, but these do not show wear as quickly as the original light grey original GM handle does.
All the shifter handles come with easy-to-follow directions and parts as shown.
These replacement shifter handles allow you to keep your original shifter handle like new in storage for car shows. Handles can be switched out in a matter of minutes.
This is a nice upgrade that Buick should have done originally to compliment the engineering they did under the hood.
NOTE - Handles shown in Photo 4 and Photo 5 are extremely rare to find!
Excellent replacements for any interior restoration.
7830 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Aftermarket LEATHER Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 1 - NEW - $15.95
Includes new locking ring with allen wrench and set screws installed. These are in stock for immediate delivery.
7831 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Replacement Upgraded GM Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 2 - USED - $29.95
Includes new locking ring with allen wrench, set screw and trigger spacer
7832 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Replacement Upgraded GM Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 3 - USED - $29.95
Includes new locking ring with allen wrench, set screw and trigger spacer
7833 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Replacement Upgraded GM Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 4 - TEAR-DROP STYLE - USED - $29.95
Includes new locking ring with allen wrench, set screw and trigger spacer
7834 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regal) - Replacement Upgraded GM Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit - PHOTO 5 - CHROME-PLATED THUMB BUTTON - USED $29.95
Includes new locking ring with set screw and trigger spacer as shown
NOTE - Only the #7830 – Aftermarket Black LEATHER Automatic Shifter Handle & Installation Kit is in stock now and available online. Here is the link to that handle of our website.
ALWAYS LOOKING FOR IDEAS -
If you have any product ideas that would fit our Turbo Buick market that you would like to see available, email me direct - [email protected]
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION FOR TURBO REGAL PARTS -
Got any Turbo Buick parts you are not using? Why not cash them in for parts you need with a Letter of Credit. Simply email me a list - [email protected]. Also, we are still buying dead or partially dead 1984-1987 Turbo Regals under $4,000 that are within 250 to 350 miles of our location.
NOTE - ABOUT LINKS IN THE INNER CIRCLE -
We have heard from a couple people that have had problems with the links in our Inner Circle.
When we check the links, they work fine. However, if you are not able to be directed to the exact website page or internet site, you can "copy" and "paste" the link into the URL in your browser (such as Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
Most people having problems are using Internet Explorer. If you are having issues with links, try another browser to see if it works.
You may need to "UPDATE" your browser to be use you are using the current version.
NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE -
We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these must be low-resolution photos to work on the Inner Circle segments on the website, any photos of text don't appear clear when enlarged. This is a problem when you are trying to see numbers, such as those on the VIN labels or pages from Options booklet. Also, because of photo reproduction and computer screen variations, the colors may not be true to the actual product or photo.
If you would like to have us email you any photo at the higher resolution for viewing, just email us and we will email them to you. Be sure to be specific on which pictures you want to see - Reference Inner Circle date and photo number 1, 2, 3 or 4 - [email protected]
ABOUT OUR EMAILS -
Any inquiries concerning used parts, you must email me direct - [email protected] - I will answer you. However, if I fail to answer you within 24 hours, please email us again. Since expanding into used parts, I get a lot of emails and sometimes I may forget your request or may not remember who requested the item.
REMEMBER - On all the above letter parts, the price shown is the total price you pay. The more letter items you buy, the better the deal is for you. Many of these mini package deals are the little items you may need to make your car like new again. This is especially true concerning the radio knobs and the push buttons for the cassette option.
IN CLOSING -
Can’t wait til Spring. Mark your calendar so you remember the date of our Spring Open House - Saturday, April 21st, rain or shine. It’s always a good time.