Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 02-22-2017 -
BREAKING NEWS ABOUT THE ORIGINAL BLACK PALLEX SEAT MATERIAL -
Finally, after 3 months of waiting (I paid for it 3 months ago), yesterday I finally received the 16 yards of dated 1985 C & A original GN/GNX black pallex material. Keep in mind, every roll can be slightly different. So, if you want any, plan to buy enough yards to do one or two front bucket seats, and wouldn’t match as just a patch. In other words, if you are doing a black section of one seat, the black is not going to match the 30-year-old black pallex section of the other seat. You must email me direct - [email protected] with your request and pricing. It appears that the entire 16 yards I received is on one single roll. I don't anticipate getting any more original black pallex material or grey pallex material.
AM/FM CD PLAYER WITH EQ OPTION -
We mentioned in last week’s Inner Circle that we would post a photo of another version of the AC Delco AM/FM CD player that also has the optional EQ feature. Just like the AM/FM cassette radios with the optional EQ feature in the 1984-1987 Turbo Regals, the EQ feature makes this version the top-of-the-line in price and value. Both of these CD players have been sold.
PHOTO 1 - The photo to the left shows the AM/FM CD player with optional EQ feature. This is the later other version CD player with the EQ option, which will bolt to the factory side brackets and fit any 1984-1987 Turbo Regal. This is the version that uses buttons for tuning and volume control, rather than knobs. It also has a satin black face, which makes it a good match for the Turbo Regals since the original radio faces were also black. The photo to the right shows the special 21-pin to 12-pin adapter harness and antenna adapter harness that comes with this radio. This adapter harness allows you to plug the factory plug into this later AC Delco CD radio.
COVERAGE FROM THE ANTIQUE ATLANTIC CITY AUCTION -
I drove down to the Atlantic City Antique Car auction last Saturday. It was held at the convention center in Atlantic City, New Jersey. I was last there about three years ago with a good friend of mine Greg Glenn, who since then has moved to sunny California. (It is not very sunny right now!) By the time I parked my car and paid for one single entry ticket, I had spent $50.
A wide variety of vehicles were at the auction. Most of the cars were from the sixties and newer with several of what appeared to be barn find pickup trucks. I did see two Grand Nationals. One was a $28,000 very nice 1987 Grand National hardtop showing 28,000 miles with a price tag to match the mileage. It was a good-looking car judging by a quick overall glance.
The hood was not open, but I did detect what appeared to be a ATR cold air system in the grille work. In the interior were several ATR items.
The other Grand National I spotted was a 1986 that was not nearly as nice. This car had a well-worn interior and needed major detailing under the hood. I don’t recall what the price was on this Grand National.
PHOTO 2 - The top left photo show the 28,000-mile Grand National. The top right photo shows the 1986 Grand National, which was not nearly as nice as the 28,000-mile Grand National. The bottom left shows a very nice Monte Carlo Aero Coupe. Those values have remained stagnate for several years. I think the price tag was $10,500. The bottom right photo would probably be very upsetting to any Corvette collector!
Not sure what year the Corvette was. Making a one-of-a-kind custom car from any popular muscle car can prove to be difficult to sell for decent money when the time comes!
THIS IS PRETTY COOL -
This vendor display at the Atlantic City show was pretty cool. Called “Creative Characters,” it lived up to its name. They make these full-size characters that have pose-able features. They have bendable arms and legs. They use real clothes on them. They are made from durable urethane foam and hand painted. They use acrylic eyes for a realistic look. Some of their characters are modified so they can shake.
PHOTO 3 - The photo to the left shows just a portion of the characters they had on display. The photo to the right shows two of the characters leaning over the front of a truck. The person to the far left is a real person observing the two characters. They were reasonably priced depending on what you wanted. They also do gas pumps and accessories. They are located in Oblong, Illinois and their website is - charactersbydave.com The phone is 618-592-3338.
“TOUCH-CONTROL” RADIO -
Last week we showed an unusual top-of-the-line “Touch-Control” AM Stereo/ FM Stereo Seek and Scan and Auto-Reverse Cassette with Music Search/Equalizer and Clock. That is quite an impressive title for this radio. The brochure I have is dated 1986. It is the first time I have ever found a radio like this.
PHOTO 4 - The photo to the left shows the cover of this 5-½ by 8-½ original 1986 Delco ETR Music Systems booklet. The photo to the right shows the radio that we featured in last week’s Inner Circle. That radio has been sold. I am fortunate enough to have a lot of these original brochures to provide positive proof for things that are now 30 years old! After all, I can’t remember everything accurately!
NEW PART FROM US -
We now offer rebuilt front brake calipers that are powder-coated black so they won’t rust. It just makes sense to add this product to our system since we carry powder coated front brake drums, stainless front brake hoses, and aluminum rear brake drums, just to name a few brake items… not to mention the various brake systems we also offer from powermasters, to hydroboost to vacuum. We basically have you covered when it comes to systems related to the brakes. See the New Parts section or our website for complete details.
Here is the link to these brake calipers on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44353/POWDER-COATED+BLACK+REBUILT+FRONT+BRAKE+CALIPERS+%237784.html
COMING SOON - “GRAND NATIONAL” LOGO SEAT ARMOUR™ SEAT COVER-
Since introducing the Buick Motorsports, T-Type and GNX Seat Amour seat covers, we have received several requests about getting our supplier to make one featuring the Grand National logo. I am happy to report that we are currently working on that one. The company has already granted us exclusive sales of that one as well.
Watch for updates in the Inner Circle as to when we will have the Grand National one available. The pricing would be the same as the other versions we currently sell. Actually, we have several others for other car models in the works also being made exclusively for our company. All of these seat covers will be on display and for sale at our upcoming Spring Open House April 22nd,2017.
Here is a link to the current seat covers on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7751&submit_button=
THIS WOULD BE NICE -
I just read about a company called Revology, which was founded by Tom Scarpello, former head of Ford’s Special Vehicles Team. They just produced a brand new 1966 Mustang. The body is Ford licensed and made by Dynacorn. The Mustang uses a 302 Windsor engine. The suspension is from a fifth generation Mustang. It comes with a one-year factory warranty from Revology, making it the first 1966 Mustang with a factory warranty since 1966!
In looking on their website, the various 1966 and 1967 Mustang models they make have price tags in the $185,000 range, depending on the options.
Can you imagine that maybe sometime in the distant future, someone with ties to Buick will make a Turbo Intercooled Grand National. A brand new Grand National with a high-quality paint job and with body panels that are perfectly straight with even gaps… power windows that work as power windows and not like hand crank windows, seats that are supportive and a dash cluster that you can see at night and have full instrumentation. The car could ride on 17-inch wheels.
Cars could be numbered like the GNX. Maybe even give a Grand National jacket with each car. They should use aluminum where ever possible. They should have Hurst make a hefty shifter. Install a stereo sound system worthy of the car. I think it could fetch $85,000-$100,000 a copy.
The key is you need a person high up at Buick to get the GM license deal nailed down first. I doubt at my age I would see this happen in my lifetime. However, if the Mustang project does well, I am sure it would lead to other models in the future.
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 thesehood 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 car events, since Carlisle is only about two hours west from our location. I go to Spring Carlisle midweek every year.
Our Open House will have the usual features - YumYums 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 and original pallex seat material. Several featured items will be discounted to save shipping. As the date draws closer, we will list which large items we 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 various Turbo Regal 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.
Rich Warner owner of Shine Enterprises and a customer of ours will be donating over $300 worth of Race Glaze products for our raffle. His website is www.mr-shine.com or 1-800-677-4463.
Metco Motorsports is donating a pair of their lower trailering arms for our raffle. These are a $270 value and can be seen on my personal white Turbo-T.
Derek Freyberger is donating a hand-carved Grand National picture frame that he had a friend make. He had two of them made and is donating one for our raffle.
Russ and his friend Don are donating three trophies that we will be awarding - LONG DISTANCE AWARD (the Buick Turbo Regal that drove the longest distance, not trailered) - KIRBAN'S CHOICE AWARD (the Buick Turbo Regal selected by Kirbans as their overall favorite) and the TLC AWARD (the Buick Turbo Regal needing the most "TLC" Tender Loving Care.)
Russ, the baker, will also be making some special treats for the raffle. As the date draws closer, I am sure we will have other items for our raffle from other vendors.
Caspers Electronics has sent us over $300 worth of parts for our raffle.
OER, Classic Industries’ manufacturing arm, is donating sets of Buick Regal GTA wheel center caps.
This is our 30th year, so plan to attend! We have almost $2,000 worth contributed for our raffle prizes.
You don’t want to miss this Spring Open House!
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.
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 -
The words “Made in England” pertain to one very visible unique item on every single Turbo Regal. It has not been reproduced. It is not available brand new from GM. I am referring to the unique radiator cap that has no ears. The words “Made in England” is one of the lines of copy on the actual surface of the radiator cap. GM used this unique radiator cap on many GM cars during the 1980s and that is how we are able to keep them in stock, as well as to supply our other vendors. At a price of just $15, it is well worth it. Our part number is KE003 or type in radiator cap in the search box on our website.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED - 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering wheels. They must not be bent or rusted. We will issue a $75 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
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 -
1978-1988 G-Body (Including 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal) -
POWDER-COATED BLACK REBUILT FRONT BRAKE CALIPERS
By now these cars can benefit with a fresh pair of rebuilt front brake calipers. These are 100% pressure tested, and fully assembled for smooth quiet performance.
Calipers comes with all hardware. You will need to re-use the original mounting bracket.
These are powder-coated black for a nice appearance behind the alloy wheels.
It makes no sense to buy new, bare metal calipers that are subject to rust.
A nice finishing touch that is a nice enhancement to the brake system. No cores are required. These fit every 1978-1988 G-Body model, including all 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regals.
Another nice finishing touch for any under carriage restoration.
7784 - 1978-1988 G-Body (including 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal) - Powder-coated Black Rebuilt Front Brake Calipers (2) Set - $99.95 / set
Here is the link to these brake calipers on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44353/POWDER-COATED+BLACK+REBUILT+FRONT+BRAKE+CALIPERS+%237784.html
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM LICENSED - EMBROIDERED
“BUICK MOTORSPORTS” SEAT ARMOUR™ BLACK SEAT COVERS
“T-TYPE” SEAT ARMOUR™ GREY SEAT COVERS
“GNX” SEAT ARMOUR™ BLACK SEAT COVERS
Because of the value of original, Grand Nationals, T-Types and GNX seats, it’s best to protect them from stains, odors, and fading from the sunlight.
We are the exclusive distributor for these GM licensed embroidered Seat Armour™ seat covers.
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 Motorsports” logo is embroidered in the logo colors - red, yellow and silver on black material, part #7751 and #7752. The embroidered logo measures 9" x 2-1/2". It is machine washable 100% heavyweight cotton velour terry material.
The GM licensed “T-TYPE” logo is embroidered in the logo colors - red and silver outlined in black on grey material, part #7753 and #7754. The embroidered logo measures 7" x 1-3/4". It is machine washable 100% heavyweight cotton velour terry material.
The GM licensed “GNX” logo is embroidered in the logo colors - red and silver on black material, part #7755 and #7756. The embroidered logo measures 7" 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.
Our other photos show the various options of designs.
We offer each design as a single cover. If you want to cover both seats, there is another part number for two covers.
Another great interior item to protect your car seats.
Here are the six options for ordering seat covers.
7751 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM Licensed - Embroidered “Buick Motorsports” Seat Armour™ Black Seat Cover (1) - $36.95
7752 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
TWO - GM Licensed - Embroidered “Buick Motorsports” Seat Armour™ Black Seat Covers (2) - $69.95
7753 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM Licensed - Embroidered “T-TYPE” Seat Armour™ Grey Seat Cover (1) - $36.95
7754 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
TWO - GM Licensed - Embroidered “T-TYPE” Seat Armour™ Grey Seat Covers (2) - $69.95
7755 - 1987 Buick GNX -
GM Licensed - Embroidered “GNX” Seat Armour™ Black Seat Cover (1) - $36.95
7756 - 1987 Buick GNX -
TWO - GM Licensed - Embroidered “GNX” Seat Armour™ Black Seat Covers (2) - $69.95
Here is a link to these seat covers on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7751&submit_button=
ALWAYS LOOKING FOR IDEAS -
If you have any product ideas that would fit our Turbo Buick market that you would like to see available, email me direct [email protected]
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION 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, you can always trade in any cores you have for credit against our parts. We also are interested in any good used parts and NOS parts you may want to trade for items you need.
BREAKING NEWS ABOUT THE ORIGINAL BLACK PALLEX SEAT MATERIAL -
Finally, after 3 months of waiting (I paid for it 3 months ago), yesterday I finally received the 16 yards of dated 1985 C & A original GN/GNX black pallex material. Keep in mind, every roll can be slightly different. So, if you want any, plan to buy enough yards to do one or two front bucket seats, and wouldn’t match as just a patch. In other words, if you are doing a black section of one seat, the black is not going to match the 30-year-old black pallex section of the other seat. You must email me direct - [email protected] with your request and pricing. It appears that the entire 16 yards I received is on one single roll. I don't anticipate getting any more original black pallex material or grey pallex material.
AM/FM CD PLAYER WITH EQ OPTION -
We mentioned in last week’s Inner Circle that we would post a photo of another version of the AC Delco AM/FM CD player that also has the optional EQ feature. Just like the AM/FM cassette radios with the optional EQ feature in the 1984-1987 Turbo Regals, the EQ feature makes this version the top-of-the-line in price and value. Both of these CD players have been sold.
PHOTO 1 - The photo to the left shows the AM/FM CD player with optional EQ feature. This is the later other version CD player with the EQ option, which will bolt to the factory side brackets and fit any 1984-1987 Turbo Regal. This is the version that uses buttons for tuning and volume control, rather than knobs. It also has a satin black face, which makes it a good match for the Turbo Regals since the original radio faces were also black. The photo to the right shows the special 21-pin to 12-pin adapter harness and antenna adapter harness that comes with this radio. This adapter harness allows you to plug the factory plug into this later AC Delco CD radio.
COVERAGE FROM THE ANTIQUE ATLANTIC CITY AUCTION -
I drove down to the Atlantic City Antique Car auction last Saturday. It was held at the convention center in Atlantic City, New Jersey. I was last there about three years ago with a good friend of mine Greg Glenn, who since then has moved to sunny California. (It is not very sunny right now!) By the time I parked my car and paid for one single entry ticket, I had spent $50.
A wide variety of vehicles were at the auction. Most of the cars were from the sixties and newer with several of what appeared to be barn find pickup trucks. I did see two Grand Nationals. One was a $28,000 very nice 1987 Grand National hardtop showing 28,000 miles with a price tag to match the mileage. It was a good-looking car judging by a quick overall glance.
The hood was not open, but I did detect what appeared to be a ATR cold air system in the grille work. In the interior were several ATR items.
The other Grand National I spotted was a 1986 that was not nearly as nice. This car had a well-worn interior and needed major detailing under the hood. I don’t recall what the price was on this Grand National.
PHOTO 2 - The top left photo show the 28,000-mile Grand National. The top right photo shows the 1986 Grand National, which was not nearly as nice as the 28,000-mile Grand National. The bottom left shows a very nice Monte Carlo Aero Coupe. Those values have remained stagnate for several years. I think the price tag was $10,500. The bottom right photo would probably be very upsetting to any Corvette collector!
Not sure what year the Corvette was. Making a one-of-a-kind custom car from any popular muscle car can prove to be difficult to sell for decent money when the time comes!
THIS IS PRETTY COOL -
This vendor display at the Atlantic City show was pretty cool. Called “Creative Characters,” it lived up to its name. They make these full-size characters that have pose-able features. They have bendable arms and legs. They use real clothes on them. They are made from durable urethane foam and hand painted. They use acrylic eyes for a realistic look. Some of their characters are modified so they can shake.
PHOTO 3 - The photo to the left shows just a portion of the characters they had on display. The photo to the right shows two of the characters leaning over the front of a truck. The person to the far left is a real person observing the two characters. They were reasonably priced depending on what you wanted. They also do gas pumps and accessories. They are located in Oblong, Illinois and their website is - charactersbydave.com The phone is 618-592-3338.
“TOUCH-CONTROL” RADIO -
Last week we showed an unusual top-of-the-line “Touch-Control” AM Stereo/ FM Stereo Seek and Scan and Auto-Reverse Cassette with Music Search/Equalizer and Clock. That is quite an impressive title for this radio. The brochure I have is dated 1986. It is the first time I have ever found a radio like this.
PHOTO 4 - The photo to the left shows the cover of this 5-½ by 8-½ original 1986 Delco ETR Music Systems booklet. The photo to the right shows the radio that we featured in last week’s Inner Circle. That radio has been sold. I am fortunate enough to have a lot of these original brochures to provide positive proof for things that are now 30 years old! After all, I can’t remember everything accurately!
NEW PART FROM US -
We now offer rebuilt front brake calipers that are powder-coated black so they won’t rust. It just makes sense to add this product to our system since we carry powder coated front brake drums, stainless front brake hoses, and aluminum rear brake drums, just to name a few brake items… not to mention the various brake systems we also offer from powermasters, to hydroboost to vacuum. We basically have you covered when it comes to systems related to the brakes. See the New Parts section or our website for complete details.
Here is the link to these brake calipers on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44353/POWDER-COATED+BLACK+REBUILT+FRONT+BRAKE+CALIPERS+%237784.html
COMING SOON - “GRAND NATIONAL” LOGO SEAT ARMOUR™ SEAT COVER-
Since introducing the Buick Motorsports, T-Type and GNX Seat Amour seat covers, we have received several requests about getting our supplier to make one featuring the Grand National logo. I am happy to report that we are currently working on that one. The company has already granted us exclusive sales of that one as well.
Watch for updates in the Inner Circle as to when we will have the Grand National one available. The pricing would be the same as the other versions we currently sell. Actually, we have several others for other car models in the works also being made exclusively for our company. All of these seat covers will be on display and for sale at our upcoming Spring Open House April 22nd,2017.
Here is a link to the current seat covers on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7751&submit_button=
THIS WOULD BE NICE -
I just read about a company called Revology, which was founded by Tom Scarpello, former head of Ford’s Special Vehicles Team. They just produced a brand new 1966 Mustang. The body is Ford licensed and made by Dynacorn. The Mustang uses a 302 Windsor engine. The suspension is from a fifth generation Mustang. It comes with a one-year factory warranty from Revology, making it the first 1966 Mustang with a factory warranty since 1966!
In looking on their website, the various 1966 and 1967 Mustang models they make have price tags in the $185,000 range, depending on the options.
Can you imagine that maybe sometime in the distant future, someone with ties to Buick will make a Turbo Intercooled Grand National. A brand new Grand National with a high-quality paint job and with body panels that are perfectly straight with even gaps… power windows that work as power windows and not like hand crank windows, seats that are supportive and a dash cluster that you can see at night and have full instrumentation. The car could ride on 17-inch wheels.
Cars could be numbered like the GNX. Maybe even give a Grand National jacket with each car. They should use aluminum where ever possible. They should have Hurst make a hefty shifter. Install a stereo sound system worthy of the car. I think it could fetch $85,000-$100,000 a copy.
The key is you need a person high up at Buick to get the GM license deal nailed down first. I doubt at my age I would see this happen in my lifetime. However, if the Mustang project does well, I am sure it would lead to other models in the future.
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 thesehood 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 car events, since Carlisle is only about two hours west from our location. I go to Spring Carlisle midweek every year.
Our Open House will have the usual features - YumYums 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 and original pallex seat material. Several featured items will be discounted to save shipping. As the date draws closer, we will list which large items we 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 various Turbo Regal 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.
Rich Warner owner of Shine Enterprises and a customer of ours will be donating over $300 worth of Race Glaze products for our raffle. His website is www.mr-shine.com or 1-800-677-4463.
Metco Motorsports is donating a pair of their lower trailering arms for our raffle. These are a $270 value and can be seen on my personal white Turbo-T.
Derek Freyberger is donating a hand-carved Grand National picture frame that he had a friend make. He had two of them made and is donating one for our raffle.
Russ and his friend Don are donating three trophies that we will be awarding - LONG DISTANCE AWARD (the Buick Turbo Regal that drove the longest distance, not trailered) - KIRBAN'S CHOICE AWARD (the Buick Turbo Regal selected by Kirbans as their overall favorite) and the TLC AWARD (the Buick Turbo Regal needing the most "TLC" Tender Loving Care.)
Russ, the baker, will also be making some special treats for the raffle. As the date draws closer, I am sure we will have other items for our raffle from other vendors.
Caspers Electronics has sent us over $300 worth of parts for our raffle.
OER, Classic Industries’ manufacturing arm, is donating sets of Buick Regal GTA wheel center caps.
This is our 30th year, so plan to attend! We have almost $2,000 worth contributed for our raffle prizes.
You don’t want to miss this Spring Open House!
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.
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 -
The words “Made in England” pertain to one very visible unique item on every single Turbo Regal. It has not been reproduced. It is not available brand new from GM. I am referring to the unique radiator cap that has no ears. The words “Made in England” is one of the lines of copy on the actual surface of the radiator cap. GM used this unique radiator cap on many GM cars during the 1980s and that is how we are able to keep them in stock, as well as to supply our other vendors. At a price of just $15, it is well worth it. Our part number is KE003 or type in radiator cap in the search box on our website.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED - 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering wheels. They must not be bent or rusted. We will issue a $75 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
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 -
1978-1988 G-Body (Including 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal) -
POWDER-COATED BLACK REBUILT FRONT BRAKE CALIPERS
By now these cars can benefit with a fresh pair of rebuilt front brake calipers. These are 100% pressure tested, and fully assembled for smooth quiet performance.
Calipers comes with all hardware. You will need to re-use the original mounting bracket.
These are powder-coated black for a nice appearance behind the alloy wheels.
It makes no sense to buy new, bare metal calipers that are subject to rust.
A nice finishing touch that is a nice enhancement to the brake system. No cores are required. These fit every 1978-1988 G-Body model, including all 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regals.
Another nice finishing touch for any under carriage restoration.
7784 - 1978-1988 G-Body (including 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal) - Powder-coated Black Rebuilt Front Brake Calipers (2) Set - $99.95 / set
Here is the link to these brake calipers on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44353/POWDER-COATED+BLACK+REBUILT+FRONT+BRAKE+CALIPERS+%237784.html
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM LICENSED - EMBROIDERED
“BUICK MOTORSPORTS” SEAT ARMOUR™ BLACK SEAT COVERS
“T-TYPE” SEAT ARMOUR™ GREY SEAT COVERS
“GNX” SEAT ARMOUR™ BLACK SEAT COVERS
Because of the value of original, Grand Nationals, T-Types and GNX seats, it’s best to protect them from stains, odors, and fading from the sunlight.
We are the exclusive distributor for these GM licensed embroidered Seat Armour™ seat covers.
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 Motorsports” logo is embroidered in the logo colors - red, yellow and silver on black material, part #7751 and #7752. The embroidered logo measures 9" x 2-1/2". It is machine washable 100% heavyweight cotton velour terry material.
The GM licensed “T-TYPE” logo is embroidered in the logo colors - red and silver outlined in black on grey material, part #7753 and #7754. The embroidered logo measures 7" x 1-3/4". It is machine washable 100% heavyweight cotton velour terry material.
The GM licensed “GNX” logo is embroidered in the logo colors - red and silver on black material, part #7755 and #7756. The embroidered logo measures 7" 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.
Our other photos show the various options of designs.
We offer each design as a single cover. If you want to cover both seats, there is another part number for two covers.
Another great interior item to protect your car seats.
Here are the six options for ordering seat covers.
7751 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM Licensed - Embroidered “Buick Motorsports” Seat Armour™ Black Seat Cover (1) - $36.95
7752 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
TWO - GM Licensed - Embroidered “Buick Motorsports” Seat Armour™ Black Seat Covers (2) - $69.95
7753 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM Licensed - Embroidered “T-TYPE” Seat Armour™ Grey Seat Cover (1) - $36.95
7754 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
TWO - GM Licensed - Embroidered “T-TYPE” Seat Armour™ Grey Seat Covers (2) - $69.95
7755 - 1987 Buick GNX -
GM Licensed - Embroidered “GNX” Seat Armour™ Black Seat Cover (1) - $36.95
7756 - 1987 Buick GNX -
TWO - GM Licensed - Embroidered “GNX” Seat Armour™ Black Seat Covers (2) - $69.95
Here is a link to these seat covers on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7751&submit_button=
ALWAYS LOOKING FOR IDEAS -
If you have any product ideas that would fit our Turbo Buick market that you would like to see available, email me direct [email protected]
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION 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, you can always trade in any cores you have for credit against our parts. We also are interested in any good used parts and NOS parts you may want to trade for items you need.