Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 03-09-2016 -
REPRODUCTION ALUMINUM BRAKE DRUMS -
We are happy to announce reproduction aluminum brake drums will be available shortly.
It was almost two years ago when I approached several major companies about reproducing the aluminum brake drums. I did not think it would be so difficult to reproduce since the inner portion of the drum is steel.
I quickly learned that this is not the case. Both companies I planted the idea with had zero luck making it happen.
I then turned to A1 Cardone, figuring this would be a long shot, since I did not think it was a typical part they would consider reproducing. They would not see the potential sales, since steel brake drums are readily available. In other words, it would prove to be a tough sell to them, since the part would be specific for the older muscle car market. It would not be the kind of a part typically stocked in auto stores.
So, I took the gamble and sent my source at A1 Cardone an actual GM aluminum drum. The engineer in charge of the project eventually called me and wanted more input and information about the target market. I explained in great detail what the target market was. I also impressed upon them that, unlike many other products, nobody I was aware of has reproduced the aluminum brake drum.
The one thing I had in my favor with A1 Cardone is the fact I had convinced them probably 7-8 years ago to make the powermaster brake bowl. At one point, they considered NOT doing the brake bowl project. Fortunately, that has proven to be a successful project considering the number of cars it fits. In other words, I was one for one with a successful product with them!
I just got word late last week that their current samples have passed their specifications and they expect to have inventory with part numbers sometime this April. If all goes well, the timing would be perfect, since our Spring Open House is April 30th. They are sending me one of the very few samples next week.
They also told me I better get some major sales with these among the various mail-order companies!
One thing they thought of which I did not know was - by enlarging the center hole and giving that another part number, this same drum will fit the 12-bolt GM applications. So, this is a good thing as it increases the possible market share. No more will you have to search out 25-year-old aluminum brake drums and hope they are not cracked and have enough material on them to meet your state’s inspections.
I am already contacting all the major GM vendors, as well as all the major companies that build rear assemblies. The beauty of this is all these companies don’t need much of a pep talk as everyone understands the several benefits of aluminum drums over steel drums.
In addition to less rotating mass, aluminum drums are lighter. Also, seeing bare aluminum behind a high-dollar custom wheel is far more appealing than looking at a rusty rear brake drum! These will fit virtually every A-body, F-body, and G-body car, as well as some of the small GM trucks. These are just a few of the GM models.
If you work for any type of auto store, restoration shop, etc., contact me as I will be able to give them good prices on this new product. It’s not often I get a product that fits such a wide variety of GM cars besides having the account for all the GM door jamb VIN data decals from 1969 through 1989 with ECS Automotive Concepts.
PHOTO 1 - Shows two views of the new A1 Cardone aluminum brake drum that they emailed me. They will be removing their name from the surface of the front of the drum, from what I am told. I can’t say how close in appearance to the original this aluminum drum will look.
A1 Cardone is in the replacement/rebuilding parts business, not the restoration business. Also, keep in mind, the drum is partially hidden by the wheel on the car.
As of this writing I do not have any specs or pricing. However, the one major benefit I have is the inventory would be in Philadelphia, so freight costs are low to my location
OPTION OR NOT AN OPTION -
Option or not an option - I am referring to the aluminum brake drums. It would have been nice when our cars were new if the powers to be at Buick had made the aluminum drums and aluminum bumper reinforcement braces an option. I am sure more would have found their way on our cars.
Instead they marketed them to meet certain fuel requirements so they could sell more high-optioned Grand Nationals. Buyers never had a choice of aluminum verses steel parts.
The code on your SPID label for aluminum brake drums is “J42.” Since it’s not an option, it does not appear in the Buick Price Directory. Those booklets only list options.
There is one Turbo Regal model that did get aluminum brake drums - that was the GNX.
Since aluminum brake drums was not an option on the GNX, I had to go to the 1987 Buick Dealer Parts and Accessories Price Schedule book that I have to see what they cost in 1987. In 1987 the aluminum brake drum listed for $125 each. The steel brake drum in 1987 listed for $72.75 each. This is a $53.25 difference per drum between steel and aluminum.
I also happen to have the two-volume set of March 2001 Buick Dealer Parts and Accessories Price Schedule books. By 2001 the Buick Dealer Parts and Accessories Price Schedule book had grown to a two-volume set. The aluminum brake drum is not even listed, so that means prior to 2001 (over 15 years ago) it was not even available! The steel brake drum, on the other hand, listed for $136 each! These are the exact books the Buick parts person would use. Keep in mind, in recent years Buick (like many other companies) has done away with printing these useful guides as the information is now on computers! These books I refer to were basically thrown in the trash at the end of each year, since dealers got a new book(s) each year. These books are probably the hardest to find for sale anywhere related to our cars.
PHOTO 2 - We show the single 1987 Buick Dealer Parts and Accessories Price Schedule Price book on the left. It’s dated December 1987 and is barely 1 inch thick. On the right we show the March 2001 Buick Parts and Accessories Price Schedule book. It is a two-volume set and measures a total of just over 4 inches thick! Each new book for the new year would gain in size because there were more parts for that new car, even though each year some old part numbers were deleted.
I hope to have a price structure on the new reproduction aluminum drums, along with the specs, to post in next’s weeks Inner Circle.
Today a typical new steel drums sell for $75 to $100 a set for a decent brand. My car did not have aluminum brake drums from the factory, but years ago I found a nice set. I have always searched out ways to shave weight from the car since it was already a very low-optioned car. Also the bare aluminum against a black GNX-style wheel looks quite nice. Over the years, I have only had a few used sets to resell, mainly because each used set is a gamble until you have them checked out for thickness and turned. The other problem I have seen with some of them is they can have hairline cracks in them, making them unsafe for the road.
FROM OUR ARCHIVES -
We left off a few weeks back writing about the 1986 Buick Press Kit.
By far the introduction of the 1986 Buick Turbo Regal models was a giant step into what has become a very collectible car from the Buick nameplate. The key word was “intercooled” coupled to the 3.8 SFI engine. The car had the stealth look a few years earlier, now it packed the power to go with the looks.
One particular car model came out later in 1986 and only 117 were produced. I am referring to the LeSabre Grand National. The 1986 LeSabre was the first year for the front-wheel drive platform on the LeSabre.
You can read information on the internet on these cars. Reportedly 112 or 117 were produced. All of them were black. All sold originally in the Atlanta, Georgia and Jacksonville, Florida zones after the Daytona 500 race. In some publications they state the engine was turbo charged. It was not. It was the 3.8 engine. The fender badges were unique. The power six logo was solid red instead of red and orange. They did have a partial panel over the side quarter glass windows. The front spoiler was different than production LeSabres for that year. The car had no special dash cluster and the alloy wheels were very plain and flat looking.
With that being said, it was around 1989 that I got wind of the fact that Buick made such a car. I was determined to find one and restore it. I located one in Atlanta and had one of our customers bring it up to us at one of our Reunion events. Being a southern car that was outside most of the time, the paint was badly faded. I had our son repaint the car. I later switched out the wheels and had Pete Serio install the analog gauge setup from a later 1989 LeSabre T-Type. It’s a very comfortable riding car. Also, unlike other Grand Nationals, the fear of having the car stolen is virtually nonexistent! At the time, we did have a few car owners remark saying why would we put Grand National emblems on a LeSabre? In 1996 we sold it for $10,000 and it went to Texas. A few years later I would buy another one out of Virginia and sell it for $4,995.
LeSABRE GRAND NATIONAL FOR SALE -
Here is a chance to own a low-mileage original LeSabre Grand National. This car has been garage kept since new and only has 25,000 actual miles on it. The owner claims this is one of just 25 that were actually used at the Daytona Race event in 1986. He has all the original paperwork from the dealer. The original wheels go with the car and are also in mint condition. The car is located in New Jersey. The owner, Joe can be reached at 908-510-8229. Joe is asking $20,000 for this rare example. These cars seldom come up for sale with such low miles.
PHOTO 3 - We show two photos of this 25,000 mile original 1986 LeSabre Grand National that is currently for sale.
CAR FOR SALE - 1986 Buick LeSabre Grand National - NON TURBO 3800 motor
A rare collector’s Buick Grand National LeSabre
1 of 117 and 1 of 25 that was used at the Daytona 500
Car has been garage kept since 1986
25,000 original miles
Exterior is 9-1/2
Interior is a 10
I have all the original paper work from the dealer
The wheels on the car are aftermarket, but the original wheels are in mint condition in my garage. Original wheels will come with the car.
Not really looking to trade unless you have a diesel pickup in good condition.
Cash is king, and low ball offers will be ignored. Any other questions, let me know.
Call, text, email, all is fine. Reasonable hrs. Car can be seen any day of the week after 3pm.
Please don’t call and ask me if this car has a TURBO because it does not have one.
FWD 3800 Non Turbo motor.
$20,000
For more information, contact Joe - 908-510-8229 -
email - [email protected]
Central New Jersey
Here is a link to this LeSabre For Sale on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44296/CAR+FOR+SALE+-+1986+Buick+LeSabre+Grand+National+-+CFS037.html
VACUUM BRAKE CONVERSIONS -
In recent years the vacuum brake conversions have become quite popular among 1985-1987 Turbo Regal owners that have had bad luck with powermaster brake failures. Right now we sell almost the same of each version each month.
The vacuum brake conversion kit we sell, part #7625, is very popular because it includes the correct brake pedal that is needed to make the switch fit. Or you will have to fabricate a smaller diameter pin and re-weld it in a different spot on the original brake pedal. Our kit eliminates the need for this and makes the install a lot easier.
As a precaution GM would install a small black plastic filter in the 3/8 vacuum hose. The purpose of this small filter was to capture any engine vapors that may harm the diaphragm in the vacuum booster. We now have several of these used vapor filters in stock. A very simple install as the 90-degree end goes towards the vacuum booster and the straight end goes towards the throttle body. Generally it is mounted close to the vacuum booster. The aftermarket ones are slightly longer and do not look the same and they are made in China. Original GM filters say “Made in the USA” along with the supplier’s logo on them. The original filter has a metal band around the center. The aftermarket filter is entirely plastic.
PHOTO 4 - The photo shows an original filter and says “Made in the USA.” I know some owners think this is some sort of check valve, which it is not. It is a filter to keep harmful vapors from entering the vacuum booster diaphragm. As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. See this issue’s Rare Parts section for some we have for sale.
IMPORTANT NOTICE ON POWERMASTER BRAKE UNITS -
It is very IMPORTANT that you ONLY use DOT 3 brake fluid in those Powermaster brake units. We just had a customer send in one under warranty and Cardone found the reason it failed was Dot 4 or Dot 5 brake fluid was used, which caused the seals to swell up.
Fortunately, we had it fixed at no cost to the owner and advised him to thoroughly flush his brake system.
GEORGE THOROGOOD AND THE DESTROYERS -
The group that is well known to Turbo Buick owners for their song “Bad to the Bone,” the theme song for the Grand Nationals, is George Thorogood and the Destroyers. They will be appearing August 2nd 7 pm at the Keswick Theatre in nearby Rosyln, Pennsylvania. It would make a nice photo if you could take a picture of a Grand National in front of the theatre with the marquee wording on it.
TY COBB CARDS -
I just read in the paper last week of an unusual find - 7 Ty Cobb cards printed between 1909 and 1911. Here is an excellent example of something being extremely rare. Prior to this, 15 were known to exist. Finding 7 at one time is quite a unique. In the baseball, world this is probably the Holy Grail, outside of a Honus Wagner card. Although the cards are not in mint condition, the value is estimated at around a cool million dollars. Perhaps the best part is since there are 7 of the same card, the smart thing may be to retain 1 or 2 for an investment.
RIP RAYMOND TOMLINSON -
You may not recognize the name Raymond Tomlinson, but his accomplishment back in 1971 is something you are seeing by being able to read this Inner Circle.
He implemented the email system on the ARPENT system, which was the precursor to the internet back in 1971. His system was able to send mail between users on different hosts connected to the ARPENT. Prior to this, email could only be sent to others if they used the same computer. To achieve this system he used the @ sign to separate the user name from the name of the machine a scheme, which has been used ever since!
It would be neat if they put the @ after his name on his tombstone as a clever reminder of his major accomplishment!
DO YOU OWN A BUSINESS -
Do you own a retail business related to printing, making copies, making signs, promotional items, or vehicle wraps? We have a product that would cater to that type of market.
We are working on a project for another company and in the process of working out the details for his project we discovered how a similar format would work for other businesses. Doing further research, I discovered nobody I have found on the internet can offer something at a similar price. Are you curious? You got nothing to lose. Send me an email for more details - [email protected] - Put “New Business Project” as the Reference
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.
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 that can be rebuilt.
URGENT NEED - 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 -
1978-1988 GM G-Body, Including Buick Turbo Regal -
BOLT-IN REAR SHOCK TOWER BRACE & HARDWARE
This 100% jig built, bolt-in brace ties the rear upper shock mounts together to share the load and stiffen the chassis. Strong 1-1/4" tubing is MIG welded to 3/16" thick laser cut brackets for a perfect fit.
This brace is designed to clear all of the popular exhaust systems and works equally well on coilover setups and traditional spring/shock combinations. Overall distance from floor to the bottom of the brace is approximately 5".
All UMI products are built from US steel, then powder coated black. Hardware is included to makes this a true, easy bolt-in installation.
Features:
Manufactured from 1-1/4" USA Tubing
CNC laser cut 3/16" mounting brackets
Grade 8 hardware included
Easy bolt-in installation with basic hand tools
Powder-coated black for a durable long-lasting finish
Made in the USA by UMI
Our top photo shows the brace and the hardware. The lower photos show this rear shock tower brace installed on a car with coil over springs. NOTE - The brace in the photos is red, but we only offer it in black.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #1586 Powder-coated Black Rear Seat Frame Brace Kit® and #7169 Reproduction GNX Rear Seat Brace Kit (5) Set.
Another excellent way to stiffen the suspension on your car.
7715 - 1978-1988 GM G-Body, Including Buick Turbo Regal -
Bolt-In Rear Shock Tower Brace and Hardware - $130
Here is a link to this Shock Tower Brace on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44295/BOLT-IN+REAR+SHOCK+TOWER+BRACE+%26+HARDWARE+%237715.html
1984-1989 ALL GM Car Models, Including Buick Turbo Regal -
GM LICENSED DOOR JAMB VIN DATA DECALS
Every 1978-1987 G-body car had 2 tamper-proof door jamb VIN data decals. It’s impossible to remove the originals decals without destroying them. These decals are required by Federal Law to be printed on tamper-proof paper. The important decals show the car’s date of manufacture and the 17-digit VIN number. In many cases, your original decals may no longer be readable, may be missing, or may have paint overspray on them.
GM used a different design for each specific year or years.
Below is all the information pertaining to getting the proper reproduction door jamb VIN data decals for an 1984-1989 Turbo Regal. This also includes any 1984-1987, Monte Carlo SS, or Oldsmobile 442. We can also get ones for those same years for the regular models. In those cases, the tire sizes listed would be different.
We are working with the only GM licensed vendor authorized to reproduce all these important VIN-related decals for GM older vehicles, ECS Automotive Concepts. We are the only mail-order distributor directly dealing with ECS to offer these decals for the cars listed. We also have made this product line available to other GM mail-order suppliers. ECS Automotive Concepts also has VIN data decals contracts with Ford, Chrysler and several others. They have the special equipment in house to exactly match the original font style GM used to imprint the door jamb VIN data decals. These are printed on the correct tamper-proof paper, which is required by Federal Law. They are the ONLY GM licensed source to make them complete using the proper font format to imprint exact information for your individual car.
While you can find blank VIN data decals available elsewhere, many are not on the correct tamper-proof paper (required by Federal Law.) Most of these sellers offer blank decals and tell you to simply type in your information. Of course, your typewriter is not going to match the font style GM used, it’s impossible to type it straight onto a small decal, and who even has a typewriter today. The correct equipment to duplicate the original font GM used runs over $100,000. ECS Automotive Concepts has this equipment in house. Their larger market caters to all the late-model GM-Chrysler-Ford vehicles for collision shops, since they hold all the required license agreements with those companies to reproduce the VIN decals.
If you want to have the correct door jamb VIN data decals to replace unreadable decals on your car or if your car’s decals are missing altogether, ECS is the only authentic option. These are custom-made specifically for your car. Having these important decals also enhances the value of your car. It is one of the things collectors look for since it has the VIN information on it. Not having these VIN data decals on a car raises a red flag with any potential collectable car buyer.
Be sure to read all the below information carefully before placing your order for replacement 1984-1987 Turbo Regal Door Jamb VIN Data stickers. We only offer them as a set of both decals. You cannot order just one, since it would stand out looking new next to the old original decal.
First, if yours are still on your door jamb take a photo so you can see their exact position. Do NOT remove them until you receive the new decals. Be sure to note which one of the two decals is the first one on your door jamb and which direction they face.
We have listed the original GM part number by each year, which appears on your actual data VIN decals. In each case, the GM part number was the same for both with the addition of either the letter A or B after the part number.
The A code will show your 17-digit VIN number, date of manufacture, and vehicle weight.
The B code covers the Tire-Loading information.
You need to verify that it’s the same GM part number that corresponds to your specific year Turbo Regal. This 8-digit GM part number with the letter A or B will be in the bottom right corner of the two door jamb data decals. If your label that contains the 17-digit VIN number is completely gone or not legible, you must send us a clear copy of your VIN number from the dash VIN plate, the SPI trunk label, or your car title. Along with the photographic file, also type out the 17-digit VIN number and Date of Manufacture so it can be checked against the photo.
We cannot process your order without this proof of your VIN number. You also need to provide month and year of Date of Manufacture. The only way I know this can be determined is by reading the code on your Body Number Plate, also called the “Cowl Tag Plate.” This is the small metal plate located under the hood by the driver’s side wiper arm. In most cases, you will have to lightly sand the raise letters/numbers to read them. The code you need is on the first line. There is a 4-digit code in the upper left corner that gives the year, month, and week of production of your car. Keep in mind, Dates of Manufacture could be the fall prior to your actual model year. Example - An early 1984 model could have a production date of November 1983, December 1983, and so on. You only need to give us the year and month, which is what would appear on the door jamb VIN data decal. The first letter in the code stands for the year. The digits following the letter represent the month. The last single letter represents the week of production. Example, The letter E stands for 1984, F stands for 1985, G stands for 1986, and H stands for 1987. Example - For the month of production - 02 would be for February, 04 would be April, and so on. The letter after the initial numbers is the actual production week of the month, which we do NOT need since it does not appear on the door jamb VIN data decal. With that in mind, E would be the highest letter in the code for the weeks of the month. E represents 5 for the 5th week, which some months do have.
Even if your labels are intact and readable, you must type out your 17-digit VIN number and the month and year of manufacture date. This is very important! If the gross weight figure is not readable, we need to know what some of the major options are to determine the gross vehicle weight. Options like T-Tops and power seat would add more weight. If the decals are present, be sure to send a clear photo of them. For best results make sure your flash is off when you take the photos.
There are no free do overs. So, double-check your answers before placing your order. Remember, these are custom made specifically for your car. These door jamb data VIN decals are on the proper tamper-proof paper, just like the originals, which is required by Federal Law. Once you apply them, you can't reposition them so make sure to position them correctly. (Refer to the photos you took prior to removing your originals).
There is a clear coating over these new reproduction door jamb VIN decals, which is invisible to prevent them from getting ruined by most cleaning solvents. Be sure to double-check the GM part number on your original door jamb VIN data decals to match the year of your Turbo Regal as we have indicated below. This is because each decal can be different, depending on the year. In each case the font style GM used will be matched exactly. However, any imperfections that may appear in your original photo, such as crooked wording, will be made straight. This is the way it should have been originally from GM.
NOTE - In case the GM part numbers on your original door jamb VIN data decal are not any of the ones listed below for the years shown, pick the last choice on the order form and type in the GM part numbers that appears on your original door jamb VIN data decals. ECS will find that GM number in their system and be able to match it exactly. Even though the Turbo Regals were all produced at the same plant (Pontiac, Michigan) some differences may exist.
These door jamb VIN data decals are also correct for all the 1984-1987 GM car models, including the Monte Carlo, Oldsmobile Cutlass, and Pontiac Grand Prix.
We have pictured actual samples for each year 1984-1987 Turbo Regal door jamb data VIN decals alongside the matching part number to indicate what you would receive. Double-check that GM part number with your originals to make sure it’s the same.
1984 Buick Turbo Regal Door Jamb Data VIN Decals (2), GM part #14065978A and B.
1985-1986 Buick Turbo Regal Door Jamb VIN Data Decals (2), GM part #14085204A and B.
1987 Buick Turbo Regal Door Jamb VIN Data Decals (2), GM part #10080812A and B.
Orders will be sent by Priority Mail directly from ECS Automotive Concepts. Decals are custom made, so allow 5-7 days for delivery.
We do not offer any of these decals individually. Since both appear together on the door jamb, replacing only one would never match the remaining old faded decal.
Remember, ECS Automotive Concepts is the only licensed GM supplier that can make these door VIN data decals and has the proper equipment to match the original font GM used on the correct tamper-proof paper required by Federal Law.
Below is the required information we need from you:
17-Digit VIN number and include proof of VIN (such as a copy of SPI trunk ID label, or Car title.) Even if your photograph decals are clear, you must also type out the 17-digit VIN number.
Date month/year (See copy above to determine month and year of manufacture if your decal is missing or not readable.) Even if pictured, be sure to type out the month/year.
If your decal is missing or not readable, provide information on any major options (such as T-Top/power seat, etc.) to determine approximate gross weight.
If you have original door jamb data decals on your car, include several clear photos. Do not use the flash on the camera for these photos.
We also require a daytime phone number and email address with your order, in case ECS Automotive Concepts has any questions.
Be sure to verify the GM part number against the year of your Turbo Regal to the above information. If none of them match the numbers we have noted, include the GM part number that does appear on your door jamb Data VIN decals.
Remember, these are all custom-made data VIN decals pertaining to your car. So double-check your information before sending it to us. If you have sent the wrong information and the decals are made to your incorrect specifications, you would have to pay for the decals to be made again.
NOTE - The GM part number appears in the lower right corner of each of the original decals.
7900 - 1984 All GM Car Models, Including Buick Turbo Regal -
GM LICENSED DOOR JAMB VIN DATA DECALS (2), GM Part #14065978A and B - $120 plus $7 for Priority Mail shipping.
7901 - 1985-1986 All GM Car Models, Including Buick Turbo Regal -
GM LICENSED DOOR JAMB VIN DATA DECALS (2), GM Part #14085204A and B - $120 plus $7 for Priority Mail shipping.
7902 – 1987-1989 All GM Car Models, Including Buick Turbo Regal -
GM LICENSED DOOR JAMB VIN DATA DECALS (2), GM Part #10080812A and B - $120 plus $7 for Priority Mail shipping.
SPECIFY YEAR - GM LICENSED DOOR JAMB VIN DATA DECALS (2) - If none of the part numbers correspond with your application, provide the GM part number here along with the other information. ECS Automotive Concepts has a huge GM file of VIN decals and will be able to match it correctly against the GM part number you provide. - $120 plus $7 for Priority Mail shipping. MUST SPECIFY 8-digit part # A and B.
Allow 5-7 days for delivery. Decals are sent Priority Mail from ECS Automotive Concepts
ORDERING - To place your order, you must email the photos, typed information, name, address, and daytime telephone number to - [email protected] She will contact you for credit card information to process you order.
If you are not able to email us, you will have to print the information and send it by mail to Kirban Performance Products, P.O. Box 1199, Plumsteadville, PA 18949. Or you can FAX it to 215-766-1615.
NOTE - ECS Automotive Concepts will be able to do all the door jamb VIN data decals back through 1970. The early decals were a single blue label. Those decals are not required to be printed on the tamper-proof paper and are priced differently. Beginning in 1975 GM, used decals printed on tamper-proof paper.
If you want to order decals for any older GM car from 1983 back to 1970, email me for pricing and details - [email protected]
ECS Automotive Concepts has all the various VIN door jamb decals for those cars in their system.
NOTE - Here is a link to view this on the website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/inner_circle.php?nak=394
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]
2016 CALENDAR OF EVENTS -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS SPRING OPEN HOUSE -
Saturday, April 30rd, 2016 - 9 am - 2 pm -
NOTE - The date was changed to APRIL 30th
Once again free Yum Yum donuts and coffee will be available in the morning. Terry Shaw will be conducting a seminar on the importance of having your car appraised.
Richard Clark will be coming.
Russ and Nancy have agreed to do the cooking. The luncheon is strictly by donation with all proceeds going to PBS, which Russ and Nancy donate to.
This is the only Open House we do this year, so you don’t want to miss it.
Most of our website products will be specially priced. We will have an array of used parts for sale, our M&M contest, and our no reserve auction. This event has no rain date.
TURBO BUICK/RICHARD CLARK EVENT - May 4th - May 7th, 2016 - Burlington, NC
This event is held at Richard’s shop, located at 2557 Faucette Lane, Burlington, NC. If you have never been to his shop before, it would be a great event to attend. Once again, I am the MC for the luncheon on Thursday. We will be at this event as a vendor. Bring any cores you want to cash in for a letter of credit. The event moves to the nearby racetrack for Friday and Saturday.
For more information, go to turbobuick.com and look for this under Events for 2016. I know that Mike Barnard (owner of Spoolfool), Nick Micale from Arizona, G-Body, Pete Hoffman, and our company will be in attendance.
RIDE ON MOLLY 6 - Saturday, May 21st, 2016 - California
For more information, contact Alan DeCarr - [email protected]
This event is now in its 6th year since Molly’s passing.
PYPES EXHAUST & MAX PERFORMANCE OPEN HOUSE CAR SHOW - June 18th, 2016 -
This event has no rain date. Open to all American Muscle cars and trucks. Held at their Headquarters, 2705 Clemens Road, Hatfield, PA 19440.
For more details, contact - [email protected]
This is a huge event that I usually attend, however, this year I can’t since it’s the same weekend as GM at Carlisle and I’m speaking both days at GM Carlisle.
GM CARLISLE - June 17th-19th, 2016
I am a guest speaker at this event both Friday and Saturday. I’ll be talking on Hurst, Hurst/Olds, and also about the door jamb VIN data decals. Seminars are always free at Carlisle.
Now that our granddaughter has a 2012 Camaro SS, she is planning on attending and showing her car. Carlisle is one of the largest swap meet facilities in the country. If you are planning on attending, bring any cores you want to cash in for a Letter of Credit. I will be able to take them. This will be the second year I been a guest speaker at Carlisle and it’s quite an honor. Over the years I have spoken at several National Pontiac and GTO conventions.
Check their website to see dates of all their upcoming 2016 events - carlisleevents.com
GS NATIONALS - September 14th-17th, 2016 -
Beach Bend Raceway in Bowling Green, Kentucky
See the GSXtra for more details, or their website - gsnationals.com
EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS - September 16th-17th, 2016 at Cecil County Dragway in Rising Sun, Maryland
Event includes a judged car show on Saturday open to all Buick makes and anything Buick powered. Free Vending. Saturday race classes must be Buick powered.
For more information, contact - [email protected] or [email protected]
This is not a misprint both the GS Nationals and East Coast Buick Regionals fall on the same weekend.
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 -
It’s almost time to uncover the Turbo-T for the spring season and our Spring Open House.
REPRODUCTION ALUMINUM BRAKE DRUMS -
We are happy to announce reproduction aluminum brake drums will be available shortly.
It was almost two years ago when I approached several major companies about reproducing the aluminum brake drums. I did not think it would be so difficult to reproduce since the inner portion of the drum is steel.
I quickly learned that this is not the case. Both companies I planted the idea with had zero luck making it happen.
I then turned to A1 Cardone, figuring this would be a long shot, since I did not think it was a typical part they would consider reproducing. They would not see the potential sales, since steel brake drums are readily available. In other words, it would prove to be a tough sell to them, since the part would be specific for the older muscle car market. It would not be the kind of a part typically stocked in auto stores.
So, I took the gamble and sent my source at A1 Cardone an actual GM aluminum drum. The engineer in charge of the project eventually called me and wanted more input and information about the target market. I explained in great detail what the target market was. I also impressed upon them that, unlike many other products, nobody I was aware of has reproduced the aluminum brake drum.
The one thing I had in my favor with A1 Cardone is the fact I had convinced them probably 7-8 years ago to make the powermaster brake bowl. At one point, they considered NOT doing the brake bowl project. Fortunately, that has proven to be a successful project considering the number of cars it fits. In other words, I was one for one with a successful product with them!
I just got word late last week that their current samples have passed their specifications and they expect to have inventory with part numbers sometime this April. If all goes well, the timing would be perfect, since our Spring Open House is April 30th. They are sending me one of the very few samples next week.
They also told me I better get some major sales with these among the various mail-order companies!
One thing they thought of which I did not know was - by enlarging the center hole and giving that another part number, this same drum will fit the 12-bolt GM applications. So, this is a good thing as it increases the possible market share. No more will you have to search out 25-year-old aluminum brake drums and hope they are not cracked and have enough material on them to meet your state’s inspections.
I am already contacting all the major GM vendors, as well as all the major companies that build rear assemblies. The beauty of this is all these companies don’t need much of a pep talk as everyone understands the several benefits of aluminum drums over steel drums.
In addition to less rotating mass, aluminum drums are lighter. Also, seeing bare aluminum behind a high-dollar custom wheel is far more appealing than looking at a rusty rear brake drum! These will fit virtually every A-body, F-body, and G-body car, as well as some of the small GM trucks. These are just a few of the GM models.
If you work for any type of auto store, restoration shop, etc., contact me as I will be able to give them good prices on this new product. It’s not often I get a product that fits such a wide variety of GM cars besides having the account for all the GM door jamb VIN data decals from 1969 through 1989 with ECS Automotive Concepts.
PHOTO 1 - Shows two views of the new A1 Cardone aluminum brake drum that they emailed me. They will be removing their name from the surface of the front of the drum, from what I am told. I can’t say how close in appearance to the original this aluminum drum will look.
A1 Cardone is in the replacement/rebuilding parts business, not the restoration business. Also, keep in mind, the drum is partially hidden by the wheel on the car.
As of this writing I do not have any specs or pricing. However, the one major benefit I have is the inventory would be in Philadelphia, so freight costs are low to my location
OPTION OR NOT AN OPTION -
Option or not an option - I am referring to the aluminum brake drums. It would have been nice when our cars were new if the powers to be at Buick had made the aluminum drums and aluminum bumper reinforcement braces an option. I am sure more would have found their way on our cars.
Instead they marketed them to meet certain fuel requirements so they could sell more high-optioned Grand Nationals. Buyers never had a choice of aluminum verses steel parts.
The code on your SPID label for aluminum brake drums is “J42.” Since it’s not an option, it does not appear in the Buick Price Directory. Those booklets only list options.
There is one Turbo Regal model that did get aluminum brake drums - that was the GNX.
Since aluminum brake drums was not an option on the GNX, I had to go to the 1987 Buick Dealer Parts and Accessories Price Schedule book that I have to see what they cost in 1987. In 1987 the aluminum brake drum listed for $125 each. The steel brake drum in 1987 listed for $72.75 each. This is a $53.25 difference per drum between steel and aluminum.
I also happen to have the two-volume set of March 2001 Buick Dealer Parts and Accessories Price Schedule books. By 2001 the Buick Dealer Parts and Accessories Price Schedule book had grown to a two-volume set. The aluminum brake drum is not even listed, so that means prior to 2001 (over 15 years ago) it was not even available! The steel brake drum, on the other hand, listed for $136 each! These are the exact books the Buick parts person would use. Keep in mind, in recent years Buick (like many other companies) has done away with printing these useful guides as the information is now on computers! These books I refer to were basically thrown in the trash at the end of each year, since dealers got a new book(s) each year. These books are probably the hardest to find for sale anywhere related to our cars.
PHOTO 2 - We show the single 1987 Buick Dealer Parts and Accessories Price Schedule Price book on the left. It’s dated December 1987 and is barely 1 inch thick. On the right we show the March 2001 Buick Parts and Accessories Price Schedule book. It is a two-volume set and measures a total of just over 4 inches thick! Each new book for the new year would gain in size because there were more parts for that new car, even though each year some old part numbers were deleted.
I hope to have a price structure on the new reproduction aluminum drums, along with the specs, to post in next’s weeks Inner Circle.
Today a typical new steel drums sell for $75 to $100 a set for a decent brand. My car did not have aluminum brake drums from the factory, but years ago I found a nice set. I have always searched out ways to shave weight from the car since it was already a very low-optioned car. Also the bare aluminum against a black GNX-style wheel looks quite nice. Over the years, I have only had a few used sets to resell, mainly because each used set is a gamble until you have them checked out for thickness and turned. The other problem I have seen with some of them is they can have hairline cracks in them, making them unsafe for the road.
FROM OUR ARCHIVES -
We left off a few weeks back writing about the 1986 Buick Press Kit.
By far the introduction of the 1986 Buick Turbo Regal models was a giant step into what has become a very collectible car from the Buick nameplate. The key word was “intercooled” coupled to the 3.8 SFI engine. The car had the stealth look a few years earlier, now it packed the power to go with the looks.
One particular car model came out later in 1986 and only 117 were produced. I am referring to the LeSabre Grand National. The 1986 LeSabre was the first year for the front-wheel drive platform on the LeSabre.
You can read information on the internet on these cars. Reportedly 112 or 117 were produced. All of them were black. All sold originally in the Atlanta, Georgia and Jacksonville, Florida zones after the Daytona 500 race. In some publications they state the engine was turbo charged. It was not. It was the 3.8 engine. The fender badges were unique. The power six logo was solid red instead of red and orange. They did have a partial panel over the side quarter glass windows. The front spoiler was different than production LeSabres for that year. The car had no special dash cluster and the alloy wheels were very plain and flat looking.
With that being said, it was around 1989 that I got wind of the fact that Buick made such a car. I was determined to find one and restore it. I located one in Atlanta and had one of our customers bring it up to us at one of our Reunion events. Being a southern car that was outside most of the time, the paint was badly faded. I had our son repaint the car. I later switched out the wheels and had Pete Serio install the analog gauge setup from a later 1989 LeSabre T-Type. It’s a very comfortable riding car. Also, unlike other Grand Nationals, the fear of having the car stolen is virtually nonexistent! At the time, we did have a few car owners remark saying why would we put Grand National emblems on a LeSabre? In 1996 we sold it for $10,000 and it went to Texas. A few years later I would buy another one out of Virginia and sell it for $4,995.
LeSABRE GRAND NATIONAL FOR SALE -
Here is a chance to own a low-mileage original LeSabre Grand National. This car has been garage kept since new and only has 25,000 actual miles on it. The owner claims this is one of just 25 that were actually used at the Daytona Race event in 1986. He has all the original paperwork from the dealer. The original wheels go with the car and are also in mint condition. The car is located in New Jersey. The owner, Joe can be reached at 908-510-8229. Joe is asking $20,000 for this rare example. These cars seldom come up for sale with such low miles.
PHOTO 3 - We show two photos of this 25,000 mile original 1986 LeSabre Grand National that is currently for sale.
CAR FOR SALE - 1986 Buick LeSabre Grand National - NON TURBO 3800 motor
A rare collector’s Buick Grand National LeSabre
1 of 117 and 1 of 25 that was used at the Daytona 500
Car has been garage kept since 1986
25,000 original miles
Exterior is 9-1/2
Interior is a 10
I have all the original paper work from the dealer
The wheels on the car are aftermarket, but the original wheels are in mint condition in my garage. Original wheels will come with the car.
Not really looking to trade unless you have a diesel pickup in good condition.
Cash is king, and low ball offers will be ignored. Any other questions, let me know.
Call, text, email, all is fine. Reasonable hrs. Car can be seen any day of the week after 3pm.
Please don’t call and ask me if this car has a TURBO because it does not have one.
FWD 3800 Non Turbo motor.
$20,000
For more information, contact Joe - 908-510-8229 -
email - [email protected]
Central New Jersey
Here is a link to this LeSabre For Sale on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44296/CAR+FOR+SALE+-+1986+Buick+LeSabre+Grand+National+-+CFS037.html
VACUUM BRAKE CONVERSIONS -
In recent years the vacuum brake conversions have become quite popular among 1985-1987 Turbo Regal owners that have had bad luck with powermaster brake failures. Right now we sell almost the same of each version each month.
The vacuum brake conversion kit we sell, part #7625, is very popular because it includes the correct brake pedal that is needed to make the switch fit. Or you will have to fabricate a smaller diameter pin and re-weld it in a different spot on the original brake pedal. Our kit eliminates the need for this and makes the install a lot easier.
As a precaution GM would install a small black plastic filter in the 3/8 vacuum hose. The purpose of this small filter was to capture any engine vapors that may harm the diaphragm in the vacuum booster. We now have several of these used vapor filters in stock. A very simple install as the 90-degree end goes towards the vacuum booster and the straight end goes towards the throttle body. Generally it is mounted close to the vacuum booster. The aftermarket ones are slightly longer and do not look the same and they are made in China. Original GM filters say “Made in the USA” along with the supplier’s logo on them. The original filter has a metal band around the center. The aftermarket filter is entirely plastic.
PHOTO 4 - The photo shows an original filter and says “Made in the USA.” I know some owners think this is some sort of check valve, which it is not. It is a filter to keep harmful vapors from entering the vacuum booster diaphragm. As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. See this issue’s Rare Parts section for some we have for sale.
IMPORTANT NOTICE ON POWERMASTER BRAKE UNITS -
It is very IMPORTANT that you ONLY use DOT 3 brake fluid in those Powermaster brake units. We just had a customer send in one under warranty and Cardone found the reason it failed was Dot 4 or Dot 5 brake fluid was used, which caused the seals to swell up.
Fortunately, we had it fixed at no cost to the owner and advised him to thoroughly flush his brake system.
GEORGE THOROGOOD AND THE DESTROYERS -
The group that is well known to Turbo Buick owners for their song “Bad to the Bone,” the theme song for the Grand Nationals, is George Thorogood and the Destroyers. They will be appearing August 2nd 7 pm at the Keswick Theatre in nearby Rosyln, Pennsylvania. It would make a nice photo if you could take a picture of a Grand National in front of the theatre with the marquee wording on it.
TY COBB CARDS -
I just read in the paper last week of an unusual find - 7 Ty Cobb cards printed between 1909 and 1911. Here is an excellent example of something being extremely rare. Prior to this, 15 were known to exist. Finding 7 at one time is quite a unique. In the baseball, world this is probably the Holy Grail, outside of a Honus Wagner card. Although the cards are not in mint condition, the value is estimated at around a cool million dollars. Perhaps the best part is since there are 7 of the same card, the smart thing may be to retain 1 or 2 for an investment.
RIP RAYMOND TOMLINSON -
You may not recognize the name Raymond Tomlinson, but his accomplishment back in 1971 is something you are seeing by being able to read this Inner Circle.
He implemented the email system on the ARPENT system, which was the precursor to the internet back in 1971. His system was able to send mail between users on different hosts connected to the ARPENT. Prior to this, email could only be sent to others if they used the same computer. To achieve this system he used the @ sign to separate the user name from the name of the machine a scheme, which has been used ever since!
It would be neat if they put the @ after his name on his tombstone as a clever reminder of his major accomplishment!
DO YOU OWN A BUSINESS -
Do you own a retail business related to printing, making copies, making signs, promotional items, or vehicle wraps? We have a product that would cater to that type of market.
We are working on a project for another company and in the process of working out the details for his project we discovered how a similar format would work for other businesses. Doing further research, I discovered nobody I have found on the internet can offer something at a similar price. Are you curious? You got nothing to lose. Send me an email for more details - [email protected] - Put “New Business Project” as the Reference
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.
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 that can be rebuilt.
URGENT NEED - 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 -
1978-1988 GM G-Body, Including Buick Turbo Regal -
BOLT-IN REAR SHOCK TOWER BRACE & HARDWARE
This 100% jig built, bolt-in brace ties the rear upper shock mounts together to share the load and stiffen the chassis. Strong 1-1/4" tubing is MIG welded to 3/16" thick laser cut brackets for a perfect fit.
This brace is designed to clear all of the popular exhaust systems and works equally well on coilover setups and traditional spring/shock combinations. Overall distance from floor to the bottom of the brace is approximately 5".
All UMI products are built from US steel, then powder coated black. Hardware is included to makes this a true, easy bolt-in installation.
Features:
Manufactured from 1-1/4" USA Tubing
CNC laser cut 3/16" mounting brackets
Grade 8 hardware included
Easy bolt-in installation with basic hand tools
Powder-coated black for a durable long-lasting finish
Made in the USA by UMI
Our top photo shows the brace and the hardware. The lower photos show this rear shock tower brace installed on a car with coil over springs. NOTE - The brace in the photos is red, but we only offer it in black.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #1586 Powder-coated Black Rear Seat Frame Brace Kit® and #7169 Reproduction GNX Rear Seat Brace Kit (5) Set.
Another excellent way to stiffen the suspension on your car.
7715 - 1978-1988 GM G-Body, Including Buick Turbo Regal -
Bolt-In Rear Shock Tower Brace and Hardware - $130
Here is a link to this Shock Tower Brace on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44295/BOLT-IN+REAR+SHOCK+TOWER+BRACE+%26+HARDWARE+%237715.html
1984-1989 ALL GM Car Models, Including Buick Turbo Regal -
GM LICENSED DOOR JAMB VIN DATA DECALS
Every 1978-1987 G-body car had 2 tamper-proof door jamb VIN data decals. It’s impossible to remove the originals decals without destroying them. These decals are required by Federal Law to be printed on tamper-proof paper. The important decals show the car’s date of manufacture and the 17-digit VIN number. In many cases, your original decals may no longer be readable, may be missing, or may have paint overspray on them.
GM used a different design for each specific year or years.
Below is all the information pertaining to getting the proper reproduction door jamb VIN data decals for an 1984-1989 Turbo Regal. This also includes any 1984-1987, Monte Carlo SS, or Oldsmobile 442. We can also get ones for those same years for the regular models. In those cases, the tire sizes listed would be different.
We are working with the only GM licensed vendor authorized to reproduce all these important VIN-related decals for GM older vehicles, ECS Automotive Concepts. We are the only mail-order distributor directly dealing with ECS to offer these decals for the cars listed. We also have made this product line available to other GM mail-order suppliers. ECS Automotive Concepts also has VIN data decals contracts with Ford, Chrysler and several others. They have the special equipment in house to exactly match the original font style GM used to imprint the door jamb VIN data decals. These are printed on the correct tamper-proof paper, which is required by Federal Law. They are the ONLY GM licensed source to make them complete using the proper font format to imprint exact information for your individual car.
While you can find blank VIN data decals available elsewhere, many are not on the correct tamper-proof paper (required by Federal Law.) Most of these sellers offer blank decals and tell you to simply type in your information. Of course, your typewriter is not going to match the font style GM used, it’s impossible to type it straight onto a small decal, and who even has a typewriter today. The correct equipment to duplicate the original font GM used runs over $100,000. ECS Automotive Concepts has this equipment in house. Their larger market caters to all the late-model GM-Chrysler-Ford vehicles for collision shops, since they hold all the required license agreements with those companies to reproduce the VIN decals.
If you want to have the correct door jamb VIN data decals to replace unreadable decals on your car or if your car’s decals are missing altogether, ECS is the only authentic option. These are custom-made specifically for your car. Having these important decals also enhances the value of your car. It is one of the things collectors look for since it has the VIN information on it. Not having these VIN data decals on a car raises a red flag with any potential collectable car buyer.
Be sure to read all the below information carefully before placing your order for replacement 1984-1987 Turbo Regal Door Jamb VIN Data stickers. We only offer them as a set of both decals. You cannot order just one, since it would stand out looking new next to the old original decal.
First, if yours are still on your door jamb take a photo so you can see their exact position. Do NOT remove them until you receive the new decals. Be sure to note which one of the two decals is the first one on your door jamb and which direction they face.
We have listed the original GM part number by each year, which appears on your actual data VIN decals. In each case, the GM part number was the same for both with the addition of either the letter A or B after the part number.
The A code will show your 17-digit VIN number, date of manufacture, and vehicle weight.
The B code covers the Tire-Loading information.
You need to verify that it’s the same GM part number that corresponds to your specific year Turbo Regal. This 8-digit GM part number with the letter A or B will be in the bottom right corner of the two door jamb data decals. If your label that contains the 17-digit VIN number is completely gone or not legible, you must send us a clear copy of your VIN number from the dash VIN plate, the SPI trunk label, or your car title. Along with the photographic file, also type out the 17-digit VIN number and Date of Manufacture so it can be checked against the photo.
We cannot process your order without this proof of your VIN number. You also need to provide month and year of Date of Manufacture. The only way I know this can be determined is by reading the code on your Body Number Plate, also called the “Cowl Tag Plate.” This is the small metal plate located under the hood by the driver’s side wiper arm. In most cases, you will have to lightly sand the raise letters/numbers to read them. The code you need is on the first line. There is a 4-digit code in the upper left corner that gives the year, month, and week of production of your car. Keep in mind, Dates of Manufacture could be the fall prior to your actual model year. Example - An early 1984 model could have a production date of November 1983, December 1983, and so on. You only need to give us the year and month, which is what would appear on the door jamb VIN data decal. The first letter in the code stands for the year. The digits following the letter represent the month. The last single letter represents the week of production. Example, The letter E stands for 1984, F stands for 1985, G stands for 1986, and H stands for 1987. Example - For the month of production - 02 would be for February, 04 would be April, and so on. The letter after the initial numbers is the actual production week of the month, which we do NOT need since it does not appear on the door jamb VIN data decal. With that in mind, E would be the highest letter in the code for the weeks of the month. E represents 5 for the 5th week, which some months do have.
Even if your labels are intact and readable, you must type out your 17-digit VIN number and the month and year of manufacture date. This is very important! If the gross weight figure is not readable, we need to know what some of the major options are to determine the gross vehicle weight. Options like T-Tops and power seat would add more weight. If the decals are present, be sure to send a clear photo of them. For best results make sure your flash is off when you take the photos.
There are no free do overs. So, double-check your answers before placing your order. Remember, these are custom made specifically for your car. These door jamb data VIN decals are on the proper tamper-proof paper, just like the originals, which is required by Federal Law. Once you apply them, you can't reposition them so make sure to position them correctly. (Refer to the photos you took prior to removing your originals).
There is a clear coating over these new reproduction door jamb VIN decals, which is invisible to prevent them from getting ruined by most cleaning solvents. Be sure to double-check the GM part number on your original door jamb VIN data decals to match the year of your Turbo Regal as we have indicated below. This is because each decal can be different, depending on the year. In each case the font style GM used will be matched exactly. However, any imperfections that may appear in your original photo, such as crooked wording, will be made straight. This is the way it should have been originally from GM.
NOTE - In case the GM part numbers on your original door jamb VIN data decal are not any of the ones listed below for the years shown, pick the last choice on the order form and type in the GM part numbers that appears on your original door jamb VIN data decals. ECS will find that GM number in their system and be able to match it exactly. Even though the Turbo Regals were all produced at the same plant (Pontiac, Michigan) some differences may exist.
These door jamb VIN data decals are also correct for all the 1984-1987 GM car models, including the Monte Carlo, Oldsmobile Cutlass, and Pontiac Grand Prix.
We have pictured actual samples for each year 1984-1987 Turbo Regal door jamb data VIN decals alongside the matching part number to indicate what you would receive. Double-check that GM part number with your originals to make sure it’s the same.
1984 Buick Turbo Regal Door Jamb Data VIN Decals (2), GM part #14065978A and B.
1985-1986 Buick Turbo Regal Door Jamb VIN Data Decals (2), GM part #14085204A and B.
1987 Buick Turbo Regal Door Jamb VIN Data Decals (2), GM part #10080812A and B.
Orders will be sent by Priority Mail directly from ECS Automotive Concepts. Decals are custom made, so allow 5-7 days for delivery.
We do not offer any of these decals individually. Since both appear together on the door jamb, replacing only one would never match the remaining old faded decal.
Remember, ECS Automotive Concepts is the only licensed GM supplier that can make these door VIN data decals and has the proper equipment to match the original font GM used on the correct tamper-proof paper required by Federal Law.
Below is the required information we need from you:
17-Digit VIN number and include proof of VIN (such as a copy of SPI trunk ID label, or Car title.) Even if your photograph decals are clear, you must also type out the 17-digit VIN number.
Date month/year (See copy above to determine month and year of manufacture if your decal is missing or not readable.) Even if pictured, be sure to type out the month/year.
If your decal is missing or not readable, provide information on any major options (such as T-Top/power seat, etc.) to determine approximate gross weight.
If you have original door jamb data decals on your car, include several clear photos. Do not use the flash on the camera for these photos.
We also require a daytime phone number and email address with your order, in case ECS Automotive Concepts has any questions.
Be sure to verify the GM part number against the year of your Turbo Regal to the above information. If none of them match the numbers we have noted, include the GM part number that does appear on your door jamb Data VIN decals.
Remember, these are all custom-made data VIN decals pertaining to your car. So double-check your information before sending it to us. If you have sent the wrong information and the decals are made to your incorrect specifications, you would have to pay for the decals to be made again.
NOTE - The GM part number appears in the lower right corner of each of the original decals.
7900 - 1984 All GM Car Models, Including Buick Turbo Regal -
GM LICENSED DOOR JAMB VIN DATA DECALS (2), GM Part #14065978A and B - $120 plus $7 for Priority Mail shipping.
7901 - 1985-1986 All GM Car Models, Including Buick Turbo Regal -
GM LICENSED DOOR JAMB VIN DATA DECALS (2), GM Part #14085204A and B - $120 plus $7 for Priority Mail shipping.
7902 – 1987-1989 All GM Car Models, Including Buick Turbo Regal -
GM LICENSED DOOR JAMB VIN DATA DECALS (2), GM Part #10080812A and B - $120 plus $7 for Priority Mail shipping.
SPECIFY YEAR - GM LICENSED DOOR JAMB VIN DATA DECALS (2) - If none of the part numbers correspond with your application, provide the GM part number here along with the other information. ECS Automotive Concepts has a huge GM file of VIN decals and will be able to match it correctly against the GM part number you provide. - $120 plus $7 for Priority Mail shipping. MUST SPECIFY 8-digit part # A and B.
Allow 5-7 days for delivery. Decals are sent Priority Mail from ECS Automotive Concepts
ORDERING - To place your order, you must email the photos, typed information, name, address, and daytime telephone number to - [email protected] She will contact you for credit card information to process you order.
If you are not able to email us, you will have to print the information and send it by mail to Kirban Performance Products, P.O. Box 1199, Plumsteadville, PA 18949. Or you can FAX it to 215-766-1615.
NOTE - ECS Automotive Concepts will be able to do all the door jamb VIN data decals back through 1970. The early decals were a single blue label. Those decals are not required to be printed on the tamper-proof paper and are priced differently. Beginning in 1975 GM, used decals printed on tamper-proof paper.
If you want to order decals for any older GM car from 1983 back to 1970, email me for pricing and details - [email protected]
ECS Automotive Concepts has all the various VIN door jamb decals for those cars in their system.
NOTE - Here is a link to view this on the website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/inner_circle.php?nak=394
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]
2016 CALENDAR OF EVENTS -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS SPRING OPEN HOUSE -
Saturday, April 30rd, 2016 - 9 am - 2 pm -
NOTE - The date was changed to APRIL 30th
Once again free Yum Yum donuts and coffee will be available in the morning. Terry Shaw will be conducting a seminar on the importance of having your car appraised.
Richard Clark will be coming.
Russ and Nancy have agreed to do the cooking. The luncheon is strictly by donation with all proceeds going to PBS, which Russ and Nancy donate to.
This is the only Open House we do this year, so you don’t want to miss it.
Most of our website products will be specially priced. We will have an array of used parts for sale, our M&M contest, and our no reserve auction. This event has no rain date.
TURBO BUICK/RICHARD CLARK EVENT - May 4th - May 7th, 2016 - Burlington, NC
This event is held at Richard’s shop, located at 2557 Faucette Lane, Burlington, NC. If you have never been to his shop before, it would be a great event to attend. Once again, I am the MC for the luncheon on Thursday. We will be at this event as a vendor. Bring any cores you want to cash in for a letter of credit. The event moves to the nearby racetrack for Friday and Saturday.
For more information, go to turbobuick.com and look for this under Events for 2016. I know that Mike Barnard (owner of Spoolfool), Nick Micale from Arizona, G-Body, Pete Hoffman, and our company will be in attendance.
RIDE ON MOLLY 6 - Saturday, May 21st, 2016 - California
For more information, contact Alan DeCarr - [email protected]
This event is now in its 6th year since Molly’s passing.
PYPES EXHAUST & MAX PERFORMANCE OPEN HOUSE CAR SHOW - June 18th, 2016 -
This event has no rain date. Open to all American Muscle cars and trucks. Held at their Headquarters, 2705 Clemens Road, Hatfield, PA 19440.
For more details, contact - [email protected]
This is a huge event that I usually attend, however, this year I can’t since it’s the same weekend as GM at Carlisle and I’m speaking both days at GM Carlisle.
GM CARLISLE - June 17th-19th, 2016
I am a guest speaker at this event both Friday and Saturday. I’ll be talking on Hurst, Hurst/Olds, and also about the door jamb VIN data decals. Seminars are always free at Carlisle.
Now that our granddaughter has a 2012 Camaro SS, she is planning on attending and showing her car. Carlisle is one of the largest swap meet facilities in the country. If you are planning on attending, bring any cores you want to cash in for a Letter of Credit. I will be able to take them. This will be the second year I been a guest speaker at Carlisle and it’s quite an honor. Over the years I have spoken at several National Pontiac and GTO conventions.
Check their website to see dates of all their upcoming 2016 events - carlisleevents.com
GS NATIONALS - September 14th-17th, 2016 -
Beach Bend Raceway in Bowling Green, Kentucky
See the GSXtra for more details, or their website - gsnationals.com
EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS - September 16th-17th, 2016 at Cecil County Dragway in Rising Sun, Maryland
Event includes a judged car show on Saturday open to all Buick makes and anything Buick powered. Free Vending. Saturday race classes must be Buick powered.
For more information, contact - [email protected] or [email protected]
This is not a misprint both the GS Nationals and East Coast Buick Regionals fall on the same weekend.
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 -
It’s almost time to uncover the Turbo-T for the spring season and our Spring Open House.