07-02-2014 Inner Circle

Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 07-02-2014

JULY CARTOON -

PHOTO 1 - Our first photo shows this month’s “Adventure of Tommy Turbo” cartoon. It shows a practical solution to the brake issues associated with the Turbo Regals.

The caption reads, ”DID YOU FIX THE BRAKES? NOT EXACTLY, BUT I INSTALLED A SYSTEM THAT WILL ALERT OTHER DRIVERS!”



1999 FIREBIRD HARDTOP V6 FOR SALE -

As we noted earlier, we attended GM at Carlisle. When I was there that Friday I spotted this extremely nice 1999 Firebird hardtop for sale. Powered by the 3800 series II V6 and backed up with a manual 5-speed transmission, it was a real eye catcher. It 's a bright red hardtop with a grey cloth bucket seat interior.

I talked to the seller. He was the third owner and had only driven it about 10,000 miles in the seven years he has owned it. He used it as a summertime car only. He bought it when it had about 84,000 miles from a woman in Ohio who garaged it and he also garaged it. She owned it from 26,000 miles to 84,000. It now has 94,000 miles. I made him an offer and he turned me down. I took his phone number since it turns out he only lived about 35 miles from me. He also said he was ONLY going to be there Friday at Carlisle although he had paid for a car corral space for the entire three days.

I was thinking, chances would be slim he would sell it Friday, since Saturday is usually the better sale day as more people come Saturday. I told him I would call him Saturday morning to see if he still had the car. I wanted to drive it on a highway to see how it ran at highway speeds. When I called Saturday he still had the car and told me he would be home if I wanted to stop over. I was impressed how nice the car drove and handled, yet I did not change my offer. He told me no sale. I then got a call later that night and he agreed to my offer.

PHOTO 2 - We show four views of the extremely nice original 1999 Firebird hardtop I bought. Here is a car you can enjoy over the summer and, if you keep it nice, will retain its value. Most of the ones I see for sale have the T-Tops option. A solid roof rides so much tighter, especially one that has never been abused or modified. Even the muffler on the car is the original.

Not only do I have the original Window Sticker, but I was able to get my local GM dealer to run the VIN number and print out every RPO code with the definition of each RPO code. For example, the car has the F41 suspension and 3.23 gear set in the rear. Car is completely dry underneath. Engine compartment is just as clean as the exterior. The engine is whisper quiet and smooth running. I didn’t even have to wash the car for these photos. The body is absolutely perfect. It’s a Kirban-quality car. I am asking $6,895 or best reasonable offer. If this car strikes your interest, email me for more info and photos. [email protected]



GM AT CARLISLE CONTINUED -

One of our local customers, Jim Chaudrue, was part of the select few car owners that was invited to put their car inside one of the buildings for display at GM at Carlisle. His car is a 1987 Grand National that is in top-notch condition. The attention to detail can be seen throughout Jim’s car.

PHOTO 3 - The top left photo shows Jim’s car with the custom rug in front of his car. The top right shows a close up under the hood with a copy of the Window Sticker and information about his car. Another car that was on display inside the building was far from being a showpiece. The lower left shows the sign that explains how this 1967 Camaro RS SS sat for many years in the dry Arizona desert. The lower right shows the front end of the 1967 Camaro, still covered with Arizona sand.

Also on display at GM at Carlisle was one of the cars from the Nebraska car dealership that had that huge auction on all the cars they had kept and stored for 35-50 years - A 1963 Chevrolet Impala with a mere 114 actual miles. A very careful cleanup and a few items replaced and the owner has what has to be a brand new 1963 Impala in the year 2014! This car would be the perfect car to do a restoration book on for other 1963 Chevrolet owners to use in their projects since this car is so well documented. It would also be an excellent chance for the current owner to recoup some of their investment!

PHOTO 4 - The photo on the left shows the sign for this amazing 114-mile original 1963 Chevrolet Impala. The photo on the right shows the actual 1963 Chevrolet Impala.



MORE UNUSUAL VEHICLES SURFACED NEAR US FOR SALE -

From time to time, whenever we spot an unusual or an exceptional car or truck for sale, we will put a blurb in our weekly Inner Circle. In this category we will run the descriptions for two weeks and, if there is no interest in that particular vehicle, it will be deleted the following week. Any new vehicles that we add will appear first, so the oldest listing would be at the end of this section. If any of these vehicles perk your interest, email me personally - [email protected] - for more information and photos.

1999 PONTIAC FIREBIRD HARDTOP - See Photo 2 in this current issue (07-02-2014) for photos. This is one of our cars. It is a hardtop, six cylinder (3800 series II) with a 5-speed manual transmission. Bright red exterior that is as close to perfect as you can find. Always garaged. Car has a grey cloth interior. I have the original Window Sticker and Owner’s Manual. The spare has never been on the ground. Wheels have no curb rash with a good set of matched tires. Latest Pennsylvania inspection. A three-owner example, with the last owner having had it for 7 years. Recent work includes a new clutch assembly, flywheel, rear main seal done and valve covers gaskets. Also a fresh tune up was performed. I have records to prove this. Mileage is 94,200. Car is 95% stock with the exception being at some point aftermarket power windows were added as the car had manual windows! Even the muffler is original. Everything works. Car runs and drives 100%. Car is very tight and rattle free since it’s a hardtop. A car that delivers the fun factor and yet retains good gas mileage of 30 mpg, according to the Window Sticker. The 3800 series II engine is one of the best GM produced. Looking for $6,895 or best reasonable offer.



GNX #314 - The car is a two owner with the current owner having owned it for 16 years. It has been garaged and covered. Mileage is 10,542. Owner does have the jacket, but no book. Car is 100% stock runs and drives. The power antenna does not work and the fillers need to be replaced as they are showing cracks. Tires have been replaced. Paint and body is mint and car still retains the new car smell. I know the owner as I bought 4 turbo cars from him and his son over 10 years ago. I did see the GNX years ago.

He has hardly used it as the mileage indicates. The price tag is $55,000. For more info and photos, email me direct - [email protected] . The GNX is located in Maryland.



1992 CORVETTE - I do not have much information or photos on this car yet. This car is in Chicago and belongs to a long-time friend of ours who makes parts for us. It’s a 1992 Corvette, red on red. Absolutely in mint condition, garaged its entire life, with a mere 3,614 miles on it. The price for this car is $13,500 firm.


1987 FORD BRONCO XLT - This is a two-owner vehicle, and never smoked in. It has a brand new rebuilt 2.9 motor with new crank. All the options work, including power windows, power locks, tilt, cruise, and electric push button 4 wheel drive. AC blows ice cold. It has new dual exhaust system with stainless steel mufflers. All the paint is original, except for hood and roof. Bronco is two tone blue and white. Current owner has owned it for four years. It comes with three extra sets of wheels and tires! No rust ever. If the engine would be detailed, this Bronco would be show quality material. Body and interior are show quality. It is that nice. The interior is flawless and nothing shows any wear issues. It's a Kirban-quality vehicle that belongs to a local individual, who I first met about 20-plus years ago. He was a salesman at a local car dealership I used to tow for. He is asking $10,500 or best offer. You would be hard pressed to find a better example.

If any of these vehicle strikes your interest, email me for more info and photos. [email protected]



SMOKEY AND THE BANDIT UPDATE -

I received the following email last week concerning my article on the Smokey and the Bandit display at the Carlisle GM Show.

Hi Dennis -

I believe that the Bandit truck, police car and any Bandit Trans Ams that you saw were a set of reproductions. A guy in Missouri or Kansas or somewhere out there in the mid-west had them built.

I was at the opening of a new performance shop in Jupiter, FL in late March called Bubba's (south). Bubba's north is in Fairfax, VA. For the opening of the new shop, they brought in the guy with the replicas. He travels the country for various car events.

However, there were some other things there that were totally authentic. They got Burt Reynolds to stop by to sign the truck. He was not in good shape but everybody there was very happy that he made the effort. He had to be shuttled about 50 feet in a golf cart from one building to the other instead of walking. Bubba's also had Burt Reynolds personal Bandit Trans Am (originally given to him by GM) trucked in from the HQ of National Parts Depot. Burt sold it to NPD (National Parts Warehouse) a few years ago - probably for big bucks. As you can see, Burt was reunited briefly with his old car so that we could take some pictures. I also had my picture taken standing in front of it.

I was able to attend this Bubba's (south) opening because a year ago I moved from northern, Virginia to Port St. Lucie, FL. No regrets! The car action down here is 'year' round - even in the summer. On average I can hit 2 or 3 car cruise-ins each week - with my 1989 Turbo Trans Am.

All the best,
Bob Crow



IN CASE YOU’RE WONDERING -

In case you’re wondering what cars reach 60 mph from a dead start the slowest... here are a few that take top honors.

Chevrolet has two that takes almost 13 seconds to reach 60 mph. One is the new Spark 1LT and the other is the Sonic sedan with the 1LT package. (One tip - be sure the AC is turned off).

Coming in as the slowest is the Mitsubishi 1-MiEV Se, which takes 14.7 seconds.

One of the more popular small cars is the Smart car. It takes second place running 0-60 times in 14.6 seconds. I don’t think this critical factor will be listed on any of the brochures as a benefit!



TRADE VALUE -

We are one of the few companies that accept items in partial trade towards parts you may want. If you have any NOS Turbo Regal parts or cores that we can use, email me direct - [email protected]. You could even save money against a set of GNX wheels. Sometimes it’s easier to trade in parts you are not using and get something you want for your car in return.



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]



SPECIAL JULY 4TH SALE ON PYPES DUAL EXHAUST SYSTEMS -

We currently have a good supply of the Pypes mandrel bent dual exhaust systems in stock for immediate delivery, our part #6996.

We will take $20 off the total price of the first five orders we get. This offer expires as soon as we sell 5 systems or at 4 pm on July 31st 2014. The price would be just $379.95, which includes UPS ground shipping to any of the basic 48 states. No hidden fees, no handling fees, no shipping fees.

In order to get this special price, you must call our office to place your order – 215-766-1611 x 0. These systems are in stock for immediate delivery.



NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -

1978-1987 Buick Regal with T-Tops (All Models) -
Reproduction COURTESY LAMP LENSES (2) SET

Over time, these lenses can fade or turn yellow from exposure to the sun.

These are the two courtesy lamp lenses for the rear pillar lights that come on when you open either door.

These reproductions are exactly like the originals.

Another great interior restoration item.

7603 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal with T-Tops (All Models) - Reproduction Courtesy Lamp Lenses (2) Set - $29.95

Here is the link for these Courtesy Lamp Lenses on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44187/Reproduction+COURTESY+LAMP+LENSES+%282%29+SET+%237603.html



1985-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
GM SPARE TIRE MOUNTING ADAPTER

Securing the original spare in the trunk can be cumbersome without having the correct parts to secure the jack and spare tire in place.

This is the 3-1/2" steel adapter is part of what is used to secure the factory spare tire in the trunk well. It is one of the main parts necessary to secure the factory spare in the trunk.

GM discontinued this, but we found a source that has a supply of them.

NOTE - The Buick Turbo Regal spare is also a unique size. The correct spare tire size is T155/80D16.

NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #6509 Reproduction of the Original Carpet Material Black Molded Trunk Carpet, #6703 Carpeted Rear Seat Trunk Panel, #6753 Spare Tire Filler Black Panel, or #7098 Sound Deadener / Insulation Grey Jute Inner Trunk Divider.

Another nice restoration item.

7601 - 1985-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
GM Spare Tire Mounting Adapter - $14.95

Here is the link for this Adapter on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44183/GM+SPARE%E2%80%88TIRE%E2%80%88MOUNTING+ADAPTER+%237601.html



VACUUM BRAKE CONVERSION KITS -

We are about 2-3 weeks away from having another vacuum brake conversion kit available.

It will consist of a brand new 1986-1987 Regal master cylinder, a rebuilt 1986-1987 Regal vacuum booster, our vacuum block with port and gasket, a new reproduction foam gasket that seats between the firewall and the booster, two feet of vacuum hose, and a correct vacuum brake pedal. The key feature with this conversion kit is we supply a vacuum brake pedal that eliminates any issues with the installation.

I have been able to gather up a number of vacuum brake pedals from my various trips to the You Pull It Yards over the last several months.

The projected price for this kit will be less than $349.95. This is one of the best solutions if you have a stock 1986-1987 Turbo Regal. This now gives you plenty of options for brake applications for the 1986-1987 Turbo Regals.



HYDRO-BOOST BRAKE SYSTEM UPDATE -

We now have two versions available in kit form. See New Products below and click on the link on our website. We hope to have yet another version available shortly. On a side note, we will also have a chrome tube available that you can slip over the cylinder on the hydro-boost system to make it better looking. This will be a two-piece design made from copper and brass, so once it’s chrome plated it will never rust.

We are doing two different lengths to cover the various cylinders on the hydro-boost units.

To learn more about converting your 1986-1987 Turbo Regal to the Hydro-boost format, go to turbobuick.com, scroll down to the Turbo Lounge and look for my thread entitled, "Kirban Request."

Here is a direct link - http://turbobuick.com/forums/threads/kirban-request.411950/page-1



1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
HYDRO-BOOST CONVERSION KIT

This kit is made up from mostly 1984-1985 Turbo Regal Hydro-Boost parts.

Before ordering this kit, it’s important you go on the internet, so you can have a complete understanding of what is involved to make this kit work on a 1986-1987 Turbo Regal in place of the powermaster brake unit.

Go to - turbobuick.com - under the “TURBO LOUNGE” and look for my thread “KIRBAN REQUEST” or click on this link below:

http://turbobuick.com/forums/threads/kirban-request.411950/page-1

That link shows how several customers have used 1984-1985 Turbo Regal Hydro-Boost parts in their 1986-1987 Turbo Regals.

Here is another link to research the installation: http://www.ihadav8.com/forum/index.php? Then search “4228.”

You must have a powermaster brake pedal assembly in your car for this Hydro-Boost system to work. If you do not have an original powermaster brake pedal, we may have a used brake pedal available. If you need one, email - [email protected].

NOTE - This kit does not come with any directions.

It’s important you have a complete understanding from reading the thread on the internet, and have the mechanical skills to do the needed modifications to complete the installation. You will need to gently bend the pre-formed power steering pressure line to fit the 1986-1987 steering pump.

You have to decide which master cylinder you will need to purchase to use with this kit - either #7615 Early 1980s Buick Regal Rebuilt Master Cylinder for Hydro-Boost Conversion or #7616 1977-1982 Corvette New Master Cylinder for Hydro-Boost Conversion.

This kit includes: #7610 Hydro-Boost & Powermaster Bracket to Firewall Reproduction Gasket, #7611 MAGNA-PURE In-line Power Steering Filter, #7612 Reproduction Power Steering Pressure Hose from Hydro-Boost to Pump, #7613 Reproduction Pressure Hose attaches Hydro-Boost to Steering Gear, #7614 Rebuilt Hydro-Boost Brake Unit, #7382 Brake Bleeder Syringe, four feet of 3/8" hoses, six 3/8" clamps, and 1 metal T connector.

NOTE - This kit is not returnable, however any defective part is under manufacturer’s Warranty. No Directions come with the kit.

NOTE - Be sure to check out the other options we offer for converting your 1986-1987 Turbo Regal to a Hydro-Boost system. See #7618 HYDRATECH Hydro-Boost System conversion.

7617 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Hydro-Boost Conversion Kit (9 items) - $219.95

NOTE - You must also purchase either - #7615 Early 1980s Buick Regal Rebuilt Master Cylinder for Hydro-Boost Conversion - OR - #7616 1977-1982 Corvette New Master Cylinder for Hydro-Boost Conversion - to complete the conversion.

Here is the link to this Hydro-Boost Conversion kit on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44184/HYDRO+BOOST+CONVERSION+KIT+%237617.html



1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
HYDRATECH HYDRO-BOOST CONVERSION KIT

This brand new Hydratech system and directions are specified to fit the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal models with the understanding that the application IS specific - This means you must have the original powermaster brake pedal in your Turbo Regal for it to bolt up.

NOTE - email - [email protected] - if you need a pedal assembly. It is NOT compatible with a vacuum assist G-body brake pedal.

Kit comes complete with everything you need including the fasteners to secure the master cylinder to the brake unit. The entire Hydratech kit is drop shipped from Hydratech in Tennessee. We will ship the brand new Corvette master cylinder #7616, a new bracket to firewall gasket #7610, and your receipt from our warehouse in Pennsylvania.

NOTE - We recommend you either clear coat or paint the master cylinder prior to installing it, since it is brand new bare metal.

This kit is custom made specifically for the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal and requires 10-12 days for delivery.

100% BRAND NEW high-quality direct bolt-in hydraulic brake assist system designed to upgrade your brakes with a powerful and compact modern hydraulic assist unit. These systems include everything you need to install into your vehicle. Most installations can be accomplished in an afternoon, using common hand tools, with average mechanical skill levels. These systems consist of a direct fit high-performance, hydraulic brake assist unit, braided stainless high pressure line set; heavy-duty power steering return line; pedal rod hardware and mounting hardware. Using all new parts, this unit puts out an amazing 1800 psi at the wheels!

Here are the specifics:

- CNC Machined T6 billet aluminum direct fit firewall mounting plate design

- This model fits the later GM "short rod / shallow" master cylinder design

- All engines with PS pump on driver's side - compatible with rack and pinion conversions

- For use with disc / drum OR disc / disc brakes

- Features an adjustable brake pedal rod to allow for a range of brake pedal height adjustment

- Models with PS line set include over length hoses with re-usable / re-buildable hose ends

- 7-1/4" installed length from firewall to MC mounting flange - no firewall modifications required

Kit comes with very detailed instructions in clear, easy-to-read and understand format.

NOTE - We recommend installation be done by a qualified mechanic.

NOTE - Be sure to check out the other options we offer for converting your 1986-1987 Turbo Regal to a Hydro-Boost system. See Part #7617 Hydro-Boost Conversion Kit.

7618 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
HYDRATECH Hydro-Boost Conversion Kit - $759.95

NOTE - This kit is custom made specifically for the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal and requires 10-12 days for delivery.

Here is the link to this HYDRTECH Hydro-Boost Conversion kit on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44185/HYDRATECH+HYDRO+BOOST+CONVERSION+KIT+%237618.html



2014 - UPCOMING TURBO REGAL EVENTS FOR 2014 -

5th ANNUAL BUICK RACE DAY - Lebanon Valley Dragway, Lebanon Valley New York - JULY 12, 2014

This show has been rescheduled, since it was rained out. The new date is July 12th 2014. This event is sponsored by the Northeast Chapter of the GS/GN Club. For more information, contact John at 518-794-7120 or 914-447-6068.



THE BUICK PERFORMANCE GROUP 2014 EVENT - National Trail Raceway, Hebron, Ohio
AUGUST 1st and 2nd, 2014

The BPG 2014 Event will again be held at National Trail Raceway in Hebron, Ohio on August 1st and 2nd. The Host Hotel will be the Newark Metropolitan. They will have an expanded breakfast menu for 2014. The Hotel will be making arrangements to block off the street on Thursday and Friday night and will provide the BBQ again. Ted Nagel's Band will again be playing Friday night.

For more information, visit - www.buickperformancegroup.com - or their Buick Performance Group Facebook page.



MAGNA - MID-ATLANTIC GRAND NATIONAL ASSOCIATION -

The local Magna Club has posted events related to the Turbo Regals for this coming summer season.

Here is a link for the latest information:
http://www.magnabuick.com/show/index.shtml



34th ANNUAL GS NATIONALS - OCTOBER 15-18, 2014 -
Beech Bend Raceway, 798 Beech Bend Road, Bowling Green, Kentucky

Ron Joseph informs me that the dates for the 2014 GS Nationals are October 15th thru 18th. The intent to move it to September has been shelved at least for a year, according to Ron. We will share more info as it becomes available. Also for the first time ever there will be an auto cross open to all cars October 15th and 16th. 2014. This year ALL vehicles are welcome to participate and have some fun, prizes will be given away and sponsors will be there!

Click here for more info:
http://www.turbobuick.com/forums/threads/2014-gs-nationals-auto-cross-oct-15-16-th.407646/#post-3357189



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 WORKS -

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.



NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE -

We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these have to be low-resolution photos to work on the Inner Circle segments on the website, any photos of text don't appear clear when enlarged. This is a problem when you are trying to see numbers, such as those on the VIN labels or pages from Options booklet. Also, because of photo reproduction and computer screen variations, the colors may not be true to the actual product or photo.

If you would like to have us email you any photo at the higher resolution for viewing, just email us and we will email them to you. Be sure to be specific on which pictures you want to see - Reference Inner Circle date and photo number 1, 2, 3 or 4 - [email protected]



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 - As you read this Inner Circle Wednesday around 3 pm, I am scheduled to speak from 3 til 4 at the GTO National convention. This is about the 4th time I have spoken at the GTO National Convention.

It brings back memories of when I would buy GTOs in the late 1970s for $350 to $500 each. I never thought it would come full circle years later. A case of being in the right place at the right time.

I still remember the first one I bought to resell. It was a 1965 GTO hardtop, original faded blue paint, tri-power, 4 speed with no rust. I paid $350 for it and drove it home. Friends thought I was crazy paying that much for an old car. My buddies changed their tune when I sold it in Hemmings a few months later for $1500.


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