Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 02-19-2014
1984-1987 TURBO REGAL LOWER STEERING SHAFTS -
Over the last several weeks we have been researching various options on what parts are available to replace any of the worn parts in the steering.
For the last several years we have been selling the rebuilt correct steering gear, Part #7380. We are fortunate enough to still be able to get them and not require a core in return.
As you know, the steering gear that GM used in the 1984-1987 Turbo Regals, Monte Carlo SS, and Cutlass 442 models had the faster steering ratio and more road feel over the standard steering gear.
During my research I discovered that the lower steering shaft with the steering coupler in our cars (1984-1987 Turbo Regals) was one single part number from GM. They are all the same whether column is a tilt or a non-tilt column. The steering coupler (also referred to as the "rag joint") was not serviceable by itself, as it was in some of the earlier GM cars. The lower steering shaft has long been discontinued by GM. You may not even notice your steering has any play unless you drive a Turbo Regal that has only a few thousand miles on it and then drive your Turbo Regal. Any play in the steering usually happens gradually over a period of time. Often times it will be the steering coupler as the culprit.
The steering coupler connects the lower steering shaft to the steering gear. It can start to fail due to age and coming in contact with various engine fluids over time. We recently found a source that had that steering coupler reproduced. It is the most inexpensive way to restore the steering to like new again. You do have to remove the lower steering shaft from your car. The reason the lower steering shaft needs to be removed is because you have to grind off the two drive pins to remove the old steering coupler from the flange that is pressed on to the lower steering shaft. The flange is pressed on to the lower steering shaft and the new steering coupler attaches to this flange. See the New Parts section in this issue. This part may not be on our website yet. If you do not see it on our website, simply call our office to order it. Part #7569, and the price is just $36.95.
NOTE - If you need a steering coupler for another GM car or truck, contact our office. We have a complete list of all the vehicles this steering coupler fits, which includes most GM cars from 1977 thru 1995 and most GM trucks from 1982 through 2002. This includes: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, Oldsmobile, and Pontiac.
Currently, I am researching all the other available options that I am aware of for other options for the lower steering shafts. This new reproduction steering coupler is the most inexpensive part available to restore your steering. We will have more information hopefully next week on other possible options you may want to consider. I may have also located a bearing kit to replace the lower bushing in the base of the upper steering shaft. In order to replace this bushing or bearing in the upper steering shaft, the lower steering shaft has to be removed first. It would be easier to do both projects at the same time to avoid removing the lower steering shaft twice. We expect to have more information on this upper steering bushing or bearing next week.
PHOTO 1 - Shows a typical Turbo Regal lower steering shaft once it has been removed from the car. Note the steering coupler (rag joint) at the base. The plastic sleeve has been slid up the shaft to expose the steering coupler.
PHOTO 2 - Shows a stock Turbo Regal lower steering shaft with the factory steering coupler removed. The two drive pins have been grinded off and, using a steel punch and a hammer and a few words we won’t print here, the two drive pins were removed. The new steering coupler attaches to the steel flange that remained pressed on the lower steering shaft. The new steering coupler comes complete with new hardware to attach to the factory flange.
PHOTO 3 - The top photo shows the original steering coupler that was removed from the lower steering shaft in Photo 2. In that same top photo on the right we show a brand new reproduction steering coupler. The lower photo shows the new steering coupler installed on the original lower steering shaft. At this point it can be cleaned and detailed prior to reinstalling in your Turbo Regal.
BACK BREAKING WINTER IN OUR AREA -
As many of you have seen from the TV news, we have gotten more than our fair share of snow with three snowstorms back-to-back last week. We were closed last Thursday and Friday. In our immediate area, we got 20-22 inches total between the three storms.
The second blast was that very wet heavy snow that is very difficult to shovel. Here are four photos showing the aftermath of the first storm around our house. I think our granddaughter Devyn will be going to school until the end of June at the present rate of making up snow days!
PHOTO 4 - The top left photo shows the damage that the heavy snow has done on our front bushes. The top right photo shows the rear end of the 1952 Packard we put in the lower flowerbed last summer. It now just looks like a huge mound of snow. The bottom left photo shows the Plymouth van behind our pole building that I use to keep lawn supplies stored. In the bottom right photo is the regular Regal we keep for basic parts. Two of our outside cats call the front seat home.
NOT A GOOD TIME TO BE A NEW HIRE AT A CAR DEALERSHIP -
With so many large snowstorms in the last several weeks, I feel sorry for those new employees at local car dealerships. My guess is, with car sales being slow, the newest hire must have to go from car to car and remove all the snow by hand.
UPDATE ON "LIFE" TV SHOW GRAND NATIONAL -
In our 02-05-2014 Inner Circle issue, we wrote about CarFax® disproving the actual miles and the fact the car sold for $10,600.
One of our customers actually bought the car and had the top bid. He was able to get the car at a lesser price due to the issues shown with the mileage. He hopes to restore the car. Hopefully Anthony will email us some photos of the Grand National once he gets it.
UPDATE ON TURBO REGAL PINSTRIPES -
Referring to article in last week's Inner Circle, we heard from one customer who owns a 1986 Regal T-Type. His car is a dark grey with a burgundy interior. He discovered the car has a painted white pinstripe and on top of the painted white pinstripe is a vinyl silver stripe!
To verify the white pinstripe, the trunk ID code would be "11A," which is the code for the white stripe. It was a fairly common practice that if a car needed some paintwork, the body shop would paint up to a taped-on pinstripe, so the paintwork was not as obvious. In other words, when I was shopping to buy any Turbo Regal back in the day, if I saw a taped-on pinstripe, I would spent more time looking at the paint on the car to determine if the stripping was done to conceal paint work.
ATLANTIC CITY CLASSIC CAR SHOW -
February 28-March 2, 2014 - Atlantic City Convention Center
The Atlantic City Class Car Show is the next big event in our immediate area. The event runs from February 28th thru March 2nd. Times run from 9 am until 8 pm nightly. Besides several hundred vendors, cars of interest will be auctioned off each of the three days. I have not been to this event since they built the new convention center in Atlantic City. I hope to attend this year.
CAR FOR SALE 1987 GRAND NATIONAL -
This 1987 Grand National For Sale is located in Georgia and has just under 21,000 actual miles. It has factory T-Tops and runs out extremely nice. The current owner only put about 500 miles on it since buying it over a year ago.
The car is a two-owner car and has always been garaged. The current owner replaced the radiator, headliner, powermaster brake unit, as well as the brake proportioning valve. He also had a complete tune-up done.
The reason he is selling is they are expecting a baby. We originally handled this deal when the car was owned previously in New Jersey. The car does have some minor paint issues and needs a few things done to be perfect. It needs a power antenna, A/C charged, front bumper fillers, and the radio repaired. The price is $17,900.
For more info, contact me at - [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]
ONE OF OUR PERSONAL CARS FOR SALE -
We are looking at upgrading one of our cars. This may interest one of our local customers. Car is a 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix coupe with the 3800 engine. It is not the supercharged version. We are the second owner. Garaged and never smoked in. Silver with a grey cloth interior. Car is absolutely show quality inside and out. Coupes are very hard to find in nice condition with good miles on them.
I looked at several before purchasing this one. Car has new Hankook tires, new powder-coated brake rotors, new brake pads, new GM HD front and rear sway bars, new headlights, new tail lights, just to name a few upgrades. Car has most of the major options, except for the supercharger and sunroof. Has a clean Car Fax with only 65,000 original miles. Latest PA inspection, and runs and drives 100%. Nothing inside or out shows even a hint of any wear issues. Wheels are perfect. Everything works. Buyer gets all my records related to the car. Looking for $4,995 or best offer. You would be hard pressed to find a cleaner example. I rather sell it outright than use it as a trade.
For more details and photos, email me direct at - [email protected]
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1977-1988 GM A-Body & G-Body Cars including Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction STEERING COUPLER -
This reproduction steering coupler is for power steering applications only. The original steering coupler (rag joint) can become sloppy over years of use and if any engine fluids have spilled on it. The original GM steering coupler is part of your lower steering shaft. It is not a separate serviceable part from GM. It may not be visible because of the plastic collar that surrounds the lower steering shaft.
This cover can be unclipped and pushed upward to expose the steering coupler. In order to install this new steering coupler you need to remove the lower steering shaft and grind off the two drive pins that hold the original coupler to the upper flange that is pressed on to your lower steering shaft. By replacing your original steering coupler (rag joint) this is the least expensive option to restore your steering and eliminating any play you have related to a weak or sloppy steering coupler. Comes with easy to follow directions. Another great restoration to return your steering back to new again.
7569 - 1977-1988 GM A & G Body Cars including Buick Turbo Regal - Reproduction Steering Coupler - $36.95
HURST LICENSED -
“HURST EQUIPPED” - BLACK VINYL BANNERS
Our high-quality vinyl banners are fully Hurst licensed and made exclusively for Kirban Performance. The design features the HURST EQUIPPED emblem in red, white and black.
We offer this design in two sizes: 24" tall by 48" wide and 18" tall x 36" wide. Banners are Made in the U.S.A., are waterproof, weatherproof, and UV coated.
Each banner has metal eyelets on all the corners for easy hanging.
This is just one of several distinctive banner designs we offer.
Ideal to hang in any garage or workshop. Banners make an excellent gift for any Hurst enthusiast or mechanic.
8203 - Hurst Licensed - “HURST EQUIPPED” - 24" x 48" Black Vinyl Banner - $38.95
8204 - Hurst Licensed - “HURST EQUIPPED” - 18" x 36" Black Vinyl Banner - $28.95
Here is a link to these Hurst Equipped Banners on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=8203&submit_button=
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction DOOR PULL STRAPS (2) SET - BLACK or GREY
Over time, the door pull straps deteriorate, crack or fade, especially on the driver’s side. All the 1987 Grand Nationals had grey pull straps. The earlier years had black pull straps.
We offer reproduction replacements in black #7570 or grey #7571.
These are sold as a set of two. Since the original straps may have faded or discolored over the years, you should replace both at the same time.
NOTE - We also offer 1984-1987 Turbo Regal - Reproduction Strap Caps. We only offer them in a set of 2 (Part #6977) or set of 4 (Part #6978). Each door takes 2 caps.
If you are having the interior restored, this is the perfect time to replace the door pull straps.
Another great interior restoration item.
7570 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Reproduction BLACK Door Pull Straps (2) Set - $48.95 / set
7571 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Reproduction GREY Door Pull Straps (2) Set - $48.95 / set
Here is the link for these Door Pull Straps on our website: http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7570&submit_button=
1984-1987 Buick Regal (2-Door Models)Spoolfool Hand-laid FiberglassTwo-Piece FRONT Black Bumper Filler Panels and One-Piece REAR Black Bumper Filler
NOTE - These fit all two-door Regal models from 1984 through the 1987 Regal models, including all the 1984-1987 Turbo Regals.
Over time, the front and rear bumper fillers may deteriorate.
The front body bumper fillers are the flexible parts located between the front bumper and the front portion of the car on either side of the grille opening. Over the years, original front body bumper filler extensions can crack and crumble due to heat and age. They can also lose their shape and droop.
The factory original GM front body bumper fillers are no longer available. The original GM version had 2 pieces; a left and a right.
The rear bumper filler is located between the back bumper and the rear body panel.
The factory original GM rear body bumper filler is no longer available.
We offer reproductions from Spoolfool Filler panels, made in the U.S.A.
Mike Bernard owner of Spoolfool crafted the unique one-piece rear bumper filler from scratch and did about 90% of the work himself. He has over 200 hours into making the prototype. Every square inch has been created from scratch or created from an original set of the two-piece design.
Spoolfool bumper fillers are made from hand-laid fiberglass in the U.S.A. Due to the nature of these materials, small imperfections; pits, scratches, air bubbles, etc. are to be expected and are normal for this type of product. These fillers come in a gloss black gelcoat. The gelcoat is meant to be painted over; however, many customers are happy with how they look right out of the box. While the color may not be a perfect match, it may get you by until you're ready to paint the whole car. All products are pre-drilled and ready to install. The gelcoat finish is such a high quality that some owners simply install the fillers without having them painted. If you decide to paint these fillers, no flex agent is needed.
Some holes may need to be slightly elongated, as every car is unique from the factory.
Mike has had great success with his one-piece rear bumper filler design, which eliminates the overlap design that Buick had with the original two-piece design. The unique rear filler one-piece design gives the back end of your car a cleaner look. Mike had a real passion for this project, since he also owns a Grand National. He has been producing these filler since the summer of 2012.
All his fillers are pre-drilled from his templates. Since all the holes are pre-drilled, the fit is excellent. These reproductions attach exactly like the originals using all the same original attaching hardware. Once installed, these fillers look identical to the originals. The difference is the rear filler is one piece.
NOTE - For more info, search out the fillers on - www.turbobuick.com - website. There are also 2 videos on YouTube -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7b7GsO3ZVEY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7bxWHcLcvsM
Or you can search "SPOOLFOOL’S FIBERGLASS" on YouTube.
Because of the size of the one-piece rear filler, shipping is based on the oversized box. Shipping can be adjusted if two rear one-piece filler panels can be shipped at the same time as two will fit in a single box. Filler panels are made in the U.S.A.
ORDERING NOTE - In order to compute the proper shipping costs, you must contact our office to order any of these 3 parts - 215-766-1611. These are currently drop-shipped from California.
NOTE - We recommend these be installed by a qualified body shop.
7566 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (2-Door Models) Spoolfool Hand-laid Fiberglass Two-Piece FRONT Black Bumper Filler Panels - $320
7567 - 1984-1987 Two Door Regal (2-Door Models) Spoolfool Hand-laid Fiberglass One-Piece REAR Black Bumper Filler - $370
7568 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (2-Door Models) Spoolfool Hand-laid Fiberglass Two-Piece FRONT Black Bumper Filler Panels and Spoolfool Hand-laid Fiberglass One-Piece REAR Black Bumper Filler - $650 (save $40)
NOTE - We also offer other front and rear bumper filler panels. Check out our other Part numbers - #7152, #7067, #7440, 7438, and #7439.
Here is a link to these new Bumper Filler Panels on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7566&submit_button=
2014 - UPCOMING TURBO REGAL EVENTS FOR 2014 -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE OPEN HOUSE - SATURDAY - APRIL 12, 2014 - 2014 - RAIN or SHINE - 9 am until 3 pm
We will have our usual program, including a freshly prepared lunch by chef Russ and Nancy doing all the cooking. Our usual M & M contest, a no reserve auction, Free Yum Yums donuts in the AM with coffee. Special sale prices and new products will be on display.
CONFIRMED VENDORS & GUESTS - Chris’ Custom Apparel, who has a full line of Turbo Buick clothing will be set up. Pete Hoffman will have parts for sale, and I will also have used parts for sale (known as the "tagged and bagged" sale items). Coming for the first time is Bruce Shaw - a lawyer and accountant specializing in Collector Car Fraud. Terry Shaw specializes in collector car appraisals and insurance claims will also be there. Both Terry Shaw and Bruce Shaw will be doing a seminar. So be sure to put this event on your calendar.
More information will follow later this Spring. This is one of the first major events of 2014 for the Turbo Regal owner. Don't miss it.
Here is a link to this information on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/inner_circle.php?nak=286
MAGNA - MID-ATLANTI GRAND NATIONAL ASSOCIATION -
The local Magna Club has posted events related to the Turbo Regals for this coming summer season.
Here is a link for the latest information - http://www.magnabuick.com/show/index.shtml
GS NATIONALS - OCTOBER 15-18, 2014 -
Beech Bend Raceway, 798 Beech Bend Road, Bowling Green, Kentucky
Ron Joseph informs me that the dates for the 2014 GS Nationals are October 15th thru 18th. The intent to move it to September has been shelved at least for a year, according to Ron. We will share more info as it becomes available. Also for the first time ever there will be an auto cross open to all cars October 15th and 16th. 2014. This year ALL vehicles are welcome to participate and have some fun, prizes will be given away and sponsors will be there!
Click here for more info:
http://www.turbobuick.com/forums/threads/2014-gs-nationals-auto-cross-oct-15-16-th.407646/#post-3357189
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 WORKS -
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, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
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 -
Spring can’t come quick enough.
The snowfall measurements this winter has put the totals in the top five since they started to keep records in 1898.
1984-1987 TURBO REGAL LOWER STEERING SHAFTS -
Over the last several weeks we have been researching various options on what parts are available to replace any of the worn parts in the steering.
For the last several years we have been selling the rebuilt correct steering gear, Part #7380. We are fortunate enough to still be able to get them and not require a core in return.
As you know, the steering gear that GM used in the 1984-1987 Turbo Regals, Monte Carlo SS, and Cutlass 442 models had the faster steering ratio and more road feel over the standard steering gear.
During my research I discovered that the lower steering shaft with the steering coupler in our cars (1984-1987 Turbo Regals) was one single part number from GM. They are all the same whether column is a tilt or a non-tilt column. The steering coupler (also referred to as the "rag joint") was not serviceable by itself, as it was in some of the earlier GM cars. The lower steering shaft has long been discontinued by GM. You may not even notice your steering has any play unless you drive a Turbo Regal that has only a few thousand miles on it and then drive your Turbo Regal. Any play in the steering usually happens gradually over a period of time. Often times it will be the steering coupler as the culprit.
The steering coupler connects the lower steering shaft to the steering gear. It can start to fail due to age and coming in contact with various engine fluids over time. We recently found a source that had that steering coupler reproduced. It is the most inexpensive way to restore the steering to like new again. You do have to remove the lower steering shaft from your car. The reason the lower steering shaft needs to be removed is because you have to grind off the two drive pins to remove the old steering coupler from the flange that is pressed on to the lower steering shaft. The flange is pressed on to the lower steering shaft and the new steering coupler attaches to this flange. See the New Parts section in this issue. This part may not be on our website yet. If you do not see it on our website, simply call our office to order it. Part #7569, and the price is just $36.95.
NOTE - If you need a steering coupler for another GM car or truck, contact our office. We have a complete list of all the vehicles this steering coupler fits, which includes most GM cars from 1977 thru 1995 and most GM trucks from 1982 through 2002. This includes: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, Oldsmobile, and Pontiac.
Currently, I am researching all the other available options that I am aware of for other options for the lower steering shafts. This new reproduction steering coupler is the most inexpensive part available to restore your steering. We will have more information hopefully next week on other possible options you may want to consider. I may have also located a bearing kit to replace the lower bushing in the base of the upper steering shaft. In order to replace this bushing or bearing in the upper steering shaft, the lower steering shaft has to be removed first. It would be easier to do both projects at the same time to avoid removing the lower steering shaft twice. We expect to have more information on this upper steering bushing or bearing next week.
PHOTO 1 - Shows a typical Turbo Regal lower steering shaft once it has been removed from the car. Note the steering coupler (rag joint) at the base. The plastic sleeve has been slid up the shaft to expose the steering coupler.
PHOTO 2 - Shows a stock Turbo Regal lower steering shaft with the factory steering coupler removed. The two drive pins have been grinded off and, using a steel punch and a hammer and a few words we won’t print here, the two drive pins were removed. The new steering coupler attaches to the steel flange that remained pressed on the lower steering shaft. The new steering coupler comes complete with new hardware to attach to the factory flange.
PHOTO 3 - The top photo shows the original steering coupler that was removed from the lower steering shaft in Photo 2. In that same top photo on the right we show a brand new reproduction steering coupler. The lower photo shows the new steering coupler installed on the original lower steering shaft. At this point it can be cleaned and detailed prior to reinstalling in your Turbo Regal.
BACK BREAKING WINTER IN OUR AREA -
As many of you have seen from the TV news, we have gotten more than our fair share of snow with three snowstorms back-to-back last week. We were closed last Thursday and Friday. In our immediate area, we got 20-22 inches total between the three storms.
The second blast was that very wet heavy snow that is very difficult to shovel. Here are four photos showing the aftermath of the first storm around our house. I think our granddaughter Devyn will be going to school until the end of June at the present rate of making up snow days!
PHOTO 4 - The top left photo shows the damage that the heavy snow has done on our front bushes. The top right photo shows the rear end of the 1952 Packard we put in the lower flowerbed last summer. It now just looks like a huge mound of snow. The bottom left photo shows the Plymouth van behind our pole building that I use to keep lawn supplies stored. In the bottom right photo is the regular Regal we keep for basic parts. Two of our outside cats call the front seat home.
NOT A GOOD TIME TO BE A NEW HIRE AT A CAR DEALERSHIP -
With so many large snowstorms in the last several weeks, I feel sorry for those new employees at local car dealerships. My guess is, with car sales being slow, the newest hire must have to go from car to car and remove all the snow by hand.
UPDATE ON "LIFE" TV SHOW GRAND NATIONAL -
In our 02-05-2014 Inner Circle issue, we wrote about CarFax® disproving the actual miles and the fact the car sold for $10,600.
One of our customers actually bought the car and had the top bid. He was able to get the car at a lesser price due to the issues shown with the mileage. He hopes to restore the car. Hopefully Anthony will email us some photos of the Grand National once he gets it.
UPDATE ON TURBO REGAL PINSTRIPES -
Referring to article in last week's Inner Circle, we heard from one customer who owns a 1986 Regal T-Type. His car is a dark grey with a burgundy interior. He discovered the car has a painted white pinstripe and on top of the painted white pinstripe is a vinyl silver stripe!
To verify the white pinstripe, the trunk ID code would be "11A," which is the code for the white stripe. It was a fairly common practice that if a car needed some paintwork, the body shop would paint up to a taped-on pinstripe, so the paintwork was not as obvious. In other words, when I was shopping to buy any Turbo Regal back in the day, if I saw a taped-on pinstripe, I would spent more time looking at the paint on the car to determine if the stripping was done to conceal paint work.
ATLANTIC CITY CLASSIC CAR SHOW -
February 28-March 2, 2014 - Atlantic City Convention Center
The Atlantic City Class Car Show is the next big event in our immediate area. The event runs from February 28th thru March 2nd. Times run from 9 am until 8 pm nightly. Besides several hundred vendors, cars of interest will be auctioned off each of the three days. I have not been to this event since they built the new convention center in Atlantic City. I hope to attend this year.
CAR FOR SALE 1987 GRAND NATIONAL -
This 1987 Grand National For Sale is located in Georgia and has just under 21,000 actual miles. It has factory T-Tops and runs out extremely nice. The current owner only put about 500 miles on it since buying it over a year ago.
The car is a two-owner car and has always been garaged. The current owner replaced the radiator, headliner, powermaster brake unit, as well as the brake proportioning valve. He also had a complete tune-up done.
The reason he is selling is they are expecting a baby. We originally handled this deal when the car was owned previously in New Jersey. The car does have some minor paint issues and needs a few things done to be perfect. It needs a power antenna, A/C charged, front bumper fillers, and the radio repaired. The price is $17,900.
For more info, contact me at - [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]
ONE OF OUR PERSONAL CARS FOR SALE -
We are looking at upgrading one of our cars. This may interest one of our local customers. Car is a 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix coupe with the 3800 engine. It is not the supercharged version. We are the second owner. Garaged and never smoked in. Silver with a grey cloth interior. Car is absolutely show quality inside and out. Coupes are very hard to find in nice condition with good miles on them.
I looked at several before purchasing this one. Car has new Hankook tires, new powder-coated brake rotors, new brake pads, new GM HD front and rear sway bars, new headlights, new tail lights, just to name a few upgrades. Car has most of the major options, except for the supercharger and sunroof. Has a clean Car Fax with only 65,000 original miles. Latest PA inspection, and runs and drives 100%. Nothing inside or out shows even a hint of any wear issues. Wheels are perfect. Everything works. Buyer gets all my records related to the car. Looking for $4,995 or best offer. You would be hard pressed to find a cleaner example. I rather sell it outright than use it as a trade.
For more details and photos, email me direct at - [email protected]
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1977-1988 GM A-Body & G-Body Cars including Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction STEERING COUPLER -
This reproduction steering coupler is for power steering applications only. The original steering coupler (rag joint) can become sloppy over years of use and if any engine fluids have spilled on it. The original GM steering coupler is part of your lower steering shaft. It is not a separate serviceable part from GM. It may not be visible because of the plastic collar that surrounds the lower steering shaft.
This cover can be unclipped and pushed upward to expose the steering coupler. In order to install this new steering coupler you need to remove the lower steering shaft and grind off the two drive pins that hold the original coupler to the upper flange that is pressed on to your lower steering shaft. By replacing your original steering coupler (rag joint) this is the least expensive option to restore your steering and eliminating any play you have related to a weak or sloppy steering coupler. Comes with easy to follow directions. Another great restoration to return your steering back to new again.
7569 - 1977-1988 GM A & G Body Cars including Buick Turbo Regal - Reproduction Steering Coupler - $36.95
HURST LICENSED -
“HURST EQUIPPED” - BLACK VINYL BANNERS
Our high-quality vinyl banners are fully Hurst licensed and made exclusively for Kirban Performance. The design features the HURST EQUIPPED emblem in red, white and black.
We offer this design in two sizes: 24" tall by 48" wide and 18" tall x 36" wide. Banners are Made in the U.S.A., are waterproof, weatherproof, and UV coated.
Each banner has metal eyelets on all the corners for easy hanging.
This is just one of several distinctive banner designs we offer.
Ideal to hang in any garage or workshop. Banners make an excellent gift for any Hurst enthusiast or mechanic.
8203 - Hurst Licensed - “HURST EQUIPPED” - 24" x 48" Black Vinyl Banner - $38.95
8204 - Hurst Licensed - “HURST EQUIPPED” - 18" x 36" Black Vinyl Banner - $28.95
Here is a link to these Hurst Equipped Banners on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=8203&submit_button=
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction DOOR PULL STRAPS (2) SET - BLACK or GREY
Over time, the door pull straps deteriorate, crack or fade, especially on the driver’s side. All the 1987 Grand Nationals had grey pull straps. The earlier years had black pull straps.
We offer reproduction replacements in black #7570 or grey #7571.
These are sold as a set of two. Since the original straps may have faded or discolored over the years, you should replace both at the same time.
NOTE - We also offer 1984-1987 Turbo Regal - Reproduction Strap Caps. We only offer them in a set of 2 (Part #6977) or set of 4 (Part #6978). Each door takes 2 caps.
If you are having the interior restored, this is the perfect time to replace the door pull straps.
Another great interior restoration item.
7570 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Reproduction BLACK Door Pull Straps (2) Set - $48.95 / set
7571 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Reproduction GREY Door Pull Straps (2) Set - $48.95 / set
Here is the link for these Door Pull Straps on our website: http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7570&submit_button=
1984-1987 Buick Regal (2-Door Models)Spoolfool Hand-laid FiberglassTwo-Piece FRONT Black Bumper Filler Panels and One-Piece REAR Black Bumper Filler
NOTE - These fit all two-door Regal models from 1984 through the 1987 Regal models, including all the 1984-1987 Turbo Regals.
Over time, the front and rear bumper fillers may deteriorate.
The front body bumper fillers are the flexible parts located between the front bumper and the front portion of the car on either side of the grille opening. Over the years, original front body bumper filler extensions can crack and crumble due to heat and age. They can also lose their shape and droop.
The factory original GM front body bumper fillers are no longer available. The original GM version had 2 pieces; a left and a right.
The rear bumper filler is located between the back bumper and the rear body panel.
The factory original GM rear body bumper filler is no longer available.
We offer reproductions from Spoolfool Filler panels, made in the U.S.A.
Mike Bernard owner of Spoolfool crafted the unique one-piece rear bumper filler from scratch and did about 90% of the work himself. He has over 200 hours into making the prototype. Every square inch has been created from scratch or created from an original set of the two-piece design.
Spoolfool bumper fillers are made from hand-laid fiberglass in the U.S.A. Due to the nature of these materials, small imperfections; pits, scratches, air bubbles, etc. are to be expected and are normal for this type of product. These fillers come in a gloss black gelcoat. The gelcoat is meant to be painted over; however, many customers are happy with how they look right out of the box. While the color may not be a perfect match, it may get you by until you're ready to paint the whole car. All products are pre-drilled and ready to install. The gelcoat finish is such a high quality that some owners simply install the fillers without having them painted. If you decide to paint these fillers, no flex agent is needed.
Some holes may need to be slightly elongated, as every car is unique from the factory.
Mike has had great success with his one-piece rear bumper filler design, which eliminates the overlap design that Buick had with the original two-piece design. The unique rear filler one-piece design gives the back end of your car a cleaner look. Mike had a real passion for this project, since he also owns a Grand National. He has been producing these filler since the summer of 2012.
All his fillers are pre-drilled from his templates. Since all the holes are pre-drilled, the fit is excellent. These reproductions attach exactly like the originals using all the same original attaching hardware. Once installed, these fillers look identical to the originals. The difference is the rear filler is one piece.
NOTE - For more info, search out the fillers on - www.turbobuick.com - website. There are also 2 videos on YouTube -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7b7GsO3ZVEY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7bxWHcLcvsM
Or you can search "SPOOLFOOL’S FIBERGLASS" on YouTube.
Because of the size of the one-piece rear filler, shipping is based on the oversized box. Shipping can be adjusted if two rear one-piece filler panels can be shipped at the same time as two will fit in a single box. Filler panels are made in the U.S.A.
ORDERING NOTE - In order to compute the proper shipping costs, you must contact our office to order any of these 3 parts - 215-766-1611. These are currently drop-shipped from California.
NOTE - We recommend these be installed by a qualified body shop.
7566 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (2-Door Models) Spoolfool Hand-laid Fiberglass Two-Piece FRONT Black Bumper Filler Panels - $320
7567 - 1984-1987 Two Door Regal (2-Door Models) Spoolfool Hand-laid Fiberglass One-Piece REAR Black Bumper Filler - $370
7568 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (2-Door Models) Spoolfool Hand-laid Fiberglass Two-Piece FRONT Black Bumper Filler Panels and Spoolfool Hand-laid Fiberglass One-Piece REAR Black Bumper Filler - $650 (save $40)
NOTE - We also offer other front and rear bumper filler panels. Check out our other Part numbers - #7152, #7067, #7440, 7438, and #7439.
Here is a link to these new Bumper Filler Panels on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7566&submit_button=
2014 - UPCOMING TURBO REGAL EVENTS FOR 2014 -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE OPEN HOUSE - SATURDAY - APRIL 12, 2014 - 2014 - RAIN or SHINE - 9 am until 3 pm
We will have our usual program, including a freshly prepared lunch by chef Russ and Nancy doing all the cooking. Our usual M & M contest, a no reserve auction, Free Yum Yums donuts in the AM with coffee. Special sale prices and new products will be on display.
CONFIRMED VENDORS & GUESTS - Chris’ Custom Apparel, who has a full line of Turbo Buick clothing will be set up. Pete Hoffman will have parts for sale, and I will also have used parts for sale (known as the "tagged and bagged" sale items). Coming for the first time is Bruce Shaw - a lawyer and accountant specializing in Collector Car Fraud. Terry Shaw specializes in collector car appraisals and insurance claims will also be there. Both Terry Shaw and Bruce Shaw will be doing a seminar. So be sure to put this event on your calendar.
More information will follow later this Spring. This is one of the first major events of 2014 for the Turbo Regal owner. Don't miss it.
Here is a link to this information on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/inner_circle.php?nak=286
MAGNA - MID-ATLANTI GRAND NATIONAL ASSOCIATION -
The local Magna Club has posted events related to the Turbo Regals for this coming summer season.
Here is a link for the latest information - http://www.magnabuick.com/show/index.shtml
GS NATIONALS - OCTOBER 15-18, 2014 -
Beech Bend Raceway, 798 Beech Bend Road, Bowling Green, Kentucky
Ron Joseph informs me that the dates for the 2014 GS Nationals are October 15th thru 18th. The intent to move it to September has been shelved at least for a year, according to Ron. We will share more info as it becomes available. Also for the first time ever there will be an auto cross open to all cars October 15th and 16th. 2014. This year ALL vehicles are welcome to participate and have some fun, prizes will be given away and sponsors will be there!
Click here for more info:
http://www.turbobuick.com/forums/threads/2014-gs-nationals-auto-cross-oct-15-16-th.407646/#post-3357189
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 WORKS -
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, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
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 -
Spring can’t come quick enough.
The snowfall measurements this winter has put the totals in the top five since they started to keep records in 1898.