Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 01-13-2016 -
SEVERAL RARE USED PARTS FOR SALE THIS WEEK -
I made two unusual purchases since we published last week’s Inner Circle. One was buying an original used set of 4 GNX wheels. These wheels, as many of you know, are unique for several reasons. The offsets for the front are -15 and the rears are -23. These markings are noted on the back mesh area of each wheel. While several reproductions exist of the GNX wheel, none that I am aware of are exactly like the originals. Original GNX wheels are clear coated and the black mesh area is more of a satin black finish not glossy. I don’t believe any of the reproductions match the mesh pattern on the original GNX’s exactly. For pricing of this used set see rare parts section in this issue.
PHOTO 1 - We show 4 photos of these real GNX wheels. Keep in mind, they are not new and have been used for 25-plus years. They have no curb rash at all. The wheels are original. The center caps have the metal insert, which keeps them from falling off the wheels!
From another customer I bought his original full-size Grand National wheel with an original Goodyear GT spare tire. When he bought his Grand National brand new in 1987 he also ordered a full-size spare to keep in his trunk. That is the reason it’s still in mint condition. He claims, at the most, it was only on the road for about 5 miles. Even the air in the tire is probably from 1987! The reason he sold it to us is because years ago he upgraded to the Kirban-style 16 by 8 GNX wheels and bought an extra GNX-style wheel to have as a spare.
PHOTO 2 - Our photos show the front and back of this basically brand new Grand National wheel and original Goodyear GT tire. The tire even smells new! Notice how nice the back of the chrome steel wheel looks. You can tell it is basically brand new. This is for sale also under our Rare Parts section. It’s ironic that I was able to purchase two very rare items in the same week and both are wheel related!
REPRODUCTION DOOR JAMB STICKERS -
Last week I received two sets of the sample door jamb stickers that duplicate the two on the driver’s door of our 1987 Turbo Regal. While they are about 95% correct our source is personally redoing them so the stickers will be a perfect match to the originals on my car.
This final design file will be in his system so all of the 1987 Turbo Regal stickers for our market will be the same.
In my opinion, it makes no sense to buy cheap blank door jamb labels and expect to use a typewriter to imprint correctly your info and even come close to the original font style that GM used!
As I stated before, all the cars final production was done at the Pontiac plant. That is where the final assembly took place. The numbers which will vary are the VIN number, built date, the total gross weight (which depends on the options in your Turbo car.) I hope to have a price structure in place by sometime next week. This source has granted us an exclusive for the GM mail-order companies. What I am still researching is how the 1984, 1985, and 1986 Turbo Regal door jamb labels appear.
These door jamb stickers will be on the same tamper proof paper stock. That means that if you go to remove it from the car, the sticker will simply separate making it useless.
It turns out the owner of this company actually owned a 1987 Grand National with the astroroof option years ago. He is a muscle car enthusiast and has owned one of the ultra rare 1969 Firebird Trans Ams for a number of years. He is still working on duplicating my original Window Sticker.
Soon we will have him make us a sample of the SPI trunk ID label as well. Here again, it is something that in production varied from car to car, mostly because of the ink ribbon. Some were light and some were very dark. For example, mine is printed very dark, since it was probably printed soon after a ribbon or ink cartridge was replaced in the machine.
It’s important to remember, none of us were there at the Buick plant back in 1984-1987 to see how the various decals, etc. were printed. We all know perfection was not strictly enforced on decal placement.
One example that comes to mind, is how they affixed the large jacking instruction label on the inside trunk lid. I am sure most of you would like to have seen it done minus the air bubbles and maybe even position it straight on a flat area of the inside trunk lid! I got lucky as ours is perfect.
PHOTO 3 - We show the initial sample door jamb labels on tamper proof paper alongside my two original door jamb labels, which are still attached to my driver’s door. What you may not be able to see is that the number 1 is not exactly a perfect match in the copy to the original stickers found on my door. There are a few other very minor differences, which will be corrected. You can clearly see for a sample these are very close to being 100% correct. We hope to post a duplicate photo next week showing the new door jamb stickers that will be used for the 1987 Turbo Regals. He thinks his staff used a font they had in their files perhaps from a Monte Carlo or another similar vehicle. The font style from another plant may not be exactly the same as the one from the Pontiac plant.
My source is the best game in town and may be the only game in town that has this capability to do them correctly, plus is fully GM licensed. All this will go a long way into protecting the value of your car in years to come.
URGENT REQUEST BY US -
You can help us help others as we nail down exactly the proper format for what GM used on the 1984, 1985, and 1986 door jamb labels and the SPI (trunk ID label).
I have the 1987 nailed down exactly since all my original labels on our car are perfect.
What I need is a few of our readers of this Inner Circle issue to email me direct good clear copies of their door jamb labels and SPI trunk ID label and state what year Turbo Regal they appear on. This way I can email them to the company so they can look it up in their file system to see if they have it in their system.
Once we establish the proper format and any quirks that may appear, he will then mark that file so it remains consistent for our market. This is really nice of this company to do for us. This is because variations may exist for the other G-body examples, such as the Monte Carlo and Oldsmobile Cutlass, etc., since they were produced at other plants.
After we nail down the 1987 door jamb stickers and SPI label, we will send him copies of the 1984, 1985, 1986 original Buick Window Stickers. His copies will be correct.
So, please take a moment email me - [email protected] - a good photo of your door jamb stickers and SPI trunk ID label. In your email, state the year of the Turbo Regal. I only want those that are original to your knowledge. I need a few for comparison.
So, you can see we have several neat projects in the works for 2016. Keep in mind, all this work to make these as close to perfect takes time and comes at a cost.
MORE FROM MY ARCHIVES -
Last week we covered the 1985 Buick Press Kit. It was also in 1985 that Buick built a 1985 Buick Wildcat concept car, which was four wheel drive and had a McLaren engine based on the Buick 3.8 liter V-6 block mounted just behind the seats. The engine had 24 valves, dual overhead camshafts and field-programmable sequential-port fuel injection. Unlike previous concept models, this one emphasized the engine. The top of the power plant was visible through an opening in the rear deck. The body was composite carbon fiber and glass. It received the coveted 1986 award for prototypes projects by the International Jury of Car Design Award Turino-Piemonte, present at the Turin Italy Auto Show.
PHOTO 4 - Shows two photos of this 1985 Buick Wildcat concept car. I wonder where this car is today. Probably tucked away in one of the GM buildings. Does anyone know?
NEXT WEEK - MORE FROM OUR ARCHIVES
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
Our supplier for the new keys and locks we sell has found the correct door locks with the black bezels for the factory theft alarm. This version allows you to hook up the factory alarm.
We now offer two other options to replace the original rusted rear end cover that probably adorns the rear pumpkin on your car unless you’ve painted it. One is a new rear end cover that has been powder-coated glossy black. The other is a chrome-plate rear end cover. Both versions have a drain plug and come with all new coated hardware to prevent rust.
I personally always change all the fluids, especially the rear on every used car I buy to use.
See the New Products section for complete information and links to these new items on our website.
URGENT REQUEST BY US -
We have an urgent need for stock 1986-1987 Turbo Regal turbos. They can be blown. If you send us a turbo, we will issue you a Letter of Credit for $100.
Your cheapest method of shipping is by the post office - Kirban Performance Products, PO Box 1199, Plumsteadville, PA 18949.
Please help us help others maintain their cars.
REPRODUCTION GNX-STYLE DASH FOR SALE -
Complete pre-mounted GNX dash for sale. All of the cutting, fitting and alignment work is complete, just wire the dash and install the entire unit.
Kit Includes:
Applique with correct color indicators
Metal mounting plate
Plastic gauge bezel
Stock pre-cut cluster harness
Stock dash bezel (pre-cut with plastic gauge bezel attached)
New Stewart Warner speedometer with upper speedometer cable
New Stewart Warner tachometer
New Stewart Warner oil pressure gauge with sending unit
New Stewart Warner water temperature gauge with sending unit
New Stewart Warner fuel gauge
New Stewart Warner vacuum/ boost gauge
Plug-and-play harness
$2,250 plus shipping
This one was hand built by a good friend of ours who owns 3 Grand Nationals and has built several of these.
It comes with stock bezel already pre-cut so you do not have to cut your dash bezel. This kit eliminates any possible issues of trial and error since they have built several of these.
Buyer would have to inform us which dash is currently in the car - either digital or analog.
If interested, email me direct - [email protected] - I can provide photos.
UNIQUE NEW PRODUCT IN THE WORKS -
We have one unique item now in the works. It’s being produced by Spoolfool exclusively for our company. It will be something clever for those owners that show their pride and joy at car shows.
He is shipping our first ones with the next shipment of his fillers.
ON THE NEWS FRONT -
The Jan/Feb 2016 issue of CARS & PARTS magazine has a 6-page article on bringing back a 1984 Grand National that had been sitting for over dozen years.
The article, complete with photos, detailed the basic things he had to do to just make it road worthy. The car belonged to his wife’s father. The car had been sitting in their basement. Once they made it road worthy. they took it on a 300-mile trip with absolutely no issues.
I had to chuckle when it stated that the new Bosch plug wires was an easy installation. I find that hard to believe if he spent the time to route the plug wires the same as Buick did!
He did state that changing the valve cover gasket on the passenger’s side was not exactly easy!
BREAKING NEWS - TR-6 HIGH TECH IGNITION SYSTEM IN STOCK -
We just got in 2 of these TR-6 High Tech Ignition Systems from Bob Bailey, our part #7442 TR-6 High Tech Ignition System or #7443 TR-6 High Tech Ignition System and Custom-Cut High-Performance Grey Plug Wires.
Here is a link to these parts on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7442&submit_button=
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
We currently need original good 1986-1987 AC Delco mass air flow sensors. We allow $25 Letter of Credit for each core.
TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock ones. They must be complete. We will issue you a $100 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 -
ATTN - DENNIS
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADSVILLE, 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.
VEHICLES FOR SALE -
From time to time, whenever we spot an unusual or an exceptional car or truck for sale, or one we have for sale, we will put a blurb in our weekly Inner Circle. Also, any cars that our customers have for sale will be featured here and you can see their car with photos on our website. In this category, we will run the descriptions for two-to-three weeks and, if there is no interest in that particular vehicle, it will be deleted the following week. Any new vehicles that we add will appear first, so the oldest listing would be at the end of this section.
If any of these vehicles perk your interest, email me personally - [email protected] - for more information and photos.
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]
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
STOCK REPLACEMENT REAR END COVERS -
POWDER-COATED GLOSSY BLACK OR CHROME-PLATED - AND HARDWARE (10) SET
These stock replacement metal rear end covers come complete with a drain plug, new bolts and gasket. Rear end covers closely resemble the stock rear end cover. We offer two finishes - powder-coated glossy black and chrome-plated. The hardware is coated to help prevent rust.
Either cover will fit the stock 8.5 rear end (10-bolt) found on all original 1984-1987 Turbo Regals. The powder-coated glossy black cover is an excellent choice to retain a stock appearance.
It measures about 1-1/2″ deep. This will clear the factory crossflow muffler.
NOTE - Because of the shiny finishes, the covers are difficult to photograph.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7252 Stock Replacement Rear End Cover, Gasket & Hardware, #7605 METCO High-Performance Lower Rear Control Arms (2) and Hardware, #7169 Reproduction GNX Rear Seat Brace Kit, #6820 KYB Front and Rear Gas Shocks (4) Set, #6678 Bilstein Gas Shocks (4) Set, #1520 Variable Rate Rear Springs (2), and #1586 Powder-coated Black Rear Seat Frame Brace Kit®.
If you want to replace the original hardware on your car, we also offer the hardware set separately, #7711.
NOTE - Each cover comes with the gasket and hardware.
An excellent upgrade for the 1984-1987 Turbo Regal stock rear end.
7709 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Stock Replacement Rear End Cover -
Powder-coated GLOSSY BLACK and Hardware (10) Set - $36.95
7710 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Stock Replacement Rear End Cover -
CHROME-PLATED and Hardware (10) Set - $32.95
7711 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Stock Replacement Rear End Cover HARDWARE (10) Set - $9.95
Here is a link to these Rear End Covers on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7709&submit_button=
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal with the Factory Alarm Option -
DOOR LOCKS (2) with Black Bezels
If your car is equipped with the factory GM alarm system, these are the correct door locks and hardware for that factory option.
It has the proper tang on the back end, so you can hook up the factory alarm sensor to the end.
These locks have the black bezels, which would be correct for the Grand Nationals, T-Types and Turbo-Ts with the WO2 black-out package.
If you do not have the factory GM alarm system you need to order part #7651 OE GM Doors (2) and Trunk (1) Cylinders with BLACK Bezels with 2 Pre-cut Keys Set or #7652 OE GM Doors (2) and Trunk (1) Cylinders with BRIGHT Bezels with 2 Pre-cut Keys Set.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7186 Reproduction Black Outside Door Handles (2) and #7588 GM New Plastic Gaskets (2) for Exterior Door Handles.
An excellent replacement item for any exterior restoration.
7712 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal with the Factory Alarm Option - Reproduction Door Locks (2) with Black Bezels - $39.95
NOTE - These are only for cars with the factory alarm option.
Here is a link to these Door Locks on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44292/Regal+with+the+Factory+Alarm+Option+-+DOOR+LOCKS+%282%29+with+Black+Bezels+%237712.html
1978-1987 GM Cars and Trucks (Including Buick Regal) -
ORIGINAL GM USED LIGHTED REARVIEW MIRROR WITH LED LIGHTS
This used original GM lighted rearview mirror fits all GM cars and trucks from the late 1970s through the early 1990s.
Mirror looks almost like the original mirror found in a 1984-1987 Turbo Regal.
Although the mirror is used, each one is cleaned and tested, then fitted with 2 new LED bulbs (a $20 value.) The original tube style bulbs are also included.
The LEDs lights shine a whiter brighter light, do not draw as many amps, and do not get hot like original bulbs.
Ideal if you have a T-Tops car.
It is easy to install with a simple 2-wire hook up - 1 wire is ground and the other wire is for power.
Supplies may be limited. GM made about six different styles of lighted rearview mirrors, so sometimes we are limited as to how many we can locate that match the original stock mirror style.
NOTE - You may also be interested in this related part - #7707 Used Factory Original Rearview Mirror.
An excellent replacement item for any interior restoration.
7708 - 1978-1987 GM Cars & Trucks (Including Buick Regal) -
Original GM Used Lighted Rearview Mirror with LED Lights - $28.95
1982-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
USED FACTORY ORIGINAL REARVIEW MIRROR
We have a limited supply of used factory original GM rearview mirrors.
NOTE - This mirror is also correct for all 1982-1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass and Chevrolet Monte Carlo models.
If the lamination is bad or your car’s rearview mirror is cracked, this is an excellent replacement.
Each complete rearview mirror has been cleaned and is ready to install.
NOTE - You may also be interested in this related part - #7708 Used Original GM Lighted Rearview Mirror with LED Lights
An excellent replacement item for any interior restoration.
7707 - 1982-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Used Factory Original Rearview Mirror - $21.95
Here is a link to these mirrors on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7707&submit_button=
1982-1987 Buick Regal -
OEM “FRONT” BUMPER IMPACT CUSHION & THREAD CUTTING NUTS (25) PACK
This is an OEM front bumper impact cushion. This is the first part of the bumper to get hit in any minor accident. You simply remove the bumper to replace this rubber strip. This is 100% identical to the original one.
NOTE - This front bumper impact cushion is black, which is correct for all Grand Nationals and GNX models and is exactly like the original.
For other Turbo models you may want to add the painted strip in the indention to be original.
Each comes with a pack of 25 thread cutting nuts. These are the unique nuts needed to secure the impact cushion to the metal bumper. We also offer this pack of nuts separately, Part #7451.
Our photo shows this front impact cushion at the top. We’ve noted the placement on the front bumper with a red arrow in the middle photo. The inset photo shows the 25 thread cutting nuts, which comes with it.
NOTE - We also offer the Reproduction REAR Bumper Impact Cushion, Part #7450.
Another great exterior restoration item.
7557 - 1982-1987 Buick Regal -
OEM FRONT Bumper Impact Cushion & Thread Cutting Nuts (25) Pack - $154.95
Here is a link to this Front Impact Cushion on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44285/OEM+FRONT+BUMPER+IMPACT+CUSHION+%26++THREAD+CUTTING+NUTS+%2825%29+PACK+%237557.html
ALWAYS LOOKING FOR IDEAS -
If you have any product ideas that would fit our Turbo Buick market that you would like to see available, email me direct - [email protected]
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION FOR TURBO REGAL PARTS -
Got any Turbo Buick parts you are not using? Why not cash them in for parts you need with a Letter of Credit. Simply email me a list - [email protected].
Also, we are still buying dead or partially dead 1984-1987 Turbo Regals under $4,000 that are within 250 to 350 miles of our location.
NOTE - ABOUT LINKS IN THE INNER CIRCLE -
We have heard from a couple people that have had problems with the links in our Inner Circle.
When we check the links, they work fine. However, if you are not able to be directed to the exact website page or internet site, you can "copy" and "paste" the link into the URL in your browser (such as Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
Most people having problems are using Internet Explorer… If you are having issues with links, try another browser to see if it works.
You may need to "UPDATE" your browser to be use you are using the current version.
NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE -
We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these have to be low-resolution photos to work on the Inner Circle segments on the website, any photos of text don't appear clear when enlarged. This is a problem when you are trying to see numbers, such as those on the VIN labels or pages from Options booklet. Also, because of photo reproduction and computer screen variations, the colors may not be true to the actual product or photo.
If you would like to have us email you any photo at the higher resolution for viewing, just email us and we will email them to you. Be sure to be specific on which pictures you want to see - Reference Inner Circle date and photo number 1, 2, 3 or 4 - [email protected]
ABOUT OUR EMAILS -
Any inquiries concerning used parts, you must email me direct - [email protected] - I will answer you. However, if I fail to answer you within 24 hours, please email us again. Since expanding into used parts, I get a lot of emails and sometimes I may forget your request or may not remember who requested the item.
IN CLOSING - Tough loss Sunday for the Vikings!
SEVERAL RARE USED PARTS FOR SALE THIS WEEK -
I made two unusual purchases since we published last week’s Inner Circle. One was buying an original used set of 4 GNX wheels. These wheels, as many of you know, are unique for several reasons. The offsets for the front are -15 and the rears are -23. These markings are noted on the back mesh area of each wheel. While several reproductions exist of the GNX wheel, none that I am aware of are exactly like the originals. Original GNX wheels are clear coated and the black mesh area is more of a satin black finish not glossy. I don’t believe any of the reproductions match the mesh pattern on the original GNX’s exactly. For pricing of this used set see rare parts section in this issue.
PHOTO 1 - We show 4 photos of these real GNX wheels. Keep in mind, they are not new and have been used for 25-plus years. They have no curb rash at all. The wheels are original. The center caps have the metal insert, which keeps them from falling off the wheels!
From another customer I bought his original full-size Grand National wheel with an original Goodyear GT spare tire. When he bought his Grand National brand new in 1987 he also ordered a full-size spare to keep in his trunk. That is the reason it’s still in mint condition. He claims, at the most, it was only on the road for about 5 miles. Even the air in the tire is probably from 1987! The reason he sold it to us is because years ago he upgraded to the Kirban-style 16 by 8 GNX wheels and bought an extra GNX-style wheel to have as a spare.
PHOTO 2 - Our photos show the front and back of this basically brand new Grand National wheel and original Goodyear GT tire. The tire even smells new! Notice how nice the back of the chrome steel wheel looks. You can tell it is basically brand new. This is for sale also under our Rare Parts section. It’s ironic that I was able to purchase two very rare items in the same week and both are wheel related!
REPRODUCTION DOOR JAMB STICKERS -
Last week I received two sets of the sample door jamb stickers that duplicate the two on the driver’s door of our 1987 Turbo Regal. While they are about 95% correct our source is personally redoing them so the stickers will be a perfect match to the originals on my car.
This final design file will be in his system so all of the 1987 Turbo Regal stickers for our market will be the same.
In my opinion, it makes no sense to buy cheap blank door jamb labels and expect to use a typewriter to imprint correctly your info and even come close to the original font style that GM used!
As I stated before, all the cars final production was done at the Pontiac plant. That is where the final assembly took place. The numbers which will vary are the VIN number, built date, the total gross weight (which depends on the options in your Turbo car.) I hope to have a price structure in place by sometime next week. This source has granted us an exclusive for the GM mail-order companies. What I am still researching is how the 1984, 1985, and 1986 Turbo Regal door jamb labels appear.
These door jamb stickers will be on the same tamper proof paper stock. That means that if you go to remove it from the car, the sticker will simply separate making it useless.
It turns out the owner of this company actually owned a 1987 Grand National with the astroroof option years ago. He is a muscle car enthusiast and has owned one of the ultra rare 1969 Firebird Trans Ams for a number of years. He is still working on duplicating my original Window Sticker.
Soon we will have him make us a sample of the SPI trunk ID label as well. Here again, it is something that in production varied from car to car, mostly because of the ink ribbon. Some were light and some were very dark. For example, mine is printed very dark, since it was probably printed soon after a ribbon or ink cartridge was replaced in the machine.
It’s important to remember, none of us were there at the Buick plant back in 1984-1987 to see how the various decals, etc. were printed. We all know perfection was not strictly enforced on decal placement.
One example that comes to mind, is how they affixed the large jacking instruction label on the inside trunk lid. I am sure most of you would like to have seen it done minus the air bubbles and maybe even position it straight on a flat area of the inside trunk lid! I got lucky as ours is perfect.
PHOTO 3 - We show the initial sample door jamb labels on tamper proof paper alongside my two original door jamb labels, which are still attached to my driver’s door. What you may not be able to see is that the number 1 is not exactly a perfect match in the copy to the original stickers found on my door. There are a few other very minor differences, which will be corrected. You can clearly see for a sample these are very close to being 100% correct. We hope to post a duplicate photo next week showing the new door jamb stickers that will be used for the 1987 Turbo Regals. He thinks his staff used a font they had in their files perhaps from a Monte Carlo or another similar vehicle. The font style from another plant may not be exactly the same as the one from the Pontiac plant.
My source is the best game in town and may be the only game in town that has this capability to do them correctly, plus is fully GM licensed. All this will go a long way into protecting the value of your car in years to come.
URGENT REQUEST BY US -
You can help us help others as we nail down exactly the proper format for what GM used on the 1984, 1985, and 1986 door jamb labels and the SPI (trunk ID label).
I have the 1987 nailed down exactly since all my original labels on our car are perfect.
What I need is a few of our readers of this Inner Circle issue to email me direct good clear copies of their door jamb labels and SPI trunk ID label and state what year Turbo Regal they appear on. This way I can email them to the company so they can look it up in their file system to see if they have it in their system.
Once we establish the proper format and any quirks that may appear, he will then mark that file so it remains consistent for our market. This is really nice of this company to do for us. This is because variations may exist for the other G-body examples, such as the Monte Carlo and Oldsmobile Cutlass, etc., since they were produced at other plants.
After we nail down the 1987 door jamb stickers and SPI label, we will send him copies of the 1984, 1985, 1986 original Buick Window Stickers. His copies will be correct.
So, please take a moment email me - [email protected] - a good photo of your door jamb stickers and SPI trunk ID label. In your email, state the year of the Turbo Regal. I only want those that are original to your knowledge. I need a few for comparison.
So, you can see we have several neat projects in the works for 2016. Keep in mind, all this work to make these as close to perfect takes time and comes at a cost.
MORE FROM MY ARCHIVES -
Last week we covered the 1985 Buick Press Kit. It was also in 1985 that Buick built a 1985 Buick Wildcat concept car, which was four wheel drive and had a McLaren engine based on the Buick 3.8 liter V-6 block mounted just behind the seats. The engine had 24 valves, dual overhead camshafts and field-programmable sequential-port fuel injection. Unlike previous concept models, this one emphasized the engine. The top of the power plant was visible through an opening in the rear deck. The body was composite carbon fiber and glass. It received the coveted 1986 award for prototypes projects by the International Jury of Car Design Award Turino-Piemonte, present at the Turin Italy Auto Show.
PHOTO 4 - Shows two photos of this 1985 Buick Wildcat concept car. I wonder where this car is today. Probably tucked away in one of the GM buildings. Does anyone know?
NEXT WEEK - MORE FROM OUR ARCHIVES
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
Our supplier for the new keys and locks we sell has found the correct door locks with the black bezels for the factory theft alarm. This version allows you to hook up the factory alarm.
We now offer two other options to replace the original rusted rear end cover that probably adorns the rear pumpkin on your car unless you’ve painted it. One is a new rear end cover that has been powder-coated glossy black. The other is a chrome-plate rear end cover. Both versions have a drain plug and come with all new coated hardware to prevent rust.
I personally always change all the fluids, especially the rear on every used car I buy to use.
See the New Products section for complete information and links to these new items on our website.
URGENT REQUEST BY US -
We have an urgent need for stock 1986-1987 Turbo Regal turbos. They can be blown. If you send us a turbo, we will issue you a Letter of Credit for $100.
Your cheapest method of shipping is by the post office - Kirban Performance Products, PO Box 1199, Plumsteadville, PA 18949.
Please help us help others maintain their cars.
REPRODUCTION GNX-STYLE DASH FOR SALE -
Complete pre-mounted GNX dash for sale. All of the cutting, fitting and alignment work is complete, just wire the dash and install the entire unit.
Kit Includes:
Applique with correct color indicators
Metal mounting plate
Plastic gauge bezel
Stock pre-cut cluster harness
Stock dash bezel (pre-cut with plastic gauge bezel attached)
New Stewart Warner speedometer with upper speedometer cable
New Stewart Warner tachometer
New Stewart Warner oil pressure gauge with sending unit
New Stewart Warner water temperature gauge with sending unit
New Stewart Warner fuel gauge
New Stewart Warner vacuum/ boost gauge
Plug-and-play harness
$2,250 plus shipping
This one was hand built by a good friend of ours who owns 3 Grand Nationals and has built several of these.
It comes with stock bezel already pre-cut so you do not have to cut your dash bezel. This kit eliminates any possible issues of trial and error since they have built several of these.
Buyer would have to inform us which dash is currently in the car - either digital or analog.
If interested, email me direct - [email protected] - I can provide photos.
UNIQUE NEW PRODUCT IN THE WORKS -
We have one unique item now in the works. It’s being produced by Spoolfool exclusively for our company. It will be something clever for those owners that show their pride and joy at car shows.
He is shipping our first ones with the next shipment of his fillers.
ON THE NEWS FRONT -
The Jan/Feb 2016 issue of CARS & PARTS magazine has a 6-page article on bringing back a 1984 Grand National that had been sitting for over dozen years.
The article, complete with photos, detailed the basic things he had to do to just make it road worthy. The car belonged to his wife’s father. The car had been sitting in their basement. Once they made it road worthy. they took it on a 300-mile trip with absolutely no issues.
I had to chuckle when it stated that the new Bosch plug wires was an easy installation. I find that hard to believe if he spent the time to route the plug wires the same as Buick did!
He did state that changing the valve cover gasket on the passenger’s side was not exactly easy!
BREAKING NEWS - TR-6 HIGH TECH IGNITION SYSTEM IN STOCK -
We just got in 2 of these TR-6 High Tech Ignition Systems from Bob Bailey, our part #7442 TR-6 High Tech Ignition System or #7443 TR-6 High Tech Ignition System and Custom-Cut High-Performance Grey Plug Wires.
Here is a link to these parts on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7442&submit_button=
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
We currently need original good 1986-1987 AC Delco mass air flow sensors. We allow $25 Letter of Credit for each core.
TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock ones. They must be complete. We will issue you a $100 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 -
ATTN - DENNIS
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADSVILLE, 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.
VEHICLES FOR SALE -
From time to time, whenever we spot an unusual or an exceptional car or truck for sale, or one we have for sale, we will put a blurb in our weekly Inner Circle. Also, any cars that our customers have for sale will be featured here and you can see their car with photos on our website. In this category, we will run the descriptions for two-to-three weeks and, if there is no interest in that particular vehicle, it will be deleted the following week. Any new vehicles that we add will appear first, so the oldest listing would be at the end of this section.
If any of these vehicles perk your interest, email me personally - [email protected] - for more information and photos.
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]
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
STOCK REPLACEMENT REAR END COVERS -
POWDER-COATED GLOSSY BLACK OR CHROME-PLATED - AND HARDWARE (10) SET
These stock replacement metal rear end covers come complete with a drain plug, new bolts and gasket. Rear end covers closely resemble the stock rear end cover. We offer two finishes - powder-coated glossy black and chrome-plated. The hardware is coated to help prevent rust.
Either cover will fit the stock 8.5 rear end (10-bolt) found on all original 1984-1987 Turbo Regals. The powder-coated glossy black cover is an excellent choice to retain a stock appearance.
It measures about 1-1/2″ deep. This will clear the factory crossflow muffler.
NOTE - Because of the shiny finishes, the covers are difficult to photograph.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7252 Stock Replacement Rear End Cover, Gasket & Hardware, #7605 METCO High-Performance Lower Rear Control Arms (2) and Hardware, #7169 Reproduction GNX Rear Seat Brace Kit, #6820 KYB Front and Rear Gas Shocks (4) Set, #6678 Bilstein Gas Shocks (4) Set, #1520 Variable Rate Rear Springs (2), and #1586 Powder-coated Black Rear Seat Frame Brace Kit®.
If you want to replace the original hardware on your car, we also offer the hardware set separately, #7711.
NOTE - Each cover comes with the gasket and hardware.
An excellent upgrade for the 1984-1987 Turbo Regal stock rear end.
7709 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Stock Replacement Rear End Cover -
Powder-coated GLOSSY BLACK and Hardware (10) Set - $36.95
7710 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Stock Replacement Rear End Cover -
CHROME-PLATED and Hardware (10) Set - $32.95
7711 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Stock Replacement Rear End Cover HARDWARE (10) Set - $9.95
Here is a link to these Rear End Covers on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7709&submit_button=
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal with the Factory Alarm Option -
DOOR LOCKS (2) with Black Bezels
If your car is equipped with the factory GM alarm system, these are the correct door locks and hardware for that factory option.
It has the proper tang on the back end, so you can hook up the factory alarm sensor to the end.
These locks have the black bezels, which would be correct for the Grand Nationals, T-Types and Turbo-Ts with the WO2 black-out package.
If you do not have the factory GM alarm system you need to order part #7651 OE GM Doors (2) and Trunk (1) Cylinders with BLACK Bezels with 2 Pre-cut Keys Set or #7652 OE GM Doors (2) and Trunk (1) Cylinders with BRIGHT Bezels with 2 Pre-cut Keys Set.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7186 Reproduction Black Outside Door Handles (2) and #7588 GM New Plastic Gaskets (2) for Exterior Door Handles.
An excellent replacement item for any exterior restoration.
7712 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal with the Factory Alarm Option - Reproduction Door Locks (2) with Black Bezels - $39.95
NOTE - These are only for cars with the factory alarm option.
Here is a link to these Door Locks on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44292/Regal+with+the+Factory+Alarm+Option+-+DOOR+LOCKS+%282%29+with+Black+Bezels+%237712.html
1978-1987 GM Cars and Trucks (Including Buick Regal) -
ORIGINAL GM USED LIGHTED REARVIEW MIRROR WITH LED LIGHTS
This used original GM lighted rearview mirror fits all GM cars and trucks from the late 1970s through the early 1990s.
Mirror looks almost like the original mirror found in a 1984-1987 Turbo Regal.
Although the mirror is used, each one is cleaned and tested, then fitted with 2 new LED bulbs (a $20 value.) The original tube style bulbs are also included.
The LEDs lights shine a whiter brighter light, do not draw as many amps, and do not get hot like original bulbs.
Ideal if you have a T-Tops car.
It is easy to install with a simple 2-wire hook up - 1 wire is ground and the other wire is for power.
Supplies may be limited. GM made about six different styles of lighted rearview mirrors, so sometimes we are limited as to how many we can locate that match the original stock mirror style.
NOTE - You may also be interested in this related part - #7707 Used Factory Original Rearview Mirror.
An excellent replacement item for any interior restoration.
7708 - 1978-1987 GM Cars & Trucks (Including Buick Regal) -
Original GM Used Lighted Rearview Mirror with LED Lights - $28.95
1982-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
USED FACTORY ORIGINAL REARVIEW MIRROR
We have a limited supply of used factory original GM rearview mirrors.
NOTE - This mirror is also correct for all 1982-1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass and Chevrolet Monte Carlo models.
If the lamination is bad or your car’s rearview mirror is cracked, this is an excellent replacement.
Each complete rearview mirror has been cleaned and is ready to install.
NOTE - You may also be interested in this related part - #7708 Used Original GM Lighted Rearview Mirror with LED Lights
An excellent replacement item for any interior restoration.
7707 - 1982-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Used Factory Original Rearview Mirror - $21.95
Here is a link to these mirrors on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7707&submit_button=
1982-1987 Buick Regal -
OEM “FRONT” BUMPER IMPACT CUSHION & THREAD CUTTING NUTS (25) PACK
This is an OEM front bumper impact cushion. This is the first part of the bumper to get hit in any minor accident. You simply remove the bumper to replace this rubber strip. This is 100% identical to the original one.
NOTE - This front bumper impact cushion is black, which is correct for all Grand Nationals and GNX models and is exactly like the original.
For other Turbo models you may want to add the painted strip in the indention to be original.
Each comes with a pack of 25 thread cutting nuts. These are the unique nuts needed to secure the impact cushion to the metal bumper. We also offer this pack of nuts separately, Part #7451.
Our photo shows this front impact cushion at the top. We’ve noted the placement on the front bumper with a red arrow in the middle photo. The inset photo shows the 25 thread cutting nuts, which comes with it.
NOTE - We also offer the Reproduction REAR Bumper Impact Cushion, Part #7450.
Another great exterior restoration item.
7557 - 1982-1987 Buick Regal -
OEM FRONT Bumper Impact Cushion & Thread Cutting Nuts (25) Pack - $154.95
Here is a link to this Front Impact Cushion on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44285/OEM+FRONT+BUMPER+IMPACT+CUSHION+%26++THREAD+CUTTING+NUTS+%2825%29+PACK+%237557.html
ALWAYS LOOKING FOR IDEAS -
If you have any product ideas that would fit our Turbo Buick market that you would like to see available, email me direct - [email protected]
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION FOR TURBO REGAL PARTS -
Got any Turbo Buick parts you are not using? Why not cash them in for parts you need with a Letter of Credit. Simply email me a list - [email protected].
Also, we are still buying dead or partially dead 1984-1987 Turbo Regals under $4,000 that are within 250 to 350 miles of our location.
NOTE - ABOUT LINKS IN THE INNER CIRCLE -
We have heard from a couple people that have had problems with the links in our Inner Circle.
When we check the links, they work fine. However, if you are not able to be directed to the exact website page or internet site, you can "copy" and "paste" the link into the URL in your browser (such as Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
Most people having problems are using Internet Explorer… If you are having issues with links, try another browser to see if it works.
You may need to "UPDATE" your browser to be use you are using the current version.
NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE -
We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these have to be low-resolution photos to work on the Inner Circle segments on the website, any photos of text don't appear clear when enlarged. This is a problem when you are trying to see numbers, such as those on the VIN labels or pages from Options booklet. Also, because of photo reproduction and computer screen variations, the colors may not be true to the actual product or photo.
If you would like to have us email you any photo at the higher resolution for viewing, just email us and we will email them to you. Be sure to be specific on which pictures you want to see - Reference Inner Circle date and photo number 1, 2, 3 or 4 - [email protected]
ABOUT OUR EMAILS -
Any inquiries concerning used parts, you must email me direct - [email protected] - I will answer you. However, if I fail to answer you within 24 hours, please email us again. Since expanding into used parts, I get a lot of emails and sometimes I may forget your request or may not remember who requested the item.
IN CLOSING - Tough loss Sunday for the Vikings!