Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 04-18-2018 -
IN THE BEGINNING OF BUICK TURBOS UPDATE -
Last week we did a small article featuring the turbo that Buick did in the late 1970s, which finally lead to the intercooled Turbo in the 1986-1987 Turbo Regals. In that article, we showed the power six emblem that was on the plenum. I also showed one that was different that was made into a stick pin.
We heard from one of our New York customers, William, who does not want his full name used, recently acquired from a retired Buick engineer some original sample prototypes that Buick considered before deciding on the one that they did use on the plenum. Any time you can get your hands on a prototype of anything automotive, you should jump on that chance as GM usually would require prototypes to be destroyed. In this case, that did not happen.
William also told me that the same Buick engineer remembered when these cars rolled down the assembly line and the workers were so intrigued by the new emblem on the plenum they were popping them off and keeping them. Once management got word of this, they put a box of them by the time clock near the door so employees could help themselves! True story!
PHOTO 1 - Here are the plenum emblems that Buick turned down that this engineer had saved all these years until selling them to my New York customer. (I tried to buy them from him with no luck). These are one-of-kind. They were actually made in the same material as the emblem that did go into production. I think it’s pretty neat how this rare set of prototype plenum emblems survived well over 30-plus years.
GENTEX AUTOMATIC DAY/NIGHT GLARE CONTROL MIRROR -
In an earlier Inner Circle, we showed the brochure for the Gentex Automatic Day/Night Glare control mirror. Although no date appears on the full-color brochure, it does say “1990’s technology for driving convenience today.”
In my recent trips to junkyards, I have actually found a few of these unique mirrors, mostly in early high-end GM cars Park Avenues or Cadillac models.
They are fairly rare as GM used several different mirrors, plus in a few short years On Star became available making these mirrors Day/Night Glare mirrors obsolete.
In looking at the flyer, Gentex made two styles of this mirror. The one style is exactly like our existing mirrors on all the Turbo Regals - meaning it has the angled sides.
I now have three of these unique mirrors available for sale. I have made a color copy in a reduced size of the original flyer to go with each of the Gentex mirrors. Since it shows a 1987 Grand National on the front of the flyer, I think it would be a cool option to install in a 1987 Grand National. See the Rare Parts section for prices. Again, I currently have 3 of these available for sale.
PHOTO 2 - We show the Gentex Automatic Day/Night Glare Control Mirror alongside the reduced size full-color flyer that shows a 1987 Grand National on it. You can see on the back of the flyer that Gentex made two different style mirrors. The ones I have are the same style that matches your stock mirror with the angled sides.
GRAND NATIONAL FOR SALE - MEMORIES -
A few months back a customer of ours, Tori out of the midwest part of the country, sent us this full-page ad from mid-February 1996 from one of those Car & Truck Market magazines.
The most Turbo Regals I’ve ever had at one time was 9 over a period of few weeks in the middle of a brutal winter. I had them parked at our house and at my neighbor’s house, who spent every winter at their Florida home in Naples.
Winter was a great time to buy Turbo Regals, but trying to sell them in frigid cold and snow could prove to be a real problem.
PHOTO 3 - Here we show the page featuring Tori’s 1963 Impala low rider. At the top of the page on the left is an ad from Kasch Fine Cars, who specialized in used Grand Nationals. This is from February 1996. I remember this dealership selling a lot of Grand Nationals back in the day.
UPDATE ON REPRODUCTION SPID DECALS -
We heard back from ECS and they can make the 1984-1985-1986 SPID decals with the clear overlay the label like GM did originally. The 1987 does not have the clear overlay.
Another difference would be the 1984-1985-1986 had 15 rows of codes going across. The 1987 SPID decal only had 13 rows of codes going across. The 1987 SPID decal would not have any clear overlay, which would be like the original SPID decal. We should have ordering information at the end of this month. Watch for more SPID information coming soon.
PHOTO 4 - We show a typical 1984-1985-1986 SPID decal. This has the part number 14065987 in the bottom right corner. Note it has a clear overlay over it. The 1987 SPID decal has no clear overlay and appears to be a much brighter white decal. The GM part number for the 1987 SPID decal is 14085266.
BREAKING NEWS - 2004 CADILLAC CTS-V - FOR SALE -
A local customer of ours passed away about a month ago. I had sold him a Grand National several years ago and then resold it for him to a customer of ours in Florida.
I then located a Cadillac CTS-V for him to drive and enjoy. With his recent passing his wife, wants me to sell his car as she can’t drive a manual shift car. This car is show quality inside and out and has been garage kept and never smoked in. The car is silver with black leather interior. I believe it is a two-owner car with around 90,000 miles on it. At this writing I do not have any photos or a price.
This car will be at our Open House this Saturday.
KIRBAN SPRING OPEN HOUSE UPDATE -
Over the last 2 weeks we been working on setting up various displays and putting together items for the No Reserve Auction. For the No Reserve Auction we have almost 20 original Turbo Regal cartoons. Each one has been professionally matted. This is in addition to several other items that will be sold at our No Reserve Auction. A large display of door prizes is set up that have been donated from many of the companies that we deal with. You could go home a winner.
Early weather reports for Saturday say cloudy with a temperature high of about 60 degrees.
Here is a current list of companies that have responded about donating something for our Open House door prizes.
Auto Zone, Casper’s Electronics, Castle Performance, Cold Case, Max Performance, Gbodyparts.com, Limit Engineering, Lorenz Racing & Performance, Metco Motorsports, Original Parts Group, 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.
We should have called it the Winter/Spring Open House based on the weather conditions over the last several weeks in our immediate area!
We have quite a large number of cool pictures and articles on display for you to view. Also, for the first time, all of the various new vinyl banners will be on display. Our actual prototype samples of the banners will be sold at our No Reserve Auction.
We will probably have over 35 to 45 various items for sale at our No Reserve Auction, from original artwork to items for your garage, blemished parts, discontinued parts, as well as one-of-a-kind items. As long as the starting bid is met that item will be sold to the highest bidder. This No Reserve Auction is just one part of the program. Also, our newest products will be on display.
We also have quite a number of great door prizes that have been donated by the various vendors/suppliers that we deal with. We also have our annual M&Ms contest, and 50/50 drawing. This is our 30th year, so you don’t want to miss it.
If you plan on purchasing any of the large items, it’s best to contact our office now (215-766-1611 x 0) to be assured we have it for you. This would include the Pypes Exhaust system, Cold Case radiators, and Spoolfool fillers. To reserve any of these items, they must be paid for ahead of the Open House.
Doors open at 9 am Saturday morning. Yum Yums donuts usually are completely gone in under 2 hours. If you are arriving the night before, email me as we like to meet attendees for dinner in Quakertown. My email is [email protected]
NEWEST PRODUCT TO PROTECT YOUR CAR -
This new product will be on display at our Spring Open House as a new product.
CUSTOM-MADE GM LICENSED VINYL BANNERS UPDATE-
We will have actual samples of many of the 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 on display at our Spring Open House in April. These samples will be sold at our No Reserve Auction. Some of these are Turbo Regal banners that we have made have never been seen before as a vinyl banner.
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&Ms contest, and our popular No Reserve Auction. The time is from 9 am until 2 pm. Contact our office direct (215-766-1611x0) to get special pricing on the Pypes exhaust since price on the website includes UPS ground shipping. 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 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.
THIS WEEK’S CLASSIFIED ADS -
CAR FOR SALE 1996 BUICK ROADMASTER WAGON -
For Sale: 1996 Buick Roadmaster Wagon. White with wood trim, burgundy leather interior, all mechanicals done, new springs, coilovers, BFG’s, flowmaster’s, K&N kit, LT1 350 motor, 155,000 miles. Excellent condition. I take it to shows and its stored winters. $10,500 email [email protected] New Haven, CT 06512 2 of 4.
For Sale 1986 Buick Grand National - $ 24,500
Nice original, stock, solid roof car. We have owned since 1991, second Oklahoma City owner, just turned 79K miles. Paint original, good condition for miles. No rust issues, or winter driving. No smokers, wrecks or problems. Motor, transmission and posi rear, original. Car has 90 option codes on trunk tag. A few items done over the years were to replace the stock exhaust cat back, add a car alarm, additional transmission cooler, bumper fillers front and back. Recently upgraded car stereo to a GM, CD unit, original cassette stereo will come with car. Several more items done over the years that can be detailed in email. We have only driven the car 634 miles in past 8 years. Would like to see it enjoyed by others. Would welcome 3rd party inspection if interested. Email for more details and pictures. Austin Kendall, Oklahoma City, Okla. [email protected] - 405 831-5195 2 of 4
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. 3 of 4
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 Some of their 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.
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 -
Be sure to see us if you are bringing any parts to trade or sell to our Spring Open House this Saturday. In many cases, we are a potential 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.
IN CLOSING -
We hope everyone that is attending our Spring Open House this coming Saturday has a safe journey. We are looking forward to seeing many of you. This is our 30th year.
I am curious to find out if someone has come to every one of our Open Houses for 30 years. If it’s your first time at our Spring Open House, I am sure you will enjoy it. My jokes won’t seem old to you.
IN THE BEGINNING OF BUICK TURBOS UPDATE -
Last week we did a small article featuring the turbo that Buick did in the late 1970s, which finally lead to the intercooled Turbo in the 1986-1987 Turbo Regals. In that article, we showed the power six emblem that was on the plenum. I also showed one that was different that was made into a stick pin.
We heard from one of our New York customers, William, who does not want his full name used, recently acquired from a retired Buick engineer some original sample prototypes that Buick considered before deciding on the one that they did use on the plenum. Any time you can get your hands on a prototype of anything automotive, you should jump on that chance as GM usually would require prototypes to be destroyed. In this case, that did not happen.
William also told me that the same Buick engineer remembered when these cars rolled down the assembly line and the workers were so intrigued by the new emblem on the plenum they were popping them off and keeping them. Once management got word of this, they put a box of them by the time clock near the door so employees could help themselves! True story!
PHOTO 1 - Here are the plenum emblems that Buick turned down that this engineer had saved all these years until selling them to my New York customer. (I tried to buy them from him with no luck). These are one-of-kind. They were actually made in the same material as the emblem that did go into production. I think it’s pretty neat how this rare set of prototype plenum emblems survived well over 30-plus years.
GENTEX AUTOMATIC DAY/NIGHT GLARE CONTROL MIRROR -
In an earlier Inner Circle, we showed the brochure for the Gentex Automatic Day/Night Glare control mirror. Although no date appears on the full-color brochure, it does say “1990’s technology for driving convenience today.”
In my recent trips to junkyards, I have actually found a few of these unique mirrors, mostly in early high-end GM cars Park Avenues or Cadillac models.
They are fairly rare as GM used several different mirrors, plus in a few short years On Star became available making these mirrors Day/Night Glare mirrors obsolete.
In looking at the flyer, Gentex made two styles of this mirror. The one style is exactly like our existing mirrors on all the Turbo Regals - meaning it has the angled sides.
I now have three of these unique mirrors available for sale. I have made a color copy in a reduced size of the original flyer to go with each of the Gentex mirrors. Since it shows a 1987 Grand National on the front of the flyer, I think it would be a cool option to install in a 1987 Grand National. See the Rare Parts section for prices. Again, I currently have 3 of these available for sale.
PHOTO 2 - We show the Gentex Automatic Day/Night Glare Control Mirror alongside the reduced size full-color flyer that shows a 1987 Grand National on it. You can see on the back of the flyer that Gentex made two different style mirrors. The ones I have are the same style that matches your stock mirror with the angled sides.
GRAND NATIONAL FOR SALE - MEMORIES -
A few months back a customer of ours, Tori out of the midwest part of the country, sent us this full-page ad from mid-February 1996 from one of those Car & Truck Market magazines.
The most Turbo Regals I’ve ever had at one time was 9 over a period of few weeks in the middle of a brutal winter. I had them parked at our house and at my neighbor’s house, who spent every winter at their Florida home in Naples.
Winter was a great time to buy Turbo Regals, but trying to sell them in frigid cold and snow could prove to be a real problem.
PHOTO 3 - Here we show the page featuring Tori’s 1963 Impala low rider. At the top of the page on the left is an ad from Kasch Fine Cars, who specialized in used Grand Nationals. This is from February 1996. I remember this dealership selling a lot of Grand Nationals back in the day.
UPDATE ON REPRODUCTION SPID DECALS -
We heard back from ECS and they can make the 1984-1985-1986 SPID decals with the clear overlay the label like GM did originally. The 1987 does not have the clear overlay.
Another difference would be the 1984-1985-1986 had 15 rows of codes going across. The 1987 SPID decal only had 13 rows of codes going across. The 1987 SPID decal would not have any clear overlay, which would be like the original SPID decal. We should have ordering information at the end of this month. Watch for more SPID information coming soon.
PHOTO 4 - We show a typical 1984-1985-1986 SPID decal. This has the part number 14065987 in the bottom right corner. Note it has a clear overlay over it. The 1987 SPID decal has no clear overlay and appears to be a much brighter white decal. The GM part number for the 1987 SPID decal is 14085266.
BREAKING NEWS - 2004 CADILLAC CTS-V - FOR SALE -
A local customer of ours passed away about a month ago. I had sold him a Grand National several years ago and then resold it for him to a customer of ours in Florida.
I then located a Cadillac CTS-V for him to drive and enjoy. With his recent passing his wife, wants me to sell his car as she can’t drive a manual shift car. This car is show quality inside and out and has been garage kept and never smoked in. The car is silver with black leather interior. I believe it is a two-owner car with around 90,000 miles on it. At this writing I do not have any photos or a price.
This car will be at our Open House this Saturday.
KIRBAN SPRING OPEN HOUSE UPDATE -
Over the last 2 weeks we been working on setting up various displays and putting together items for the No Reserve Auction. For the No Reserve Auction we have almost 20 original Turbo Regal cartoons. Each one has been professionally matted. This is in addition to several other items that will be sold at our No Reserve Auction. A large display of door prizes is set up that have been donated from many of the companies that we deal with. You could go home a winner.
Early weather reports for Saturday say cloudy with a temperature high of about 60 degrees.
Here is a current list of companies that have responded about donating something for our Open House door prizes.
Auto Zone, Casper’s Electronics, Castle Performance, Cold Case, Max Performance, Gbodyparts.com, Limit Engineering, Lorenz Racing & Performance, Metco Motorsports, Original Parts Group, 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.
We should have called it the Winter/Spring Open House based on the weather conditions over the last several weeks in our immediate area!
We have quite a large number of cool pictures and articles on display for you to view. Also, for the first time, all of the various new vinyl banners will be on display. Our actual prototype samples of the banners will be sold at our No Reserve Auction.
We will probably have over 35 to 45 various items for sale at our No Reserve Auction, from original artwork to items for your garage, blemished parts, discontinued parts, as well as one-of-a-kind items. As long as the starting bid is met that item will be sold to the highest bidder. This No Reserve Auction is just one part of the program. Also, our newest products will be on display.
We also have quite a number of great door prizes that have been donated by the various vendors/suppliers that we deal with. We also have our annual M&Ms contest, and 50/50 drawing. This is our 30th year, so you don’t want to miss it.
If you plan on purchasing any of the large items, it’s best to contact our office now (215-766-1611 x 0) to be assured we have it for you. This would include the Pypes Exhaust system, Cold Case radiators, and Spoolfool fillers. To reserve any of these items, they must be paid for ahead of the Open House.
Doors open at 9 am Saturday morning. Yum Yums donuts usually are completely gone in under 2 hours. If you are arriving the night before, email me as we like to meet attendees for dinner in Quakertown. My email is [email protected]
NEWEST PRODUCT TO PROTECT YOUR CAR -
This new product will be on display at our Spring Open House as a new product.
CUSTOM-MADE GM LICENSED VINYL BANNERS UPDATE-
We will have actual samples of many of the 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 on display at our Spring Open House in April. These samples will be sold at our No Reserve Auction. Some of these are Turbo Regal banners that we have made have never been seen before as a vinyl banner.
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&Ms contest, and our popular No Reserve Auction. The time is from 9 am until 2 pm. Contact our office direct (215-766-1611x0) to get special pricing on the Pypes exhaust since price on the website includes UPS ground shipping. 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 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.
THIS WEEK’S CLASSIFIED ADS -
CAR FOR SALE 1996 BUICK ROADMASTER WAGON -
For Sale: 1996 Buick Roadmaster Wagon. White with wood trim, burgundy leather interior, all mechanicals done, new springs, coilovers, BFG’s, flowmaster’s, K&N kit, LT1 350 motor, 155,000 miles. Excellent condition. I take it to shows and its stored winters. $10,500 email [email protected] New Haven, CT 06512 2 of 4.
For Sale 1986 Buick Grand National - $ 24,500
Nice original, stock, solid roof car. We have owned since 1991, second Oklahoma City owner, just turned 79K miles. Paint original, good condition for miles. No rust issues, or winter driving. No smokers, wrecks or problems. Motor, transmission and posi rear, original. Car has 90 option codes on trunk tag. A few items done over the years were to replace the stock exhaust cat back, add a car alarm, additional transmission cooler, bumper fillers front and back. Recently upgraded car stereo to a GM, CD unit, original cassette stereo will come with car. Several more items done over the years that can be detailed in email. We have only driven the car 634 miles in past 8 years. Would like to see it enjoyed by others. Would welcome 3rd party inspection if interested. Email for more details and pictures. Austin Kendall, Oklahoma City, Okla. [email protected] - 405 831-5195 2 of 4
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. 3 of 4
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 Some of their 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.
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 -
Be sure to see us if you are bringing any parts to trade or sell to our Spring Open House this Saturday. In many cases, we are a potential 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.
IN CLOSING -
We hope everyone that is attending our Spring Open House this coming Saturday has a safe journey. We are looking forward to seeing many of you. This is our 30th year.
I am curious to find out if someone has come to every one of our Open Houses for 30 years. If it’s your first time at our Spring Open House, I am sure you will enjoy it. My jokes won’t seem old to you.