Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 10-17-2018 –
NEW GM APPROVED VINYL BANNERS COMING SOON –
We just received word that 2 more designs that we submitted to GM Photos they have gotten GM’s approval. We have several of each now on order. Watch for photos and pricing in next week’s Inner Circle. Hopefully several others will get GMs blessing before the year is out.
They were able to get a number of the GTO, Oldsmobile 442, and Buick GS banners GM approved. You can check with sources that cater to those models to see about ordering those banners.
UPDATE ON 1984 MONTE CARLO SS - FOR SALE -
I figured this week I would post 4 photos of this extremely original mint 100% stock 1984 Monte Carlo SS hardtop. This car is one of the finest examples I have seen in recent years and shows that the original owner took extreme measures to keep the car as close to new as possible.
According to Old Cars Report Price Guide May/June 2018, this car falls between a high #2 or low #1 condition. Price range is $11,200 - $16,000. This car is priced right at $11,500.
It is absolutely all original. The car has been garaged since new. Owner passed away. Car is white with a mint blue interior. Even rides on Eagle GT tires! Carpets still glisten in the sunlight. No cracks in the dash, no wear issues are evident. The exterior has no rust, no dents, and no scrapes. This car is actually nicer than my personal 1987 white Turbo T that I sold earlier this year. The car from any angle – inside – outside - underside - would pass for 20,000 miles. Mileage is 70,000.
In other words, the car is Kirban-quality inside and out. This is a car that is classic looking that you can drive and not lose money on as you enjoy it. I have many photos. My email is - [email protected]
Car has a price tag of just $11,500. Paint appears to me to be 100% original and the doors shut perfect. It has door VIN labels and trunk ID label. Wheels are mint. Exhaust is 100% original. The condition is simply outstanding. I tried to look for flaws and it has none. The car is located about 20 minutes from our shop.
You would be very hard pressed to find a better example at this price. To compete on a show level, all it needs is 2 hours of attention detailing the engine compartment, 4 of our valve stem caps, our trunk carpet - that’s all it needs. Car even has the original correct GM floor mats in it! It's Kirban quality.
PHOTO 1 – We show 4 different photos of this original white 1984 Monte Carlo SS hardtop that is for sale.
HO SCALE TURBO REGAL SLOT CAR –
Many of our readers, like myself, collect the miniature Turbo Regal models and diecast cars. At the recent Fall Carlisle I found this one produced by Auto World. Originally, I thought it was a regular Hot Wheels style, but it’s not. It is actually a slot car for a race track.
If you have my book, “Kirbans Guide to 1986 & 1987 Buick Turbo Regals,” on page 297 we show a photo of the various Regal slot cars that were made by Tyco in the mid-1980s. Until this past Fall Carlisle I never realized that any newer HO slot cars were produced featuring the Turbo Regal. In my personal collection that I have had for over 20 years I have over 200 different HO scale slot cars in mint condition.
This one is produced by Autoworld and is one of 6 in the series of Muscle Cars U.S.A. The others are 1969 Camaro, 1971 Camaro, 1971 Plymouth GTX, 2017, Mustang, 1970 Challenger and the 1987 Grand National.
I have not seen the others in the series to know if they are accurate. Why two different year Camaros instead of a GTO is something I don’t understand. The real glowing error is evident on the Grand National.
They title it as a 1987 Buick Grand National, yet the car is clearly all white and even has a small T emblem on the front fender! Whoever gave the packaging the final ok for accuracy dropped the ball on this package for sure!
The vendor at Carlisle had two of them, so I bought both. See the Rare Parts section as we have one of them listed there for sale. As of this writing I am unsure if the company has any more.
PHOTO 2 – We show the actual white Grand National we are keeping on the left out of the box with the printed back of the card in the center showing the #6 in the series. On the right shows the one we are selling in its unopened package. It’s interesting that the license plate on the back is blue and reads “QUIK V6.”
TURBO ENGINE DESCRIPTION MANUAL –
As I have mentioned in the past, years ago I had a pretty good connection with a person at Buick that supplied me with a lot of inside information when I was writing my first book on Turbo Regals. Going by memory, I think it was him that made me copies of the engine description manual for the 1987 3.8 LC2 engine, in other words, the engine that Buick put in all the 1987 Turbo Regals.
I have no idea where these pages were used at the factory. Maybe it was a guide for the head assembly person for a specific section of the factory build of the cars. Again, I have no idea. What I have is simply Xerox copies of various pages, some cover the 1986 Turbo engine and some cover the 1987 Turbo engine.
These illustrations show 2 main things of interest as far as I can determine. One is the placement of the parts in each illustration and the other is the GM part number is listed for each numbered part.
PHOTO 3 - The photo to the left shows a detailed illustration for the 1987 entitled PCV, Purge, and Vacuum Harness. The number in each block is then listed with the GM part number for that item. The letter Z points to a cap on the end of the vacuum pipes and the code for Z states final assembly remove and scrap. Based on this information, it appears this was a guide for the assembly line workers initially. Again, this is merely a guess on my part. This is listed as sheet number 50.
The photo to the right shows the way they ran the 3 plug wires on the driver’s side. Again, it is listed for a 1987. This is listed as sheet number 34. Not pictured is sheet 35 that simply lists the sequence of assembly of the Turbo. It covers 9 steps to assemble the turbo and attachments such as the drain pipe and the heat shield.
PHOTO 4 – The photo to the left shows page 51, which covers the Hose and Check Valve assembly. The photo to the right shows page 32 the Electronic Module and Coil Assembly. Again, every number you see in a block is then listed with the GM part number.
My guess is they probably did a similar description manual for each section of the car, such as the interior, frame, and body. Again, this is a guess on my part.
STEERING WHEELS UPDATE –
Last week we did a story about finding a 1964 GTO optional steering wheel and gave our guess as to what that option cost in 1964. This past week we heard from Pete Serio, known to many of you as the original Window Rattle Guy. Pete is very well versed in GTOs. According to Pete that steering wheel first appeared as an option in 1963 on full-size Pontiac models and became available as an option on the 1964 LeMans. The 1964 GTO was simply an option on a Lemans, similar to what Buick did originally with the Grand National making it an option on a regular Regal Coupe.
According to Pete, that option plastic wood steering wheel original price ranged from $28.62 to $39.27, depending on which Pontiac model you ordered it for. You had to order the car to get that option as the wheel was not offered separately over the parts department as an ad-on package. That definitely added to the rarity of this highly desirable option in the 1964 GTO world.
BOOK “666” UPDATE –
I remembered years ago my Dad telling me that his book “666” was mentioned in one of Stephen King’s book. If you google it, the Stephen King book where it is mentioned is titled the “Dead Zone” published in 1979 by Stephen King. My Dad’s book “666” first was published in 1970. I believe it was the third book my Dad wrote.
THOM SANSOUCIE AUTO SERIES LIMITED EDITION TURBO REGAL ART –
We have just one of the 24” by 36” Turbo Regal art prints available, part #7203. It is number 599 of 2000 produced. The normal retail price is $159.95 plus shipping. We are discontinuing this art print and also the small one, part #7202.
This makes a nice gift for that Turbo Regal owner. The special price on this last print we have is $139.95 and just $12 shipping to the basic 48 states. You must call our office to order this – 215-766-1611 x 0. We only have this one print! THIS IS A NEW LOWER PRICE $109.95 plus $12 shipping.
We also have on a piece of acrylic a picture of a 1966 GTO. I bought this several years ago at Carlisle. It measures approximately 15” by 20”. It is based on the box cover of the 1966 GTO slot car. The price is $34.95 and $12 shipping. That slot car has a value today of about $500 if you got one unbuilt in the original box. (I have one in my private collection). Either item makes for a nice unique gift.
See Photo 2 in 10-3-2018 Inner Circle. Contact our office if you would like to order – 215-766-1611 x 0.
CUSTOMER VISITS US FROM VIRGINIA –
Rick and Molly May from Stuarts Draft, Virginia stopped at our company this past weekend on the way to the New England Patriots – Kansas City Chiefs game on Sunday night. It was a 40th birthday gift from Rick’s wife. Rick has a WE4 he is working on that they purchased from a relative in California.
This game featured the old man Tom Brady against the new rookie sensation Patrick Mahomes that everyone is talking about.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER –
Why is it that golf courses and funeral homes have the best looking manicured lawns? As for funeral homes, if you’re the one in the casket, it’s not as though you can see it.
REMEMBER THE VIDEO PROFILE THAT WAS DONE LAST YEAR? –
Steve, the producer of that video, is now producing an automotive radio show in the Philadelphia market and is currently looking for sponsorship. Sponsors will receive commercial air time during the program as well as web and video presence. Because it’s the inaugural season of the show, rates are low compared to standard radio rates.
Business owners, particularly those in the Philadelphia region who are looking for a new way to advertise, should contact Steve at - [email protected] and check out the website at www.carsmartradio.com
They are slated to begin broadcasting at 11am for one hour on 610ESPN radio. That Saturday slot will be the time slot for at least until May, with a few preemptions for football and basketball (Villanova).
The radio station kept the rates the same for Steve even though we’re now going to the larger radio station. This is very exciting!
BMWS AND TURBO REGALS -
The year was around 1999 when I was still buying various 1986-1987 Turbo Regals. I got a call from a customer in Georgia. He had a real nice 1986 T-Type hardtop. The car was black with a tan interior. I was very interested since the car was totally stock and being a Georgia car had zero rust issues. He explained to me he was going on vacation to North Carolina later in the month.
I discovered that the time frame he was going on vacation was the exact same time as the BMW convention held at their South Carolina Plant. I called him to see if his trip was going to take him close to the BMW plant and he said it would. He even agreed to have his wife follow him so we could do the transaction at the BMW plant.
I called Pete Serio who was always up for a road trip long as I was paying for the meals! Besides we could go to the BMW National convention as a side trip. The timing was perfect and the car was exactly as described. Pete and I got to enjoy the BMW show. I drove down in my 1995 M3 BMW and I let Pete drive the T-Type back. It was a great trip. Probably the only time a Turbo Regal was sold in a BMW factory parking lot.
You should all be glad Buick car shows are not like BMW car shows. I am not sure if it’s true today, but back then you had to remove everything from the trunk for judging including the spare and jack. If Turbo Regal owners had to do it, the sun would be setting in the west before most of you would be able to get the jack and spare back properly in the trunk!
It’s amazing on the cars we end up buying at the bid lot, almost without fail, every one I have to bolt in the jack properly and the spare tire!
ANOTHER COINCIDENCE REFERRING TO ABOVE STORY –
When I put 1986 T-Type from the last story up for sale, I had a local buyer want it that worked in a northeast Philadelphia auto repair shop. First, he bought my book and would read it at work on his lunch time.
One day his boss spotted the book and remarked that he was in the midst of making settlement on a house in Huntingdon Valley and the owners name were Mary and Salem Kirban. Turns out his boss was buying my parents home where I grew up!
He ended up buying the 1986 T-Type. End of story and yes his boss bought my parents house! What are the odds of that?
38th ANNUAL GS NATIONALS –
October 24th - 27th, 2018
The dates for this year are October 24-27, 2018. Same location, Beech Bend Race Park, Bowling Green, Kentucky. For more info, go to their website - GSnationals.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 3,300 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 x 0.
CLASSIFIED AD –
AD – 1967 GS BUICK PARTS FOR SALE –
Some NOS, some used and reproduction pieces. Grille center molding, NOS pair of 5958827 Left and right signal lamp lenses, NOS cigar lighter, Pair of good used signal lenses, Rechrome outside door handles, trunk letters, tail lamp bezels, quarter and trunk moldings. First and second design 2-piece wheel opening moldings, NOS and used antenna bezels. NOS 40927 AC fuel pump, correct distributor and Q-jet carb with tag, NOS side view mirrors and more! Call or email [email protected] or 941-845-4446. 2 of 4
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.
My 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]
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 –
Remember, there is a difference between reproduction and replacement parts. Replacement parts may work but not look exactly correct.
Also, it’s important to remember on reproduction parts there can be several versions of the same part and the quality may vary as well.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED - Powermaster brake units. The must be complete. We will now issue you a Letter of Credit for $150 for each acceptable core. We currently will not buy any powermaster units outright, only Letter of Credit towards parts.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number. These are the only 2 items we are currently accepting as cores.
MAIL - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949
UPS - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
6201 Kellers Church Road
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949-1199
TECH CALLS -
If you need technical information, it’s best to email – [email protected] - rather than call us. We will do our best to answer any technical questions within 24 hours. Please remember I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US –
GM Licensed - “GNX - AD from ASC” and
“1987 GRAND NATIONAL with Hub Caps Background” MUGS
Our GM licensed supplier has taken the two popular Turbo Regal banners and put that same design on a high-quality white 11-ounce ceramic coffee mug.
These GM licensed mugs make an excellent gift for any Buick enthusiast or mechanic. Ideal to for any garage, workshop, office or to display at a car show.
The GNX AD from ASC mug has the artwork repeated on both sides of the mug.
The Grand National layout wraps around the mug.
Another excellent Buick enthusiast gift idea.
7839 - GM Licensed - “GNX - AD from ASC” Mug - $12.95
7840 - GM Licensed - “1987 Grand National with Hub Caps Background” Mug - $12.95
Here is a link to these mugs on our website.
1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Reproduction METAL RADIO BRACKETS (2) SET
We now offer an excellent reproduction of the unique brackets Buick used to secure the radio in any 1984-1987, Regal including the Turbo models.
The metal bracket is the same for both sides but mounts differently on each side of the GM radio.
This is a critical part you need to install any factory correct 1984-1987 GM radio. It also fits many of the later GM radios that have the same frame and size, including some of the early factory GM CD players.
Another excellent replacement for any interior restoration.
7838 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Reproduction Metal Radio Brackets (2) Set - $25
Here is a link to these brackets 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] - 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 –
Weather is finally turning cooler in our area. Amount of rainfall in our area is already 5 inches over the norm and the year is not over yet!
NEW GM APPROVED VINYL BANNERS COMING SOON –
We just received word that 2 more designs that we submitted to GM Photos they have gotten GM’s approval. We have several of each now on order. Watch for photos and pricing in next week’s Inner Circle. Hopefully several others will get GMs blessing before the year is out.
They were able to get a number of the GTO, Oldsmobile 442, and Buick GS banners GM approved. You can check with sources that cater to those models to see about ordering those banners.
UPDATE ON 1984 MONTE CARLO SS - FOR SALE -
I figured this week I would post 4 photos of this extremely original mint 100% stock 1984 Monte Carlo SS hardtop. This car is one of the finest examples I have seen in recent years and shows that the original owner took extreme measures to keep the car as close to new as possible.
According to Old Cars Report Price Guide May/June 2018, this car falls between a high #2 or low #1 condition. Price range is $11,200 - $16,000. This car is priced right at $11,500.
It is absolutely all original. The car has been garaged since new. Owner passed away. Car is white with a mint blue interior. Even rides on Eagle GT tires! Carpets still glisten in the sunlight. No cracks in the dash, no wear issues are evident. The exterior has no rust, no dents, and no scrapes. This car is actually nicer than my personal 1987 white Turbo T that I sold earlier this year. The car from any angle – inside – outside - underside - would pass for 20,000 miles. Mileage is 70,000.
In other words, the car is Kirban-quality inside and out. This is a car that is classic looking that you can drive and not lose money on as you enjoy it. I have many photos. My email is - [email protected]
Car has a price tag of just $11,500. Paint appears to me to be 100% original and the doors shut perfect. It has door VIN labels and trunk ID label. Wheels are mint. Exhaust is 100% original. The condition is simply outstanding. I tried to look for flaws and it has none. The car is located about 20 minutes from our shop.
You would be very hard pressed to find a better example at this price. To compete on a show level, all it needs is 2 hours of attention detailing the engine compartment, 4 of our valve stem caps, our trunk carpet - that’s all it needs. Car even has the original correct GM floor mats in it! It's Kirban quality.
PHOTO 1 – We show 4 different photos of this original white 1984 Monte Carlo SS hardtop that is for sale.
HO SCALE TURBO REGAL SLOT CAR –
Many of our readers, like myself, collect the miniature Turbo Regal models and diecast cars. At the recent Fall Carlisle I found this one produced by Auto World. Originally, I thought it was a regular Hot Wheels style, but it’s not. It is actually a slot car for a race track.
If you have my book, “Kirbans Guide to 1986 & 1987 Buick Turbo Regals,” on page 297 we show a photo of the various Regal slot cars that were made by Tyco in the mid-1980s. Until this past Fall Carlisle I never realized that any newer HO slot cars were produced featuring the Turbo Regal. In my personal collection that I have had for over 20 years I have over 200 different HO scale slot cars in mint condition.
This one is produced by Autoworld and is one of 6 in the series of Muscle Cars U.S.A. The others are 1969 Camaro, 1971 Camaro, 1971 Plymouth GTX, 2017, Mustang, 1970 Challenger and the 1987 Grand National.
I have not seen the others in the series to know if they are accurate. Why two different year Camaros instead of a GTO is something I don’t understand. The real glowing error is evident on the Grand National.
They title it as a 1987 Buick Grand National, yet the car is clearly all white and even has a small T emblem on the front fender! Whoever gave the packaging the final ok for accuracy dropped the ball on this package for sure!
The vendor at Carlisle had two of them, so I bought both. See the Rare Parts section as we have one of them listed there for sale. As of this writing I am unsure if the company has any more.
PHOTO 2 – We show the actual white Grand National we are keeping on the left out of the box with the printed back of the card in the center showing the #6 in the series. On the right shows the one we are selling in its unopened package. It’s interesting that the license plate on the back is blue and reads “QUIK V6.”
TURBO ENGINE DESCRIPTION MANUAL –
As I have mentioned in the past, years ago I had a pretty good connection with a person at Buick that supplied me with a lot of inside information when I was writing my first book on Turbo Regals. Going by memory, I think it was him that made me copies of the engine description manual for the 1987 3.8 LC2 engine, in other words, the engine that Buick put in all the 1987 Turbo Regals.
I have no idea where these pages were used at the factory. Maybe it was a guide for the head assembly person for a specific section of the factory build of the cars. Again, I have no idea. What I have is simply Xerox copies of various pages, some cover the 1986 Turbo engine and some cover the 1987 Turbo engine.
These illustrations show 2 main things of interest as far as I can determine. One is the placement of the parts in each illustration and the other is the GM part number is listed for each numbered part.
PHOTO 3 - The photo to the left shows a detailed illustration for the 1987 entitled PCV, Purge, and Vacuum Harness. The number in each block is then listed with the GM part number for that item. The letter Z points to a cap on the end of the vacuum pipes and the code for Z states final assembly remove and scrap. Based on this information, it appears this was a guide for the assembly line workers initially. Again, this is merely a guess on my part. This is listed as sheet number 50.
The photo to the right shows the way they ran the 3 plug wires on the driver’s side. Again, it is listed for a 1987. This is listed as sheet number 34. Not pictured is sheet 35 that simply lists the sequence of assembly of the Turbo. It covers 9 steps to assemble the turbo and attachments such as the drain pipe and the heat shield.
PHOTO 4 – The photo to the left shows page 51, which covers the Hose and Check Valve assembly. The photo to the right shows page 32 the Electronic Module and Coil Assembly. Again, every number you see in a block is then listed with the GM part number.
My guess is they probably did a similar description manual for each section of the car, such as the interior, frame, and body. Again, this is a guess on my part.
STEERING WHEELS UPDATE –
Last week we did a story about finding a 1964 GTO optional steering wheel and gave our guess as to what that option cost in 1964. This past week we heard from Pete Serio, known to many of you as the original Window Rattle Guy. Pete is very well versed in GTOs. According to Pete that steering wheel first appeared as an option in 1963 on full-size Pontiac models and became available as an option on the 1964 LeMans. The 1964 GTO was simply an option on a Lemans, similar to what Buick did originally with the Grand National making it an option on a regular Regal Coupe.
According to Pete, that option plastic wood steering wheel original price ranged from $28.62 to $39.27, depending on which Pontiac model you ordered it for. You had to order the car to get that option as the wheel was not offered separately over the parts department as an ad-on package. That definitely added to the rarity of this highly desirable option in the 1964 GTO world.
BOOK “666” UPDATE –
I remembered years ago my Dad telling me that his book “666” was mentioned in one of Stephen King’s book. If you google it, the Stephen King book where it is mentioned is titled the “Dead Zone” published in 1979 by Stephen King. My Dad’s book “666” first was published in 1970. I believe it was the third book my Dad wrote.
THOM SANSOUCIE AUTO SERIES LIMITED EDITION TURBO REGAL ART –
We have just one of the 24” by 36” Turbo Regal art prints available, part #7203. It is number 599 of 2000 produced. The normal retail price is $159.95 plus shipping. We are discontinuing this art print and also the small one, part #7202.
This makes a nice gift for that Turbo Regal owner. The special price on this last print we have is $139.95 and just $12 shipping to the basic 48 states. You must call our office to order this – 215-766-1611 x 0. We only have this one print! THIS IS A NEW LOWER PRICE $109.95 plus $12 shipping.
We also have on a piece of acrylic a picture of a 1966 GTO. I bought this several years ago at Carlisle. It measures approximately 15” by 20”. It is based on the box cover of the 1966 GTO slot car. The price is $34.95 and $12 shipping. That slot car has a value today of about $500 if you got one unbuilt in the original box. (I have one in my private collection). Either item makes for a nice unique gift.
See Photo 2 in 10-3-2018 Inner Circle. Contact our office if you would like to order – 215-766-1611 x 0.
CUSTOMER VISITS US FROM VIRGINIA –
Rick and Molly May from Stuarts Draft, Virginia stopped at our company this past weekend on the way to the New England Patriots – Kansas City Chiefs game on Sunday night. It was a 40th birthday gift from Rick’s wife. Rick has a WE4 he is working on that they purchased from a relative in California.
This game featured the old man Tom Brady against the new rookie sensation Patrick Mahomes that everyone is talking about.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER –
Why is it that golf courses and funeral homes have the best looking manicured lawns? As for funeral homes, if you’re the one in the casket, it’s not as though you can see it.
REMEMBER THE VIDEO PROFILE THAT WAS DONE LAST YEAR? –
Steve, the producer of that video, is now producing an automotive radio show in the Philadelphia market and is currently looking for sponsorship. Sponsors will receive commercial air time during the program as well as web and video presence. Because it’s the inaugural season of the show, rates are low compared to standard radio rates.
Business owners, particularly those in the Philadelphia region who are looking for a new way to advertise, should contact Steve at - [email protected] and check out the website at www.carsmartradio.com
They are slated to begin broadcasting at 11am for one hour on 610ESPN radio. That Saturday slot will be the time slot for at least until May, with a few preemptions for football and basketball (Villanova).
The radio station kept the rates the same for Steve even though we’re now going to the larger radio station. This is very exciting!
BMWS AND TURBO REGALS -
The year was around 1999 when I was still buying various 1986-1987 Turbo Regals. I got a call from a customer in Georgia. He had a real nice 1986 T-Type hardtop. The car was black with a tan interior. I was very interested since the car was totally stock and being a Georgia car had zero rust issues. He explained to me he was going on vacation to North Carolina later in the month.
I discovered that the time frame he was going on vacation was the exact same time as the BMW convention held at their South Carolina Plant. I called him to see if his trip was going to take him close to the BMW plant and he said it would. He even agreed to have his wife follow him so we could do the transaction at the BMW plant.
I called Pete Serio who was always up for a road trip long as I was paying for the meals! Besides we could go to the BMW National convention as a side trip. The timing was perfect and the car was exactly as described. Pete and I got to enjoy the BMW show. I drove down in my 1995 M3 BMW and I let Pete drive the T-Type back. It was a great trip. Probably the only time a Turbo Regal was sold in a BMW factory parking lot.
You should all be glad Buick car shows are not like BMW car shows. I am not sure if it’s true today, but back then you had to remove everything from the trunk for judging including the spare and jack. If Turbo Regal owners had to do it, the sun would be setting in the west before most of you would be able to get the jack and spare back properly in the trunk!
It’s amazing on the cars we end up buying at the bid lot, almost without fail, every one I have to bolt in the jack properly and the spare tire!
ANOTHER COINCIDENCE REFERRING TO ABOVE STORY –
When I put 1986 T-Type from the last story up for sale, I had a local buyer want it that worked in a northeast Philadelphia auto repair shop. First, he bought my book and would read it at work on his lunch time.
One day his boss spotted the book and remarked that he was in the midst of making settlement on a house in Huntingdon Valley and the owners name were Mary and Salem Kirban. Turns out his boss was buying my parents home where I grew up!
He ended up buying the 1986 T-Type. End of story and yes his boss bought my parents house! What are the odds of that?
38th ANNUAL GS NATIONALS –
October 24th - 27th, 2018
The dates for this year are October 24-27, 2018. Same location, Beech Bend Race Park, Bowling Green, Kentucky. For more info, go to their website - GSnationals.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 3,300 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 x 0.
CLASSIFIED AD –
AD – 1967 GS BUICK PARTS FOR SALE –
Some NOS, some used and reproduction pieces. Grille center molding, NOS pair of 5958827 Left and right signal lamp lenses, NOS cigar lighter, Pair of good used signal lenses, Rechrome outside door handles, trunk letters, tail lamp bezels, quarter and trunk moldings. First and second design 2-piece wheel opening moldings, NOS and used antenna bezels. NOS 40927 AC fuel pump, correct distributor and Q-jet carb with tag, NOS side view mirrors and more! Call or email [email protected] or 941-845-4446. 2 of 4
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.
My 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]
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 –
Remember, there is a difference between reproduction and replacement parts. Replacement parts may work but not look exactly correct.
Also, it’s important to remember on reproduction parts there can be several versions of the same part and the quality may vary as well.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED - Powermaster brake units. The must be complete. We will now issue you a Letter of Credit for $150 for each acceptable core. We currently will not buy any powermaster units outright, only Letter of Credit towards parts.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number. These are the only 2 items we are currently accepting as cores.
MAIL - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949
UPS - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
6201 Kellers Church Road
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949-1199
TECH CALLS -
If you need technical information, it’s best to email – [email protected] - rather than call us. We will do our best to answer any technical questions within 24 hours. Please remember I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US –
GM Licensed - “GNX - AD from ASC” and
“1987 GRAND NATIONAL with Hub Caps Background” MUGS
Our GM licensed supplier has taken the two popular Turbo Regal banners and put that same design on a high-quality white 11-ounce ceramic coffee mug.
These GM licensed mugs make an excellent gift for any Buick enthusiast or mechanic. Ideal to for any garage, workshop, office or to display at a car show.
The GNX AD from ASC mug has the artwork repeated on both sides of the mug.
The Grand National layout wraps around the mug.
Another excellent Buick enthusiast gift idea.
7839 - GM Licensed - “GNX - AD from ASC” Mug - $12.95
7840 - GM Licensed - “1987 Grand National with Hub Caps Background” Mug - $12.95
Here is a link to these mugs on our website.
1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Reproduction METAL RADIO BRACKETS (2) SET
We now offer an excellent reproduction of the unique brackets Buick used to secure the radio in any 1984-1987, Regal including the Turbo models.
The metal bracket is the same for both sides but mounts differently on each side of the GM radio.
This is a critical part you need to install any factory correct 1984-1987 GM radio. It also fits many of the later GM radios that have the same frame and size, including some of the early factory GM CD players.
Another excellent replacement for any interior restoration.
7838 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Reproduction Metal Radio Brackets (2) Set - $25
Here is a link to these brackets 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] - 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 –
Weather is finally turning cooler in our area. Amount of rainfall in our area is already 5 inches over the norm and the year is not over yet!