Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 01-03-2018 -
Here is the link to this Inner Circle and the photos on our website.
HAPPY NEW YEAR - 2018
CHRISTMAS SPECIALS - DEADLINE THIS FRIDAY - JANUARY 5TH -
You only have 2 more days to take advantage of our Christmas Specials. The deadline for ordering is this Friday, January 5th by 4 pm.
Specials cannot be ordered online, you have to call our office to order - 215-766-1611 x 0.
CHRISTMAS M&M’s CONTEST WINNER -
The winner of our Christmas M&M’s contest was Steve Perry out of New York with his guess of 1,000. The actual count was 1,325 M&M’s in the Christmas train. Steve also won our M&M’s contest earlier this year at the seminar I did at the Hurst Nationals at Carlisle. Steve owns a 1987 Turbo-T and has driven it to several of our Open House events and the Buick East Coast Regionals at Cecil County.
TWO TURBO REGAL PARTS FROM THE PAST -
Two companies involved with making parts for the Turbo Regals years ago were ATR in California and ANS Performance in Illinois. I recently acquired a load of Turbo Regal parts from a customer who sold his Grand National. Among the parts were the two items shown in Photo 1.
PHOTO 1 - The item to the left is the ATR TPS Tester. It was marketed back in 1990 and was a method to test how good the TPS sensor was. I have no idea how it worked, but it appears it plugged into the TPS circuit. The photo to the right shows the ANS Performance Turbo controller. This would be mounted in your car, and by twisting the dial, you could increase and decrease the boost levels. The harness includes an inline fuse and the harness appears to plug into the wastegate solenoid. Both items are for sale in the Rare Parts section. Both are neat novelty items from over 15 years ago. They may still function, since they appear to be complete.
SHIFTER HANDLE PROJECT UPDATE -
Currently I have a working prototype for the shifter handle. We had to develop a new method to secure the other GM handles to the shifter shaft so it will not twist. I have acquired from various sources shifter units for not only the Turbo Regal, but the Monte Carlo SS and the Firebird/Camaro as well. My research shows that virtually none of the original shifter handles or knobs are still available from GM anymore except the ones for our Turbo Regals.
The reason none of the shifter handles or knobs work from the other GM cars on the Turbo Regal shifter shaft is because the Regal shifter shaft is notched at the 3 o’clock position and the 9 o’clock position. The Olds Cutlass was the only other shifter that has that same format as the Turbo Regal.
On the Monte Carlo, Firebird, and Camaro the shifter shafts were notched at 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock. The position of the notches is what lined up the various handles and knobs a certain way. The locking clip on the Turbo Regals inserts from the right side, whereas on the other GM cars the locking clip inserts from the front. Fortunately, the diameter of all the GM shifter shafts are the same, so all the various GM handles and knobs fit. I have found that some of the other GM handles and knobs were actually leather. It’s a matter of working out how to secure the various handles or knobs and make it trigger the lever to engage the various gears.
This is why any other GM handle or knob needs to be modified to make it work properly on the Turbo Regal shifter shaft. Several modifications need to be done to adopt a beefier GM handle or knob to the Turbo Regal shifter shaft and have it function and also tighten up on the shifter shaft. (I refer to handles as the T-style format, which resembles the Turbo Regal handle. I refer to the various tear-drop designs as knobs.) GM used both formats on other GM cars during the 1990s. In every case I have found all other GM versions are far beefier than the ones Buick used in the Turbo Regals.
You also have to make a small extension for the inner shaft to trigger each gear selection with a modified later GM handle or knob.
While they look cute, our factory handles are wimpy and break easily. The internals are plastic and the handle is positioned at a vertical position rather than a slight angle to the driver. Our shifter handle has no extended length to secure it better to the actual shifter shaft. Only the Olds Cutlass and the Buick Regal handles have this format.
My idea is to offer a nice beefier handle so you can keep your original shifter handle for car shows. New original Turbo Regal GM handles with no internals currently run about $40. If you buy one with all the new upgraded internals, they can run $100 or more.
Currently we are gathering up used later GM shifter handles and, with the modifications, hope to market a beefier shifter handle for less money. These are coming out of newer GM cars so they look almost new. Not only will we have a beefier GM shifter handle available, but you will be able to angle it on the shaft any way you want, which makes it more comfortable than the stock one that locks in at the 3 o’clock and 9 o’clock positions.
It’s a matter of making the proper part to secure the various knobs and handles, and keep them from twisting and still have them trigger the gears. I also have to modify the actual handles to seat properly on the factory Regal shifter shaft.
I have already sold various used knobs to another company for the Monte Carlos, and no modifications are needed for them to function on those shifters. I even found handles that are leather wrapped. This has given us another market almost by accident!
I was surprised to discover that the factory Monte Carlo SS shifter unit is far beefier and superior to the shifter unit Buick used for our cars. Not only did the Monte Carlos get a beefier shifter handle, but the entire mechanism is far superior. See Photo 2.
There appears to be at least one knob in the GM parts system that is available brand new that I may be able to modify for the Turbo Regals. However, the supplies of this one knob are very limited. All the other handles and knobs are discontinued or I have bought the remaining ones already and sold them.
PHOTO 2 - In the photo to the left we show the factory Turbo Regal shifter unit alongside the same vintage factory Monte Carlo SS shifter. Not only is the Monte Carlo shifter handle beefier with a longer shaft, but the actual shifter unit is far beefier than our shifters! The photo to the right shows a closeup of the Monte Carlo release spring that engages the shifter. Compare that to the wimpy one that Buick used to engage our shifter and the difference is obvious. This is one of the few parts where the Monte Carlo part is far superior to the Buick Regal part.
SHIFTER PLATES AND SHIFTER BOOTS -
Later automatic shifters in GM cars got fancier. Most of them today have a nice leather or vinyl boot that surrounds the actual automatic shifter shaft. At some point, GM made it so you had to put your foot on the brake to release the shifter from PARK. Those later handles won’t work on our cars because their format is different. I have to find GM ones that still used the locking clip to secure the handle, like the ones in our cars. Also, ones that do not require you to depress the brake pedal to shift out of PARK. In other words, only a few later years have the floor shifter handles that I can modify to work in our cars.
The choices are very limited, even with all the resources I have available. I was very surprised that the Monte Carlo SS cars had a far beefier shifter mechanism and shifter handle than our cars. Our shifter had not changed since 1978 and was also shared with the Oldsmobile Cutlass models. Plus, with the locking clip format in the right side, it makes other GM handles not interchangeable.
I have not researched the G-Body Grand Prix Pontiac as they are so rare and, frankly, there seems to be little demand among collectors for that model. By far, our Turbo Regals lead the pack in collectible value, followed by the Oldsmobile 442/Hurst models, and then the Monte Carlo SS models. Again, this is my opinion. In real numbers of production, I believe the Monte Carlo SS comes out on top.
I realize some of you may have an aftermarket shifter in your Turbo Regal. Perhaps you have modified the console plate and lack a shifter plate that you can install on your console plate. I have found a top plate for automatic GM cars that have a good size opening for a shifter. This top plate comes in 3 different finishes. This top plate comes in silver, black, or with a wood grain finish. I also found a nice vinyl shifter boot that you may be able to use to hide your aftermarket shifter shaft.
PHOTO 3 - The photo to the left shows the 3 different color automatic shifter plates I have come across in my search for useable shifter knobs. The photo to the right shows the automatic black vinyl shifter boot we have also found that was used with these automatic shifter plates. See the Rare Parts section for what we have of each available and pricing. The shifter boots are hard to find in good condition and boots that are not ripped or torn.
1987 BRONCO II FOR SALE -
The dealership I currently work with has just acquired a real nice restored 1987 Bronco II. This is the small Bronco. I happen to know the person that had it restored several years ago. We would see it almost every day at the restaurant we frequent in the morning. See Photo 4. The price is $6,495. The engine has been rebuilt. It is the 2.9 six cylinder. This Bronco is a great color combination, blue and white. Interior and body is exceptional. I can provide more information on this Bronco II, if interested.
PHOTO 4 - We show four photos of the 1987 Bronco II. It is fairly well optioned with tilt, power windows, and power locks. It has cloth interior and the tires and wheels are like new.
CUSTOM-MADE VINYL BANNERS UPDATE -
Currently we are working with a company that is fully GM licensed for GM banners. They have agreements for all the GM models except Chevrolet and Corvette. They have submitted banner samples to GM license department. Watch for word on these custom-made vinyl banners later this month.
GOOD NEWS - WE ARE ACCEPTING CLASSIFIED ADS -
Good news - We now accept Classified Ads in our weekly Inner Circle emails. Over the years several customers have asked about placing an ad in our weekly Inner Circle.
Here are the options and the costs.
Ads can be from any individual or company. It needs to be automotive related, meaning it does not need be specifically Turbo Regal related. It can be for something for sale or something wanted.
Maximum number of words is 125 words, which is about 7 to 9 lines of copy. No photos. You can list a website. We recommend you state your name, phone number or email, a price, and your location in your ad.
The cost for 2 consecutive weeks is $25. The cost for 4 consecutive weeks is $40. You save $10 with the 4-week plan. No changes can be made to your existing running ad. You can only run one ad at any given time. We will have a code system at the end of your ad, so we will know what week number your ad is to run - 2 or 4 weeks.
It can be an ad for something for sale or an ad for something you are looking for.
We have never missed a single week since we started the Inner Circle email format in 2009. It’s something I enjoy doing and I just always seem to have enough material to write about.
Our weekly Inner Circle reaches over 3,200 members every Wednesday direct to their inbox. The Inner Circle also appears every Wednesday on our website with the related photos. Your ad would be visible to both groups of readers. So, the exposure to your ad is well over 3,200 potential buyers.
My Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!
Ads submitted properly by the previous Sunday would appear that next Wednesday in the weekly Inner Circle. Ads must be submitted by email to - [email protected]
Payment by credit card must be done by phone to our office 215-766-1611 x 0.
THIS WEEK’S CLASSIFIED ADS -
WANTED TO BUY - 1965 or 1967 Buick Skylark GranSport/GS400, will discuss any condition, but it must be a real GranSport/GS, no clones. Possible trade involved. I am in the Cleveland, Ohio area. Call Ken at 440-655-8731. Okay to leave a voice mail, if I don’t pick up. Or email me at [email protected] Week 2 of 4.
FOR SALE - 2018 Grand National/GNX calendar. The price is $20 each. If you buy 3 you get the 4th one free!
Here is a link to the website.
Or you can “copy and paste” this information in the URL - http://buick-grand-national.webstarts.com
If the link does not work, you can email Duane directly at [email protected]
Remember, when you buy 3 of the new 2018 Grand National/GNX calendars you will get 1 free! Week 4 of 4.
WANTED TO BUY: For a 1987 Buick Turbo Regal. NOS left and right exhaust manifolds, NOS transmission throttle valve/detent cable, NOS throttle/accelerator cable, NOS dipstick, NOS transmission dipstick, NOS left and right rear bumper fillers, NOS left and right black side markers lights, NOS left and right black metal parking light bezels, NOS left and rite black metal door edge guards, NOS black metal hood molding. Prefer parts to be in original GM factory sealed packaging or GM factory box with original GM part number tag and GM dealer tag. Serious buyer. Please e-mail clear pictures and description of part or call and leave message. All calls will be returned. Jason Maxfield, Niagara Falls, NY 14303. Telephone 416-399-7265 email - [email protected] Thank You! Week 4 of 4.
FOR SALE - 1987 Buick Turbo-T with WO2 black out option. Car is a hardtop. Car has a burgundy interior and exterior. One family owned since new. Garaged and covered since new. Car has 90,600 original miles. The car has been repainted once the correct burgundy color. No bodywork ever no accidents and no rust ever. Interior is unblemished and all original. Car comes with several extras. Car has all new weatherstripping, door seals, and trunk seal. Never raced and factory stock with only alcohol cooling added, dual exhaust, and a performance chip. Car has a new A/C system. New vacuum brakes (original powermaster goes with the car as well). Original owner’s manual, window sticker, and build sheet. $24,900 negotiable. Car is located in Georgia. For more details and photos email Pamela at [email protected] or call 229-221-8634. Week 4 of 4.
FOR SALE - GNX 270 with 31,000 miles on it. All the records, GNX jacket and GNX book are with the car. This is one you can drive and enjoy for just $70 grand. Email me [email protected] and we will forward your info to the seller. GNX is located about 75 miles from us.
FOR SALE - 1994 Pontiac Trans Am Anniversary model, white with blue stripe. Garaged in mint condition and comes with all the documents, etc. Car has a mere 34,000 actual miles. Owner is selling it due to health issues. Price tag is $15,900. Contact me direct [email protected]
FOR SALE - 1978 Corvette Coupe. It has the L82 engine 4-speed format. Car has one repaint with 52,000 original miles. The price tag is $11,900. Health issues forces sale. Contact me direct [email protected]
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 Most 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. Currently they have the 1987 Bronco II for $6,495. A new arrival is a one-owner, no accidents 2005 Passat TDI diesel with 168,000 miles. This is a mint example for $4,000.
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 -
With winter now in full swing, it is the time to do the little things your car may need. Many of the small detail items are getting harder and harder to find. See our Rare Parts section for some of these critical small parts you may be seeking.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
NEED - Stock original AC Delco 1986-1987 Turbo Regal mass air flow sensor cores. Units can’t be cracked or broken. Currently we will issue a Letter of Credit for $40 for each acceptable core.
NEED - Powermaster brake units. The must be complete. We will issue you a Letter of Credit for $125 for each acceptable core. Currently we will also buy them outright.
NEED - 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering wheels. They must not be bent or rusted. We will issue a $75 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
NEED - TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $150 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number.
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 -
SEATBELT RELEASE BLOCK-OFF STAINLESS PLATES (2) KIT
In many cases, the factory plastic seatbelt release mechanism may be broken. It is the plastic lever that triggers the seat belt, which is located in each door jamb.
That seat belt mechanism is no longer available from GM or in the aftermarket.
You can easily remove that mechanism and install this block-off plate. It is made in stainless. If you want, you can polish the plate or paint it to match your car. Since it’s stainless steel, it will not rust.
Each kit comes with new screws and gaskets.
This is another excellent replacement for any interior restoration.
7813 - 1978-1988 Buick Regal (All Models) - Seatbelt Release Block-off Stainless Plates (2) Kit - $17.95
Here is a link to this block-off plates kit on our website.
1978-1988 G-BODY WITH T-TOPS (Including Buick Regal T-Tops Models) -
T-TOPS REPAIR BUSHINGS (2)
Over time, the factory bushing that surrounds the locking pin on the T-Top is probably badly worn or may be totally missing.
This is a new bushing to replace the factory bushing. It’s one improvement to help eliminate possible rattles and water leaks.
Bushings are packaged as a pair.
This is another excellent replacement for any exterior restoration.
7814 - 1978-1988 G-Body with T-Tops (Including Buick Regal T-Tops Models) - T-Tops Repair Bushings (2) - $15.95
Here is a link to these T-Tops repair bushings on our website.
1978-1988 Buick Regal (All Models) -
HOOD LATCH SAFETY CATCH
Over time, the hood latch safety catch may become rusted or bent. This is a steel replacement catch. You will need to paint it.
This is another excellent replacement for any exterior restoration.
7815 - 1978-1988 Buick Regal (All Models) - Hood Latch Safety Catch - $35.95
Here is a link to this hood latch safety catch 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 -
Here we are at the start of a New Year 2018. Like our cars, we are all aging!
Our hope is everyone enjoys a healthy year in 2018 and beyond.
Here is the link to this Inner Circle and the photos on our website.
HAPPY NEW YEAR - 2018
CHRISTMAS SPECIALS - DEADLINE THIS FRIDAY - JANUARY 5TH -
You only have 2 more days to take advantage of our Christmas Specials. The deadline for ordering is this Friday, January 5th by 4 pm.
Specials cannot be ordered online, you have to call our office to order - 215-766-1611 x 0.
CHRISTMAS M&M’s CONTEST WINNER -
The winner of our Christmas M&M’s contest was Steve Perry out of New York with his guess of 1,000. The actual count was 1,325 M&M’s in the Christmas train. Steve also won our M&M’s contest earlier this year at the seminar I did at the Hurst Nationals at Carlisle. Steve owns a 1987 Turbo-T and has driven it to several of our Open House events and the Buick East Coast Regionals at Cecil County.
TWO TURBO REGAL PARTS FROM THE PAST -
Two companies involved with making parts for the Turbo Regals years ago were ATR in California and ANS Performance in Illinois. I recently acquired a load of Turbo Regal parts from a customer who sold his Grand National. Among the parts were the two items shown in Photo 1.
PHOTO 1 - The item to the left is the ATR TPS Tester. It was marketed back in 1990 and was a method to test how good the TPS sensor was. I have no idea how it worked, but it appears it plugged into the TPS circuit. The photo to the right shows the ANS Performance Turbo controller. This would be mounted in your car, and by twisting the dial, you could increase and decrease the boost levels. The harness includes an inline fuse and the harness appears to plug into the wastegate solenoid. Both items are for sale in the Rare Parts section. Both are neat novelty items from over 15 years ago. They may still function, since they appear to be complete.
SHIFTER HANDLE PROJECT UPDATE -
Currently I have a working prototype for the shifter handle. We had to develop a new method to secure the other GM handles to the shifter shaft so it will not twist. I have acquired from various sources shifter units for not only the Turbo Regal, but the Monte Carlo SS and the Firebird/Camaro as well. My research shows that virtually none of the original shifter handles or knobs are still available from GM anymore except the ones for our Turbo Regals.
The reason none of the shifter handles or knobs work from the other GM cars on the Turbo Regal shifter shaft is because the Regal shifter shaft is notched at the 3 o’clock position and the 9 o’clock position. The Olds Cutlass was the only other shifter that has that same format as the Turbo Regal.
On the Monte Carlo, Firebird, and Camaro the shifter shafts were notched at 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock. The position of the notches is what lined up the various handles and knobs a certain way. The locking clip on the Turbo Regals inserts from the right side, whereas on the other GM cars the locking clip inserts from the front. Fortunately, the diameter of all the GM shifter shafts are the same, so all the various GM handles and knobs fit. I have found that some of the other GM handles and knobs were actually leather. It’s a matter of working out how to secure the various handles or knobs and make it trigger the lever to engage the various gears.
This is why any other GM handle or knob needs to be modified to make it work properly on the Turbo Regal shifter shaft. Several modifications need to be done to adopt a beefier GM handle or knob to the Turbo Regal shifter shaft and have it function and also tighten up on the shifter shaft. (I refer to handles as the T-style format, which resembles the Turbo Regal handle. I refer to the various tear-drop designs as knobs.) GM used both formats on other GM cars during the 1990s. In every case I have found all other GM versions are far beefier than the ones Buick used in the Turbo Regals.
You also have to make a small extension for the inner shaft to trigger each gear selection with a modified later GM handle or knob.
While they look cute, our factory handles are wimpy and break easily. The internals are plastic and the handle is positioned at a vertical position rather than a slight angle to the driver. Our shifter handle has no extended length to secure it better to the actual shifter shaft. Only the Olds Cutlass and the Buick Regal handles have this format.
My idea is to offer a nice beefier handle so you can keep your original shifter handle for car shows. New original Turbo Regal GM handles with no internals currently run about $40. If you buy one with all the new upgraded internals, they can run $100 or more.
Currently we are gathering up used later GM shifter handles and, with the modifications, hope to market a beefier shifter handle for less money. These are coming out of newer GM cars so they look almost new. Not only will we have a beefier GM shifter handle available, but you will be able to angle it on the shaft any way you want, which makes it more comfortable than the stock one that locks in at the 3 o’clock and 9 o’clock positions.
It’s a matter of making the proper part to secure the various knobs and handles, and keep them from twisting and still have them trigger the gears. I also have to modify the actual handles to seat properly on the factory Regal shifter shaft.
I have already sold various used knobs to another company for the Monte Carlos, and no modifications are needed for them to function on those shifters. I even found handles that are leather wrapped. This has given us another market almost by accident!
I was surprised to discover that the factory Monte Carlo SS shifter unit is far beefier and superior to the shifter unit Buick used for our cars. Not only did the Monte Carlos get a beefier shifter handle, but the entire mechanism is far superior. See Photo 2.
There appears to be at least one knob in the GM parts system that is available brand new that I may be able to modify for the Turbo Regals. However, the supplies of this one knob are very limited. All the other handles and knobs are discontinued or I have bought the remaining ones already and sold them.
PHOTO 2 - In the photo to the left we show the factory Turbo Regal shifter unit alongside the same vintage factory Monte Carlo SS shifter. Not only is the Monte Carlo shifter handle beefier with a longer shaft, but the actual shifter unit is far beefier than our shifters! The photo to the right shows a closeup of the Monte Carlo release spring that engages the shifter. Compare that to the wimpy one that Buick used to engage our shifter and the difference is obvious. This is one of the few parts where the Monte Carlo part is far superior to the Buick Regal part.
SHIFTER PLATES AND SHIFTER BOOTS -
Later automatic shifters in GM cars got fancier. Most of them today have a nice leather or vinyl boot that surrounds the actual automatic shifter shaft. At some point, GM made it so you had to put your foot on the brake to release the shifter from PARK. Those later handles won’t work on our cars because their format is different. I have to find GM ones that still used the locking clip to secure the handle, like the ones in our cars. Also, ones that do not require you to depress the brake pedal to shift out of PARK. In other words, only a few later years have the floor shifter handles that I can modify to work in our cars.
The choices are very limited, even with all the resources I have available. I was very surprised that the Monte Carlo SS cars had a far beefier shifter mechanism and shifter handle than our cars. Our shifter had not changed since 1978 and was also shared with the Oldsmobile Cutlass models. Plus, with the locking clip format in the right side, it makes other GM handles not interchangeable.
I have not researched the G-Body Grand Prix Pontiac as they are so rare and, frankly, there seems to be little demand among collectors for that model. By far, our Turbo Regals lead the pack in collectible value, followed by the Oldsmobile 442/Hurst models, and then the Monte Carlo SS models. Again, this is my opinion. In real numbers of production, I believe the Monte Carlo SS comes out on top.
I realize some of you may have an aftermarket shifter in your Turbo Regal. Perhaps you have modified the console plate and lack a shifter plate that you can install on your console plate. I have found a top plate for automatic GM cars that have a good size opening for a shifter. This top plate comes in 3 different finishes. This top plate comes in silver, black, or with a wood grain finish. I also found a nice vinyl shifter boot that you may be able to use to hide your aftermarket shifter shaft.
PHOTO 3 - The photo to the left shows the 3 different color automatic shifter plates I have come across in my search for useable shifter knobs. The photo to the right shows the automatic black vinyl shifter boot we have also found that was used with these automatic shifter plates. See the Rare Parts section for what we have of each available and pricing. The shifter boots are hard to find in good condition and boots that are not ripped or torn.
1987 BRONCO II FOR SALE -
The dealership I currently work with has just acquired a real nice restored 1987 Bronco II. This is the small Bronco. I happen to know the person that had it restored several years ago. We would see it almost every day at the restaurant we frequent in the morning. See Photo 4. The price is $6,495. The engine has been rebuilt. It is the 2.9 six cylinder. This Bronco is a great color combination, blue and white. Interior and body is exceptional. I can provide more information on this Bronco II, if interested.
PHOTO 4 - We show four photos of the 1987 Bronco II. It is fairly well optioned with tilt, power windows, and power locks. It has cloth interior and the tires and wheels are like new.
CUSTOM-MADE VINYL BANNERS UPDATE -
Currently we are working with a company that is fully GM licensed for GM banners. They have agreements for all the GM models except Chevrolet and Corvette. They have submitted banner samples to GM license department. Watch for word on these custom-made vinyl banners later this month.
GOOD NEWS - WE ARE ACCEPTING CLASSIFIED ADS -
Good news - We now accept Classified Ads in our weekly Inner Circle emails. Over the years several customers have asked about placing an ad in our weekly Inner Circle.
Here are the options and the costs.
Ads can be from any individual or company. It needs to be automotive related, meaning it does not need be specifically Turbo Regal related. It can be for something for sale or something wanted.
Maximum number of words is 125 words, which is about 7 to 9 lines of copy. No photos. You can list a website. We recommend you state your name, phone number or email, a price, and your location in your ad.
The cost for 2 consecutive weeks is $25. The cost for 4 consecutive weeks is $40. You save $10 with the 4-week plan. No changes can be made to your existing running ad. You can only run one ad at any given time. We will have a code system at the end of your ad, so we will know what week number your ad is to run - 2 or 4 weeks.
It can be an ad for something for sale or an ad for something you are looking for.
We have never missed a single week since we started the Inner Circle email format in 2009. It’s something I enjoy doing and I just always seem to have enough material to write about.
Our weekly Inner Circle reaches over 3,200 members every Wednesday direct to their inbox. The Inner Circle also appears every Wednesday on our website with the related photos. Your ad would be visible to both groups of readers. So, the exposure to your ad is well over 3,200 potential buyers.
My Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!
Ads submitted properly by the previous Sunday would appear that next Wednesday in the weekly Inner Circle. Ads must be submitted by email to - [email protected]
Payment by credit card must be done by phone to our office 215-766-1611 x 0.
THIS WEEK’S CLASSIFIED ADS -
WANTED TO BUY - 1965 or 1967 Buick Skylark GranSport/GS400, will discuss any condition, but it must be a real GranSport/GS, no clones. Possible trade involved. I am in the Cleveland, Ohio area. Call Ken at 440-655-8731. Okay to leave a voice mail, if I don’t pick up. Or email me at [email protected] Week 2 of 4.
FOR SALE - 2018 Grand National/GNX calendar. The price is $20 each. If you buy 3 you get the 4th one free!
Here is a link to the website.
Or you can “copy and paste” this information in the URL - http://buick-grand-national.webstarts.com
If the link does not work, you can email Duane directly at [email protected]
Remember, when you buy 3 of the new 2018 Grand National/GNX calendars you will get 1 free! Week 4 of 4.
WANTED TO BUY: For a 1987 Buick Turbo Regal. NOS left and right exhaust manifolds, NOS transmission throttle valve/detent cable, NOS throttle/accelerator cable, NOS dipstick, NOS transmission dipstick, NOS left and right rear bumper fillers, NOS left and right black side markers lights, NOS left and right black metal parking light bezels, NOS left and rite black metal door edge guards, NOS black metal hood molding. Prefer parts to be in original GM factory sealed packaging or GM factory box with original GM part number tag and GM dealer tag. Serious buyer. Please e-mail clear pictures and description of part or call and leave message. All calls will be returned. Jason Maxfield, Niagara Falls, NY 14303. Telephone 416-399-7265 email - [email protected] Thank You! Week 4 of 4.
FOR SALE - 1987 Buick Turbo-T with WO2 black out option. Car is a hardtop. Car has a burgundy interior and exterior. One family owned since new. Garaged and covered since new. Car has 90,600 original miles. The car has been repainted once the correct burgundy color. No bodywork ever no accidents and no rust ever. Interior is unblemished and all original. Car comes with several extras. Car has all new weatherstripping, door seals, and trunk seal. Never raced and factory stock with only alcohol cooling added, dual exhaust, and a performance chip. Car has a new A/C system. New vacuum brakes (original powermaster goes with the car as well). Original owner’s manual, window sticker, and build sheet. $24,900 negotiable. Car is located in Georgia. For more details and photos email Pamela at [email protected] or call 229-221-8634. Week 4 of 4.
FOR SALE - GNX 270 with 31,000 miles on it. All the records, GNX jacket and GNX book are with the car. This is one you can drive and enjoy for just $70 grand. Email me [email protected] and we will forward your info to the seller. GNX is located about 75 miles from us.
FOR SALE - 1994 Pontiac Trans Am Anniversary model, white with blue stripe. Garaged in mint condition and comes with all the documents, etc. Car has a mere 34,000 actual miles. Owner is selling it due to health issues. Price tag is $15,900. Contact me direct [email protected]
FOR SALE - 1978 Corvette Coupe. It has the L82 engine 4-speed format. Car has one repaint with 52,000 original miles. The price tag is $11,900. Health issues forces sale. Contact me direct [email protected]
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 Most 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. Currently they have the 1987 Bronco II for $6,495. A new arrival is a one-owner, no accidents 2005 Passat TDI diesel with 168,000 miles. This is a mint example for $4,000.
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 -
With winter now in full swing, it is the time to do the little things your car may need. Many of the small detail items are getting harder and harder to find. See our Rare Parts section for some of these critical small parts you may be seeking.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
NEED - Stock original AC Delco 1986-1987 Turbo Regal mass air flow sensor cores. Units can’t be cracked or broken. Currently we will issue a Letter of Credit for $40 for each acceptable core.
NEED - Powermaster brake units. The must be complete. We will issue you a Letter of Credit for $125 for each acceptable core. Currently we will also buy them outright.
NEED - 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering wheels. They must not be bent or rusted. We will issue a $75 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
NEED - TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $150 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number.
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 -
SEATBELT RELEASE BLOCK-OFF STAINLESS PLATES (2) KIT
In many cases, the factory plastic seatbelt release mechanism may be broken. It is the plastic lever that triggers the seat belt, which is located in each door jamb.
That seat belt mechanism is no longer available from GM or in the aftermarket.
You can easily remove that mechanism and install this block-off plate. It is made in stainless. If you want, you can polish the plate or paint it to match your car. Since it’s stainless steel, it will not rust.
Each kit comes with new screws and gaskets.
This is another excellent replacement for any interior restoration.
7813 - 1978-1988 Buick Regal (All Models) - Seatbelt Release Block-off Stainless Plates (2) Kit - $17.95
Here is a link to this block-off plates kit on our website.
1978-1988 G-BODY WITH T-TOPS (Including Buick Regal T-Tops Models) -
T-TOPS REPAIR BUSHINGS (2)
Over time, the factory bushing that surrounds the locking pin on the T-Top is probably badly worn or may be totally missing.
This is a new bushing to replace the factory bushing. It’s one improvement to help eliminate possible rattles and water leaks.
Bushings are packaged as a pair.
This is another excellent replacement for any exterior restoration.
7814 - 1978-1988 G-Body with T-Tops (Including Buick Regal T-Tops Models) - T-Tops Repair Bushings (2) - $15.95
Here is a link to these T-Tops repair bushings on our website.
1978-1988 Buick Regal (All Models) -
HOOD LATCH SAFETY CATCH
Over time, the hood latch safety catch may become rusted or bent. This is a steel replacement catch. You will need to paint it.
This is another excellent replacement for any exterior restoration.
7815 - 1978-1988 Buick Regal (All Models) - Hood Latch Safety Catch - $35.95
Here is a link to this hood latch safety catch 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 -
Here we are at the start of a New Year 2018. Like our cars, we are all aging!
Our hope is everyone enjoys a healthy year in 2018 and beyond.