Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 06-06-2018 -
A LOOK AT CARPET SAVERS / FLOOR MATS -
The term “carpet savers” is what Buick used in their listing in the various catalogs and price books. For the Turbo Regal years (1984-1987) the prices remained the same. Buick offered basic rubber mats for the front and rear. The SPID code for the inexpensive rubber mats was B32 and B33. The price was $17 for the front pair and $12 for the rear pair. The carpet version was $25 for the front pair and $20 for the rear pair. The SPID code for them was B34 and B35.
I would venture a guess and say most original buyers of Turbo Regals went with the carpeted floor mats rather than the rubber floor mats. What can be confusing is that Buick also offered accessory carpet mats which you could purchase later. The accessory carpet mat on the driver’s side front had a slot on both sides of the mat. This is the version most vendors sell today.
All 4 versions we sell match the factory installed carpet savers with only a single slot on the driver’s floor mat. We currently carry 3 different embroidered black floor mats and one plain version. The only other difference that nobody has duplicated is the small rubber insert on the passenger front carpet floor mat that has the GM logo. This insert was basically the size of a typical postage stamp.
What I find interesting is the fact Buick really missed the boat for creating a unique option that many buyers would have surely bought. That is embroidered front carpeted floor mats. I think almost every Grand National buyer and GNX buyer would have surely paid to have optional embroidered floor mats!
Today almost every major car maker has optional embroidered floor mats. Many even make one for the trunk floor. Being able to offer various options is what drives up the profit margin for dealers.
In going through my photos, I did find a photo that does prove that Buick did offer an embroidered carpet front floor mats on their new front wheel drive LeSabre T-Type. The LeSabre T-Type was produced for 3 years 1987-1989.
What I can’t verify is what year or years Buick offered embroidered floor mats for the LeSabre T-Type as I only have the Buick Price Directory for 1987. While these cars lacked any real power compared to the Turbo 3.8 engine, they did have a very nice full analog gauge setup and leather seats was a possible option.
I had several of these cars years ago. They were very smooth running cars. One had the embroidered carpet front floor mats.
PHOTO 1 - We show the one photo I found. It features what appears to be a power six logo in red. The difference being it is solid red and there is a slight gap in the design. These are very similar to the power six logo that all of us is recognize. Being front wheel drive, these cars had a wider flat front floor so these carpet floor mats would be too wide for the Turbo Regal front floor. These LeSabre logo front carpeted floor mats are also extremely hard to find today.
A TOUCH OF BUICK HUMOR -
While I was searching through my photos for the floor mat photo, I came across an interesting photo that I had taken years ago. I remember buying several brand new Turbo Regal hood pads.
PHOTO 2 - Someone in the Buick parts system or supply chain had a sense of humor when they imprinted this hood pad inserting the word “TURBOCHARGED” upside down. Looking back, I should have kept that hood pad as a conversation piece or, at the very least, sold it for a lot of money. Seems mistakes in the corporate world can bring big money. Case in point - The post office many years ago inverted an airplane on a stamp and the few that got out in circulation bring a small fortune today.
A LOOK AT THE 1984 BUICK PRESS KIT -
I must confess that over the years we generally focus most of our attention on the 1986 and 1987 Turbo Regals. My knowledge of the 1984 and 1985 Turbo Regal models is very limited, although we have owned a few.
One of the rarest items I have related to the 1984 Buick models is the actual Buick Press Kit for 1984. I assumed these were produced and sent to Buick dealers prior to the new models coming out. Remember, back then the internet did not exist like it does today and it was the printed word that dealers would have gotten to understand what laid ahead with the new upcoming models.
Back then new models came out usually in the previous fall around September. For example, the Buick News Releases for the 1984 models is dated September 13th,1983. It appears that there was a total of 7 different Buick News Releases in the1984 Buick Press Kit. The main Buick News Release gave a rundown on all the various Buick models for the upcoming year. Another Buick News Release covered the V6 Performance Power. Another Buick News Release covered fuel injection. Another Buick News Release covered the new station wagon models.
One option that I was not aware of was that for the 1984 model Buick was the first in the automotive industry to offer cellular telephones in the cars. That first year it was only offered in the Riviera Coupe in a special seat-mounted console. Chicago was the very first area where it was available. This was developed by AT&T. As they say, the rest was history!
PHOTO 3 - The top left photo shows the folder that the 1984 Buick Press Kit came in. The lower left photo shows a spread of the various Buick News releases that described all the new 1984 Buick models and various descriptions of some of the latest technology that would be in the new 1984 Buick models. The top right photo shows the front side of the color flyer describing the new hottest Buick this side of a banked oval. The lower right shows the backside of this same flyer. Notice the Lear Sieglar seats in the top photo.
PHOTO 4 - Besides the various Buick News, the Press Kit included glossy black and white photos of the new 1984 Buick models. The top center photo shows the new T-Type. The lower left photo shows the new Grand National and the Century model. The lower center shows 2 photos of the Century Estate wagon. The bottom right photo shows the new Century Limited sedan and the Century T-Type.
What I find interesting about these original black and white photos is the fact the Grand National photo was one of the smaller photos. Also, they have more photos of the Century models than they do of the new Grand National and T-Type Regal models. It seems Buick was still focusing on the older crowd for their customer base.
I don’t think Buick initially realized what they had created that would soon have a huge impact with the performance model Regal coupes. It would be the car magazine articles that would soon spread the word that Buick had created a performance car using a V6 platform and packing a turbo to create a combination that eventually would challenge the Corvette model of the same vintage. The clever saying at the time was “We Brake for Corvettes.”
Coming next week, the 1985 Buick Press Kit information.
ISSUES AND DELAYS WITH TWO PARTS -
The Window Rattle Elimination Kit #7170 - We are waiting for one of our vendors to get in their latest shipment of the one main part we need for these kits. We should have them in stock next week. As far as I know, we are the only supplier to all the other vendors for this #7170 Window Rattle Elimination Kit. We need this part to make these kits. This kit was designed over 25 years ago by Pete Serio, the original Window Rattle Guy. We expect to have Window Rattle Elimination Kits in stock late this week.
It’s a critical part to tighten up the door windows from over 25-plus years of rattles! It also is a good time to replace the power window motors in both doors. The new motors available today are slightly quicker than the original ones in the Turbo Regals. Part number for the window motors is #6949. These are in stock.
Rebuilt Powermaster Brake Unit #7021 - A bigger problem has recently developed concerning the rebuilt powermaster brake units. In recent months, a good many incoming cores we are getting have burned out motors. It has become a major issue! Cardone has to send me the burnt out windings from the powermaster, which I then take to another company to have them rebuilt. It is quite a process as it has to put out the proper amperage in order to perform properly.
This has not only created another expense but also requires more time to rebuild a typical powermaster brake unit. It also has forced us to not wholesale the rebuilt powermaster units to other vendors due to the higher costs plus the fact we are now behind filling current orders and repairing warranty units.
This is all out of our control. In some cases, the powermaster units have been a major issue for some owners since they were new.
Some of the cores we been getting in look like they been in the Mississippi River for the last ten years. Right now we have a bunch of motors getting rebuilt and hopefully by the end of June we will be able to catch up with this project.
If you have a powermaster core, please take advantage of our $150 Letter of Credit as we badly need cores with the hope we get some that do not have a burnt up motor. I can foresee rebuilt powermaster brake units fetching a grand before long. The big advantage we have is our lifetime warranty.
COMING NEXT WEEK - PHOTOS FROM THE BUICK BATES NUT FARM SHOW -
Long-time friend Greg Davidian was at this huge Turbo Regal event this past Sunday and has sent me his report along with some great photos to share with our members. Congrats to Mike Barnard and his helpers for putting together this huge west coast Turbo Regal event. I know from firsthand experience how much work is involved, and how you have to keep your fingers crossed that the weather is good.
COLD CASE RADIATORS -
We just got in another shipment of the Cold Case radiators for the 1986-1987 Turbo Regals and sold them all. We expect to have more stock at the end of the month. These are a tremendous value. For more information and photos, see part #7457 on our website. Contact our office to order from the next batch - 215-766-1611 x 0
Here is a link to this radiator on our website.
UPDATE ON REPRODUCTION SPID DECALS -
ECS Automotive is still working on making SPID Decals 100% like the originals. I sent them original SPID decals for them to get the size and the color of the paper correct. They are still working on perfecting the decals.
2018 TURBO BUICK RELATED CAR SHOWS EVENTS -
PYPES and MAX PERFORMANCE 8th Annual American Muscle Car and Truck Show -
June 29th and June 30th, 2018 - Hatfield, PA
This show is hosted by Pypes and Max Performance. A BBQ and cruise is Friday afternoon and Saturday is the car show. The location is at their facility at 2705 Clemens Road B103, Hatfield, PA 19440. This event draws a huge amount of all kinds of GM muscle cars, including Ford and Chrysler. The company owner has been ourfriend for over 30-plus years. We will be attending this event. For more information, go to their website - maxperformanceinc.com
MAGNA - MID ATLANTIC GRAND NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
22nd EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS -
September 14th and 15th, 2018 - Cecil County Dragway, Cecil, Maryland
The MAGNA Group has their annual event September 14th and 15th at Cecil County Dragway in Cecil County, Maryland. This event grows bigger each year and is open to all Buick muscle cars not just the Turbo Regals. We expect to be attending this event. (It falls on my birthday). For more details, go to turbobuick.com - or - their website - magnabuick.com
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 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 3,200 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 3,200 potential buyers.
My Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!
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 x 0.
CLASSIFIED ADS -
WANTED TO BUY: NOS 1987 Buick GNX factory exhaust system. I will pay $300.00 CASH finders fee leading to the successful purchase of the complete NOS factory exhaust system (3 pipes) or $100 per pipe. I am looking for GM part #12332904 – front exhaust crossover Y-pipe GM part 12332903 – left muffler and tailpipe assembly and GM part #12332900 - right muffler and tailpipe assembly. I am a CASH buyer & will travel to purchase so you do not have to ship. I am not a dealer and parts are not for resale. Please call and leave message or e-mail. All calls will be returned promptly. Thank You. Jason Maxfield (416) 399-7265 – Niagara Falls, NY 14303 or email [email protected] 1 of 4.
NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the 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. Simply email - [email protected] - to get on our weekly Inner Circle email.
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 thru.
If you need to email us, use - [email protected]
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If you have a tip or a discovery that you found that works on your Turbo Regal, drop us an email giving us the details so we can pass the info on to our readers. Remember, even with my knowledge, I don’t know it all. Simply email me at - [email protected]
TIP FROM ONE OF OUR LONG-TIME OHIO CUSTOMERS -
Ken, out of Ohio, uses this trick to get rid of wax or compound from around emblems, lettering, body seams, hood or trunk gaps. He simply sprays a little WD-40 on a toothbrush and works it around the emblem, lettering, or crevices. The WD-40 dissolves the wax or compound and leaves the area clean and shiny. Wipe that area with a clean rag and the car is show-ready.
To this tip I’d like to add, use a spare tooth brush and not the one you normally use for cleaning your teeth!
TIP FROM KIRBAN -
With the age of these cars increasing every year it’s best not to put off any purchase of available original parts. You may be out of luck at some point to discover that part is no longer available.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED - Powermaster brake units. The must be complete. We will now issue you a Letter of Credit for $150 for each acceptable core. We currently will not buy any powermaster units outright only Letter of Credit towards parts.
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. These are the only 2 items we are currently accepting as cores.
MAIL - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949
UPS - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
6201 Kellers Church Road
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949-1199
TECH CALLS -
If you need technical information, it’s best to email - [email protected] - rather than call us. We will do our best to answer any technical questions within 24 hours. Please remember I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
GM Licensed - “GNX - A HIGH-PERFORMANCE INVESTMENT FOR THE FORTUNATE 547” 2' x 4' BLACK VINYL BANNER -
This high-quality vinyl black banner is GM licensed and measures approximately 2' tall x 4' wide. The banner has metal grommets on four corner.
This distinctive GNX design features the “GNX” logo in red and white and the quote “A HIGH-PERFORMANCE INVESTMENT FOR THE FORTUNATE 547” in white. The design is a black 13 oz vinyl with nylon scrim (mesh) reinforced with hems and grommets.
It’s just one of several distinctive banners we offer.
These banners make an excellent gift for any Buick enthusiast or mechanic. Ideal to hang in any garage, workshop, office or to display at a car show.
8600 - GM Licensed - “GNX” A HIGH-PERFORMANCE INVESTMENT FOR THE FORTUNATE 547” 2' x 4' Vinyl Banner - $42.95
Here is a link to this new GNX banner on our website.
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
REPLACEMENT RADIO TUNER KNOB (1) & VOLUME KNOB (1) SET
In many cases, the original brushed disc may be missing from the factory radio knobs or the brushed disc may be discolored.
This is a brand new correct replacement for the 2 outer radio knobs - tuner and volume knobs. These are very hard to find today since they were last used over 20 years ago on various GM radios. These are correct for other GM applications as well, including all the G-body models.
Another excellent replacement for any interior restoration.
7824 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Replacement Radio Tuner Knob (1) & Volume Knob (1) Set - $12.95
Here is a link to these radio knobs on our website.
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
SPOOLFOOL DRIP-LIP Flywheel (Torque Converter) Cover
Mike, owner of Spoolfool, has created another great practical high-quality product. It’s a fiberglass flywheel (torque converter) cover that has a built-in drip tray. What’s even crazier is that it works.
It is a known fact that 90% of oil leaks on our cars either happen at the back of the engine or end up at the back of the engine. This clever flywheel cover with its built-in drip tray catches those drips, so the oil does not drip on the ground or on the crossover pipe.
Mike has named this new product the “Drip-Lip.” The piece is made in glossy black fiberglass and it replaces the metal or plastic fly wheel cover. Not only is it lighter than the factory metal flywheel cover, but it will not rust.
This Spoolfool Drip-Lip replaces the stock dust cover and keeps oil from dripping on the ground by trapping it in a special tray that attaches to the bottom of this custom-made cover. It has a removable cloth that absorbs any oil that would normally drip and stain your garage floor or driveway. The small cloth catches any oil from dripping and is easy to remove and replace when it becomes fully soaked. This fiberglass dust cover replaces the factory dust cover. You simply reuse the factory bolts and install this dust cover in place of the plastic or metal one.
Like all of Mike’s fiberglass products, the quality is excellent.
If you are into drag racing, this is a critical part as it eliminates dripping oil from the car onto the race track.
So far, the initial results have been that 80% of oil leaks can be kept from dripping on the ground, track and crossover pipe with it installed on a car.
Up until now, the joke has been that if it ain’t leaking oil, you might want to check the oil level. This unique Spoolfool Drip-Lip hopes to change all that.
This product is NOT FOR EVERYONE. It is only for cars with oil leaks (which is most of the Turbo Regals.)
Spoolfool Production Drip-Lip features:
*Catches engine oil from a 3.8 liter Turbo Buick engine
*Keeps smoking oil off the exhaust crossover pipe
*A must-have part for street or strip car
*Half the weight of an original metal flywheel cover
*Since it is fiberglass, it won’t rust out
*Easy installation
*Made in the U.S.A.
An excellent way to solve the oil drip problem.
7823 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - SPOOLFOOL DRIP-LIP Flywheel (Torque Converter) Cover
Here is a link to this Spoolfool Drip-Lip Flywheel Cover on our website.
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 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 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 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 -
According to the local weather reporting in our area, the month of May had the highest rainfall at almost 10 inches in our immediate area. The average is less than half of that.
A LOOK AT CARPET SAVERS / FLOOR MATS -
The term “carpet savers” is what Buick used in their listing in the various catalogs and price books. For the Turbo Regal years (1984-1987) the prices remained the same. Buick offered basic rubber mats for the front and rear. The SPID code for the inexpensive rubber mats was B32 and B33. The price was $17 for the front pair and $12 for the rear pair. The carpet version was $25 for the front pair and $20 for the rear pair. The SPID code for them was B34 and B35.
I would venture a guess and say most original buyers of Turbo Regals went with the carpeted floor mats rather than the rubber floor mats. What can be confusing is that Buick also offered accessory carpet mats which you could purchase later. The accessory carpet mat on the driver’s side front had a slot on both sides of the mat. This is the version most vendors sell today.
All 4 versions we sell match the factory installed carpet savers with only a single slot on the driver’s floor mat. We currently carry 3 different embroidered black floor mats and one plain version. The only other difference that nobody has duplicated is the small rubber insert on the passenger front carpet floor mat that has the GM logo. This insert was basically the size of a typical postage stamp.
What I find interesting is the fact Buick really missed the boat for creating a unique option that many buyers would have surely bought. That is embroidered front carpeted floor mats. I think almost every Grand National buyer and GNX buyer would have surely paid to have optional embroidered floor mats!
Today almost every major car maker has optional embroidered floor mats. Many even make one for the trunk floor. Being able to offer various options is what drives up the profit margin for dealers.
In going through my photos, I did find a photo that does prove that Buick did offer an embroidered carpet front floor mats on their new front wheel drive LeSabre T-Type. The LeSabre T-Type was produced for 3 years 1987-1989.
What I can’t verify is what year or years Buick offered embroidered floor mats for the LeSabre T-Type as I only have the Buick Price Directory for 1987. While these cars lacked any real power compared to the Turbo 3.8 engine, they did have a very nice full analog gauge setup and leather seats was a possible option.
I had several of these cars years ago. They were very smooth running cars. One had the embroidered carpet front floor mats.
PHOTO 1 - We show the one photo I found. It features what appears to be a power six logo in red. The difference being it is solid red and there is a slight gap in the design. These are very similar to the power six logo that all of us is recognize. Being front wheel drive, these cars had a wider flat front floor so these carpet floor mats would be too wide for the Turbo Regal front floor. These LeSabre logo front carpeted floor mats are also extremely hard to find today.
A TOUCH OF BUICK HUMOR -
While I was searching through my photos for the floor mat photo, I came across an interesting photo that I had taken years ago. I remember buying several brand new Turbo Regal hood pads.
PHOTO 2 - Someone in the Buick parts system or supply chain had a sense of humor when they imprinted this hood pad inserting the word “TURBOCHARGED” upside down. Looking back, I should have kept that hood pad as a conversation piece or, at the very least, sold it for a lot of money. Seems mistakes in the corporate world can bring big money. Case in point - The post office many years ago inverted an airplane on a stamp and the few that got out in circulation bring a small fortune today.
A LOOK AT THE 1984 BUICK PRESS KIT -
I must confess that over the years we generally focus most of our attention on the 1986 and 1987 Turbo Regals. My knowledge of the 1984 and 1985 Turbo Regal models is very limited, although we have owned a few.
One of the rarest items I have related to the 1984 Buick models is the actual Buick Press Kit for 1984. I assumed these were produced and sent to Buick dealers prior to the new models coming out. Remember, back then the internet did not exist like it does today and it was the printed word that dealers would have gotten to understand what laid ahead with the new upcoming models.
Back then new models came out usually in the previous fall around September. For example, the Buick News Releases for the 1984 models is dated September 13th,1983. It appears that there was a total of 7 different Buick News Releases in the1984 Buick Press Kit. The main Buick News Release gave a rundown on all the various Buick models for the upcoming year. Another Buick News Release covered the V6 Performance Power. Another Buick News Release covered fuel injection. Another Buick News Release covered the new station wagon models.
One option that I was not aware of was that for the 1984 model Buick was the first in the automotive industry to offer cellular telephones in the cars. That first year it was only offered in the Riviera Coupe in a special seat-mounted console. Chicago was the very first area where it was available. This was developed by AT&T. As they say, the rest was history!
PHOTO 3 - The top left photo shows the folder that the 1984 Buick Press Kit came in. The lower left photo shows a spread of the various Buick News releases that described all the new 1984 Buick models and various descriptions of some of the latest technology that would be in the new 1984 Buick models. The top right photo shows the front side of the color flyer describing the new hottest Buick this side of a banked oval. The lower right shows the backside of this same flyer. Notice the Lear Sieglar seats in the top photo.
PHOTO 4 - Besides the various Buick News, the Press Kit included glossy black and white photos of the new 1984 Buick models. The top center photo shows the new T-Type. The lower left photo shows the new Grand National and the Century model. The lower center shows 2 photos of the Century Estate wagon. The bottom right photo shows the new Century Limited sedan and the Century T-Type.
What I find interesting about these original black and white photos is the fact the Grand National photo was one of the smaller photos. Also, they have more photos of the Century models than they do of the new Grand National and T-Type Regal models. It seems Buick was still focusing on the older crowd for their customer base.
I don’t think Buick initially realized what they had created that would soon have a huge impact with the performance model Regal coupes. It would be the car magazine articles that would soon spread the word that Buick had created a performance car using a V6 platform and packing a turbo to create a combination that eventually would challenge the Corvette model of the same vintage. The clever saying at the time was “We Brake for Corvettes.”
Coming next week, the 1985 Buick Press Kit information.
ISSUES AND DELAYS WITH TWO PARTS -
The Window Rattle Elimination Kit #7170 - We are waiting for one of our vendors to get in their latest shipment of the one main part we need for these kits. We should have them in stock next week. As far as I know, we are the only supplier to all the other vendors for this #7170 Window Rattle Elimination Kit. We need this part to make these kits. This kit was designed over 25 years ago by Pete Serio, the original Window Rattle Guy. We expect to have Window Rattle Elimination Kits in stock late this week.
It’s a critical part to tighten up the door windows from over 25-plus years of rattles! It also is a good time to replace the power window motors in both doors. The new motors available today are slightly quicker than the original ones in the Turbo Regals. Part number for the window motors is #6949. These are in stock.
Rebuilt Powermaster Brake Unit #7021 - A bigger problem has recently developed concerning the rebuilt powermaster brake units. In recent months, a good many incoming cores we are getting have burned out motors. It has become a major issue! Cardone has to send me the burnt out windings from the powermaster, which I then take to another company to have them rebuilt. It is quite a process as it has to put out the proper amperage in order to perform properly.
This has not only created another expense but also requires more time to rebuild a typical powermaster brake unit. It also has forced us to not wholesale the rebuilt powermaster units to other vendors due to the higher costs plus the fact we are now behind filling current orders and repairing warranty units.
This is all out of our control. In some cases, the powermaster units have been a major issue for some owners since they were new.
Some of the cores we been getting in look like they been in the Mississippi River for the last ten years. Right now we have a bunch of motors getting rebuilt and hopefully by the end of June we will be able to catch up with this project.
If you have a powermaster core, please take advantage of our $150 Letter of Credit as we badly need cores with the hope we get some that do not have a burnt up motor. I can foresee rebuilt powermaster brake units fetching a grand before long. The big advantage we have is our lifetime warranty.
COMING NEXT WEEK - PHOTOS FROM THE BUICK BATES NUT FARM SHOW -
Long-time friend Greg Davidian was at this huge Turbo Regal event this past Sunday and has sent me his report along with some great photos to share with our members. Congrats to Mike Barnard and his helpers for putting together this huge west coast Turbo Regal event. I know from firsthand experience how much work is involved, and how you have to keep your fingers crossed that the weather is good.
COLD CASE RADIATORS -
We just got in another shipment of the Cold Case radiators for the 1986-1987 Turbo Regals and sold them all. We expect to have more stock at the end of the month. These are a tremendous value. For more information and photos, see part #7457 on our website. Contact our office to order from the next batch - 215-766-1611 x 0
Here is a link to this radiator on our website.
UPDATE ON REPRODUCTION SPID DECALS -
ECS Automotive is still working on making SPID Decals 100% like the originals. I sent them original SPID decals for them to get the size and the color of the paper correct. They are still working on perfecting the decals.
2018 TURBO BUICK RELATED CAR SHOWS EVENTS -
PYPES and MAX PERFORMANCE 8th Annual American Muscle Car and Truck Show -
June 29th and June 30th, 2018 - Hatfield, PA
This show is hosted by Pypes and Max Performance. A BBQ and cruise is Friday afternoon and Saturday is the car show. The location is at their facility at 2705 Clemens Road B103, Hatfield, PA 19440. This event draws a huge amount of all kinds of GM muscle cars, including Ford and Chrysler. The company owner has been ourfriend for over 30-plus years. We will be attending this event. For more information, go to their website - maxperformanceinc.com
MAGNA - MID ATLANTIC GRAND NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
22nd EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS -
September 14th and 15th, 2018 - Cecil County Dragway, Cecil, Maryland
The MAGNA Group has their annual event September 14th and 15th at Cecil County Dragway in Cecil County, Maryland. This event grows bigger each year and is open to all Buick muscle cars not just the Turbo Regals. We expect to be attending this event. (It falls on my birthday). For more details, go to turbobuick.com - or - their website - magnabuick.com
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 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 3,200 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 3,200 potential buyers.
My Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!
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 x 0.
CLASSIFIED ADS -
WANTED TO BUY: NOS 1987 Buick GNX factory exhaust system. I will pay $300.00 CASH finders fee leading to the successful purchase of the complete NOS factory exhaust system (3 pipes) or $100 per pipe. I am looking for GM part #12332904 – front exhaust crossover Y-pipe GM part 12332903 – left muffler and tailpipe assembly and GM part #12332900 - right muffler and tailpipe assembly. I am a CASH buyer & will travel to purchase so you do not have to ship. I am not a dealer and parts are not for resale. Please call and leave message or e-mail. All calls will be returned promptly. Thank You. Jason Maxfield (416) 399-7265 – Niagara Falls, NY 14303 or email [email protected] 1 of 4.
NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the 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. Simply email - [email protected] - to get on our weekly Inner Circle email.
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 thru.
If you need to email us, use - [email protected]
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If you have a tip or a discovery that you found that works on your Turbo Regal, drop us an email giving us the details so we can pass the info on to our readers. Remember, even with my knowledge, I don’t know it all. Simply email me at - [email protected]
TIP FROM ONE OF OUR LONG-TIME OHIO CUSTOMERS -
Ken, out of Ohio, uses this trick to get rid of wax or compound from around emblems, lettering, body seams, hood or trunk gaps. He simply sprays a little WD-40 on a toothbrush and works it around the emblem, lettering, or crevices. The WD-40 dissolves the wax or compound and leaves the area clean and shiny. Wipe that area with a clean rag and the car is show-ready.
To this tip I’d like to add, use a spare tooth brush and not the one you normally use for cleaning your teeth!
TIP FROM KIRBAN -
With the age of these cars increasing every year it’s best not to put off any purchase of available original parts. You may be out of luck at some point to discover that part is no longer available.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED - Powermaster brake units. The must be complete. We will now issue you a Letter of Credit for $150 for each acceptable core. We currently will not buy any powermaster units outright only Letter of Credit towards parts.
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. These are the only 2 items we are currently accepting as cores.
MAIL - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949
UPS - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
6201 Kellers Church Road
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949-1199
TECH CALLS -
If you need technical information, it’s best to email - [email protected] - rather than call us. We will do our best to answer any technical questions within 24 hours. Please remember I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
GM Licensed - “GNX - A HIGH-PERFORMANCE INVESTMENT FOR THE FORTUNATE 547” 2' x 4' BLACK VINYL BANNER -
This high-quality vinyl black banner is GM licensed and measures approximately 2' tall x 4' wide. The banner has metal grommets on four corner.
This distinctive GNX design features the “GNX” logo in red and white and the quote “A HIGH-PERFORMANCE INVESTMENT FOR THE FORTUNATE 547” in white. The design is a black 13 oz vinyl with nylon scrim (mesh) reinforced with hems and grommets.
It’s just one of several distinctive banners we offer.
These banners make an excellent gift for any Buick enthusiast or mechanic. Ideal to hang in any garage, workshop, office or to display at a car show.
8600 - GM Licensed - “GNX” A HIGH-PERFORMANCE INVESTMENT FOR THE FORTUNATE 547” 2' x 4' Vinyl Banner - $42.95
Here is a link to this new GNX banner on our website.
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
REPLACEMENT RADIO TUNER KNOB (1) & VOLUME KNOB (1) SET
In many cases, the original brushed disc may be missing from the factory radio knobs or the brushed disc may be discolored.
This is a brand new correct replacement for the 2 outer radio knobs - tuner and volume knobs. These are very hard to find today since they were last used over 20 years ago on various GM radios. These are correct for other GM applications as well, including all the G-body models.
Another excellent replacement for any interior restoration.
7824 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Replacement Radio Tuner Knob (1) & Volume Knob (1) Set - $12.95
Here is a link to these radio knobs on our website.
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
SPOOLFOOL DRIP-LIP Flywheel (Torque Converter) Cover
Mike, owner of Spoolfool, has created another great practical high-quality product. It’s a fiberglass flywheel (torque converter) cover that has a built-in drip tray. What’s even crazier is that it works.
It is a known fact that 90% of oil leaks on our cars either happen at the back of the engine or end up at the back of the engine. This clever flywheel cover with its built-in drip tray catches those drips, so the oil does not drip on the ground or on the crossover pipe.
Mike has named this new product the “Drip-Lip.” The piece is made in glossy black fiberglass and it replaces the metal or plastic fly wheel cover. Not only is it lighter than the factory metal flywheel cover, but it will not rust.
This Spoolfool Drip-Lip replaces the stock dust cover and keeps oil from dripping on the ground by trapping it in a special tray that attaches to the bottom of this custom-made cover. It has a removable cloth that absorbs any oil that would normally drip and stain your garage floor or driveway. The small cloth catches any oil from dripping and is easy to remove and replace when it becomes fully soaked. This fiberglass dust cover replaces the factory dust cover. You simply reuse the factory bolts and install this dust cover in place of the plastic or metal one.
Like all of Mike’s fiberglass products, the quality is excellent.
If you are into drag racing, this is a critical part as it eliminates dripping oil from the car onto the race track.
So far, the initial results have been that 80% of oil leaks can be kept from dripping on the ground, track and crossover pipe with it installed on a car.
Up until now, the joke has been that if it ain’t leaking oil, you might want to check the oil level. This unique Spoolfool Drip-Lip hopes to change all that.
This product is NOT FOR EVERYONE. It is only for cars with oil leaks (which is most of the Turbo Regals.)
Spoolfool Production Drip-Lip features:
*Catches engine oil from a 3.8 liter Turbo Buick engine
*Keeps smoking oil off the exhaust crossover pipe
*A must-have part for street or strip car
*Half the weight of an original metal flywheel cover
*Since it is fiberglass, it won’t rust out
*Easy installation
*Made in the U.S.A.
An excellent way to solve the oil drip problem.
7823 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - SPOOLFOOL DRIP-LIP Flywheel (Torque Converter) Cover
Here is a link to this Spoolfool Drip-Lip Flywheel Cover on our website.
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 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 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 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 -
According to the local weather reporting in our area, the month of May had the highest rainfall at almost 10 inches in our immediate area. The average is less than half of that.