Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 04-20-2016 -
OLD FORGE MOTOR CARS -
Local to us in Lansdale, Pennsylvania is a company that specializes in selling classic cars, muscle cars, street rods, etc. They basically market cars for any taste. Every Saturday from 9 until noon they have free coffee and donuts. Anytime free food is in the mix with cars, it draws a good size crowd.
I met with the owner early last week, since they plan to promote the lighted display boxes to their customers for printing photos of their cars in a lighted display box. They actually served Yum Yum donuts, since Yum Yums third location is near them in Lansdale.
They also do consignments for large car collections. For more information and to check out their inventory, check out their website - oldforgemotorcars.com
PHOTO 1 - We show 4 cars currently for sale at Old Forge Motorcars in Lansdale. The top left is one of the rare Lincoln Continentals from the mid-1950s. They actually have 2 of them. The bottom left photo is a completely original Camaro Z28. The top right is a 1963 Ford Galaxie packing a 427 engine. The bottom right is a MGB that has a V8 engine stuffed between the fenders. This little MGB looked totally stock on the outside except for a louvered-style hood.
LOCAL CRUISE EVENT -
The same day I attended the event at Old Forge Motorcars, I was told that night there is a huge cruise event at the local Lowes in nearby Warrington, PA. With nice weather, this event drew over 200-plus cars of all kinds. It’s hosted by the local Corvette club where I have spoken in the past. At these events, more and more owners are showing a paper trail of their pride and joy. In some cases, even photos of the early history of the car they now own.
I found this 1940 Ford intriguing on several levels. It was built by a gentleman on a limited budget in the early 1970s. He was probably in his late 60s when he started to work on the car. The current owner has retained much of the way it looked back then. Back then the popular engine for conversions was the big cubic inch caddy engines. They were also cheap and plentiful. The car was far from being a showpiece but it drew a good bit of attention.
PHOTO 2 - The top left shows this chopped 1940 Ford. The bottom left photo shows something I thought was cute as the placecard reads, “number matching,” which of course it isn’t! The top right photo shows the big Caddy powerplant. According to the owner, the firewall had to be moved 4 inches back so it would clear. The bottom right photo shows a cool cartoon that was painted on the deck lid. It shows kids sliding down the slopped back end. The body was basically a shell sitting in the woods when the project began in the early 1970s.
It reminded me of a 1932 Ford shell I bought years ago that was sitting at a farm about 2 miles from where we lived in Furlong. I dragged it home and sold it locally to a guy who made it into a street rod. I have never seen the car since I sold it back around 1976-1977.
Every car has a story. So, it’s important to document as much history as you can so someone 10-20 years from now can trace the history of what you own today.
OUR SPRING OPEN HOUSE LATEST UPDATE -
At our Open House we will have one table that will feature bargains on several items that we are discontinuing from our parts that were on our website. Another table will be strictly Buick Turbo literature for sale that some of you will want to add to your private collection. This is not to be missed, as I expect these items to go quickly.
Another table will showcase our No Reserve Auction items. Our No Reserve Auction will feature a real set of original used GNX wheels with a starting bid of $2,700 and no reserve. We will have other items to auction as well. We are getting one item custom made, which some lucky bidder will win at our No Reserve Auction.
Still another table will spotlight our new products, including the new reproduction aluminum brake drums, the lighted display ideas, and also a new project one of our neighbors in our complex is working on for me. It will fit every single G-body car made and solves an important issue. I supplied the idea and he is supplying the knowledge and ability to make it work.
Last, but not least, another table will have our raffle items that have been donated by Arizona GN, Spoolfool, and G-Body Parts.
The M&Ms are counted for the Open House and the TurboBuick/Richard Clark event. These two events have no rain date.
With all that being said, be sure to bring your wallet!
DROP OFF POINT FOR UNWANTED PETS -
If you know Richard Clark, you know for many years he has taken care of stray dogs and even a few cats that have shown up at his shop in North Carolina. It’s like there’s a sign out by the road to drop unwanted pets here for proper care.
We have a similar situation at our house where it seems people drop off animals that they don’t want anymore. Some of you may recall a few years back when we even had one of those rare hairless dogs show up.
Our cat population increased by 2 about a month ago, as 2 very different cats showed up. It did not take them long to figure how to get in and out of our pole building and enjoy the warmth. One was multi-color brown and appears to be very young. The other cat is a long hair breed and extremely calm and affectionate, but only to me. She is a very unusual looking cat. She even gets along with the other cats we have.
Last Saturday the young multi-colored brown cat surprised us with 3 baby kittens. We plan to keep them for a few more weeks and then there is a place that puts them in foster care so they can be adopted. The young mother cat is very friendly and, as the saying goes, every kitten is adorable when you can fit them in the palm of your hand. We already have two from our old house we brought up with us, 2 from the neighbor who died, and the new long hair breed. This is besides the one indoor 1 cat we rescued off the road years ago by our old house.
PHOTO 3 - Here are some photos of the mom cat and her new brood. 2 are all light brown and 1 is black with white markings. I guess that two-color kitten would be a “Designers Series?” If you reside near us and are looking for a new pet, email me - [email protected]
OUR OPEN HOUSE TROPHIES -
In the next photo we show the 3 large trophies that will be awarded at our Open House, April 30th.
PHOTO 4 - Shows the 3 trophies that will be awarded at our Open House. A huge thanz to Russ and Nancy for getting these trophies made up for our Open House. Once again Russ and Nancy will be preparing the noon meal for everyone. Special thanks for their generosity. There will special raffles and a donation jar for the lunch. All the money collected from their great raffles and food will be donated to pbs, in honor of a show they support, This Old House.
INVERTED AIRPLANE STAMP UPDATE -
Last week we touched briefly on the post office screw up from 1918. In our newspaper a few days back 1 of these rare airplane stamps that were stolen back in 1955 resurfaced. It was 1 of 4 that was stolen in 1955 at a convention. It’s ironic that it surfaced right after I wrote about it.
GNX OWNERS OR THOSE WANTING GNX INFORMATION -
We recently compiled a special packet on the GNX project and early GNX articles. Some information even covers the actual planning of the GNX prior to 1987. It contains over 40 pages in full color and over 40 pages in black and white… close to 100 pages total. We only did a very limited number of these and when they sell out there will be no more. It is one of the unique items we will have for sale at our Open House and the Turbo Buick/Richard Clark event. However, you can email me personally [email protected] for more details and pricing if want one and can’t make either event.
This is something every GNX owner will want. Those who are interested in the GNX will also want this packet. This will not be offered after the Turbo Buick/Richard Clark event. We only did a very limited number of these.
PLEASE - URGENT REQUEST -
We need original 1986-1987 AC Delco mass air flow sensors. We can't continue this service for our customers without having correct cores to get redone. If you can help with these sensors, email me [email protected] - for current price or credit.
We also need original 1986-1987 Turbo Regal Turbos, so we can continue our rebuilt service for our customers.
Without these items, we CANNOT get original turbos or the TA 49 units rebuilt, and provide them to our customers. Email me [email protected] - for current price or credit.
NEW PRODUCT IN THE WORKS -
The company that is making our boxes for the lighted LED display signs has figured out how to make this new unique part that will fit every 1984-1987 G-body car, not just Turbo Regals. The part will be made in stainless, unlike the GM part, which is not made in stainless and is prone to rust. By making a modification version, we hope it will work differently than the original GM.
This clever new product should be available for our Spring Open House. We expect a very high demand for it and we will be making it available to the other vendors that we sell to. It’s a modification that makes it far more useful than the original GM part.
ALUMINUM BRAKE DRUMS -
We still have not gotten any word from A1 Cardone on pricing, or if I will have any aluminum drums to sell at our Open House. They do say I will have the information shortly. We do have an actual production sample to show at our Open House and the TurboBuick/Richard Clark event.
PREPARING FOR OUR SPRING OPEN HOUSE -
If you are planning on attending our Spring Open House and want to buy the Spoolfool one-piece rear filler, be sure to place your order now so we have one set aside for you.
The same goes for the Pypes dual exhaust system. In either case, we will not charge you until the day of our show.
Call and speak to Christina to place your order - 215-766-1611 x 0. Do not wait until the last minute.
Remember, we are always in the market for good used Turbo Regal parts that you can “cash in” as trade value towards items you want and need. Bring any cores, especially turbo cores, which we need.
HERE IS MORE BREAKING NEWS - SPRING OPEN HOUSE -
Remember the crown jewel of our No Reserve Auction will be a complete original used set of GNX wheels. The starting minimum bid will be under $2,700. Again, this is a no reserve auction as long as the starting bid has been met. Wheels are all original with no curb rash. The set comes with a new set of the correct 2-piece lug nuts, valve stems, and decals for the center caps. Everything you need. Also included is a copy from the page in the GNX book stating the offsets for the front and rears match the stamped offsets on these real GNX wheels. This verifies they are correct. You could have the winning bid and own them!
We will have some really neat items on display and some custom-made things for sale at our Open House. Remember, this event has no rain date. Yum Yum donuts go quickly. We will have our usual M&M contest.
Please, if you are coming, bring us any CORES you may have. We badly need good clean steering wheel cores (1986-1987), correct 1986-1987 mass air flow sensors, and stock 1986-1987 Turbo cores.
We really need these 3 items in order to keep the flow of rebuilt parts available to others. I also buy or trade for most any good Turbo Regal items that you may not need or want. Bringing them to our Open House is an excellent time to cash them in and avoid shipping costs.
Mike Bernard, who makes the Spoolfool fillers, is donating a one-piece rear filler for our raffle. This is another reason to plan to attend. We like to thank Mike for his generosity and support of many of the Buick events. The Kirban Performance raffle items donations will be sent as usual to the MOLLY Memorial Fund.
Also, I been going through my original photos and Turbo Buick literature and we will have a lot of original Grand National literature available for sale. Also, there will be some neat GNX items we had made up for sale. This is one Open House you do not want to miss. One table will be strictly Buick Turbo related literature to buy.
This is the first time our Open House and the Turbo Buick/Richard Clark event have been back to back. These are 2 springtime Buick events you do not want to miss.
OPEN HOUSE RAFFLE ITEMS -
If you have anything you like to donate to our free raffle please send it to us. We would recognize you when your item has been won. These would be awarded at our Open House.
BREAKING NEWS JUST ANNOUNCED -
2016 TurboBuick.com / Richard Clark Event - North Carolina - May 4 - May 7
Thanks to ZPLUS, you ALL are going to enjoy a tech seminar on Friday night, May 6th, from 8 pm - midnight. It will include guest speakers, such as Richard Clark, John Spina, Bob Bailey, Nick Micale, Dennis Kirban, and a HOST of others!
EVERYONE is welcome and this event is FREE OF CHARGE, thanks to our great and newest sponsor ZPLUS! You are going to have LOTS of questions answered as all the big names in the Buick world will be guest speaking at this event.
The location of the Friday night seminar is 1214 Turrentine Street, Burlington, NC 27215. It is the same 10,000 sq ft location used for previous seminars. The location is only 15 minutes from all the hotels and Richard Clark location.
YOU DONT WANT TO MISS THIS!
REPRODUCTION GNX-STYLE DASH FOR SALE -
Complete pre-mounted GNX dash for sale. All of the cutting, fitting and alignment work is complete, just wire the dash and install the entire unit.
Kit Includes:
Applique with correct color indicators
Metal mounting plate
Plastic gauge bezel
Stock pre-cut cluster harness
Stock dash bezel (pre-cut with plastic gauge bezel attached)
New Stewart Warner speedometer with upper speedometer cable
New Stewart Warner tachometer
New Stewart Warner oil pressure gauge with sending unit
New Stewart Warner water temperature gauge with sending unit
New Stewart Warner fuel gauge
New Stewart Warner vacuum/ boost gauge
Plug-and-play harness
$2,250 plus shipping
This one was hand built by a good friend of ours who owns 3 Grand Nationals and has built several of these.
It comes with stock bezel already pre-cut so you do not have to cut your dash bezel. This kit eliminates any possible issues of trial and error since they have built several of these.
Buyer would have to inform us which dash is currently in the car - either digital or analog.
If interested, email me direct - [email protected] - I can provide photos.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
We currently need original good 1986-1987 AC Delco mass air flow sensors. We allow $25 Letter of Credit for each core that can be rebuilt.
URGENT NEED - TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock ones. They must be complete. We will issue you a $100 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number
MAIL - Ship to Address -
ATTN - DENNIS
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADSVILLE, PA 18949-1199
TECH CALLS -
If you need technical information, it’s best to email - [email protected] rather than call us.
We will do our best to answer any technical questions within 24 hours.
CAR FOR SALE - 1991 GMC SYCLONE
This is information on a new listing on our website for a Syclone owned by a friend of ours. I have known Don personally for over 30 years, since he was a GTO customer of ours before getting into the Turbo Buicks. I have personally seen this truck years ago.
FOR SALE - 1991 GMC SYCLONE
1991 GMC Syclone
9400 miles, stock, garage kept
Located in Middle Tennessee
$29,999 - Will entertain serious offers.
Don Wall
For more information, email - [email protected]
$29,999 or Best Offer
CFS039 - April 20, 2016 - May 2, 2016
Here is a link to this Syclone on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44298/CAR+FOR+SALE+-+1991+GMC+SYCLONE+-+CFS039.html
CARS FOR SALE -
From time to time, whenever we spot an unusual or an exceptional car or truck for sale, or one we have for sale, we will put a blurb in our weekly Inner Circle. Also, any cars that our customers have for sale will be featured here and you can see their car with photos on our website. In this category, we will run the descriptions for two-to-three weeks and, if there is no interest in that particular vehicle, it will be deleted the following week. Any new vehicles that we add will appear first, so the oldest listing would be at the end of this section.
If any of these vehicles perk your interest, email me personally - [email protected] - for more information and photos.
1979 CHEVROLET SCOTTSDALE - FOR SALE -
I spotted a really nice 1979 Chevrolet Scottsdale pickup for sale on way to one of the junkyards I go to. It is located about 5 miles off exit 10 of Route 78 in Pennsylvania.
The truck has had 2 owners. It’s two-tone blue and white. It has very few options, V8 with factory am/fm radio, and has power steering. About 50% of the paint is original. Wheels and tires are like new. Runs out 100% quiet and very dry underneath. It’s a very solid truck that has had extremely good care over the years. Mileage stands at 134,000 and it’s PA inspected.
Good candidate to drive enjoy and restore. Price seemed reasonable to me at $4995.00. Interested? Email me - [email protected] - and I can provide you with more info and his phone number.
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If you have a tip or a discovery that you found that works on your Turbo Regal, drop us an email giving us the details so we can pass the info on to our readers. Remember, even with my knowledge, I don’t know it all. Simply email me at - [email protected]
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1978-1988 GM G-Body, Including Buick Turbo Regal -
BOLT-IN REAR SHOCK TOWER BRACE & HARDWARE
This 100% jig built, bolt-in brace ties the rear upper shock mounts together to share the load and stiffen the chassis. Strong 1-1/4" tubing is MIG welded to 3/16" thick laser cut brackets for a perfect fit.
This brace is designed to clear all of the popular exhaust systems and works equally well on coil over setups and traditional spring/shock combinations. Overall distance from floor to the bottom of the brace is approximately 5".
All UMI products are built from US steel, then they are powder coated black. Hardware is included to makes this a true, easy bolt-in installation.
Features:
Manufactured from 1-1/4" USA Tubing
CNC laser cut 3/16" mounting brackets
Grade 8 hardware included
Easy bolt-in installation with basic hand tools
Powder-coated black for a durable long-lasting finish
Made in the USA by UMI
Our top photo shows the brace and the hardware. The lower photos show this rear shock tower brace installed on a car with coil over springs. NOTE - The brace in the photos is red, but we only offer it in black.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #1586 Powder-coated Black Rear Seat Frame Brace Kit® and #7169 Reproduction GNX Rear Seat Brace Kit (5) Set.
Another excellent way to stiffen the suspension on your car.
7715 - 1978-1988 GM G-Body, Including Buick Turbo Regal -
Bolt-In Rear Shock Tower Brace and Hardware - $130
Here is a link to this Shock Tower Brace on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44295/BOLT-IN+REAR+SHOCK+TOWER+BRACE+%26+HARDWARE+%237715.html
ALWAYS LOOKING FOR IDEAS -
If you have any product ideas that would fit our Turbo Buick market that you would like to see available, email me direct - [email protected]
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION FOR TURBO REGAL PARTS -
Got any Turbo Buick parts you are not using? Why not cash them in for parts you need with a Letter of Credit. Simply email me a list - [email protected]. Also, we are still buying dead or partially dead 1984-1987 Turbo Regals under $4,000 that are within 250 to 350 miles of our location.
NOTE - ABOUT LINKS IN THE INNER CIRCLE -
We have heard from a couple people that have had problems with the links in our Inner Circle.
When we check the links, they work fine. However, if you are not able to be directed to the exact website page or internet site, you can "copy" and "paste" the link into the URL in your browser (such as Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
Most people having problems are using Internet Explorer… If you are having issues with links, try another browser to see if it works.
You may need to "UPDATE" your browser to be use you are using the current version.
NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE -
We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these have to be low-resolution photos to work on the Inner Circle segments on the website, any photos of text don't appear clear when enlarged. This is a problem when you are trying to see numbers, such as those on the VIN labels or pages from Options booklet. Also, because of photo reproduction and computer screen variations, the colors may not be true to the actual product or photo.
If you would like to have us email you any photo at the higher resolution for viewing, just email us and we will email them to you. Be sure to be specific on which pictures you want to see - Reference Inner Circle date and photo number 1, 2, 3 or 4 - [email protected]
2016 CALENDAR OF EVENTS -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS SPRING OPEN HOUSE -
Saturday, April 30rd, 2016 - 9 am - 2 pm -
NOTE - The date was changed to APRIL 30th
Once again free Yum Yum donuts and coffee will be available in the morning. Terry Shaw will be conducting a seminar on the importance of having your car appraised.
We will have several unique limited production items available for sale at this event. Also samples of our new project. Although not strictly car related, we can do car photos as well. This is a very unique format done on a special machine. In my immediate area I only know of two companies that have this machine.
We will be awarding 3 different trophies at our Spring Open House, courtesy of Russ and Nancy. One will be for Longest Distance driven in a Turbo Regal to our event. Another trophy will be awarded for the car needing the most TLC, meaning the one Turbo Regal needing the most tender loving care. Last, but not least, Kirban’s Choice Award, which will be one that I pick that I like or represents a car that I would buy.
Russ and Nancy have agreed to do the cooking. The luncheon is strictly by donation with all proceeds going to PBS, which Russ and Nancy support.
This is the only Open House we are doing this year, so you don’t want to miss it.
Most of our website products will be specially priced. We will have an array of used parts for sale, our M&M contest, and our no reserve auction. The feature item this year is a set of used original GNX wheels being offered at no reserve. They do have a starting bid price. This event has no rain date.
Ideally you could attend our Spring Open House on the 30th and then take a drive down and attend the Turbo Buick/Richard Clark event, which starts the following Wednesday.
These are 2 great Turbo events back to back.
2016 TurboBuick.com NC Buick Nationals
TURBO BUICK/RICHARD CLARK EVENT - May 4th - May 7th, 2016 - Burlington, NC
This event is held at Richard Clark’s shop, located at 2557 Faucette Lane, Burlington, NC. If you have never been to his shop before, it would be a great event to attend.
Once again, I am the MC for the FREE luncheon on Thursday. We will be at this event as a vendor. Bring any cores you want to cash in for a Letter of Credit.
The event moves to the nearby racetrack for Friday and Saturday.
For more information, go to turbobuick.com and look for this under “Events for 2016.”
I know that Mike Barnard (owner of Spoolfool), Nick Micale from Arizona, G-Body, Pete Hoffman, and our company will be in attendance.
LUNCHEON INFO!!! / LUNCHEON INFO!!! / LUNCHEON INFO!!!
NOTE - If you are planning to attend the FREE lunch, here is information on how to make your reservation:
Kirban Performance Products is handling the FREE LUNCHEON reservations at the 2016 TurboBuick.com NC Nationals at Richard Clark's Garage
To make reservations for the Thursday, May 5th Luncheon, YOU MUST SEND AN E-MAIL TO THE FOLLOWING ADDRESS:
[email protected]
Include the following information:
1. Full Name of you AND all your attendees
2. Number of people in your party
3. City
4. State
5. email address
Eileen Kirban will add your reservation to our list and will send a confirmation email. Pick up your luncheon tickets at the door.
She will also send updates as the event gets closer.
TECH SEMINAR seminar on Friday night, May 6th, from 8 pm - midnight - 1214 Turrentine Street, Burlington, NC 27215. It will include guest speakers, such as Richard Clark, John Spina, Bob Bailey, Nick Micale and a HOST of others!
EVERYONE is welcome and this event is FREE OF CHARGE, thanks to our great and newest sponsor ZPLUS! You are going to have LOTS of questions answered as all the big names in the Buick world will be guest speaking at this event. YOU DONT WANT TO MISS THIS!!!!!
RIDE ON MOLLY 6 - Saturday, May 21st, 2016 - California
For more information, contact Alan DeCarr - [email protected]
This event is now in its 6th year since Molly’s passing.
PYPES EXHAUST & MAX PERFORMANCE OPEN HOUSE CAR SHOW - June 18th, 2016 -
Held at their Headquarters, 2705 Clemens Road, Hatfield, PA 19440
This event has no rain date. Open to all American Muscle cars and trucks.
For more details, contact - [email protected]
This is a huge event that I usually attend, however, this year I can’t since it’s the same weekend as GM at Carlisle and I’m speaking both days at GM Carlisle.
GM CARLISLE - June 17th-19th, 2016
I am a guest speaker at this event both Friday and Saturday. I’ll be talking on Hurst, Hurst/Olds, and also about the door jamb VIN data decals. Seminars are always free at Carlisle.
Now that our granddaughter has a 2012 Camaro SS, she is planning on attending and showing her car. Carlisle is one of the largest swap meet facilities in the country. If you are planning on attending, bring any cores you want to cash in for a Letter of Credit. I will be able to take them. This will be the second year I been a guest speaker at Carlisle and it’s quite an honor. Over the years I have spoken at several National Pontiac and GTO conventions.
Check their website to see dates of all their upcoming 2016 events - carlisleevents.com
BCA NATIONALS - July 27th-30th, 2016
The BCA Nationals, which stands for Buick Club of America, is actually coming to Allentown, PA July 27th thru the 30th. Allentown is about 25 minutes from where we live. The big car show day is Saturday, July 30th. They expect over 1,000 Buicks of all kinds.
Sometimes we forget that our niche market has a parent national club. For more exact details and location, go to their website - www.buickclub.org/2016anniversary
GS NATIONALS - September 14th-17th, 2016 -
Beach Bend Raceway in Bowling Green, Kentucky
See the GSXtra for more details, or their website - gsnationals.com
EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS - September 16th-17th, 2016 at Cecil County Dragway in Rising Sun, Maryland
Event includes a judged car show on Saturday open to all Buick makes and anything Buick powered. Free Vending. Saturday race classes must be Buick powered.
For more information, contact - [email protected] or [email protected]
This is not a misprint both the GS Nationals and East Coast Buick Regionals fall on the same weekend.
RARE PARTS FROM US -
On the below rare listed parts, we accept PayPal or credit card. You must email me personally - [email protected] - to inquire about availability of the part. Do not send PayPal or credit card info until I have sent you a confirmation email as to the availability of the part listed. Be sure to refer to the part number we have assigned to the part. Shipping can be combined if more than one item below is purchased. Shipping prices shown are for the U.S. only. PA residents must add 6% sales tax. Remember, email me personally - [email protected]
IN CLOSING -
It’s now less than 2 weeks until our Annual Spring Open House event.
Remember, order now if you want a Spoolfool rear filler and or a Pypes exhaust system!
OLD FORGE MOTOR CARS -
Local to us in Lansdale, Pennsylvania is a company that specializes in selling classic cars, muscle cars, street rods, etc. They basically market cars for any taste. Every Saturday from 9 until noon they have free coffee and donuts. Anytime free food is in the mix with cars, it draws a good size crowd.
I met with the owner early last week, since they plan to promote the lighted display boxes to their customers for printing photos of their cars in a lighted display box. They actually served Yum Yum donuts, since Yum Yums third location is near them in Lansdale.
They also do consignments for large car collections. For more information and to check out their inventory, check out their website - oldforgemotorcars.com
PHOTO 1 - We show 4 cars currently for sale at Old Forge Motorcars in Lansdale. The top left is one of the rare Lincoln Continentals from the mid-1950s. They actually have 2 of them. The bottom left photo is a completely original Camaro Z28. The top right is a 1963 Ford Galaxie packing a 427 engine. The bottom right is a MGB that has a V8 engine stuffed between the fenders. This little MGB looked totally stock on the outside except for a louvered-style hood.
LOCAL CRUISE EVENT -
The same day I attended the event at Old Forge Motorcars, I was told that night there is a huge cruise event at the local Lowes in nearby Warrington, PA. With nice weather, this event drew over 200-plus cars of all kinds. It’s hosted by the local Corvette club where I have spoken in the past. At these events, more and more owners are showing a paper trail of their pride and joy. In some cases, even photos of the early history of the car they now own.
I found this 1940 Ford intriguing on several levels. It was built by a gentleman on a limited budget in the early 1970s. He was probably in his late 60s when he started to work on the car. The current owner has retained much of the way it looked back then. Back then the popular engine for conversions was the big cubic inch caddy engines. They were also cheap and plentiful. The car was far from being a showpiece but it drew a good bit of attention.
PHOTO 2 - The top left shows this chopped 1940 Ford. The bottom left photo shows something I thought was cute as the placecard reads, “number matching,” which of course it isn’t! The top right photo shows the big Caddy powerplant. According to the owner, the firewall had to be moved 4 inches back so it would clear. The bottom right photo shows a cool cartoon that was painted on the deck lid. It shows kids sliding down the slopped back end. The body was basically a shell sitting in the woods when the project began in the early 1970s.
It reminded me of a 1932 Ford shell I bought years ago that was sitting at a farm about 2 miles from where we lived in Furlong. I dragged it home and sold it locally to a guy who made it into a street rod. I have never seen the car since I sold it back around 1976-1977.
Every car has a story. So, it’s important to document as much history as you can so someone 10-20 years from now can trace the history of what you own today.
OUR SPRING OPEN HOUSE LATEST UPDATE -
At our Open House we will have one table that will feature bargains on several items that we are discontinuing from our parts that were on our website. Another table will be strictly Buick Turbo literature for sale that some of you will want to add to your private collection. This is not to be missed, as I expect these items to go quickly.
Another table will showcase our No Reserve Auction items. Our No Reserve Auction will feature a real set of original used GNX wheels with a starting bid of $2,700 and no reserve. We will have other items to auction as well. We are getting one item custom made, which some lucky bidder will win at our No Reserve Auction.
Still another table will spotlight our new products, including the new reproduction aluminum brake drums, the lighted display ideas, and also a new project one of our neighbors in our complex is working on for me. It will fit every single G-body car made and solves an important issue. I supplied the idea and he is supplying the knowledge and ability to make it work.
Last, but not least, another table will have our raffle items that have been donated by Arizona GN, Spoolfool, and G-Body Parts.
The M&Ms are counted for the Open House and the TurboBuick/Richard Clark event. These two events have no rain date.
With all that being said, be sure to bring your wallet!
DROP OFF POINT FOR UNWANTED PETS -
If you know Richard Clark, you know for many years he has taken care of stray dogs and even a few cats that have shown up at his shop in North Carolina. It’s like there’s a sign out by the road to drop unwanted pets here for proper care.
We have a similar situation at our house where it seems people drop off animals that they don’t want anymore. Some of you may recall a few years back when we even had one of those rare hairless dogs show up.
Our cat population increased by 2 about a month ago, as 2 very different cats showed up. It did not take them long to figure how to get in and out of our pole building and enjoy the warmth. One was multi-color brown and appears to be very young. The other cat is a long hair breed and extremely calm and affectionate, but only to me. She is a very unusual looking cat. She even gets along with the other cats we have.
Last Saturday the young multi-colored brown cat surprised us with 3 baby kittens. We plan to keep them for a few more weeks and then there is a place that puts them in foster care so they can be adopted. The young mother cat is very friendly and, as the saying goes, every kitten is adorable when you can fit them in the palm of your hand. We already have two from our old house we brought up with us, 2 from the neighbor who died, and the new long hair breed. This is besides the one indoor 1 cat we rescued off the road years ago by our old house.
PHOTO 3 - Here are some photos of the mom cat and her new brood. 2 are all light brown and 1 is black with white markings. I guess that two-color kitten would be a “Designers Series?” If you reside near us and are looking for a new pet, email me - [email protected]
OUR OPEN HOUSE TROPHIES -
In the next photo we show the 3 large trophies that will be awarded at our Open House, April 30th.
PHOTO 4 - Shows the 3 trophies that will be awarded at our Open House. A huge thanz to Russ and Nancy for getting these trophies made up for our Open House. Once again Russ and Nancy will be preparing the noon meal for everyone. Special thanks for their generosity. There will special raffles and a donation jar for the lunch. All the money collected from their great raffles and food will be donated to pbs, in honor of a show they support, This Old House.
INVERTED AIRPLANE STAMP UPDATE -
Last week we touched briefly on the post office screw up from 1918. In our newspaper a few days back 1 of these rare airplane stamps that were stolen back in 1955 resurfaced. It was 1 of 4 that was stolen in 1955 at a convention. It’s ironic that it surfaced right after I wrote about it.
GNX OWNERS OR THOSE WANTING GNX INFORMATION -
We recently compiled a special packet on the GNX project and early GNX articles. Some information even covers the actual planning of the GNX prior to 1987. It contains over 40 pages in full color and over 40 pages in black and white… close to 100 pages total. We only did a very limited number of these and when they sell out there will be no more. It is one of the unique items we will have for sale at our Open House and the Turbo Buick/Richard Clark event. However, you can email me personally [email protected] for more details and pricing if want one and can’t make either event.
This is something every GNX owner will want. Those who are interested in the GNX will also want this packet. This will not be offered after the Turbo Buick/Richard Clark event. We only did a very limited number of these.
PLEASE - URGENT REQUEST -
We need original 1986-1987 AC Delco mass air flow sensors. We can't continue this service for our customers without having correct cores to get redone. If you can help with these sensors, email me [email protected] - for current price or credit.
We also need original 1986-1987 Turbo Regal Turbos, so we can continue our rebuilt service for our customers.
Without these items, we CANNOT get original turbos or the TA 49 units rebuilt, and provide them to our customers. Email me [email protected] - for current price or credit.
NEW PRODUCT IN THE WORKS -
The company that is making our boxes for the lighted LED display signs has figured out how to make this new unique part that will fit every 1984-1987 G-body car, not just Turbo Regals. The part will be made in stainless, unlike the GM part, which is not made in stainless and is prone to rust. By making a modification version, we hope it will work differently than the original GM.
This clever new product should be available for our Spring Open House. We expect a very high demand for it and we will be making it available to the other vendors that we sell to. It’s a modification that makes it far more useful than the original GM part.
ALUMINUM BRAKE DRUMS -
We still have not gotten any word from A1 Cardone on pricing, or if I will have any aluminum drums to sell at our Open House. They do say I will have the information shortly. We do have an actual production sample to show at our Open House and the TurboBuick/Richard Clark event.
PREPARING FOR OUR SPRING OPEN HOUSE -
If you are planning on attending our Spring Open House and want to buy the Spoolfool one-piece rear filler, be sure to place your order now so we have one set aside for you.
The same goes for the Pypes dual exhaust system. In either case, we will not charge you until the day of our show.
Call and speak to Christina to place your order - 215-766-1611 x 0. Do not wait until the last minute.
Remember, we are always in the market for good used Turbo Regal parts that you can “cash in” as trade value towards items you want and need. Bring any cores, especially turbo cores, which we need.
HERE IS MORE BREAKING NEWS - SPRING OPEN HOUSE -
Remember the crown jewel of our No Reserve Auction will be a complete original used set of GNX wheels. The starting minimum bid will be under $2,700. Again, this is a no reserve auction as long as the starting bid has been met. Wheels are all original with no curb rash. The set comes with a new set of the correct 2-piece lug nuts, valve stems, and decals for the center caps. Everything you need. Also included is a copy from the page in the GNX book stating the offsets for the front and rears match the stamped offsets on these real GNX wheels. This verifies they are correct. You could have the winning bid and own them!
We will have some really neat items on display and some custom-made things for sale at our Open House. Remember, this event has no rain date. Yum Yum donuts go quickly. We will have our usual M&M contest.
Please, if you are coming, bring us any CORES you may have. We badly need good clean steering wheel cores (1986-1987), correct 1986-1987 mass air flow sensors, and stock 1986-1987 Turbo cores.
We really need these 3 items in order to keep the flow of rebuilt parts available to others. I also buy or trade for most any good Turbo Regal items that you may not need or want. Bringing them to our Open House is an excellent time to cash them in and avoid shipping costs.
Mike Bernard, who makes the Spoolfool fillers, is donating a one-piece rear filler for our raffle. This is another reason to plan to attend. We like to thank Mike for his generosity and support of many of the Buick events. The Kirban Performance raffle items donations will be sent as usual to the MOLLY Memorial Fund.
Also, I been going through my original photos and Turbo Buick literature and we will have a lot of original Grand National literature available for sale. Also, there will be some neat GNX items we had made up for sale. This is one Open House you do not want to miss. One table will be strictly Buick Turbo related literature to buy.
This is the first time our Open House and the Turbo Buick/Richard Clark event have been back to back. These are 2 springtime Buick events you do not want to miss.
OPEN HOUSE RAFFLE ITEMS -
If you have anything you like to donate to our free raffle please send it to us. We would recognize you when your item has been won. These would be awarded at our Open House.
BREAKING NEWS JUST ANNOUNCED -
2016 TurboBuick.com / Richard Clark Event - North Carolina - May 4 - May 7
Thanks to ZPLUS, you ALL are going to enjoy a tech seminar on Friday night, May 6th, from 8 pm - midnight. It will include guest speakers, such as Richard Clark, John Spina, Bob Bailey, Nick Micale, Dennis Kirban, and a HOST of others!
EVERYONE is welcome and this event is FREE OF CHARGE, thanks to our great and newest sponsor ZPLUS! You are going to have LOTS of questions answered as all the big names in the Buick world will be guest speaking at this event.
The location of the Friday night seminar is 1214 Turrentine Street, Burlington, NC 27215. It is the same 10,000 sq ft location used for previous seminars. The location is only 15 minutes from all the hotels and Richard Clark location.
YOU DONT WANT TO MISS THIS!
REPRODUCTION GNX-STYLE DASH FOR SALE -
Complete pre-mounted GNX dash for sale. All of the cutting, fitting and alignment work is complete, just wire the dash and install the entire unit.
Kit Includes:
Applique with correct color indicators
Metal mounting plate
Plastic gauge bezel
Stock pre-cut cluster harness
Stock dash bezel (pre-cut with plastic gauge bezel attached)
New Stewart Warner speedometer with upper speedometer cable
New Stewart Warner tachometer
New Stewart Warner oil pressure gauge with sending unit
New Stewart Warner water temperature gauge with sending unit
New Stewart Warner fuel gauge
New Stewart Warner vacuum/ boost gauge
Plug-and-play harness
$2,250 plus shipping
This one was hand built by a good friend of ours who owns 3 Grand Nationals and has built several of these.
It comes with stock bezel already pre-cut so you do not have to cut your dash bezel. This kit eliminates any possible issues of trial and error since they have built several of these.
Buyer would have to inform us which dash is currently in the car - either digital or analog.
If interested, email me direct - [email protected] - I can provide photos.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
We currently need original good 1986-1987 AC Delco mass air flow sensors. We allow $25 Letter of Credit for each core that can be rebuilt.
URGENT NEED - TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock ones. They must be complete. We will issue you a $100 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number
MAIL - Ship to Address -
ATTN - DENNIS
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADSVILLE, PA 18949-1199
TECH CALLS -
If you need technical information, it’s best to email - [email protected] rather than call us.
We will do our best to answer any technical questions within 24 hours.
CAR FOR SALE - 1991 GMC SYCLONE
This is information on a new listing on our website for a Syclone owned by a friend of ours. I have known Don personally for over 30 years, since he was a GTO customer of ours before getting into the Turbo Buicks. I have personally seen this truck years ago.
FOR SALE - 1991 GMC SYCLONE
1991 GMC Syclone
9400 miles, stock, garage kept
Located in Middle Tennessee
$29,999 - Will entertain serious offers.
Don Wall
For more information, email - [email protected]
$29,999 or Best Offer
CFS039 - April 20, 2016 - May 2, 2016
Here is a link to this Syclone on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44298/CAR+FOR+SALE+-+1991+GMC+SYCLONE+-+CFS039.html
CARS FOR SALE -
From time to time, whenever we spot an unusual or an exceptional car or truck for sale, or one we have for sale, we will put a blurb in our weekly Inner Circle. Also, any cars that our customers have for sale will be featured here and you can see their car with photos on our website. In this category, we will run the descriptions for two-to-three weeks and, if there is no interest in that particular vehicle, it will be deleted the following week. Any new vehicles that we add will appear first, so the oldest listing would be at the end of this section.
If any of these vehicles perk your interest, email me personally - [email protected] - for more information and photos.
1979 CHEVROLET SCOTTSDALE - FOR SALE -
I spotted a really nice 1979 Chevrolet Scottsdale pickup for sale on way to one of the junkyards I go to. It is located about 5 miles off exit 10 of Route 78 in Pennsylvania.
The truck has had 2 owners. It’s two-tone blue and white. It has very few options, V8 with factory am/fm radio, and has power steering. About 50% of the paint is original. Wheels and tires are like new. Runs out 100% quiet and very dry underneath. It’s a very solid truck that has had extremely good care over the years. Mileage stands at 134,000 and it’s PA inspected.
Good candidate to drive enjoy and restore. Price seemed reasonable to me at $4995.00. Interested? Email me - [email protected] - and I can provide you with more info and his phone number.
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If you have a tip or a discovery that you found that works on your Turbo Regal, drop us an email giving us the details so we can pass the info on to our readers. Remember, even with my knowledge, I don’t know it all. Simply email me at - [email protected]
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1978-1988 GM G-Body, Including Buick Turbo Regal -
BOLT-IN REAR SHOCK TOWER BRACE & HARDWARE
This 100% jig built, bolt-in brace ties the rear upper shock mounts together to share the load and stiffen the chassis. Strong 1-1/4" tubing is MIG welded to 3/16" thick laser cut brackets for a perfect fit.
This brace is designed to clear all of the popular exhaust systems and works equally well on coil over setups and traditional spring/shock combinations. Overall distance from floor to the bottom of the brace is approximately 5".
All UMI products are built from US steel, then they are powder coated black. Hardware is included to makes this a true, easy bolt-in installation.
Features:
Manufactured from 1-1/4" USA Tubing
CNC laser cut 3/16" mounting brackets
Grade 8 hardware included
Easy bolt-in installation with basic hand tools
Powder-coated black for a durable long-lasting finish
Made in the USA by UMI
Our top photo shows the brace and the hardware. The lower photos show this rear shock tower brace installed on a car with coil over springs. NOTE - The brace in the photos is red, but we only offer it in black.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #1586 Powder-coated Black Rear Seat Frame Brace Kit® and #7169 Reproduction GNX Rear Seat Brace Kit (5) Set.
Another excellent way to stiffen the suspension on your car.
7715 - 1978-1988 GM G-Body, Including Buick Turbo Regal -
Bolt-In Rear Shock Tower Brace and Hardware - $130
Here is a link to this Shock Tower Brace on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44295/BOLT-IN+REAR+SHOCK+TOWER+BRACE+%26+HARDWARE+%237715.html
ALWAYS LOOKING FOR IDEAS -
If you have any product ideas that would fit our Turbo Buick market that you would like to see available, email me direct - [email protected]
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION FOR TURBO REGAL PARTS -
Got any Turbo Buick parts you are not using? Why not cash them in for parts you need with a Letter of Credit. Simply email me a list - [email protected]. Also, we are still buying dead or partially dead 1984-1987 Turbo Regals under $4,000 that are within 250 to 350 miles of our location.
NOTE - ABOUT LINKS IN THE INNER CIRCLE -
We have heard from a couple people that have had problems with the links in our Inner Circle.
When we check the links, they work fine. However, if you are not able to be directed to the exact website page or internet site, you can "copy" and "paste" the link into the URL in your browser (such as Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
Most people having problems are using Internet Explorer… If you are having issues with links, try another browser to see if it works.
You may need to "UPDATE" your browser to be use you are using the current version.
NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE -
We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these have to be low-resolution photos to work on the Inner Circle segments on the website, any photos of text don't appear clear when enlarged. This is a problem when you are trying to see numbers, such as those on the VIN labels or pages from Options booklet. Also, because of photo reproduction and computer screen variations, the colors may not be true to the actual product or photo.
If you would like to have us email you any photo at the higher resolution for viewing, just email us and we will email them to you. Be sure to be specific on which pictures you want to see - Reference Inner Circle date and photo number 1, 2, 3 or 4 - [email protected]
2016 CALENDAR OF EVENTS -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS SPRING OPEN HOUSE -
Saturday, April 30rd, 2016 - 9 am - 2 pm -
NOTE - The date was changed to APRIL 30th
Once again free Yum Yum donuts and coffee will be available in the morning. Terry Shaw will be conducting a seminar on the importance of having your car appraised.
We will have several unique limited production items available for sale at this event. Also samples of our new project. Although not strictly car related, we can do car photos as well. This is a very unique format done on a special machine. In my immediate area I only know of two companies that have this machine.
We will be awarding 3 different trophies at our Spring Open House, courtesy of Russ and Nancy. One will be for Longest Distance driven in a Turbo Regal to our event. Another trophy will be awarded for the car needing the most TLC, meaning the one Turbo Regal needing the most tender loving care. Last, but not least, Kirban’s Choice Award, which will be one that I pick that I like or represents a car that I would buy.
Russ and Nancy have agreed to do the cooking. The luncheon is strictly by donation with all proceeds going to PBS, which Russ and Nancy support.
This is the only Open House we are doing this year, so you don’t want to miss it.
Most of our website products will be specially priced. We will have an array of used parts for sale, our M&M contest, and our no reserve auction. The feature item this year is a set of used original GNX wheels being offered at no reserve. They do have a starting bid price. This event has no rain date.
Ideally you could attend our Spring Open House on the 30th and then take a drive down and attend the Turbo Buick/Richard Clark event, which starts the following Wednesday.
These are 2 great Turbo events back to back.
2016 TurboBuick.com NC Buick Nationals
TURBO BUICK/RICHARD CLARK EVENT - May 4th - May 7th, 2016 - Burlington, NC
This event is held at Richard Clark’s shop, located at 2557 Faucette Lane, Burlington, NC. If you have never been to his shop before, it would be a great event to attend.
Once again, I am the MC for the FREE luncheon on Thursday. We will be at this event as a vendor. Bring any cores you want to cash in for a Letter of Credit.
The event moves to the nearby racetrack for Friday and Saturday.
For more information, go to turbobuick.com and look for this under “Events for 2016.”
I know that Mike Barnard (owner of Spoolfool), Nick Micale from Arizona, G-Body, Pete Hoffman, and our company will be in attendance.
LUNCHEON INFO!!! / LUNCHEON INFO!!! / LUNCHEON INFO!!!
NOTE - If you are planning to attend the FREE lunch, here is information on how to make your reservation:
Kirban Performance Products is handling the FREE LUNCHEON reservations at the 2016 TurboBuick.com NC Nationals at Richard Clark's Garage
To make reservations for the Thursday, May 5th Luncheon, YOU MUST SEND AN E-MAIL TO THE FOLLOWING ADDRESS:
[email protected]
Include the following information:
1. Full Name of you AND all your attendees
2. Number of people in your party
3. City
4. State
5. email address
Eileen Kirban will add your reservation to our list and will send a confirmation email. Pick up your luncheon tickets at the door.
She will also send updates as the event gets closer.
TECH SEMINAR seminar on Friday night, May 6th, from 8 pm - midnight - 1214 Turrentine Street, Burlington, NC 27215. It will include guest speakers, such as Richard Clark, John Spina, Bob Bailey, Nick Micale and a HOST of others!
EVERYONE is welcome and this event is FREE OF CHARGE, thanks to our great and newest sponsor ZPLUS! You are going to have LOTS of questions answered as all the big names in the Buick world will be guest speaking at this event. YOU DONT WANT TO MISS THIS!!!!!
RIDE ON MOLLY 6 - Saturday, May 21st, 2016 - California
For more information, contact Alan DeCarr - [email protected]
This event is now in its 6th year since Molly’s passing.
PYPES EXHAUST & MAX PERFORMANCE OPEN HOUSE CAR SHOW - June 18th, 2016 -
Held at their Headquarters, 2705 Clemens Road, Hatfield, PA 19440
This event has no rain date. Open to all American Muscle cars and trucks.
For more details, contact - [email protected]
This is a huge event that I usually attend, however, this year I can’t since it’s the same weekend as GM at Carlisle and I’m speaking both days at GM Carlisle.
GM CARLISLE - June 17th-19th, 2016
I am a guest speaker at this event both Friday and Saturday. I’ll be talking on Hurst, Hurst/Olds, and also about the door jamb VIN data decals. Seminars are always free at Carlisle.
Now that our granddaughter has a 2012 Camaro SS, she is planning on attending and showing her car. Carlisle is one of the largest swap meet facilities in the country. If you are planning on attending, bring any cores you want to cash in for a Letter of Credit. I will be able to take them. This will be the second year I been a guest speaker at Carlisle and it’s quite an honor. Over the years I have spoken at several National Pontiac and GTO conventions.
Check their website to see dates of all their upcoming 2016 events - carlisleevents.com
BCA NATIONALS - July 27th-30th, 2016
The BCA Nationals, which stands for Buick Club of America, is actually coming to Allentown, PA July 27th thru the 30th. Allentown is about 25 minutes from where we live. The big car show day is Saturday, July 30th. They expect over 1,000 Buicks of all kinds.
Sometimes we forget that our niche market has a parent national club. For more exact details and location, go to their website - www.buickclub.org/2016anniversary
GS NATIONALS - September 14th-17th, 2016 -
Beach Bend Raceway in Bowling Green, Kentucky
See the GSXtra for more details, or their website - gsnationals.com
EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS - September 16th-17th, 2016 at Cecil County Dragway in Rising Sun, Maryland
Event includes a judged car show on Saturday open to all Buick makes and anything Buick powered. Free Vending. Saturday race classes must be Buick powered.
For more information, contact - [email protected] or [email protected]
This is not a misprint both the GS Nationals and East Coast Buick Regionals fall on the same weekend.
RARE PARTS FROM US -
On the below rare listed parts, we accept PayPal or credit card. You must email me personally - [email protected] - to inquire about availability of the part. Do not send PayPal or credit card info until I have sent you a confirmation email as to the availability of the part listed. Be sure to refer to the part number we have assigned to the part. Shipping can be combined if more than one item below is purchased. Shipping prices shown are for the U.S. only. PA residents must add 6% sales tax. Remember, email me personally - [email protected]
IN CLOSING -
It’s now less than 2 weeks until our Annual Spring Open House event.
Remember, order now if you want a Spoolfool rear filler and or a Pypes exhaust system!