Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 05-22-2019 –
CATALYTIC CONVERTER TEST PIPE AND 4-BOLT FLANGE GASKET –
As we reported several months ago, the EPA is cracking down on companies that manufacturer test pipes that eliminate the catalytic converters on cars. Last week we bought the remaining inventory that Pypes Exhaust had on their shelf. Currently we have kept the same price, $46.95, Part #7422. Once we get down to the last 5 or so, we will be bumping up the price.
PHOTO 1 – We show the test pipe that is a direct replacement for the original pancake shaped catalytic converter found on every original 1986-1987 Turbo Regal. It includes the unique 4 bolt gasket as well. Currently we have about a dozen in stock before they are gone. Don’t delay. Once we sell out, there are no more to be had.
Here is a link to this test pipe on our website.
A RARE FIND ON EBAY –
I am sure most readers have purchased something off ebay at one time or another. You always hope for the best, meaning you hope the item you are buying is accurately described.
Prior to our Open House, I brought the rare stand-up Maxine figure to display. I have two of them. These are quite rare as they were original store displays for Hallmark Greeting cards for the Maxine line of greeting cards. It is one of the most successful line of greeting cards that Hallmark sells.
Unknown to me at the time my wife went on ebay and discovered another full-size Maxine for sale for a Buy It Now of $200 with free shipping! This was a real bargain as I had paid as much as $500 for one of the two I currently own. This one on ebay appeared to be brand new, still in the clear plastic wrapping. I told her to buy it. Free shipping from California alone had to cost the seller $60 of the $200 Buy it Now price as we reside in Pennsylvania.
The other day it came to our house. Once I unwrapped, it I realized it was brand new since the dress is slightly faded on the two I already own. This one was mint. It still had the tag on the back of her dress.
It gets better. When I went to stand her up, I noticed a autograph and a date signed on her one legs. The signature was J. Wagner 2001. I had no idea who J. Wagner was, but thanks to the internet we quickly discovered he is the cartoonist that developed the entire Maxine program for Hallmark Greeting cards!
PHOTO 2 – We show the actual full-size stand-up Maxine on the left and a photo showing J. Wagner’s autograph on her one leg in the photo on the right. Since her legs were folded up and in a clear bag, it is unlikely the seller realized the figure had been autographed as there was no mention of it in the ebay description. Plus, I am sure the Buy It Now price would have been a lot higher than $200 shipped!
I now have 3 full-size Maxines, but this one will be worth a bit more money as years go by. I have emailed Hallmark trying to find out how many they made and, by chance, how many were signed by John Wagner.
Ebay makes it nice. You can shop from your home and depending on what you collect, you can add to your collection every month or so. Something unusual pops up that is reasonably priced and you know it’s worth more than the Buy It Now price.
COLLECTING DIECAST CARS –
Last week we wrote about the Minichamps in the 1/43 scale that I collect. Another toy car line I collect is the Carrera slot cars in the 1/32 scale. These are very well detailed and capture the bright colors of each car. I also like the fact they show a driver in each car.
PHOTO 3 – In the photo to the left we show the GTO and Chevelle. In the photo to the right we show the Cuda and the early Mustang. These are just 4 of the approximate dozen I currently have in my private collection. They seem to have focused on the popular American muscle cars from several years ago. It would be nice if they did a Turbo Regal and the other G-body models.
AMBLER, PA CRUISE NIGHT –
The local town of Ambler had their cruise night this past Saturday. This is one of several that take place during the summer in various towns near me. The weather was picture perfect and they had about 225 cars in total. I got a call last week from one of the people running the event trying to locate a 1969 GTO Judge to mark the 50th year of the car.
At most of these events, I bump into old-time friends. It’s cool to see some of the parts we made over the years on various cars, whether they be Corvette, Camaro, Mustang or the older GTOs.
One of the GTO parts we made many years ago was the horn ring for the optional 1964 GTO plastic wood steering wheel. It’s ironic because we get the horn ring made for the Turbo Regals today. The GTO horn ring was chrome plated and was not a huge seller as you had to have the optional steering wheel. Ames made the center plastic medallion and we made the chrome ring.
That optional steering wheel today has not been reproduced and can fetch as much as $2,500 for a nice un-cracked wheel. You read it right - $2,500. When I was selling parts, it was in the $700 to $1,000 range. It is without a doubt the best-looking GTO steering wheel for any GTO year.
Last week we mentioned the plastic emergency brake handle that we had reproduced for the early GTOs and Chevelles. In the next photo, we show one of these brake handles. We also did the original date-coded numbered spark plug wires for all the 1964-1970 GTOs. The same company makes our Turbo Regal plug wires today. We had to get 2 print wheels made for every year. We made the even number quarters (2 and 4) for each year 1964 thru 1970. Another company did the uneven quarters (1 and 3) for each year.
PHOTO 4 – We show the optional 1964 GTO plastic wood wheel to the top left. The top right we show the plastic emergency brake handle we had reproduced. The bottom left shows a close-up of the date-coded plug wires we had made years ago. The bottom right shows the most successful chrome part we get made for the Mustang - a chrome cap that covers the strut tower. It is also the very first cosmetic part we made for the Mustang back in 1993. We got very lucky with this part as I thought at the time it would only fit the 1984 through 1993 Fox Body Mustangs. As the new models of Mustangs came out, we discovered this strut cover we made fits all the way through the 2004 Mustang models. We have sold thousands of them since 1993. It’s nice to look back over the years and see some of the parts we have made being shown on cars still to this day. We have even seen Mustangs in car magazines that have this part on them.
WITH MEMORIAL DAY FAST APPROACHING, PLEASE PAY IT FORWARD –
With Memorial Day fast approaching, here is a chance to do something nice for a Vietnam Veteran. As many of you realize, the Vietnam War was not a popular war. It was often downgraded and called a “conflict.” If you served in the military during that time period, and like me served in Vietnam, the welcome home we got was not a warm welcome from the general public. In recent times, things have changed towards us Vietnam Veterans and more and more are wearing something to reflect their service in Vietnam. It’s been a long time coming.
In recent times whenever I go out to lunch or dinner, if I see someone in the restaurant wearing a Vietnam Veteran hat or a Vietnam patch, I tell my waitress I will pay their bill. I don’t want them to know who did this unexpected gesture.
If you are reading this Inner Circle, my hope is that you pick up this gesture for any Vietnam Veteran or any veteran. Believe me, it gives you a warm feeling inside and I know the Veteran would greatly appreciate it. This gesture is long overdue to those that served in that unpopular war/conflict. I still have my dog tag on my key chain. If you have a Facebook page, please spread the word. You will feel better for doing it.
TWO BUICK EVENTS THIS UPCOMING WEEKEND –
There are two Buick events this week and on the weekend - The Turbo Buick Nationals held at Richard Clark’s Garage in Burlington, NC. Also, the 10th Annual Buick Race Day Saturday, May 25th at Lebanon Valley Dragway in West Lebanon, NY.
GNX #206 FOR SALE –
We are selling GNX #206 for one of our long-time customers. While several GNXs can be found for sale on the internet, what separates this one from the pack is not only does it have the GNX book and GNX jacket but the trunk is full of everything associated with a GNX and all the documents back to the original owner in 1988. It is a 2-owner car. This GNX has never been advertised since the current owner purchased it in 1998.
It has been garaged with the wheels off the ground. Even the steering wheel was covered. Most unusual is that the little rubber bumpers are on both doors that came on the car when it was shipped is still on the car! I did not count them but Molly’s signature appears on a dozen or more items, including the GNX jacket. Car has 100% original paint and 100% stock. Front and rear fillers have just been replaced in the last 30 days.
The car still smells factory new. Mileage is 23,839 and original. Car has the latest PA inspection. It’s close to 100% perfect in every regard. The factory paint is outstanding, a term you seldom see used on a black Regal of any version. The price tag is $99,900. To help ease the pain,since I hold a license, I am open to consider any car or cars in partial trade. Trade value cuts down the sales tax bite and out-of-pocket money. Remember, a partial trade car need not be a Turbo Regal. It can even be more than one car. Buying this example eliminates any surprises that some of the other GNXs seem to have that are for sale. This GNX is one that can only advance in value. You can email me for more photos. My email is [email protected]
NEW PRODUCT COMING DESIGNED FOR JEEP OFF-ROADING –
A local company has patented a clever new product and we are the marketing agent for this new product. Jeeps are well known for having over heating issues especially when used to pull a trailer or to go off-roading.
Until now the solution has been to install lovers or vents in the hood to let the heat escape. The problem with this is the vents are open all the time. So, when it rains water gets under the hood and can cause issues with the electronics under the hood.
This company has developed a vent system that is heat activated so the vents close automatically when the engine is cooled down. No wiring is involved. The vent system is flush mounted on the hood of any Jeep and can be painted. The vent system is made from 6061 T aluminum.
In the next several months we will be approaching various Jeep companies about this new product. This clever product will be on display at our Open House. The Jeep off road market is huge. This product can be adapted to virtually any flat hood to allow heat out of the engine compartment. Email me [email protected] for more details and photos.
URGENT REQUEST –
We have an urgent need for usable 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering wheel cores. Each acceptable core is worth a Letter of Credit of $100. Help us help others by sending us any acceptable cores you may have. The cheapest method to send them is by mail. Ship to Kirban Performance, PO Box 1199, Plumsteadville, PA 18949. Be sure to include your name, address and phone number.
CARSMARTS RADIO IS ON THE AIR AND ON THE WEB! –
Turbo V6 enthusiast Steve Saffier (who produced “The Dennis Kirban Story” on YouTube last year) is producer and host of a new automotive radio program broadcasting live every Saturday from 11am - 12 noon on 610 ESPN radio (the old WIP 610 am for those in the area.) The show talks about different aspects of the car world and Steve’s affinity for Turbo Regals and Syclone/Typhoons often is expressed in nearly every show.
You can tune in live or livestream the show at http://www.610espn.com from anywhere in the world.
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If there are any tips or ideas you want to share with our readers, email me –[email protected]
TIP FROM KIRBAN –
With values continuing to rise for original 1986-1987 Turbo Regals, notably the Grand National, think twice before converting your brake system to something other than the original powermaster brake unit. The units we sell come with a lifetime Warranty as long as you own the car and I am alive.
2019 TURBO BUICK RELATED CAR SHOWS EVENTS -
To get your Turbo Regal event for 2019 listed here, you must email me direct [email protected] Also send me a copy of the flyer promoting the event.
10TH ANNUAL BUICK RACE DAY -
Saturday, MAY 25, 2019 – Gates open at 8 am
Lebanon Valley Dragway, 1746 U.S. Route 20, West Lebanon, NY
Participants in all Buick classes must be Buick-Powered. For more information, call 518-794-7130 or call 914-477-6068 (ask for John)
TURBO BUICK NATIONALS –
MAY 23, 24, and 25, 2019
Richard Clark’s Garage, Burlington, North Carolina
This event is held at Richard Clark’s Garage in Burlington, NC.For more information and a list of their program, go to Turbobuick.com and scroll down to Turbo Buick Nationals 2019 for up-to-date information. Here is the link to this event.
BATES NUT FARM BUICK SHOW -
SUNDAY, JUNE 2, 2019 - 9 am until 3 pm -
Bates Nut Farm, Valley Center, CA
According to Mike Bernard (of Spoolfool fame), this event is the second largest gathering of Turbo Buicks in the nation. Eric Brown and Mike Bernard deserve a lot of credit for putting this west coast event on every year. The event runs from 9 am until 3 pm. Vendors will be on hand and they will have many items for their raffles. They will update the info shortly for 2019 at this link. Here is a link to their website.
1ST ANNUAL BUICK BASH AT THE QUAKE -
FRIDAY& SATURDAY - JUNE 14 & 15, 2019
Quaker City Motorsports Park, 10225 West South Range Road, Salem, OH 44460
For more info, contact John Csordas 914-447-6068 [email protected] or Denny Moore 330-647-3615 [email protected] - www.quakercitymotorsportspark.com
EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS -
FRIDAY& SATURDAY - SEPTEMBER 20TH& 21ST, 2019
Cecil County Dragway, 1916 Theodore Road, Rising Sun, Maryland
This will be the 23rd year. Host hotel Information:Comfort Inn located just off exit 100 on I-95.Call 410-287-7100 and mention Northeast GS/GN Club for special pricing. For more info, contact John Csordas 914-447-6068 [email protected] or Jim Chaudrue 215-266-1052 [email protected]
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 3,300 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.
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.
FOR SALE - 1986 T-Type ex FBI car with documents. Owned for almost 22 years rebuilt motor 1500 miles maybe with 500 plus RWH car is white with GTA wheels I had made with the right offset 16×9 and 16×8 burgundy interior in nice shape 140 factory dash cd radio air bags with GNX flares. Many top of the line parts used, car not driven.
It's not mint but it's a good condition 2 and a half I think, but it's all there egt gauge scan master new power master and a lot invested in 22 years. Bids start at 20 K serious seekers please. Call after noon California time. Stephen Donegan – Hayward, CA - 510-706-2800 Week 1 or 4
NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE BUICK RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the Buick Rare Parts section at the end of this Inner Circle, it is because you are not an Inner Circle member, but instead are reading this on the website. You must subscribe to see the Rare Parts section each week. It would go directly to your inbox every Wednesday afternoon. It is FREE, probably one reason why nobody complains about what I write about. Simply email - [email protected] to get our free weekly Inner Circle email.
The Buick Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!
EMAILS TO KIRBAN PERFORMANCE -
NOTE- If you email us and do NOT get a timely reply, be sure to check your “SPAM” folder. Some emails do not go thru.
If you need to email us, use - [email protected]
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED –
POWERMASTER BRAKE UNITS. Unit must be complete. We will 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.
TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $150 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. 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 –
BUICK GRAND NATIONAL 22-Ounce BEVERAGE TUMBLER MUG
This GM licensed 22-ounce beverage tumbler is made of a durable double-wall stainless steel vacuum construction with copper insulation. This allows the beverage to stay cold for 24 hours or hot for at least 6 hours!
The construction also prevents condensation on the outside of the tumbler. On-trend, durable powder coating, and easy sipping with a push-on lid with a wide opening for comfortable filing and pouring. An Eastman Tritan T straw is included.
The Grand National Turbo-six logo is imprinted in red, orange and white.
It makes a great statement at a car show, and also makes a great gift for that Turbo enthusiast or for your mechanic.
This is another excellent Buick enthusiast gift idea.
7875 - GM Licensed - BUICK GRAND NATIONAL 22-ounce Beverage Tumbler Mug - $24.95
Here is a link to this Tumbler on our website.
GM Licensed –
BUICK GRAND NATIONAL BASEBALL-STYLE EMBROIDERED BLACK HAT
This GM licensed 6-panel structured low crown pre-curved visor black hat is made from moisture wicking polyester. It has a micro-hook/loop closure in the back.
The black hat has the Grand National Turbo-six logo embroidered in red, orange and white on the front and adjustable in the back.
This is another excellent Buick enthusiast gift idea.
7876 - GM Licensed - BUICK GRAND NATIONAL Baseball-style Embroidered Black Hat - $17.95
Here is a link to this Hat 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 –
Remember, we are always seeking powermaster brake cores. Why not cash it in for parts you can use?
CATALYTIC CONVERTER TEST PIPE AND 4-BOLT FLANGE GASKET –
As we reported several months ago, the EPA is cracking down on companies that manufacturer test pipes that eliminate the catalytic converters on cars. Last week we bought the remaining inventory that Pypes Exhaust had on their shelf. Currently we have kept the same price, $46.95, Part #7422. Once we get down to the last 5 or so, we will be bumping up the price.
PHOTO 1 – We show the test pipe that is a direct replacement for the original pancake shaped catalytic converter found on every original 1986-1987 Turbo Regal. It includes the unique 4 bolt gasket as well. Currently we have about a dozen in stock before they are gone. Don’t delay. Once we sell out, there are no more to be had.
Here is a link to this test pipe on our website.
A RARE FIND ON EBAY –
I am sure most readers have purchased something off ebay at one time or another. You always hope for the best, meaning you hope the item you are buying is accurately described.
Prior to our Open House, I brought the rare stand-up Maxine figure to display. I have two of them. These are quite rare as they were original store displays for Hallmark Greeting cards for the Maxine line of greeting cards. It is one of the most successful line of greeting cards that Hallmark sells.
Unknown to me at the time my wife went on ebay and discovered another full-size Maxine for sale for a Buy It Now of $200 with free shipping! This was a real bargain as I had paid as much as $500 for one of the two I currently own. This one on ebay appeared to be brand new, still in the clear plastic wrapping. I told her to buy it. Free shipping from California alone had to cost the seller $60 of the $200 Buy it Now price as we reside in Pennsylvania.
The other day it came to our house. Once I unwrapped, it I realized it was brand new since the dress is slightly faded on the two I already own. This one was mint. It still had the tag on the back of her dress.
It gets better. When I went to stand her up, I noticed a autograph and a date signed on her one legs. The signature was J. Wagner 2001. I had no idea who J. Wagner was, but thanks to the internet we quickly discovered he is the cartoonist that developed the entire Maxine program for Hallmark Greeting cards!
PHOTO 2 – We show the actual full-size stand-up Maxine on the left and a photo showing J. Wagner’s autograph on her one leg in the photo on the right. Since her legs were folded up and in a clear bag, it is unlikely the seller realized the figure had been autographed as there was no mention of it in the ebay description. Plus, I am sure the Buy It Now price would have been a lot higher than $200 shipped!
I now have 3 full-size Maxines, but this one will be worth a bit more money as years go by. I have emailed Hallmark trying to find out how many they made and, by chance, how many were signed by John Wagner.
Ebay makes it nice. You can shop from your home and depending on what you collect, you can add to your collection every month or so. Something unusual pops up that is reasonably priced and you know it’s worth more than the Buy It Now price.
COLLECTING DIECAST CARS –
Last week we wrote about the Minichamps in the 1/43 scale that I collect. Another toy car line I collect is the Carrera slot cars in the 1/32 scale. These are very well detailed and capture the bright colors of each car. I also like the fact they show a driver in each car.
PHOTO 3 – In the photo to the left we show the GTO and Chevelle. In the photo to the right we show the Cuda and the early Mustang. These are just 4 of the approximate dozen I currently have in my private collection. They seem to have focused on the popular American muscle cars from several years ago. It would be nice if they did a Turbo Regal and the other G-body models.
AMBLER, PA CRUISE NIGHT –
The local town of Ambler had their cruise night this past Saturday. This is one of several that take place during the summer in various towns near me. The weather was picture perfect and they had about 225 cars in total. I got a call last week from one of the people running the event trying to locate a 1969 GTO Judge to mark the 50th year of the car.
At most of these events, I bump into old-time friends. It’s cool to see some of the parts we made over the years on various cars, whether they be Corvette, Camaro, Mustang or the older GTOs.
One of the GTO parts we made many years ago was the horn ring for the optional 1964 GTO plastic wood steering wheel. It’s ironic because we get the horn ring made for the Turbo Regals today. The GTO horn ring was chrome plated and was not a huge seller as you had to have the optional steering wheel. Ames made the center plastic medallion and we made the chrome ring.
That optional steering wheel today has not been reproduced and can fetch as much as $2,500 for a nice un-cracked wheel. You read it right - $2,500. When I was selling parts, it was in the $700 to $1,000 range. It is without a doubt the best-looking GTO steering wheel for any GTO year.
Last week we mentioned the plastic emergency brake handle that we had reproduced for the early GTOs and Chevelles. In the next photo, we show one of these brake handles. We also did the original date-coded numbered spark plug wires for all the 1964-1970 GTOs. The same company makes our Turbo Regal plug wires today. We had to get 2 print wheels made for every year. We made the even number quarters (2 and 4) for each year 1964 thru 1970. Another company did the uneven quarters (1 and 3) for each year.
PHOTO 4 – We show the optional 1964 GTO plastic wood wheel to the top left. The top right we show the plastic emergency brake handle we had reproduced. The bottom left shows a close-up of the date-coded plug wires we had made years ago. The bottom right shows the most successful chrome part we get made for the Mustang - a chrome cap that covers the strut tower. It is also the very first cosmetic part we made for the Mustang back in 1993. We got very lucky with this part as I thought at the time it would only fit the 1984 through 1993 Fox Body Mustangs. As the new models of Mustangs came out, we discovered this strut cover we made fits all the way through the 2004 Mustang models. We have sold thousands of them since 1993. It’s nice to look back over the years and see some of the parts we have made being shown on cars still to this day. We have even seen Mustangs in car magazines that have this part on them.
WITH MEMORIAL DAY FAST APPROACHING, PLEASE PAY IT FORWARD –
With Memorial Day fast approaching, here is a chance to do something nice for a Vietnam Veteran. As many of you realize, the Vietnam War was not a popular war. It was often downgraded and called a “conflict.” If you served in the military during that time period, and like me served in Vietnam, the welcome home we got was not a warm welcome from the general public. In recent times, things have changed towards us Vietnam Veterans and more and more are wearing something to reflect their service in Vietnam. It’s been a long time coming.
In recent times whenever I go out to lunch or dinner, if I see someone in the restaurant wearing a Vietnam Veteran hat or a Vietnam patch, I tell my waitress I will pay their bill. I don’t want them to know who did this unexpected gesture.
If you are reading this Inner Circle, my hope is that you pick up this gesture for any Vietnam Veteran or any veteran. Believe me, it gives you a warm feeling inside and I know the Veteran would greatly appreciate it. This gesture is long overdue to those that served in that unpopular war/conflict. I still have my dog tag on my key chain. If you have a Facebook page, please spread the word. You will feel better for doing it.
TWO BUICK EVENTS THIS UPCOMING WEEKEND –
There are two Buick events this week and on the weekend - The Turbo Buick Nationals held at Richard Clark’s Garage in Burlington, NC. Also, the 10th Annual Buick Race Day Saturday, May 25th at Lebanon Valley Dragway in West Lebanon, NY.
GNX #206 FOR SALE –
We are selling GNX #206 for one of our long-time customers. While several GNXs can be found for sale on the internet, what separates this one from the pack is not only does it have the GNX book and GNX jacket but the trunk is full of everything associated with a GNX and all the documents back to the original owner in 1988. It is a 2-owner car. This GNX has never been advertised since the current owner purchased it in 1998.
It has been garaged with the wheels off the ground. Even the steering wheel was covered. Most unusual is that the little rubber bumpers are on both doors that came on the car when it was shipped is still on the car! I did not count them but Molly’s signature appears on a dozen or more items, including the GNX jacket. Car has 100% original paint and 100% stock. Front and rear fillers have just been replaced in the last 30 days.
The car still smells factory new. Mileage is 23,839 and original. Car has the latest PA inspection. It’s close to 100% perfect in every regard. The factory paint is outstanding, a term you seldom see used on a black Regal of any version. The price tag is $99,900. To help ease the pain,since I hold a license, I am open to consider any car or cars in partial trade. Trade value cuts down the sales tax bite and out-of-pocket money. Remember, a partial trade car need not be a Turbo Regal. It can even be more than one car. Buying this example eliminates any surprises that some of the other GNXs seem to have that are for sale. This GNX is one that can only advance in value. You can email me for more photos. My email is [email protected]
NEW PRODUCT COMING DESIGNED FOR JEEP OFF-ROADING –
A local company has patented a clever new product and we are the marketing agent for this new product. Jeeps are well known for having over heating issues especially when used to pull a trailer or to go off-roading.
Until now the solution has been to install lovers or vents in the hood to let the heat escape. The problem with this is the vents are open all the time. So, when it rains water gets under the hood and can cause issues with the electronics under the hood.
This company has developed a vent system that is heat activated so the vents close automatically when the engine is cooled down. No wiring is involved. The vent system is flush mounted on the hood of any Jeep and can be painted. The vent system is made from 6061 T aluminum.
In the next several months we will be approaching various Jeep companies about this new product. This clever product will be on display at our Open House. The Jeep off road market is huge. This product can be adapted to virtually any flat hood to allow heat out of the engine compartment. Email me [email protected] for more details and photos.
URGENT REQUEST –
We have an urgent need for usable 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering wheel cores. Each acceptable core is worth a Letter of Credit of $100. Help us help others by sending us any acceptable cores you may have. The cheapest method to send them is by mail. Ship to Kirban Performance, PO Box 1199, Plumsteadville, PA 18949. Be sure to include your name, address and phone number.
CARSMARTS RADIO IS ON THE AIR AND ON THE WEB! –
Turbo V6 enthusiast Steve Saffier (who produced “The Dennis Kirban Story” on YouTube last year) is producer and host of a new automotive radio program broadcasting live every Saturday from 11am - 12 noon on 610 ESPN radio (the old WIP 610 am for those in the area.) The show talks about different aspects of the car world and Steve’s affinity for Turbo Regals and Syclone/Typhoons often is expressed in nearly every show.
You can tune in live or livestream the show at http://www.610espn.com from anywhere in the world.
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If there are any tips or ideas you want to share with our readers, email me –[email protected]
TIP FROM KIRBAN –
With values continuing to rise for original 1986-1987 Turbo Regals, notably the Grand National, think twice before converting your brake system to something other than the original powermaster brake unit. The units we sell come with a lifetime Warranty as long as you own the car and I am alive.
2019 TURBO BUICK RELATED CAR SHOWS EVENTS -
To get your Turbo Regal event for 2019 listed here, you must email me direct [email protected] Also send me a copy of the flyer promoting the event.
10TH ANNUAL BUICK RACE DAY -
Saturday, MAY 25, 2019 – Gates open at 8 am
Lebanon Valley Dragway, 1746 U.S. Route 20, West Lebanon, NY
Participants in all Buick classes must be Buick-Powered. For more information, call 518-794-7130 or call 914-477-6068 (ask for John)
TURBO BUICK NATIONALS –
MAY 23, 24, and 25, 2019
Richard Clark’s Garage, Burlington, North Carolina
This event is held at Richard Clark’s Garage in Burlington, NC.For more information and a list of their program, go to Turbobuick.com and scroll down to Turbo Buick Nationals 2019 for up-to-date information. Here is the link to this event.
BATES NUT FARM BUICK SHOW -
SUNDAY, JUNE 2, 2019 - 9 am until 3 pm -
Bates Nut Farm, Valley Center, CA
According to Mike Bernard (of Spoolfool fame), this event is the second largest gathering of Turbo Buicks in the nation. Eric Brown and Mike Bernard deserve a lot of credit for putting this west coast event on every year. The event runs from 9 am until 3 pm. Vendors will be on hand and they will have many items for their raffles. They will update the info shortly for 2019 at this link. Here is a link to their website.
1ST ANNUAL BUICK BASH AT THE QUAKE -
FRIDAY& SATURDAY - JUNE 14 & 15, 2019
Quaker City Motorsports Park, 10225 West South Range Road, Salem, OH 44460
For more info, contact John Csordas 914-447-6068 [email protected] or Denny Moore 330-647-3615 [email protected] - www.quakercitymotorsportspark.com
EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS -
FRIDAY& SATURDAY - SEPTEMBER 20TH& 21ST, 2019
Cecil County Dragway, 1916 Theodore Road, Rising Sun, Maryland
This will be the 23rd year. Host hotel Information:Comfort Inn located just off exit 100 on I-95.Call 410-287-7100 and mention Northeast GS/GN Club for special pricing. For more info, contact John Csordas 914-447-6068 [email protected] or Jim Chaudrue 215-266-1052 [email protected]
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 3,300 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.
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.
FOR SALE - 1986 T-Type ex FBI car with documents. Owned for almost 22 years rebuilt motor 1500 miles maybe with 500 plus RWH car is white with GTA wheels I had made with the right offset 16×9 and 16×8 burgundy interior in nice shape 140 factory dash cd radio air bags with GNX flares. Many top of the line parts used, car not driven.
It's not mint but it's a good condition 2 and a half I think, but it's all there egt gauge scan master new power master and a lot invested in 22 years. Bids start at 20 K serious seekers please. Call after noon California time. Stephen Donegan – Hayward, CA - 510-706-2800 Week 1 or 4
NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE BUICK RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the Buick Rare Parts section at the end of this Inner Circle, it is because you are not an Inner Circle member, but instead are reading this on the website. You must subscribe to see the Rare Parts section each week. It would go directly to your inbox every Wednesday afternoon. It is FREE, probably one reason why nobody complains about what I write about. Simply email - [email protected] to get our free weekly Inner Circle email.
The Buick Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!
EMAILS TO KIRBAN PERFORMANCE -
NOTE- If you email us and do NOT get a timely reply, be sure to check your “SPAM” folder. Some emails do not go thru.
If you need to email us, use - [email protected]
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED –
POWERMASTER BRAKE UNITS. Unit must be complete. We will 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.
TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $150 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. 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 –
BUICK GRAND NATIONAL 22-Ounce BEVERAGE TUMBLER MUG
This GM licensed 22-ounce beverage tumbler is made of a durable double-wall stainless steel vacuum construction with copper insulation. This allows the beverage to stay cold for 24 hours or hot for at least 6 hours!
The construction also prevents condensation on the outside of the tumbler. On-trend, durable powder coating, and easy sipping with a push-on lid with a wide opening for comfortable filing and pouring. An Eastman Tritan T straw is included.
The Grand National Turbo-six logo is imprinted in red, orange and white.
It makes a great statement at a car show, and also makes a great gift for that Turbo enthusiast or for your mechanic.
This is another excellent Buick enthusiast gift idea.
7875 - GM Licensed - BUICK GRAND NATIONAL 22-ounce Beverage Tumbler Mug - $24.95
Here is a link to this Tumbler on our website.
GM Licensed –
BUICK GRAND NATIONAL BASEBALL-STYLE EMBROIDERED BLACK HAT
This GM licensed 6-panel structured low crown pre-curved visor black hat is made from moisture wicking polyester. It has a micro-hook/loop closure in the back.
The black hat has the Grand National Turbo-six logo embroidered in red, orange and white on the front and adjustable in the back.
This is another excellent Buick enthusiast gift idea.
7876 - GM Licensed - BUICK GRAND NATIONAL Baseball-style Embroidered Black Hat - $17.95
Here is a link to this Hat 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 –
Remember, we are always seeking powermaster brake cores. Why not cash it in for parts you can use?