Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 04-04-2018 -
GOING BACK IN TIME -
Among my collection of various Turbo Regal brochures, I have several flyers on Quality Engineering Performance Products. They would later change their name to Advance Vehicles Concepts or “AVC” for short.
One of their most popular products was the GNX instrument cluster. It was the must-have product to replace the primitive factory 0-85 speedometer and idiot lights Buick used in the Turbo Regals. Their full gauge package was the hot ticket in the late 1980s and early 1990s. It was priced around $698. Installation would usually run another $200. This early-style GNX dash can be seen in Turbo Regals even today, as it has stood the test of time!
I know we had this GNX gauge cluster installed in our personal 1987 Grand National, probably during the first six months of ownership!
Another company called Autocraft took a different approach and focused on making a molded body kit to enhance the exterior appearance of the Turbo Regal. I must confess, I never saw much in magazines about this body kit and never saw a Regal with it installed.
PHOTO 1 - We show 2 flyers of Quality Engineering Performance Products parts, however, their GNX suspension, was not an exact copy of the real GNX suspension. Their business was located in Fenton, Michigan.
PHOTO 2 - We show 2 black and white photos I have of the Autocraft body kit on a white Turbo Regal. The kit appears to incorporate fender flares and eliminates the body lines from the bumper fillers to the body.
The bumpers, from what I can tell, are color matched to the car with the bumper cushion and bumper guards removed. It appears to work best on a white Turbo Regal for photos. I believe this company was located in California. If anyone has more information on this body kit, please send me an email - [email protected]
NEWEST PRODUCT TO PROTECT YOUR CAR
As we have hinted in earlier Inner Circle emails, the company across from our shop has been working on a product to protect our cars when they are stored. For long-time storage, many of you simply put a form-fitting car cover over your car for its winter hibernation.
That is good for keeping the dust off your car, but fails to provide ample protection on the sides of your car in case something was to fall against it. Kids have bikes and bikes can be a potential problem. Sides of the car can get bumped as people walk between the car and the wall or another vehicle. We have a solution for this.
These are foam 2-foot square interlocking panels that use a magnet in them so they stay secured to your car. Each interlocking panel is 2-foot square and almost ½-inch thick.
These will be available at our Spring Open House as a new product.
PHOTO 3 - We show one of our personal cars with a car cover installed and 3 of the interlocking panels protecting the one side of the car. This photo shows the basic concept. The magnet method will be slightly different than shown in the photo.
2000 HARLEY DAVIDSON FORD PICK-UP TRUCK -
This 2000 Harley-Davidson Ford pickup truck finally was delivered to our house. We washed and cleaned it up. We expect the buyer will be picking it up at our Spring Open House. So, it will be at our warehouse to see. It has a mere 1,860 miles on it. It was last on the road in 2007, roughly 11 years ago.
PHOTO 4 - We show 4 various photos of the Harley-Davidson Ford truck after it has been washed. It still smells new inside. All the stickers on the frame look brand new. This is about as new as you can find. I believe it has all the Harley-Davidson options, including the rubber bed liner with the Harley-Davidson logo on it. It comes with the factory taillights that were removed for the clear ones.
THIS SELLER HAS LITTLE KNOWLEDGE OF A GRAND NATIONAL -
Some of the classic car companies that resell Turbo Regals have very little knowledge of the Grand Nationals. One such ad I recently read advertised a 1987 Grand National for around $24,000. This 8-line ad in a magazine failed to mention if the paint was original or a repaint. The ad never mentioned what the actual miles on the car was. What the ad did say was that the car is automatic. It also said it has a combination of black and grey interior, power steering, and factory air conditioning.
Also in the description, which I have no idea what they meant, it read “solid wheels.” Maybe I don’t sell many cars anymore, but I never used the words solid wheels in a description of a Grand National nor had to state it as a black and grey interior. You know, based on the ad, the only real way to know correct information on this Grand National is to look at it in person before dropping 24 grand!
FACEBOOK PAGE - MATT BLAIR CARTOONS -
For those readers on Facebook, Matt Blair has started a Facebook page dedicated to his turbo Buick artwork and cartoons. The artwork was created between 1998 and 2000 for Kirban Performance Product's monthly newsletter Grand News, The Source (Turbo Buick Newsletter), Zero to Sixty Performance Products, and a few other odds and ends both commissioned and personal.
You're welcome to view the images, share them, and even download and print them for your PERSONAL USE ONLY.
Here is a link to his page on Facebook.
OUR SPRING OPEN HOUSE - APRIL 21ST- UPDATE -
Here is a current list of companies that have responded about donating something for our Open House door prizes. The latest door prize comes from Auto Zone. I am sure several more companies will respond as the date gets closer. Here is the current listing:
Auto Zone, Casper’s Electronics, Castle Performance, Cold Case, Max Performance, Gbodyparts.com, Limit Engineering, Lorenz Racing & Performance, Metco Motorsports, REM Automotive, Russ & Nancy, Spoolfool (Mike Barnard), and Yum Yums.
Special Guest Terry Shaw from Auto Legal Services (Appraisal Information) will also be there to answer any of your questions.
CARDBOARD STAND UP RICHARD PETTY DISPLAY UPDATE -
All the Richard Petty Stand-up displays in last week’s Inner Circle sold out virtually in minutes! This proves I sold them too cheap!
COMING SOON NEW PRODUCT FROM SPOOLFOOL -
We actually have a production part of the new part Spoolfool just started making to show at our Spring Open House. It will fit all the 1984-1987 Turbo Regal.
This is a really clever product that most Turbo regal owners will appreciate. Sorry, I can’t give you any more clues as to what it is at this time.
VALUABLE ORIGINAL ARTWORK FROM ONE OF MY DAD’S BOOKS UPDATE -
The framed artwork of my Dad’s book that we pictured in last week’s Inner Circle will be on display at our Spring Open House.
2018 TURBO BUICK RELATED CAR SHOWS EVENTS -
Here is the current listing with dates for events to show your Turbo Regal or attend in 2018. As more information becomes available for these events, we will update them.
KIRBAN SPRING OPEN HOUSE -
Saturday, April 21st, 2018 - KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS, 6201 Kellers Church Road, Plumsteadville, PA
This event has no rain date. We will have free Yum Yums donuts and coffee while supplies last. This event features specials on our products, M&M contest, and our popular No Reserve auction. The time is from 9 am until 2 pm. Special pricing to be announced on Pypes exhaust systems and Cold Case radiators. Spoolfool fillers can be reserved for pickup to eliminate costly shipping charges. Those are the 3 big items where you can save money by picking them up at our Open House. Many of our vendors and suppliers are donating door prizes for this event.
MOTELS IN QUAKERTOWN - CLOSE TO LOCATION of our Open House
All locations listed are about 25 minutes from our shop and are basically just 3 turns.
If you plan to arrive Friday night, let me know as we can meet for dinner as I meet Jason from Canada every year for dinner Friday night at Applebees in Quakertown.
The first three listed are all fairly new motels.
Comfort Suites Inn
Rt 663 - 1905 John Fries Highway Quakertown PA 18951 - 215-538-3000
Hampton Inn
Rt 663 - 1915 John Fries Highway Quakertown, PA 18951 - 215-536-7779
Quakertown Holiday Inn Express
Rt 663 - 1918 John Fries Highway Quakertown, PA 18951 - 215-529-7979
Econo Lodge
1446 West Broad Street, Quakertown, PA 18951 - 215-536-2500
2018 Turbobuick.com NATIONALS -
May 2nd thru May 5th, 2018 - Burlington, NC
This event is held at two locations. The first part of the week is at Richard Clark’s Garage, 2557 Faucette Lane, Burlington, NC. It then moves to a different track - Farmington Dragway, 2992 NC Highway 801N, Mocksville, NC, located about one hour west of Burlington, NC. For more information, go to turbobuick.com and click on 2018 Turbo Buick Nationals or on Facebook.
9TH ANNUAL BUICK RACE DAY
May 26th, 2018 Lebanon Valley Dragway, NY.
This is their 9th annual Buick event.
For more information, call 518-794-7130 or 845-528-GSGN, and ask for John.
BUICKS@Bates 2018-
Sunday, June 3, 2018
9 am - 4 pm PDT
Bates Nut Farm, 15954 Wood Valley Road, Valley Center, Californian 92082
The largest gathering of 1984-1987 Turbo Buicks and Classic Buicks west of the Mississippi! Come hang with the SoCal GS Club and Turbobuick.com South Westerners.
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 our friend 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
CUSTOM-MADE GM LICENSED VINYL BANNERS UPDATE-
We will have actual samples of several new Turbo Regal banners on display at our Spring Open House, including two GNX versions. We are working with the company that is licensed by GM that covers Buick/Oldsmobile/Pontiac. We already have 4 or 5 unique banners that we will have available at our Spring Open House in April. We will auction off the sample ones we had done.
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.
THIS WEEK’S CLASSIFIED ADS -
WANTED to BUY: NOS Buick parts for 1987 Buick Turbo Regal. Will you be at Dennis Kirban's Spring Open House on Saturday, April 21 and have some NOS Buick Turbo Regal parts you are thinking of selling? If yes, please contact me by phone or e-mail and let me know what you have as I may be interested. I am a CASH buyer and will be at the Kirban Spring Open House and travel to purchase. I am not a dealer and parts are not for resale any parts I purchase are for my own small personal Buick parts collection. Please call and leave message or e-mail. All calls will be returned. Jason Maxfield 416-399-7265 or [email protected] - Niagara Falls, NY 14303. Thank you. 1 of 4
CAR FOR SALE - 1987 BUICK GRAND NATIONAL - CFS049
For Sale - 1987 GRAND NATIONAL - Exceptional condition, 30 k miles, t-tops. It has all the options I am aware of. Car is most original with upgrades that address original design shortfalls; Monte Carlo brake system, original and up-sized wheel and tire sets, under body detailed, all aftermarket braces, upgraded suspension bushings, GNX speedometer, performance mufflers, rerouted vacuum lines, shift kit, and lowered.
You won't find a more clean interior, underbody, motor compartment, trunk, and t-top set.
$25,000, Chris, Flushing, MI - 810-441-6121 1 of 2
Here is a link to this car on our website.
FOR SALE - 1987 Buick Grand National - Gorgeous 1987 Buick Grand National with only 18,550 original miles. Extremely nice condition beautiful deep black paint Excellent condition throughout. Very well kept and taken care of low mile Grand National. Completely clean auto-check. Zero issues. Car has 18,500 Original miles. New radiator recently installed, wears GNX wheels now, comes with original wheels and original tires mounted. Previous owner paperwork included. Starts right up and runs excellent and drive excellent. Beautiful factory interior looks new. Fully documented with the RPO codes on the original service parts identification sticker on underside of the trunk lid. Factory overdrive automatic shifts smooth and tight. $30,000 Jim Sirotnak, Dunmore, PA - 570-466-2555 2 of 2.
Here is a link to this car on our website:
FOR SALE - a set of 4 Grand National wheels and tires that were taken off a GN during its conversion to a GNX. These tires have been sitting unused and untouched since Mid-December 1987 in a windowless building. The condition is as close to new on all four steel wheels and tires as you could get. The air in the tires is believed to be 1987 air. Each tire appears to have no cracking and all of the nubs, hairs, or nipples are still on each tire. I purchased these tires and rims directly from Dennis Kirban in 2013 and never used them. They went directly into my heated warehouse in 2013. $2,000.00 plus shipping. I also have four original excellent GNX rims for sale for $5,000.00 also purchased from Dennis Kirban. Contact [email protected] 3 of 3.
FOR SALE - Remember, if you are local to us check out the inventory of used vehicles 611 Auto Sales. They are located near us at 8307 Easton Road in Ottsville, PA. Their website is -611autosalespa.com Many of the cars are priced under $3,995. Mention my name and it may save you a few bucks! They have several one-owner cars to choose from.
Their office number is 610-847-0100. Currently they have the 1987 Bronco II for $6,495. Several of their real nice 4-door sedans are priced under $3,995. These are ones I bid on that checked out as 1-2 owners, non-smoker with real nice exterior and interiors.
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 KIRBAN -
Remember if you are planning to attend our upcoming Spring Open House bring any powermaster cores you want to cash in for our parts. Also any parts you wish to trade or sell us as we are a possible buyer.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
NEED - Powermaster brake units. The must be complete. We will issue you a Letter of Credit for $125 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 -
1985-1987 Buick GRAND NATIONAL -
ONE-PIECE BUCKET SEAT COVER
Because the original grey and black pallex Grand National seat material is so costly, here is a simple and inexpensive method to protect it.
We offer a one-piece form-fitting seat cover for the front bucket seat. No tools are required and it’s easy to clean. You simply slide it over the seat. It can be removed easily.
This seat cover has the same two-color color (black and grey) design, so it looks like it was made specifically for the Grand National.
The durable and breathable material is double nylon mesh cloth with 2mm thick sponge in the middle. The spandex back provides a universal fit that conforms to the Grand National’s bucket seat.
It’s an inexpensive investment to protect your Grand National bucket seats from damage.
To purchase one cover, order #7821. To order two covers, order #7822.
Another excellent way to protect the seats.
7821 - 1985-1987 Buick Grand National - One-piece Bucket Seat Cover - $18.95
7822 - 1985-1987 Buick Grand National -
TWO One-piece Bucket Seat Covers (2) - $29.95 (Save $7.95)
Here is a link to this seat 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. 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.
REMEMBER - On all the above letter parts, they are all priced the same. The more letter items you buy, the better the deal is for you. Many of these mini package deals are the little items you may need to make your car like new again. This is especially true concerning the radio knobs and the push buttons for the cassette option.
IN CLOSING -
It’s best to order early if you’re planning on buying the Pypes Exhaust, Spoolfool rear filler, or Cold Case radiator. It’s important to pay for it in advance, so we have it set aside for you to pick up.
GOING BACK IN TIME -
Among my collection of various Turbo Regal brochures, I have several flyers on Quality Engineering Performance Products. They would later change their name to Advance Vehicles Concepts or “AVC” for short.
One of their most popular products was the GNX instrument cluster. It was the must-have product to replace the primitive factory 0-85 speedometer and idiot lights Buick used in the Turbo Regals. Their full gauge package was the hot ticket in the late 1980s and early 1990s. It was priced around $698. Installation would usually run another $200. This early-style GNX dash can be seen in Turbo Regals even today, as it has stood the test of time!
I know we had this GNX gauge cluster installed in our personal 1987 Grand National, probably during the first six months of ownership!
Another company called Autocraft took a different approach and focused on making a molded body kit to enhance the exterior appearance of the Turbo Regal. I must confess, I never saw much in magazines about this body kit and never saw a Regal with it installed.
PHOTO 1 - We show 2 flyers of Quality Engineering Performance Products parts, however, their GNX suspension, was not an exact copy of the real GNX suspension. Their business was located in Fenton, Michigan.
PHOTO 2 - We show 2 black and white photos I have of the Autocraft body kit on a white Turbo Regal. The kit appears to incorporate fender flares and eliminates the body lines from the bumper fillers to the body.
The bumpers, from what I can tell, are color matched to the car with the bumper cushion and bumper guards removed. It appears to work best on a white Turbo Regal for photos. I believe this company was located in California. If anyone has more information on this body kit, please send me an email - [email protected]
NEWEST PRODUCT TO PROTECT YOUR CAR
As we have hinted in earlier Inner Circle emails, the company across from our shop has been working on a product to protect our cars when they are stored. For long-time storage, many of you simply put a form-fitting car cover over your car for its winter hibernation.
That is good for keeping the dust off your car, but fails to provide ample protection on the sides of your car in case something was to fall against it. Kids have bikes and bikes can be a potential problem. Sides of the car can get bumped as people walk between the car and the wall or another vehicle. We have a solution for this.
These are foam 2-foot square interlocking panels that use a magnet in them so they stay secured to your car. Each interlocking panel is 2-foot square and almost ½-inch thick.
These will be available at our Spring Open House as a new product.
PHOTO 3 - We show one of our personal cars with a car cover installed and 3 of the interlocking panels protecting the one side of the car. This photo shows the basic concept. The magnet method will be slightly different than shown in the photo.
2000 HARLEY DAVIDSON FORD PICK-UP TRUCK -
This 2000 Harley-Davidson Ford pickup truck finally was delivered to our house. We washed and cleaned it up. We expect the buyer will be picking it up at our Spring Open House. So, it will be at our warehouse to see. It has a mere 1,860 miles on it. It was last on the road in 2007, roughly 11 years ago.
PHOTO 4 - We show 4 various photos of the Harley-Davidson Ford truck after it has been washed. It still smells new inside. All the stickers on the frame look brand new. This is about as new as you can find. I believe it has all the Harley-Davidson options, including the rubber bed liner with the Harley-Davidson logo on it. It comes with the factory taillights that were removed for the clear ones.
THIS SELLER HAS LITTLE KNOWLEDGE OF A GRAND NATIONAL -
Some of the classic car companies that resell Turbo Regals have very little knowledge of the Grand Nationals. One such ad I recently read advertised a 1987 Grand National for around $24,000. This 8-line ad in a magazine failed to mention if the paint was original or a repaint. The ad never mentioned what the actual miles on the car was. What the ad did say was that the car is automatic. It also said it has a combination of black and grey interior, power steering, and factory air conditioning.
Also in the description, which I have no idea what they meant, it read “solid wheels.” Maybe I don’t sell many cars anymore, but I never used the words solid wheels in a description of a Grand National nor had to state it as a black and grey interior. You know, based on the ad, the only real way to know correct information on this Grand National is to look at it in person before dropping 24 grand!
FACEBOOK PAGE - MATT BLAIR CARTOONS -
For those readers on Facebook, Matt Blair has started a Facebook page dedicated to his turbo Buick artwork and cartoons. The artwork was created between 1998 and 2000 for Kirban Performance Product's monthly newsletter Grand News, The Source (Turbo Buick Newsletter), Zero to Sixty Performance Products, and a few other odds and ends both commissioned and personal.
You're welcome to view the images, share them, and even download and print them for your PERSONAL USE ONLY.
Here is a link to his page on Facebook.
OUR SPRING OPEN HOUSE - APRIL 21ST- UPDATE -
Here is a current list of companies that have responded about donating something for our Open House door prizes. The latest door prize comes from Auto Zone. I am sure several more companies will respond as the date gets closer. Here is the current listing:
Auto Zone, Casper’s Electronics, Castle Performance, Cold Case, Max Performance, Gbodyparts.com, Limit Engineering, Lorenz Racing & Performance, Metco Motorsports, REM Automotive, Russ & Nancy, Spoolfool (Mike Barnard), and Yum Yums.
Special Guest Terry Shaw from Auto Legal Services (Appraisal Information) will also be there to answer any of your questions.
CARDBOARD STAND UP RICHARD PETTY DISPLAY UPDATE -
All the Richard Petty Stand-up displays in last week’s Inner Circle sold out virtually in minutes! This proves I sold them too cheap!
COMING SOON NEW PRODUCT FROM SPOOLFOOL -
We actually have a production part of the new part Spoolfool just started making to show at our Spring Open House. It will fit all the 1984-1987 Turbo Regal.
This is a really clever product that most Turbo regal owners will appreciate. Sorry, I can’t give you any more clues as to what it is at this time.
VALUABLE ORIGINAL ARTWORK FROM ONE OF MY DAD’S BOOKS UPDATE -
The framed artwork of my Dad’s book that we pictured in last week’s Inner Circle will be on display at our Spring Open House.
2018 TURBO BUICK RELATED CAR SHOWS EVENTS -
Here is the current listing with dates for events to show your Turbo Regal or attend in 2018. As more information becomes available for these events, we will update them.
KIRBAN SPRING OPEN HOUSE -
Saturday, April 21st, 2018 - KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS, 6201 Kellers Church Road, Plumsteadville, PA
This event has no rain date. We will have free Yum Yums donuts and coffee while supplies last. This event features specials on our products, M&M contest, and our popular No Reserve auction. The time is from 9 am until 2 pm. Special pricing to be announced on Pypes exhaust systems and Cold Case radiators. Spoolfool fillers can be reserved for pickup to eliminate costly shipping charges. Those are the 3 big items where you can save money by picking them up at our Open House. Many of our vendors and suppliers are donating door prizes for this event.
MOTELS IN QUAKERTOWN - CLOSE TO LOCATION of our Open House
All locations listed are about 25 minutes from our shop and are basically just 3 turns.
If you plan to arrive Friday night, let me know as we can meet for dinner as I meet Jason from Canada every year for dinner Friday night at Applebees in Quakertown.
The first three listed are all fairly new motels.
Comfort Suites Inn
Rt 663 - 1905 John Fries Highway Quakertown PA 18951 - 215-538-3000
Hampton Inn
Rt 663 - 1915 John Fries Highway Quakertown, PA 18951 - 215-536-7779
Quakertown Holiday Inn Express
Rt 663 - 1918 John Fries Highway Quakertown, PA 18951 - 215-529-7979
Econo Lodge
1446 West Broad Street, Quakertown, PA 18951 - 215-536-2500
2018 Turbobuick.com NATIONALS -
May 2nd thru May 5th, 2018 - Burlington, NC
This event is held at two locations. The first part of the week is at Richard Clark’s Garage, 2557 Faucette Lane, Burlington, NC. It then moves to a different track - Farmington Dragway, 2992 NC Highway 801N, Mocksville, NC, located about one hour west of Burlington, NC. For more information, go to turbobuick.com and click on 2018 Turbo Buick Nationals or on Facebook.
9TH ANNUAL BUICK RACE DAY
May 26th, 2018 Lebanon Valley Dragway, NY.
This is their 9th annual Buick event.
For more information, call 518-794-7130 or 845-528-GSGN, and ask for John.
BUICKS@Bates 2018-
Sunday, June 3, 2018
9 am - 4 pm PDT
Bates Nut Farm, 15954 Wood Valley Road, Valley Center, Californian 92082
The largest gathering of 1984-1987 Turbo Buicks and Classic Buicks west of the Mississippi! Come hang with the SoCal GS Club and Turbobuick.com South Westerners.
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 our friend 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
CUSTOM-MADE GM LICENSED VINYL BANNERS UPDATE-
We will have actual samples of several new Turbo Regal banners on display at our Spring Open House, including two GNX versions. We are working with the company that is licensed by GM that covers Buick/Oldsmobile/Pontiac. We already have 4 or 5 unique banners that we will have available at our Spring Open House in April. We will auction off the sample ones we had done.
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.
THIS WEEK’S CLASSIFIED ADS -
WANTED to BUY: NOS Buick parts for 1987 Buick Turbo Regal. Will you be at Dennis Kirban's Spring Open House on Saturday, April 21 and have some NOS Buick Turbo Regal parts you are thinking of selling? If yes, please contact me by phone or e-mail and let me know what you have as I may be interested. I am a CASH buyer and will be at the Kirban Spring Open House and travel to purchase. I am not a dealer and parts are not for resale any parts I purchase are for my own small personal Buick parts collection. Please call and leave message or e-mail. All calls will be returned. Jason Maxfield 416-399-7265 or [email protected] - Niagara Falls, NY 14303. Thank you. 1 of 4
CAR FOR SALE - 1987 BUICK GRAND NATIONAL - CFS049
For Sale - 1987 GRAND NATIONAL - Exceptional condition, 30 k miles, t-tops. It has all the options I am aware of. Car is most original with upgrades that address original design shortfalls; Monte Carlo brake system, original and up-sized wheel and tire sets, under body detailed, all aftermarket braces, upgraded suspension bushings, GNX speedometer, performance mufflers, rerouted vacuum lines, shift kit, and lowered.
You won't find a more clean interior, underbody, motor compartment, trunk, and t-top set.
$25,000, Chris, Flushing, MI - 810-441-6121 1 of 2
Here is a link to this car on our website.
FOR SALE - 1987 Buick Grand National - Gorgeous 1987 Buick Grand National with only 18,550 original miles. Extremely nice condition beautiful deep black paint Excellent condition throughout. Very well kept and taken care of low mile Grand National. Completely clean auto-check. Zero issues. Car has 18,500 Original miles. New radiator recently installed, wears GNX wheels now, comes with original wheels and original tires mounted. Previous owner paperwork included. Starts right up and runs excellent and drive excellent. Beautiful factory interior looks new. Fully documented with the RPO codes on the original service parts identification sticker on underside of the trunk lid. Factory overdrive automatic shifts smooth and tight. $30,000 Jim Sirotnak, Dunmore, PA - 570-466-2555 2 of 2.
Here is a link to this car on our website:
FOR SALE - a set of 4 Grand National wheels and tires that were taken off a GN during its conversion to a GNX. These tires have been sitting unused and untouched since Mid-December 1987 in a windowless building. The condition is as close to new on all four steel wheels and tires as you could get. The air in the tires is believed to be 1987 air. Each tire appears to have no cracking and all of the nubs, hairs, or nipples are still on each tire. I purchased these tires and rims directly from Dennis Kirban in 2013 and never used them. They went directly into my heated warehouse in 2013. $2,000.00 plus shipping. I also have four original excellent GNX rims for sale for $5,000.00 also purchased from Dennis Kirban. Contact [email protected] 3 of 3.
FOR SALE - Remember, if you are local to us check out the inventory of used vehicles 611 Auto Sales. They are located near us at 8307 Easton Road in Ottsville, PA. Their website is -611autosalespa.com Many of the cars are priced under $3,995. Mention my name and it may save you a few bucks! They have several one-owner cars to choose from.
Their office number is 610-847-0100. Currently they have the 1987 Bronco II for $6,495. Several of their real nice 4-door sedans are priced under $3,995. These are ones I bid on that checked out as 1-2 owners, non-smoker with real nice exterior and interiors.
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 KIRBAN -
Remember if you are planning to attend our upcoming Spring Open House bring any powermaster cores you want to cash in for our parts. Also any parts you wish to trade or sell us as we are a possible buyer.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
NEED - Powermaster brake units. The must be complete. We will issue you a Letter of Credit for $125 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 -
1985-1987 Buick GRAND NATIONAL -
ONE-PIECE BUCKET SEAT COVER
Because the original grey and black pallex Grand National seat material is so costly, here is a simple and inexpensive method to protect it.
We offer a one-piece form-fitting seat cover for the front bucket seat. No tools are required and it’s easy to clean. You simply slide it over the seat. It can be removed easily.
This seat cover has the same two-color color (black and grey) design, so it looks like it was made specifically for the Grand National.
The durable and breathable material is double nylon mesh cloth with 2mm thick sponge in the middle. The spandex back provides a universal fit that conforms to the Grand National’s bucket seat.
It’s an inexpensive investment to protect your Grand National bucket seats from damage.
To purchase one cover, order #7821. To order two covers, order #7822.
Another excellent way to protect the seats.
7821 - 1985-1987 Buick Grand National - One-piece Bucket Seat Cover - $18.95
7822 - 1985-1987 Buick Grand National -
TWO One-piece Bucket Seat Covers (2) - $29.95 (Save $7.95)
Here is a link to this seat 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. 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.
REMEMBER - On all the above letter parts, they are all priced the same. The more letter items you buy, the better the deal is for you. Many of these mini package deals are the little items you may need to make your car like new again. This is especially true concerning the radio knobs and the push buttons for the cassette option.
IN CLOSING -
It’s best to order early if you’re planning on buying the Pypes Exhaust, Spoolfool rear filler, or Cold Case radiator. It’s important to pay for it in advance, so we have it set aside for you to pick up.