Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 01-06-2021 -
HAPPY AND A HEALTHY NEW YEAR TO ALL -
PHOTO 1 - We show the cartoon we had done in December 2014 to welcome in the year 2015. The words still carry the same meaning today. “Treat it right and it won’t let you down.” I translate that wording to the value of the Turbo Regal and how it has steadily increased each year. The values have constantly been going up every year. Case in point the last big year I sold 1986-1987 Turbo Regals was 2007 when I did 13 of them. One had 18,200 miles, another had 20,800 miles and the third low mileage Grand National that year had 29,100. I sold them back then for $14,800, $24,00 and $21,500. You can easily see how in 13 years those numbers would be quite a bit higher today. In today's world 2021 each of these examples would probably fetch between $28,000 and $32,000 with no trouble especially if marketed under my name.
The reason I say under my name is because every Turbo Regal I sold I did all the missing body bushings and the front connecting and front brace set. This is besides any of the minor missing parts we would install. In other words each car I sold I addressed the minor issues to make it as nice as possible before I sold it. I never bought a Turbo Regal that was missing a VIN plate or a SPID trunk label. I made sure I got all the critical documents and the mileage was recorded correctly on the title. Almost all my purchases came from our customers.
SEAT BELTS -
A few months ago I was having a discussion with a long time friend of mine Don Stalker, about seat belts and when they first appeared in American cars. He had a 1956 Ford convertible that he recently sold and he claimed seat belts were an option that year as well as a padded dashboard was available in the Fords as an option. I found this hard to believe as in High School I had a top of the line 1956 Ford it was the Crown Victoria model. Black and white with matching cloth interior. I paid $500 back in 1964 for it. In the latest price guide book I have, the 2015 Price Guide book it was worth almost 50 grand if in mint condition. I am unsure when GM first started to offer seat belts as an option prior to it becoming a standard feature.
I also remember the GTOs I was buying and selling. The seat belts back then in 1964 was an option as I can only recall seeing them once in a while in those models. I believe for the model year 1965 seat belts became standard among most car manufacturers. I do remember in 1966 or 1967 the very first headrest feature appeared on GTOs and shoulder harnesses were an option. I just could not believe Ford offered seat belts as an option way back in 1956.
Turns out I was wrong. (Not the first time). Don Stalker went through his massive Ford literature collection and found his 1956 brochure. The wording on the seat belt option was they were one third stronger than required for airlines back then! The advertisement also talks about the optional padded dash board which would provide a crash cushion being 5 times more shock absorbent than foam rubber. The rear view mirror was a double swivel format that gives on impact.
Volvo takes credit for in 1959 was the very first automaker to make seat belts standard in its automobiles. In the 1970s my wife and I owned 2 Volvos and I towed for a Volvo dealership. I can recall towing several Volvos for the dealership that was involved in major accidents and I was always amazed how well they held up. The front end could be destroyed yet the front doors would still open. You would be hard pressed to find a safer car than Volvo. A car to definitely consider for any new teenage driver! The cars are well built.
PHOTO 2 - We show this original 1956 Ford brochure that highlights 4 of the new safety features that Ford offered in their 1956 Ford models.
RECALLING MAJOR BLIZZARDS YEARS AGO -
I can’t recall what year these photos were taken, but had to be in the mid 1990s at our old house in Furlong, and when I was selling a lot of Turbo Regals. Even with a 5-bay garage and access to my neighbors two bay garage I still had a few cars outside when this snow storm hit.
PHOTO 3 - The photo on the left shows two Turbo Regals and my white 1989 BMW sedan basically buried alongside our 5-bay garage. The photo on the right is from an earlier snow storm looking down to the 5-bay garage. The VW bus and the Divco milk truck is what I used to put UPS outgoing shipments in. In the background you can see one car virtually buried in the snow alongside the garage.
1986 LESABRE GRAND NATIONAL -
I left this car model out of my below article about cars that have staying power. Of the various Buick models I listed in the below article the LeSabre Grand National was produced in very small numbers. Total production was just 112 total. Because production was so low it does not garner much attention, but nevertheless its value can’t be denied due to the connection it has with the Grand National.
We owned two of them. We bought the first one out of Georgia and restored it. I had Pete Serio drop in the LeSabre T-Type analog gauge cluster which made a huge difference, Our son Darrell repainted the entire car so you know that was done to very high standards. Our license plate read RARE GN. It was powered by a regular 3800 motor, not turbo charged. It did have the same basic leather wrapped wheel. A very comfortable car to drive. The fender emblems were very similar to the Regal style Grand National emblems, just the power six emblem was a solid red in color.
Perhaps the one nice option that these cars had was embroidered floor mats. I found that to be unusual since very few of these cars were produced. They featured the partial red Power six logo and nothing more. It would have been nice had Buick offered something similar for the Turbo Regal models. Since they were made for a front wheel drive application they would be too wide to position properly in your rear wheel drive G-body car. We sold our 1986 LeSabre Grand National in 1996 for $9995.00 with 68,000 miles on it. The car went to a buyer in Texas. The last I heard was the car as of a few years ago was in Minnesota..
In the 2015 Old Cars Price Guide the LeSabre Grand National in mint #1 condition is valued at $19,000. Although this lags behind the Turbo Regal model it is still an impressive number for the car. This value is from 5 years ago! I remember several of my friends thought it was funny I bought the car in the first place. Thinking it was not a good move! At least when we went to the movies I had zero worries that someone would try and steal the car! Restoring one today would be quite time consuming as parts are extremely scarce that are unique to the car.
PHOTO 4 - Here are 4 photos of our 1986 LeSabre Grand National. In the one photo you can see the full analog gauge cluster that we removed from a 1987 LeSabre. Another photo you can see the red embroidered six symbol on the carpet floor mat.
T TOP SEALS AVAILABLE ONCE AGAIN AND OTHER PARTS UPDATES -
We just received our first shipment of T-Top seals. These have not been available since early last summer of 2020! We also got in more brake bowls as well. We expect to get our first rebuilt powermaster units later this week or early next week. For a rebuilt powermaster you must call our office 215-766-1611 to get on the list to be assured of getting one. We have plenty of cores sitting at Cardones facility. The issue that could slow down the process is bad motors. We were just informed that Pypes exhausts systems will not be available until March!
BUICK STAYING POWER -
The Turbo Regal notably the Grand National and the limited production GNX have proven to have staying power in the quest for being the most sought after Buick collectible US Muscle car from the 1980s. Buick tried to score again first with the 3 year run of the LeSabre T-Type coupes then with the Reatta. A few years back Buick brought back the Regal T model in a 4-door sedan. None of these models have come close to approaching the popularity of the 1984-1987 Turbo Regals. There are still some die hard fans for each of these models. If you look hard enough I am sure there is a club even for the Yugo. The only connection the Yugo has with the Turbo Regal is that in 1987 both the Grand National and the Yugo posted their highest sales for the year! Be glad you picked the Turbo Regal from 1987! The Yugo was produced 1985 until 1991.
My point? The Buick model you picked from the 1980s has stayed at the top of the value chain compared to later Buick models that have come and gone. Looking ahead it's tough to say if Buick again can muster anything that will gain in value as to what the 1986-1987 Grand Nationals, GNX, and Turbo-Ts have done over the years.
EBAY LISTINGS -
Be sure to check ebay every week or so as we post parts under both Kirban Performance and Kirban Enterprises. You never know what will be posted from us.
LIST OF MECHANICS FOR THE TURBO REGAL UPDATE -
We will only post any new additions to avoid confusion. Refer to previous inner circle emails to see the entire list.
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
We are always open to buy or trade for any good used or NOS parts you might have to “cash in” with us.
If you have an idea you tried and it worked, be sure to let us know so we can tell our readers.
TIP FROM KIRBAN –.
Keep in mind all the shipping companies including the USPS system are still playing catch up with delivering packages regardless of how you paid to have it shipped. The fault does not lie with the vendor you bought it from, but rather the shipping company that has been overwhelmed and has suffered from the virus as well.
IMPORTANT - INFORMATION ABOUT OUR SHIPPING ADDRESS –
If you are returning any cores or products, it is important that you send them to the correct address.
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
529 HAYCOCK RUN ROAD
KINTNERSVILLE, PA 18930
We discovered that FedEx will not forward any packages that are sent to the old PO Box or to our old address in Plumsteadville. Instead they deliver the packages to the old address and leave them outside or send them back to the shipper. They refuse to forward and say that we should notify the shipper. In most cases, we have no idea when we are getting packages shipped back to us.
If you have any cores that are being sent back to us, be sure to use the correct address, especially if you use FedEx. Otherwise, we may not receive your package or it may be sent back to you.
CLICK HERE - For the link to the Kirban Enterprises ebay listings.
IMPORTANT NOTE ON RARE PARTS FOR SALE –
In order for our Inner Circle members to have an equal opportunity on the Rare Parts, no emails regarding orders on rare parts will be honored prior to 3 pm Wednesday. This way Inner Circle members get the opportunity first to purchase any of the rare items that may be pictured in the main body of the Inner Circle which may go on our website earlier in the day each week. Inner Circle members are the ONLY people that get to see the Rare Parts listing and see the prices.
CORES NEEDED - URGENT REQUEST –
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
STEERING WHEEL CORES. Currently we need good 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering cores. They must be straight and not have rusted spokes. We will issue a Letter of Credit of $100 for each acceptable core. You must email me [email protected] a photo first to make sure the steering wheel is acceptable.
POWERMASTER BRAKE UNITS. Currently, we are accepting powermaster brake units. We give a $150 Letter-of-Credit for each acceptable core. If you include the turbo pedal add $10. You would receive $160 Letter-of-Credit. To avoid having your core not accepted, you MUST first email me a photo of the core you plan to send in - [email protected] - We will NOT accept any cores that have severe rust issues or have been disassembled. Core must have the
brake switch and brake bowl reservoir. Too many of the cores we have been getting are in such terrible shape they are worthless to us.
TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $175 Letter-of-Credit for each acceptable core. We need cores now.
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.
UPS or MAIL - Ship to Address –
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE
529 HAYCOCK RUN ROAD
KINTNERSVILLE, PA 18930
GOOD NEWS - WE ARE ACCEPTING CLASSIFIED ADS -
Good news - We now accept Classified Ads in our weekly Inner Circle emails. Over the years several customers have asked about placing an ad in our weekly Inner Circle.
Here are the options and the costs.
Ads can be from any individual or company. It needs to be automotive related, meaning it does not need to be specifically Turbo Regal related. It can be for something for sale or something wanted.
Maximum number of words is 125 words, which is about 7 to 9 lines of copy. No photos. You can list a website. We recommend you state your name, phone number or email, a price, and your location in your ad.
The cost for 2 consecutive weeks is $25. The cost for 4 consecutive weeks is $40. You save $10 with the 4-week plan. No changes can be made to your existing running ad. You can only run one ad at any given time. We will have a code system at the end of your ad, so we will know what week number your ad is to run - 2 or 4 weeks.
It can be an ad for something for sale or an ad for something you are looking for.
We have never missed a single week since we started the Inner Circle email format in 2009. It’s something I enjoy doing and I just always seem to have enough material to write about.
Our weekly Inner Circle reaches over 3,400 members every Wednesday direct to their inbox. The Inner Circle also appears every Wednesday on our website with the related photos. Your ad would be visible to both groups of readers. So, the exposure to your ad is well over 3,400 potential buyers.
Ads submitted properly by the previous Sunday would appear that next Wednesday in the weekly Inner Circle. Ads must be submitted by email to - [email protected]
Payment by credit card must be done by phone to our office 215-766-1611.
NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE BUICK RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the Buick Rare Parts section at the end of this Inner Circle, it is because you are not an Inner Circle member, but instead are reading this on the website. You must subscribe to see the Rare Parts section each week. It would go directly to your inbox every Wednesday afternoon. It is FREE, probably one reason why nobody complains about what I write about. To subscribe simply email – [email protected] - to get our free weekly Inner Circle email.
The Buick Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!
EMAILS TO KIRBAN PERFORMANCE -
NOTE - If you email us and do NOT get a timely reply, be sure to check your “SPAM” folder. Some emails do not go through.
If you need to email us, use - [email protected]
TECH CALLS -
If you need technical information, it’s best to email - [email protected] - rather than call us. We will do our best to answer any technical questions within 24 hours. Please remember I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US –
STAINLESS STEEL BLACK POWDER-COATED LICENSE FRAMES WITH TAGLINE DECAL -
OR TAGLINE DECALS -
One thing that has been missing all these years for the Turbo Regal owner is a nice stainless black powder-coated license plate frame. We have designed several with a unique tagline referring to some of the most collectible high-performance car models.
We have come up with the various designs shown in Photo 2.
The handsome metal black license plate frame measures 12-1/4″ x 6-1/4″, which is the standard size to hold state license plates. Frames are made from stainless steel, then powder-coated black for lasting quality.
Included with each frame is a packet of new attaching hardware, complete with black caps so the hardware doesn’t show.
Each frame comes with the decal already affixed. Most of the decals are white wording on a black background. Several decals are two colors (white and red) on a black background.
Notice the font style for the tagline “HIGH OUTPUT V6” decal matches the 3.8 sfi turbo hood emblems.
We also offer each decal separately in case you would like to apply it to any signs, a toolbox, etc.
Choose from the selection below.
NOTE - We offer the decals for $5 each. If you contact the office at 215-766-1611, you can purchase more than one decal at a time for a lower price. Example - Buy any 2 decals for $8.95 (save $2.05.) You must call to order multiple decals.
8010-F (FRAME) - License Plate Frame with “A BOOST OF BUICK PERFORMANCE” White, Red and Black Decal - $14.95
8010-D (DECAL ONLY) - “A BOOST OF BUICK PERFORMANCE” White, Red and Black Decal - $5
8011-F (FRAME) - License Plate Frame with “B-B-B-B-BAD TO THE BONE!” White and Black Decal - $14.95
8011-D (DECAL ONLY) - “B-B-B-B-BAD TO THE BONE!” Decal - $5
8012-F (FRAME) - License Plate Frame with “ONE OF THE FORTUNATE 547″ White and Black Decal - $14.95
8012-D (DECAL ONLY) - “ONE OF THE FORTUNATE 547″ White and Black Decal - $5
8013-F (FRAME) - License Plate Frame with “GNX FOR THE FORTUNATE 547″ White, Red and Black Decal - $14.95
8013 D (DECAL ONLY) - “GNX FOR THE FORTUNATE 547″ White, Red and Black Decal - $5
8014-F (FRAME) - License Plate Frame with “BUICK’S QUICKEST V6″ White and Black Decal - $14.95
8014-D (DECAL ONLY) - “BUICK’S QUICKEST V6″ White and Black Decal - $5
8015-F (FRAME) - License Plate Frame with “LIFE IN THE FAST LANE” White, Red and Black Decal - $14.95
8015-D (DECAL ONLY) - “LIFE IN THE FAST LANE” White, Red and Black Decal - $5
8016-F (FRAME) - License Plate Frame with “HIGH OUTPUT V6″ White and Black Decal - $14.95
8016-D (DECAL ONLY) - “HIGH OUTPUT V6″ White and Black Decal - $5
8017-F (FRAME) - License Plate Frame with “GSX BEATS YOU IN STAGES” White, Red and Black Decal - $14.95
8017-D (DECAL ONLY) - “GSX BEATS YOU IN STAGES” White, Red and Black Decal - $5
8018-F (FRAME) - License Plate Frame with “GS FAST WITH CLASS” White, Red and Black Decal - $14.95
8018-D (DECAL ONLY) - “GS FAST WITH CLASS” White, Red and Black Decal - $5
CLICK HERE - For the link to these license plates and decals on our website
“A BOOST OF BUICK PERFORMANCE”
OWNER’S MANUAL HOLDER
Usually the more expensive GM cars have a nice holder for their Owner’s Manual.
Originally Buick put all the documents in a plain clear plastic bag. Since these turbo cars didn’t come with a holder in the car, we’ve designed one.
Our black vinyl Owner’s Manual holder measures 6-3/4" x 10" and fits perfectly in your glove box.
The words “A BOOST OF BUICK PERFORMANCE” appear in silver below the flap.
There are two business card holders on the flap. You can insert your insurance company agent’s business card or your mechanic’s business card.
This holder is great for storing the Owner’s Manual, Warranty cards, insurance papers, service records, etc.
It also makes a great gift item for any car enthusiast.
An excellent protection for your Owner’s Manual and documents.
7918 - “A BOOST OF BUICK PERFORMANCE” Owner’s Manual Holder - $14.95
CLICK HERE - For the link to the option to order one or two fender covers.
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. We also may buy your new or used parts. 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 used if you are using the current version.
NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE -
We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these must be low-resolution photos to work on the Inner Circle segments on the website, any photos of text don't appear clear when enlarged. This is a problem when you are trying to see numbers, such as those on the VIN labels or pages from Options booklet. Also, because of photo reproduction and computer screen variations, the colors may not be true to the actual product or photo.
If you would like to have us email you any photo at the higher resolution for viewing, just email us and we will email them to you. Be sure to be specific on which pictures you want to see - Reference Inner Circle date and photo number 1, 2, 3 or 4 - [email protected]
ABOUT OUR EMAILS -
Any inquiries concerning used parts, you must email me directly - [email protected] - and 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 -
We are always seeking good used Turbo Regal parts and NOS parts. Either trade value against our catalog items or we will purchase outright if you sold your car.
Please, if you have any original 1986-1987 Turbo Regal turbos, cash them in with us for the $175 Letter-of-Credit. This helps us help our customers obtain the rebuilt turbo they want for their car,