Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 05-20-2020 –
Happy MEMORIAL DAY across the miles.
Our office is closed Monday for Memorial Day, honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military.
Any website orders will be processed on Tuesday. Hope you and your family enjoy the day.
UPDATE ON SHIPPING –
We are still able to ship daily, both by mail and UPS. Some parts are getting difficult to get. Thank you for your patience. Although Pennsylvania is still virtually locked down, we can still ship and receive packages at our location.
MORE BUICK PRODUCT INFORMATION –
One of the most widely-known Buick Production Information pages was dated 11/15/86. This Information sheet announced a new Regal WE4 Turbo “T” Package. It states that production was targeted for December 8, 1986. It was a 2-page Bulletin. The second page gave the prices for this option, the Dealer Invoice, Dealer Price and List Price. The interior was solid grey, code 393.
The clever idea behind this new model was that the dealers could market a car similar in appearance to the popular Grand National and yet be lighter in weight. Of course, this would depend on what options the buyer would add to the car.
Time has proven that the WE4 is one of the most valuable examples besides the 1987 Grand National. The Grand National models and the WE4 was in high demand. What separated the WE4 from regular black 1987 Turbo-T with the exterior sport package (WO2) on the exterior basically came down to black painted bumpers. You had no color choice for interiors, they were grey. For regular 1987 Turbo-T’s with the black exterior, basically any color was available.
In looking over my sales records, I show that I sold 15 WE4s. My biggest sales volume was the year 2000 when I sold 5 WE4’s out of 44 of the 1986-1987 Turbo Regals. I sold one with 9,600 miles in 2001 for $14,800. I sold one with 12,100 miles for $14,900 in 2000. It went to Louisiana. What is interesting is, according to my records, in 1999 I sold 44 Turbo Regals and zero WE4 models. Yet in the year 2000 I sold 44 Turbo Regals, 5 of which were WE4s. My record keeping is fairly accurate.
Either by design or simply luck the total recorded production of the WE4 models was 1,547, which is also exactly 1,000 more than the GNX which was 547.
PHOTO 1 – We show both pages of the 11/15/86 Buick Product Information Bulletins. This provides proof of exactly when production started and the pricing that this WE4 package added to the cost to the dealer and to the retail.
That figure does not reflect how many 1987 Turbo-T’s with the WO2 exterior sport option managed to get produced from September 1986 until that November 13, 1986 cut-off date. My random guess is that figure would less than a few hundred at best. I base this on two facts. The fact is the general public was unaware of the WE4 becoming a new model later that fall and the fact most buyers would have opted for the Grand National if they were wanting a black Turbo Regal.
It reminds me of the early GTO years (1964-1967). Black was not a popular color with the GTOs. Of the 35-plus GTOs I sold back in the day, I only recall owning one black one.
PHOTO 2 – The photo to the left shows the 11/13/86 Buick Product Information Bulletin that states that dealers could no longer order a black exterior paint with the Exterior Sport Package option. They could instead order the new Regal Turbo “T” package (WE4).
The photo to the right shows a picture of 4 Turbo Regal we had for sale on 8-14-97. The one pictured in the top right is a black 1987 Turbo T with the exterior sport package. In my description, I even say I estimate probably fewer than 200 of these were made. I also state on this write up that back then I had maybe seen 10 total. The car pictured was a solid roof model with 113,000 miles on it. It was all stock. The price back then in 1997 was a mere $6,995. The car pictured under it is also a stock black 1987 Turbo-T with the chrome package with 94,700 miles. It must have been a bit nicer as the price was $7,495.
So, the real winner based on these original documents would be any owners that have a 1987 Turbo-T Regal with the exterior sport package. While it is a known fact that 1,547 of the WE4s were produced, unfortunately nobody I am aware of knows the true small number of 1987 Turbo T’s with the black exterior paint and Exterior Sport Package that were produced during that narrow time frame in the fall of 1986.
I know that back when I was buying and selling these cars, I had at least 2 or 3 of these rare models of the black Turbo-T’s with the Exterior Sport Package.
MORE PARTS PICTURED FOR SALE LISTED UNDER THE RARE PARTS SECTION –
Once again, I went through some of my material I found in a cabinet. The one is the Buick Stage II V6 Performance Guide. It runs 36 pages in length. Also, a 32-page Jim Ruggles Buick Stage One V6 Performance Guide. Neither booklet has a date inside. I would guess these were done around 1987-1990. I also have the full-color 4-page Buick Power Source folder. This color brochure gives the GM part numbers for the various Buick Stage I and Stage II parts.
I also found a glossy 4-page insert that was put out by International Masters Publishers. I can’t find a date on this flyer either. It pictures the Buick GS455 and the 1986 T-Type. It basically is comparing the two models.
Last, but not least, I found these 6 different third brake light inserts. This was a popular gimmick that many companies sold in the early 1990s. You insert it in your third brake light so when you apply the brakes, the word will light up on the plastic film insert.
All these items are listed for sale in the Rare Parts section.
PHOTO 3 – The top left and middle photos show both the Buick Stage II booklet and the Jim Ruggles Buick Stage One V6 Performance Guide. The top right photo shows the 4-page Buick Power Source flyer that lists all the parts for the Stage I and Stage II engines. The bottom left photo shows one side of the color two-sided flyer comparing the Buick GS455 to the 1986 T-Type Regal. The bottom right photo shows the 6 different third brake light inserts I have.
PUBLICITY PICTURES FROM THE AIRBASE REUNION EVENT -
I been going through some of my old photos. Recently we wrote about some of our very early Car Shows and Reunion Events. By far our two biggest Reunion Events were both held back to back in the early 1990s at the Johnsville Airbase. The airbase, like our Reunion events, are now history.
I recently came across some black and white 8 by 10s that the local newspaper took prior to our first Reunion event at the Johnsville Airbase. This was a big deal back then as I don’t remember any other car shows at the airbase prior to when we did those two events. This was all made possible thru the efforts of the local chief of Police, who was a friend. The proceeds benefited the Boy Scouts.
PHOTO 4 – We show four different photos of the airbase commander and myself alongside our 1964 GTO and our 1987 Grand National. It may not be clearly visible, but our Grand National has our Kirban-style 16 by 8 GNX wheels on it. Our GTO has our reproduction all chrome 15 by 8 ralley I wheels on it.
FACEBOOK BUICK GRAND NATIONAL TECH FORUM –
On Facebook you have many choices of which group to join depending on what car makes and models perk your interest.
One I joined a while ago is “Buick Grand National Tech.” I usually post something 4 or 5 times a week. Mostly with a bit of humor. Sometimes I get a bit off topic, but readers love my stories. Keep in mind, when I post on Facebook I spell certain words incorrectly on purpose. I also start each post with the same lead in.
Here is one I posted last week that I thought I would reprint exactly here for my Inner Circle members to read.
“Kirban nitely random scattered thoughts…been nitely random since I not written anything in a few days. less writing means less spelling errors.
Not sure about other companies, but being a small company I can see that sales have really increased in the last 2 weeks. Mondays usually our biggest day and this past Monday was the largest one day sales in many months. It’s amazing how many of the little I call them odds and ends sell.
Like many companies we can be grateful for so many Buick short comings. The window rattle kit that Pete Serio develop has been a huge seller for many years also the metal horn ring we sell Again, based on a short coming by Buick
Strap caps can’t even begin to guess how many of those postage stamp size caps we have sold…heck when they fall off where do they go…rust holes that big on the floor that swallows them up?
Not complaining gaskets not a day goes by we don’t sell a gasket kit or o ring for something. Does every Turbo Regal leak?
One neat item we sell is a set of the 3 intercooler hoses that look identical to the originals only thicker again correcting another short coming by Buick
While the argument about the missing or left out lower body bushings is clearly known common sense dictates it makes good sense to install them while the bolt is still there.
The real short coming is the brake system…been nice had Buick least given owners a clue that changing the brake fluid should be done same time you change the oil. Or at least attached a prayer card to the reservoir lid!
Heck for air bags they post huge notes on the sun visors about them in every single car. Again this post is meant in humor…something many of us probably need by now. Saw my first comic strip the other day where the figures were wearing masks.
While the basic used car market may be down due to a huge inventory since new cars are at tremendous savings and financing is almost as long as I was in school 12 years plus one summer school session to pass into 11th grade…your Turbo Regal values are safe….and a good investment…case you gotta keep reminding your spouse as you spend money on it.
Your Health is Your Wealth”
Again, this was the exact post I made that I thought would interest my 3,500 Inner Circle Members. In each post I make I always close it with that quote that my Dad used, “Your Health is Your Wealth.”
THIS WORD COMES FROM IAN REEVES IN ENGLAND –
Earlier this month Ian Reeves, who still owns the Grand National he bought from us years ago, bought the CD player that was in the Rare Parts section. He installed the CD player and it works great.
Ian is pictured in my book “Kirban’s Guide to the 1986 and 1987 Buick Turbo Regals.” It’s probably why he has kept his Grand National all these years!
His tip for his U.S. fellow Turbo owners is to keep busy on your Turbo Regal - fix it, modify it, tinker with it, and polish it. It’s the best lock down medicine he has found thus far.
A SPECIAL REQUEST FROM ONE OF OUR CUSTOMERS –
One of our good customers resided until recently in Hawaii, better known as “Paradise.” He and his family moved to Wisconsin.
The first question I asked him in an email was “Why?” His answer was that his inlaws are elderly and reside in Wisconsin. He sold his business and his house and moved to Wisconsin. He even had his Grand National transported. That is real devotion for the love he has for his Grand National. It is not cheap to ship any car from Hawaii to the California, let alone from California and points east.
Currently they are living in a camper until they find a home this fall. His dog had a tough time getting used to the weather change so they had to buy him a coat to wear! His Grand National is having some tuning issues and he would like to find a good Turbo Regal mechanic near the Wisconsin/Minnesota border. If you have any recommendations, his name is Randy St Germain and his email is - [email protected]
COMING SOON - GRAND NATIONAL T-SHIRTS AND HATS –
We recently reached out to another company that is fully licensed by GM for the Buick logos. I expect to have samples of the Grand National T-shirt and the baseball-style cap they make shortly.
TURBO REGAL DRIVE-TRAIN FOR SALE –
We were recently contacted by a customer of ours located in upper eastern Pennsylvania near the New York border. About 12-15 years ago he bought a 1987 Grand National that had been t-boned in an accident. He bought the entire wreck. His plan was to drop the drivetrain in a street rod he was going to build.
This gentlemen also had a 1987 Grand National years ago in his car collection. Even with the best laid plans, this project got put on the back burner. This complete drivetrain with harness radiator transmission, etc. has been sitting in the second floor of his barn on a dolly. Because of his initial plan, he made sure he removed everything he needed for the conversion, including the engine harness, radiator, computer, etc.
FOR SALE – Complete stock 1987 Buick Grand National engine, all assembled, with turbocharger, intercooler, ignition coil, wire harness installed. AC compressor, condenser, alternator, computer instrument panel cluster, powermaster brake unit, radiator, original transmission still bolted to the engine. Everything together ready to install. Speedometer shows 1955 miles (probably 119,555 miles. Engine salvaged years ago for hot rod project that never happened. Engine is on a pulling cart in dry storage. The price is $4,800.
If interested, contact [email protected] I will put interested parties in touch with the seller. Parts are located in the northeastern part of Pennsylvania near the border with New York. We can email you photos also.
AUTO EASEL CAR SHOW HOOD LATCH DISPLAY STAND - FITMENT AND UPDATE –
The Auto Easel Car Show Hood Latch Display Stand is now up on our website. Because of the special sale price, you must call our office to place your order - 215-766-1611.
Here is the link to see the Auto Easel pictures and information on our website.
We also now have a YouTube video showing it installed on a 2012 Camaro SS and on a 1985 Regal. In this 9-minute YouTube video we also show all the parts in the kit as well as the unit complete. It clearly shows how it installed in mere seconds, if you use a power hand tool with the proper bit to secure the single allen head screw on the 2-piece clamp.
We have filmed an informative video for YouTube filmed by our son Darrell showing how to attach the unit to your vehicle.
Here is the link to the video on YouTube.
If the link doesn’t work, put copy and paste this information into your url.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DEWGPZkGhnE&t=2s
Or you can search "The Kirban Auto Easel - A Car Show Hood Latch Display Stand" on YouTube.
Here is an up-to-date list of cars and trucks we know our new Auto Easel Car Show Hood Latch Display Stands will fit. As we discover more applications, we will list them.
Remember, there is a Special Introductory Price that is in effect until midnight April 30, 2020.
1982-1988 G-Body - All Models
1955-1957 Chevrolet
1979-2004 Ford Mustang and 2010-2014 Ford Mustang
1995-1997 Ford Ranger
1967-1968 Firebird
1982-2002 Chevrolet Camaro / Pontiac Firebird
2010-2018 Chevrolet Camaro
1966-1967 and 1968-1969 Pontiac GTO
2005-2010 Chrysler 300
2005-2010 Dodge Magnum
2011-2020 Dodge Charger
2009-2014 Dodge Challenger
2001-2004 Honda Civic
1996-2004 Mazda Miata
Remember, as long as the hood latch extends above the core support by 1½", this Auto Easel Car Show Hood Latch Display Stand will fit. You don’t have to get it centered on the hood latch since you can adjust your display panel so the display panel is centered in front of the car or truck.
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If there are any tips or ideas you want to share with our readers, email me – [email protected]
TIP FROM KIRBAN –
Because the supply chain has been interrupted, it’s best to order parts you need in advance of when you plan to need them for the project. Even now companies have a huge backlog for filling orders while others in the hot zones are still shut down.
2020 - BUICK RELATED CAR SHOW EVENTS –
NOTE - With the ongoing crisis, watch for updates as some events may be cancelled or pushed back to a later date.
If you know of a Turbo Regal related car show, email us the promotional flyer and we will list it FREE! - [email protected]
NOTE - THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED FOR 2020 -
GS NATIONALS 40TH ANNIVERSARY
May 13-16, 2020
Beech Bend Raceway in Bowling Green, Kentucky
NOTE - THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED
11th ANNUAL BUICK RACE DAY -
May 23, 2020 – Gates open at 8 am Saturday
Lebanon Valley Dragway, 1746 US Route 20, West Lebanon, NY 12195
This is the 11th year for this Buick event. For more info, call 518-794-7130 or 914-447-6068 and ask for John. It is open to all GS Buick and Turbo Regals.
NOTE – THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED FOR 2020 -
JUNE 12-14, 2020
MIDWEST BUICK GS/GN SHOW
Itasca, Illinois
This is the 4th year of this popular event held in Illinois. Last year they had over 100 Turbo Regals in attendance. Car show day is Saturday, June 13th. This year it is expanded to include Firebird Turbo cars, Typhoons, and Syclones. For more exact details and location, contact Tim Barthel, the Chicagoland Chapter President - Phone 630-234-7478.
BUICK BASH AT THE QUAKE -
June 18-20, 2020
Quaker City Motorsports Park, 10225 West South Range Road, Salem, Ohio 44460
For more details, contact John Csordas 914-447-6068 [email protected] or Denny Moore 330-647-3615 [email protected]
LORENZ RACING & PERFORMANCE -
4TH ANNUAL DYNO DAYS, CAR SHOW & OPEN HOUSE -
July 17-18, 2020
Lorenz Racing & Performance, 12399 Stratton Road, West Salem, Ohio 44287
Last year they had 68 Turbo Regals in attendance from 23 different states. For more details, contact Brian Lorenz - 330-608-9735 - [email protected]
BUICK AT BATES 2020 -
August 2, 2020
Bates Nut Farm, Valley Center, CA.
EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS -
September 12-13, 2020
Cecil County Dragway, 1916 Theodore Road, Rising Sun, Maryland 21911
For more details, contact John Csordus 914-447-6068 [email protected] or Jim Chaudrue 215-266-1052 [email protected]
IMPORTANT - INFORMATION ABOUT OUR SHIPPING ADDRESS –
If you are returning any cores or products, it is important that you send them to the correct address.
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
529 HAYCOCK RUN ROAD
KINTNERSVILLE, PA 18930
We discovered that Fed Ex will not forward any packages that are sent to the PO Box or to our old address in Plumsteadville. Instead they deliver the packages to the old address and leave them outside. They refuse to forward and say that we should notify the shipper. In most cases, we have no idea when we are getting packages shipped back to us.
If you have any cores that are being sent back to us, be sure to use the correct address, especially if you use Fed Ex. Otherwise, we may not receive your package or it may be sent back to you.
EBAY SALES –
We have been placing some of our special items on ebay. We post under two company names - Kirban Performance for new parts. Kirban Enterprises for used and rare items. If you search for sellers – kirbanperformance – kirbanenterprises (Do not put a space between kirban and second word.) Or bookmark the links below. Be sure to check it out.
Here is a link to the Kirban Performance ebay listings –
Here’s is the URL if the link doesn’t work:
https://www.ebay.com/sch/kirbanperformance/m.html?item=333406745159&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2562
Here is a link to the Kirban Enterprises ebay listings –
Here’s is the URL if the link doesn’t work:
https://www.ebay.com/sch/kirbanenterprises/m.html?item=264511012420&ssPageName=STRK%3AMESELX%3AIT&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2562
IMPORTANT NOTE ON RARE PARTS FOR SALE –
In order for our Inner Circle members to have an equal opportunity on the Rare Parts, no emails regarding orders on rare parts will be honored prior to 3 pm Wednesday. This way Inner Circle members get the opportunity first to purchase any of the rare items that may be pictured in the main body of the Inner Circle which may go on our website earlier in the day each week. Inner Circle members are the ONLY people that get to see the Rare Parts listing and see the prices.
CORES NEEDED - URGENT REQUEST –
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
POWERMASTER BRAKE UNITS. Currently, we are NOT accepting powermaster brake units. When we need cores, we give a $150 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
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. This is the only item we are currently accepting as cores.
UPS or MAIL - Ship to Address –
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE
529 HAYCOCK RUN ROAD
KINTNERSVILLE, PA 18930
CARSMARTS RADIO IS NOW A NATIONAL PODCAST!
CarSmarts Radio (hosted by Turbo-6 enthusiast and “The Kirban Story” producer Steve Saffier) is moving from traditional radio and becoming a full-time Podcast.
Some past shows are already available on iTunes and new content will begin in May. The new platform allows for greater flexibility and affords the host the opportunity to conduct interviews and broadcast from car shows and other events or by phone.
Subscribe to the podcast by downloading iTunes on your phone or computer, and searching CarSmarts Radio. The program will also be on Spotify and other platforms in the future.
For more information or to suggests guests, go to www.CarSmartsRadio.com
GOOD NEWS - WE ARE ACCEPTING CLASSIFIED ADS -
Good news - We now accept Classified Ads in our weekly Inner Circle emails. Over the years several customers have asked about placing an ad in our weekly Inner Circle.
Here are the options and the costs.
Ads can be from any individual or company. It needs to be automotive related, meaning it does not need be specifically Turbo Regal related. It can be for something for sale or something wanted.
Maximum number of words is 125 words, which is about 7 to 9 lines of copy. No photos. You can list a website. We recommend you state your name, phone number or email, a price, and your location in your ad.
The cost for 2 consecutive weeks is $25. The cost for 4 consecutive weeks is $40. You save $10 with the 4-week plan. No changes can be made to your existing running ad. You can only run one ad at any given time. We will have a code system at the end of your ad, so we will know what week number your ad is to run - 2 or 4 weeks.
It can be an ad for something for sale or an ad for something you are looking for.
We have never missed a single week since we started the Inner Circle email format in 2009. It’s something I enjoy doing and I just always seem to have enough material to write about.
Our weekly Inner Circle reaches over 3,400 members every Wednesday direct to their inbox. The Inner Circle also appears every Wednesday on our website with the related photos. Your ad would be visible to both groups of readers. So, the exposure to your ad is well over 3,200 potential buyers.
Ads submitted properly by the previous Sunday would appear that next Wednesday in the weekly Inner Circle. Ads must be submitted by email to - [email protected]
Payment by credit card must be done by phone to our office 215-766-1611.
NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE BUICK RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the Buick Rare Parts section at the end of this Inner Circle, it is because you are not an Inner Circle member, but instead are reading this on the website. You must subscribe to see the Rare Parts section each week. It would go directly to your inbox every Wednesday afternoon. It is FREE, probably one reason why nobody complains about what I write about. To subscribe simply email – [email protected] - to get our free weekly Inner Circle email.
The Buick Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!
EMAILS TO KIRBAN PERFORMANCE -
NOTE - If you email us and do NOT get a timely reply, be sure to check your “SPAM” folder. Some emails do not go thru.
If you need to email us, use - [email protected]
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 –
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
SEMI-BLACK EXTERIOR TRIM SPRAY PAINT
This spray paint is semi-black and is a excellent color match for the black-out trim moldings that was used on certain Turbo Regal models.
It is made by the same company that color matches the grey, dark blue, burgundy paint we also sell from this same source.
It dries within minutes. While many variations of semi-black exist we found this to be a very close match. Remember, no paint color is going to match trim that has been exposed for over 30 years of sun and weather.
This is ideal to do the taillight trim parts and the plastic headlight bezels.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these other spray paints - #7419 - Aluminum Grey Last Blast High Temperature Formula Spray Paint and #6822 - Interior Spray Paint (grey, dark blue or burgundy
NOTE - Spray paint can ONLY be shipped by UPS GROUND… because of restrictions, we CANNOT ship paint by AIR.
Another excellent product for any restoration.
Here is a link to this semi-black spray paint on our website.
7883 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Semi-Black Exterior Trim Spray Paint - 11-oz can - $19.95
NOTE - This product may not yet be on our website. However, it is in stock. Simply call Christina at 215-766-1611 to purchase it.
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
REPRODUCTION AIR CLEANER DECAL (1) &
REPRODUCTION BRAKE SWITCH RECALL DECAL (1) SET
We are offering these two decals as a set.
The reproduction Air Cleaner Decal measures 1-5/16″ x 1-1/4″ and is white with black lettering, which is the identical size and color as the original.
It goes on the side of the top portion of the metal factory air cleaner box. There is no precise location but generally can be found on the side towards the driver’s fender.
The reproduction Brake Switch Recall Decal measures 2″ x 1″ and is white with black lettering, which is the identical size and color as the original.
There was no exact placement for where the Service Department would put the Recall decal showing it was completed. Generally, it was put on the core support near the Belt Routing decal. A date was written in along with the other related information, which showed the recall was completed. The recall related to the powermaster brake switch was not issued until the fall of 1990.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #6502 Reproduction “ACCESSORY BELT ROUTING” Decal, #6507 Reproduction “FAN CAUTION” Decal, and #6537 STOCK Replacement K & N Air Filter.
Excellent replacements for any engine restoration.
7844 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Reproduction Air Cleaner Decal (1) and Reproduction Brake Switch Recall Decal (1) Set $8.95 / 2-piece set
NOTE – If this is the only thing you are ordering, the total price with shipping by mail would be $10. You will need to call in your order – 215-766-1611.
Here is a link to these decals on our website.
AUTO EASEL CAR SHOW HOOD LATCH DISPLAY STAND
See information earlier on the AUTO EASEL CAR SHOW HOOD LATCH DISPLAY STAND. Both versions at a Special Introductory Price has been EXTENDED until midnight June 30, 2020 due to the virus, that has virtually wiped out a good bit of the car show season around the country.
The Auto Easel Car Show Hood Latch Display Stand is now up on our website. Because of the special sale price, you must call our office to place your order - 215-766-1611.
Here is the link to see the Auto Easel pictures and information on our website.
Here’s is the URL if the link doesn’t work:
https://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=easel&submit_button=
We also now have a YouTube video showing it installed on a 2012 Camaro SS and on a 1985 Regal. In this 9-minute YouTube video we also show all the parts in the kit as well as the unit complete. It clearly shows how it installed in mere seconds, if you use a power hand tool with the proper bit to secure the single allen head screw on the 2-piece clamp.
We have filmed an informative video for YouTube filmed by our son Darrell showing how to attach the unit to your vehicle.
Here is a link to the video on YouTube.
Here’s is the URL if the link doesn’t work:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DEWGPZkGhnE&t=3s
Or you can search "The Kirban Auto Easel - A Car Show Hood Latch Display Stand" on YouTube.
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction GRAND NATIONAL FENDER & TRUNK EMBLEMS
We are now offering high-quality reproduction Grand National emblems for the front fenders and trunk lid. All 1986-1987 GNs used three emblems; one on each fender and one on the driver’s side trunk lid. The 1984-1985 GNs only used two emblems; one on each fender.
This striking silver, red, orange and black enamel-like finish emblem measures 5-3/8" x 1-7/8" and comes with a self-adhesive backing.
NOTE - If you need to replace an emblem on your car, it’s best to replace all three at the same time so they all look new.
Emblems also make a great addition to any car show display board.
Another excellent replacement for any exterior restoration.
7855 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - ONE - Reproduction Grand National Fender and Trunk Emblem - $54.95
7856 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - THREE - Reproduction Grand National Fender and Trunk Emblems (3) Set - $149.95 set
Here is the link to these emblems on our website.
ALWAYS LOOKING FOR IDEAS -
If you have any product ideas that would fit our Turbo Buick market that you would like to see available, email me direct - [email protected]
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION FOR TURBO REGAL PARTS -
Got any Turbo Buick parts you are not using? Why not cash them in for parts you need with a Letter of Credit. We also may buy your new or used parts. Simply email me a list [email protected]
Also, we are still buying dead or partially dead 1984-1987 Turbo Regals under $4,000 that are within 250 to 350 miles of our location.
NOTE - ABOUT LINKS IN THE INNER CIRCLE -
We have heard from a couple people that have had problems with the links in our Inner Circle.
When we check the links, they work fine. However, if you are not able to be directed to the exact website page or internet site, you can "copy" and "paste" the link into the URL in your browser (such as Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
Most people having problems are using Internet Explorer. If you are having issues with links, try another browser to see if it works.
You may need to "UPDATE" your browser to be use you are using the current version.
NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE -
We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these must be low-resolution photos to work on the Inner Circle segments on the website, any photos of text don't appear clear when enlarged. This is a problem when you are trying to see numbers, such as those on the VIN labels or pages from Options booklet. Also, because of photo reproduction and computer screen variations, the colors may not be true to the actual product or photo.
If you would like to have us email you any photo at the higher resolution for viewing, just email us and we will email them to you. Be sure to be specific on which pictures you want to see - Reference Inner Circle date and photo number 1, 2, 3 or 4 - [email protected]
ABOUT OUR EMAILS -
Any inquiries concerning used parts, you must email me direct - [email protected] - and 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 –
Our area in eastern Pennsylvania is still only open for essential businesses. The latest word to open this area is the first week of June.
Happy MEMORIAL DAY across the miles.
Our office is closed Monday for Memorial Day, honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military.
Any website orders will be processed on Tuesday. Hope you and your family enjoy the day.
UPDATE ON SHIPPING –
We are still able to ship daily, both by mail and UPS. Some parts are getting difficult to get. Thank you for your patience. Although Pennsylvania is still virtually locked down, we can still ship and receive packages at our location.
MORE BUICK PRODUCT INFORMATION –
One of the most widely-known Buick Production Information pages was dated 11/15/86. This Information sheet announced a new Regal WE4 Turbo “T” Package. It states that production was targeted for December 8, 1986. It was a 2-page Bulletin. The second page gave the prices for this option, the Dealer Invoice, Dealer Price and List Price. The interior was solid grey, code 393.
The clever idea behind this new model was that the dealers could market a car similar in appearance to the popular Grand National and yet be lighter in weight. Of course, this would depend on what options the buyer would add to the car.
Time has proven that the WE4 is one of the most valuable examples besides the 1987 Grand National. The Grand National models and the WE4 was in high demand. What separated the WE4 from regular black 1987 Turbo-T with the exterior sport package (WO2) on the exterior basically came down to black painted bumpers. You had no color choice for interiors, they were grey. For regular 1987 Turbo-T’s with the black exterior, basically any color was available.
In looking over my sales records, I show that I sold 15 WE4s. My biggest sales volume was the year 2000 when I sold 5 WE4’s out of 44 of the 1986-1987 Turbo Regals. I sold one with 9,600 miles in 2001 for $14,800. I sold one with 12,100 miles for $14,900 in 2000. It went to Louisiana. What is interesting is, according to my records, in 1999 I sold 44 Turbo Regals and zero WE4 models. Yet in the year 2000 I sold 44 Turbo Regals, 5 of which were WE4s. My record keeping is fairly accurate.
Either by design or simply luck the total recorded production of the WE4 models was 1,547, which is also exactly 1,000 more than the GNX which was 547.
PHOTO 1 – We show both pages of the 11/15/86 Buick Product Information Bulletins. This provides proof of exactly when production started and the pricing that this WE4 package added to the cost to the dealer and to the retail.
That figure does not reflect how many 1987 Turbo-T’s with the WO2 exterior sport option managed to get produced from September 1986 until that November 13, 1986 cut-off date. My random guess is that figure would less than a few hundred at best. I base this on two facts. The fact is the general public was unaware of the WE4 becoming a new model later that fall and the fact most buyers would have opted for the Grand National if they were wanting a black Turbo Regal.
It reminds me of the early GTO years (1964-1967). Black was not a popular color with the GTOs. Of the 35-plus GTOs I sold back in the day, I only recall owning one black one.
PHOTO 2 – The photo to the left shows the 11/13/86 Buick Product Information Bulletin that states that dealers could no longer order a black exterior paint with the Exterior Sport Package option. They could instead order the new Regal Turbo “T” package (WE4).
The photo to the right shows a picture of 4 Turbo Regal we had for sale on 8-14-97. The one pictured in the top right is a black 1987 Turbo T with the exterior sport package. In my description, I even say I estimate probably fewer than 200 of these were made. I also state on this write up that back then I had maybe seen 10 total. The car pictured was a solid roof model with 113,000 miles on it. It was all stock. The price back then in 1997 was a mere $6,995. The car pictured under it is also a stock black 1987 Turbo-T with the chrome package with 94,700 miles. It must have been a bit nicer as the price was $7,495.
So, the real winner based on these original documents would be any owners that have a 1987 Turbo-T Regal with the exterior sport package. While it is a known fact that 1,547 of the WE4s were produced, unfortunately nobody I am aware of knows the true small number of 1987 Turbo T’s with the black exterior paint and Exterior Sport Package that were produced during that narrow time frame in the fall of 1986.
I know that back when I was buying and selling these cars, I had at least 2 or 3 of these rare models of the black Turbo-T’s with the Exterior Sport Package.
MORE PARTS PICTURED FOR SALE LISTED UNDER THE RARE PARTS SECTION –
Once again, I went through some of my material I found in a cabinet. The one is the Buick Stage II V6 Performance Guide. It runs 36 pages in length. Also, a 32-page Jim Ruggles Buick Stage One V6 Performance Guide. Neither booklet has a date inside. I would guess these were done around 1987-1990. I also have the full-color 4-page Buick Power Source folder. This color brochure gives the GM part numbers for the various Buick Stage I and Stage II parts.
I also found a glossy 4-page insert that was put out by International Masters Publishers. I can’t find a date on this flyer either. It pictures the Buick GS455 and the 1986 T-Type. It basically is comparing the two models.
Last, but not least, I found these 6 different third brake light inserts. This was a popular gimmick that many companies sold in the early 1990s. You insert it in your third brake light so when you apply the brakes, the word will light up on the plastic film insert.
All these items are listed for sale in the Rare Parts section.
PHOTO 3 – The top left and middle photos show both the Buick Stage II booklet and the Jim Ruggles Buick Stage One V6 Performance Guide. The top right photo shows the 4-page Buick Power Source flyer that lists all the parts for the Stage I and Stage II engines. The bottom left photo shows one side of the color two-sided flyer comparing the Buick GS455 to the 1986 T-Type Regal. The bottom right photo shows the 6 different third brake light inserts I have.
PUBLICITY PICTURES FROM THE AIRBASE REUNION EVENT -
I been going through some of my old photos. Recently we wrote about some of our very early Car Shows and Reunion Events. By far our two biggest Reunion Events were both held back to back in the early 1990s at the Johnsville Airbase. The airbase, like our Reunion events, are now history.
I recently came across some black and white 8 by 10s that the local newspaper took prior to our first Reunion event at the Johnsville Airbase. This was a big deal back then as I don’t remember any other car shows at the airbase prior to when we did those two events. This was all made possible thru the efforts of the local chief of Police, who was a friend. The proceeds benefited the Boy Scouts.
PHOTO 4 – We show four different photos of the airbase commander and myself alongside our 1964 GTO and our 1987 Grand National. It may not be clearly visible, but our Grand National has our Kirban-style 16 by 8 GNX wheels on it. Our GTO has our reproduction all chrome 15 by 8 ralley I wheels on it.
FACEBOOK BUICK GRAND NATIONAL TECH FORUM –
On Facebook you have many choices of which group to join depending on what car makes and models perk your interest.
One I joined a while ago is “Buick Grand National Tech.” I usually post something 4 or 5 times a week. Mostly with a bit of humor. Sometimes I get a bit off topic, but readers love my stories. Keep in mind, when I post on Facebook I spell certain words incorrectly on purpose. I also start each post with the same lead in.
Here is one I posted last week that I thought I would reprint exactly here for my Inner Circle members to read.
“Kirban nitely random scattered thoughts…been nitely random since I not written anything in a few days. less writing means less spelling errors.
Not sure about other companies, but being a small company I can see that sales have really increased in the last 2 weeks. Mondays usually our biggest day and this past Monday was the largest one day sales in many months. It’s amazing how many of the little I call them odds and ends sell.
Like many companies we can be grateful for so many Buick short comings. The window rattle kit that Pete Serio develop has been a huge seller for many years also the metal horn ring we sell Again, based on a short coming by Buick
Strap caps can’t even begin to guess how many of those postage stamp size caps we have sold…heck when they fall off where do they go…rust holes that big on the floor that swallows them up?
Not complaining gaskets not a day goes by we don’t sell a gasket kit or o ring for something. Does every Turbo Regal leak?
One neat item we sell is a set of the 3 intercooler hoses that look identical to the originals only thicker again correcting another short coming by Buick
While the argument about the missing or left out lower body bushings is clearly known common sense dictates it makes good sense to install them while the bolt is still there.
The real short coming is the brake system…been nice had Buick least given owners a clue that changing the brake fluid should be done same time you change the oil. Or at least attached a prayer card to the reservoir lid!
Heck for air bags they post huge notes on the sun visors about them in every single car. Again this post is meant in humor…something many of us probably need by now. Saw my first comic strip the other day where the figures were wearing masks.
While the basic used car market may be down due to a huge inventory since new cars are at tremendous savings and financing is almost as long as I was in school 12 years plus one summer school session to pass into 11th grade…your Turbo Regal values are safe….and a good investment…case you gotta keep reminding your spouse as you spend money on it.
Your Health is Your Wealth”
Again, this was the exact post I made that I thought would interest my 3,500 Inner Circle Members. In each post I make I always close it with that quote that my Dad used, “Your Health is Your Wealth.”
THIS WORD COMES FROM IAN REEVES IN ENGLAND –
Earlier this month Ian Reeves, who still owns the Grand National he bought from us years ago, bought the CD player that was in the Rare Parts section. He installed the CD player and it works great.
Ian is pictured in my book “Kirban’s Guide to the 1986 and 1987 Buick Turbo Regals.” It’s probably why he has kept his Grand National all these years!
His tip for his U.S. fellow Turbo owners is to keep busy on your Turbo Regal - fix it, modify it, tinker with it, and polish it. It’s the best lock down medicine he has found thus far.
A SPECIAL REQUEST FROM ONE OF OUR CUSTOMERS –
One of our good customers resided until recently in Hawaii, better known as “Paradise.” He and his family moved to Wisconsin.
The first question I asked him in an email was “Why?” His answer was that his inlaws are elderly and reside in Wisconsin. He sold his business and his house and moved to Wisconsin. He even had his Grand National transported. That is real devotion for the love he has for his Grand National. It is not cheap to ship any car from Hawaii to the California, let alone from California and points east.
Currently they are living in a camper until they find a home this fall. His dog had a tough time getting used to the weather change so they had to buy him a coat to wear! His Grand National is having some tuning issues and he would like to find a good Turbo Regal mechanic near the Wisconsin/Minnesota border. If you have any recommendations, his name is Randy St Germain and his email is - [email protected]
COMING SOON - GRAND NATIONAL T-SHIRTS AND HATS –
We recently reached out to another company that is fully licensed by GM for the Buick logos. I expect to have samples of the Grand National T-shirt and the baseball-style cap they make shortly.
TURBO REGAL DRIVE-TRAIN FOR SALE –
We were recently contacted by a customer of ours located in upper eastern Pennsylvania near the New York border. About 12-15 years ago he bought a 1987 Grand National that had been t-boned in an accident. He bought the entire wreck. His plan was to drop the drivetrain in a street rod he was going to build.
This gentlemen also had a 1987 Grand National years ago in his car collection. Even with the best laid plans, this project got put on the back burner. This complete drivetrain with harness radiator transmission, etc. has been sitting in the second floor of his barn on a dolly. Because of his initial plan, he made sure he removed everything he needed for the conversion, including the engine harness, radiator, computer, etc.
FOR SALE – Complete stock 1987 Buick Grand National engine, all assembled, with turbocharger, intercooler, ignition coil, wire harness installed. AC compressor, condenser, alternator, computer instrument panel cluster, powermaster brake unit, radiator, original transmission still bolted to the engine. Everything together ready to install. Speedometer shows 1955 miles (probably 119,555 miles. Engine salvaged years ago for hot rod project that never happened. Engine is on a pulling cart in dry storage. The price is $4,800.
If interested, contact [email protected] I will put interested parties in touch with the seller. Parts are located in the northeastern part of Pennsylvania near the border with New York. We can email you photos also.
AUTO EASEL CAR SHOW HOOD LATCH DISPLAY STAND - FITMENT AND UPDATE –
The Auto Easel Car Show Hood Latch Display Stand is now up on our website. Because of the special sale price, you must call our office to place your order - 215-766-1611.
Here is the link to see the Auto Easel pictures and information on our website.
We also now have a YouTube video showing it installed on a 2012 Camaro SS and on a 1985 Regal. In this 9-minute YouTube video we also show all the parts in the kit as well as the unit complete. It clearly shows how it installed in mere seconds, if you use a power hand tool with the proper bit to secure the single allen head screw on the 2-piece clamp.
We have filmed an informative video for YouTube filmed by our son Darrell showing how to attach the unit to your vehicle.
Here is the link to the video on YouTube.
If the link doesn’t work, put copy and paste this information into your url.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DEWGPZkGhnE&t=2s
Or you can search "The Kirban Auto Easel - A Car Show Hood Latch Display Stand" on YouTube.
Here is an up-to-date list of cars and trucks we know our new Auto Easel Car Show Hood Latch Display Stands will fit. As we discover more applications, we will list them.
Remember, there is a Special Introductory Price that is in effect until midnight April 30, 2020.
1982-1988 G-Body - All Models
1955-1957 Chevrolet
1979-2004 Ford Mustang and 2010-2014 Ford Mustang
1995-1997 Ford Ranger
1967-1968 Firebird
1982-2002 Chevrolet Camaro / Pontiac Firebird
2010-2018 Chevrolet Camaro
1966-1967 and 1968-1969 Pontiac GTO
2005-2010 Chrysler 300
2005-2010 Dodge Magnum
2011-2020 Dodge Charger
2009-2014 Dodge Challenger
2001-2004 Honda Civic
1996-2004 Mazda Miata
Remember, as long as the hood latch extends above the core support by 1½", this Auto Easel Car Show Hood Latch Display Stand will fit. You don’t have to get it centered on the hood latch since you can adjust your display panel so the display panel is centered in front of the car or truck.
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If there are any tips or ideas you want to share with our readers, email me – [email protected]
TIP FROM KIRBAN –
Because the supply chain has been interrupted, it’s best to order parts you need in advance of when you plan to need them for the project. Even now companies have a huge backlog for filling orders while others in the hot zones are still shut down.
2020 - BUICK RELATED CAR SHOW EVENTS –
NOTE - With the ongoing crisis, watch for updates as some events may be cancelled or pushed back to a later date.
If you know of a Turbo Regal related car show, email us the promotional flyer and we will list it FREE! - [email protected]
NOTE - THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED FOR 2020 -
GS NATIONALS 40TH ANNIVERSARY
May 13-16, 2020
Beech Bend Raceway in Bowling Green, Kentucky
NOTE - THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED
11th ANNUAL BUICK RACE DAY -
May 23, 2020 – Gates open at 8 am Saturday
Lebanon Valley Dragway, 1746 US Route 20, West Lebanon, NY 12195
This is the 11th year for this Buick event. For more info, call 518-794-7130 or 914-447-6068 and ask for John. It is open to all GS Buick and Turbo Regals.
NOTE – THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED FOR 2020 -
JUNE 12-14, 2020
MIDWEST BUICK GS/GN SHOW
Itasca, Illinois
This is the 4th year of this popular event held in Illinois. Last year they had over 100 Turbo Regals in attendance. Car show day is Saturday, June 13th. This year it is expanded to include Firebird Turbo cars, Typhoons, and Syclones. For more exact details and location, contact Tim Barthel, the Chicagoland Chapter President - Phone 630-234-7478.
BUICK BASH AT THE QUAKE -
June 18-20, 2020
Quaker City Motorsports Park, 10225 West South Range Road, Salem, Ohio 44460
For more details, contact John Csordas 914-447-6068 [email protected] or Denny Moore 330-647-3615 [email protected]
LORENZ RACING & PERFORMANCE -
4TH ANNUAL DYNO DAYS, CAR SHOW & OPEN HOUSE -
July 17-18, 2020
Lorenz Racing & Performance, 12399 Stratton Road, West Salem, Ohio 44287
Last year they had 68 Turbo Regals in attendance from 23 different states. For more details, contact Brian Lorenz - 330-608-9735 - [email protected]
BUICK AT BATES 2020 -
August 2, 2020
Bates Nut Farm, Valley Center, CA.
EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS -
September 12-13, 2020
Cecil County Dragway, 1916 Theodore Road, Rising Sun, Maryland 21911
For more details, contact John Csordus 914-447-6068 [email protected] or Jim Chaudrue 215-266-1052 [email protected]
IMPORTANT - INFORMATION ABOUT OUR SHIPPING ADDRESS –
If you are returning any cores or products, it is important that you send them to the correct address.
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
529 HAYCOCK RUN ROAD
KINTNERSVILLE, PA 18930
We discovered that Fed Ex will not forward any packages that are sent to the PO Box or to our old address in Plumsteadville. Instead they deliver the packages to the old address and leave them outside. They refuse to forward and say that we should notify the shipper. In most cases, we have no idea when we are getting packages shipped back to us.
If you have any cores that are being sent back to us, be sure to use the correct address, especially if you use Fed Ex. Otherwise, we may not receive your package or it may be sent back to you.
EBAY SALES –
We have been placing some of our special items on ebay. We post under two company names - Kirban Performance for new parts. Kirban Enterprises for used and rare items. If you search for sellers – kirbanperformance – kirbanenterprises (Do not put a space between kirban and second word.) Or bookmark the links below. Be sure to check it out.
Here is a link to the Kirban Performance ebay listings –
Here’s is the URL if the link doesn’t work:
https://www.ebay.com/sch/kirbanperformance/m.html?item=333406745159&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2562
Here is a link to the Kirban Enterprises ebay listings –
Here’s is the URL if the link doesn’t work:
https://www.ebay.com/sch/kirbanenterprises/m.html?item=264511012420&ssPageName=STRK%3AMESELX%3AIT&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2562
IMPORTANT NOTE ON RARE PARTS FOR SALE –
In order for our Inner Circle members to have an equal opportunity on the Rare Parts, no emails regarding orders on rare parts will be honored prior to 3 pm Wednesday. This way Inner Circle members get the opportunity first to purchase any of the rare items that may be pictured in the main body of the Inner Circle which may go on our website earlier in the day each week. Inner Circle members are the ONLY people that get to see the Rare Parts listing and see the prices.
CORES NEEDED - URGENT REQUEST –
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
POWERMASTER BRAKE UNITS. Currently, we are NOT accepting powermaster brake units. When we need cores, we give a $150 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
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. This is the only item we are currently accepting as cores.
UPS or MAIL - Ship to Address –
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE
529 HAYCOCK RUN ROAD
KINTNERSVILLE, PA 18930
CARSMARTS RADIO IS NOW A NATIONAL PODCAST!
CarSmarts Radio (hosted by Turbo-6 enthusiast and “The Kirban Story” producer Steve Saffier) is moving from traditional radio and becoming a full-time Podcast.
Some past shows are already available on iTunes and new content will begin in May. The new platform allows for greater flexibility and affords the host the opportunity to conduct interviews and broadcast from car shows and other events or by phone.
Subscribe to the podcast by downloading iTunes on your phone or computer, and searching CarSmarts Radio. The program will also be on Spotify and other platforms in the future.
For more information or to suggests guests, go to www.CarSmartsRadio.com
GOOD NEWS - WE ARE ACCEPTING CLASSIFIED ADS -
Good news - We now accept Classified Ads in our weekly Inner Circle emails. Over the years several customers have asked about placing an ad in our weekly Inner Circle.
Here are the options and the costs.
Ads can be from any individual or company. It needs to be automotive related, meaning it does not need be specifically Turbo Regal related. It can be for something for sale or something wanted.
Maximum number of words is 125 words, which is about 7 to 9 lines of copy. No photos. You can list a website. We recommend you state your name, phone number or email, a price, and your location in your ad.
The cost for 2 consecutive weeks is $25. The cost for 4 consecutive weeks is $40. You save $10 with the 4-week plan. No changes can be made to your existing running ad. You can only run one ad at any given time. We will have a code system at the end of your ad, so we will know what week number your ad is to run - 2 or 4 weeks.
It can be an ad for something for sale or an ad for something you are looking for.
We have never missed a single week since we started the Inner Circle email format in 2009. It’s something I enjoy doing and I just always seem to have enough material to write about.
Our weekly Inner Circle reaches over 3,400 members every Wednesday direct to their inbox. The Inner Circle also appears every Wednesday on our website with the related photos. Your ad would be visible to both groups of readers. So, the exposure to your ad is well over 3,200 potential buyers.
Ads submitted properly by the previous Sunday would appear that next Wednesday in the weekly Inner Circle. Ads must be submitted by email to - [email protected]
Payment by credit card must be done by phone to our office 215-766-1611.
NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE BUICK RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the Buick Rare Parts section at the end of this Inner Circle, it is because you are not an Inner Circle member, but instead are reading this on the website. You must subscribe to see the Rare Parts section each week. It would go directly to your inbox every Wednesday afternoon. It is FREE, probably one reason why nobody complains about what I write about. To subscribe simply email – [email protected] - to get our free weekly Inner Circle email.
The Buick Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!
EMAILS TO KIRBAN PERFORMANCE -
NOTE - If you email us and do NOT get a timely reply, be sure to check your “SPAM” folder. Some emails do not go thru.
If you need to email us, use - [email protected]
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 –
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
SEMI-BLACK EXTERIOR TRIM SPRAY PAINT
This spray paint is semi-black and is a excellent color match for the black-out trim moldings that was used on certain Turbo Regal models.
It is made by the same company that color matches the grey, dark blue, burgundy paint we also sell from this same source.
It dries within minutes. While many variations of semi-black exist we found this to be a very close match. Remember, no paint color is going to match trim that has been exposed for over 30 years of sun and weather.
This is ideal to do the taillight trim parts and the plastic headlight bezels.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these other spray paints - #7419 - Aluminum Grey Last Blast High Temperature Formula Spray Paint and #6822 - Interior Spray Paint (grey, dark blue or burgundy
NOTE - Spray paint can ONLY be shipped by UPS GROUND… because of restrictions, we CANNOT ship paint by AIR.
Another excellent product for any restoration.
Here is a link to this semi-black spray paint on our website.
7883 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Semi-Black Exterior Trim Spray Paint - 11-oz can - $19.95
NOTE - This product may not yet be on our website. However, it is in stock. Simply call Christina at 215-766-1611 to purchase it.
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
REPRODUCTION AIR CLEANER DECAL (1) &
REPRODUCTION BRAKE SWITCH RECALL DECAL (1) SET
We are offering these two decals as a set.
The reproduction Air Cleaner Decal measures 1-5/16″ x 1-1/4″ and is white with black lettering, which is the identical size and color as the original.
It goes on the side of the top portion of the metal factory air cleaner box. There is no precise location but generally can be found on the side towards the driver’s fender.
The reproduction Brake Switch Recall Decal measures 2″ x 1″ and is white with black lettering, which is the identical size and color as the original.
There was no exact placement for where the Service Department would put the Recall decal showing it was completed. Generally, it was put on the core support near the Belt Routing decal. A date was written in along with the other related information, which showed the recall was completed. The recall related to the powermaster brake switch was not issued until the fall of 1990.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #6502 Reproduction “ACCESSORY BELT ROUTING” Decal, #6507 Reproduction “FAN CAUTION” Decal, and #6537 STOCK Replacement K & N Air Filter.
Excellent replacements for any engine restoration.
7844 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Reproduction Air Cleaner Decal (1) and Reproduction Brake Switch Recall Decal (1) Set $8.95 / 2-piece set
NOTE – If this is the only thing you are ordering, the total price with shipping by mail would be $10. You will need to call in your order – 215-766-1611.
Here is a link to these decals on our website.
AUTO EASEL CAR SHOW HOOD LATCH DISPLAY STAND
See information earlier on the AUTO EASEL CAR SHOW HOOD LATCH DISPLAY STAND. Both versions at a Special Introductory Price has been EXTENDED until midnight June 30, 2020 due to the virus, that has virtually wiped out a good bit of the car show season around the country.
The Auto Easel Car Show Hood Latch Display Stand is now up on our website. Because of the special sale price, you must call our office to place your order - 215-766-1611.
Here is the link to see the Auto Easel pictures and information on our website.
Here’s is the URL if the link doesn’t work:
https://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=easel&submit_button=
We also now have a YouTube video showing it installed on a 2012 Camaro SS and on a 1985 Regal. In this 9-minute YouTube video we also show all the parts in the kit as well as the unit complete. It clearly shows how it installed in mere seconds, if you use a power hand tool with the proper bit to secure the single allen head screw on the 2-piece clamp.
We have filmed an informative video for YouTube filmed by our son Darrell showing how to attach the unit to your vehicle.
Here is a link to the video on YouTube.
Here’s is the URL if the link doesn’t work:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DEWGPZkGhnE&t=3s
Or you can search "The Kirban Auto Easel - A Car Show Hood Latch Display Stand" on YouTube.
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction GRAND NATIONAL FENDER & TRUNK EMBLEMS
We are now offering high-quality reproduction Grand National emblems for the front fenders and trunk lid. All 1986-1987 GNs used three emblems; one on each fender and one on the driver’s side trunk lid. The 1984-1985 GNs only used two emblems; one on each fender.
This striking silver, red, orange and black enamel-like finish emblem measures 5-3/8" x 1-7/8" and comes with a self-adhesive backing.
NOTE - If you need to replace an emblem on your car, it’s best to replace all three at the same time so they all look new.
Emblems also make a great addition to any car show display board.
Another excellent replacement for any exterior restoration.
7855 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - ONE - Reproduction Grand National Fender and Trunk Emblem - $54.95
7856 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - THREE - Reproduction Grand National Fender and Trunk Emblems (3) Set - $149.95 set
Here is the link to these emblems on our website.
ALWAYS LOOKING FOR IDEAS -
If you have any product ideas that would fit our Turbo Buick market that you would like to see available, email me direct - [email protected]
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION FOR TURBO REGAL PARTS -
Got any Turbo Buick parts you are not using? Why not cash them in for parts you need with a Letter of Credit. We also may buy your new or used parts. Simply email me a list [email protected]
Also, we are still buying dead or partially dead 1984-1987 Turbo Regals under $4,000 that are within 250 to 350 miles of our location.
NOTE - ABOUT LINKS IN THE INNER CIRCLE -
We have heard from a couple people that have had problems with the links in our Inner Circle.
When we check the links, they work fine. However, if you are not able to be directed to the exact website page or internet site, you can "copy" and "paste" the link into the URL in your browser (such as Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
Most people having problems are using Internet Explorer. If you are having issues with links, try another browser to see if it works.
You may need to "UPDATE" your browser to be use you are using the current version.
NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE -
We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these must be low-resolution photos to work on the Inner Circle segments on the website, any photos of text don't appear clear when enlarged. This is a problem when you are trying to see numbers, such as those on the VIN labels or pages from Options booklet. Also, because of photo reproduction and computer screen variations, the colors may not be true to the actual product or photo.
If you would like to have us email you any photo at the higher resolution for viewing, just email us and we will email them to you. Be sure to be specific on which pictures you want to see - Reference Inner Circle date and photo number 1, 2, 3 or 4 - [email protected]
ABOUT OUR EMAILS -
Any inquiries concerning used parts, you must email me direct - [email protected] - and 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 –
Our area in eastern Pennsylvania is still only open for essential businesses. The latest word to open this area is the first week of June.