07-09-2014 Inner Circle

Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 07-09-2014

GTOAA NATIONAL CONVENTION -

As we reported previously, I was one of the invited guest speakers at the 2014 GTOAA National Convention. It was good to see so many of our old-time customers from years ago. They had about 225 GTOs on display, including a special section for cars that were still owned by the original owners.

ARNIE "THE FARMER" BESWICK -

For almost 60 years years, Arnie “Farmer” Beswick probably has been one of the best known Pontiac Racers. In the span of those years, he has campaigned 20 different Pontiac race cars.

The 1964 GTO called the “Tameless Tiger” is probably one of the most famous cars, which he still races today at age 84!

In talking to Arnie at the GTOAA meet, this car has clocked an impressive 6.96 time slip in the quarter mile at just over 201 mph. He did this when he was 79 or 80!

PHOTO 1 - The top left photo shows Arnie “Farmer” Beswick’s 1964 Tameless Tiger GTO at the GTOAA 2014 convention. The top right photo shows Arnie in front of his car. The bottom left photo shows what it looks like inside the cockpit of his impressive sub-7-second ride! The bottom right photo shows me with Arnie as he is handing over the keys to his racecar! Later we would joke about the vast difference in his Social Security check and the fact mine is almost 4 times larger since he retired so long ago. The only difference is he has been collecting his for almost 20 years now! What he gets each month from Social Security would not even cover the fuel costs for his Tameless Tiger GTO!



ONE UNUSUAL 1966 GTO -

While I was walking around the various indoor show cars, a gentleman approached me and wanted to take some pictures of me by his immaculate 1966 GTO. This customer’s name was Ron Tvrdovsky from Creighton, Pennsylvania. He was a longtime GTO customer of ours and he used to get our monthly GTO newsletter in the 1980s and 1990s.

Each month we had a section that featured our most rare items. In the mid-1980s Ron bought a mint set of Hurst wheels, a complete redone tri-power set up, a factory correct 1966-1967 am/fm radio and a rare optional 1966 walnut shift knob from us. At the time he paid $1,000 for the Hurst wheels, around $500 for the tri-power and $200 for the 1966-67 am/fm radio. He did not get his 1966 GTO restored until the mid-1990s. Today those Hurst wheels would fetch $5 grand or more. (He says he recently bought another set of Hurst wheels and paid $5 grand for them). The tri-power would bring $2 grand or more and the radio would bring almost a $grand. He says the radio still works today. It was neat seeing one of the 23 sets of Hurst wheels that we sold back in the 1980s on an actual show car at this event.

PHOTO 2 - The top left photo shows Ron’s immaculate black 1966 GTO hardtop. The top right photo shows Ron and me looking under the hood of his car. Notice the tri-power. The bottom left photo shows one of the Hurst wheels on his car. The bottom right shows the factory am/fm radio and the rare walnut shift knob.

PHOTO 3 - The top left photo shows a 1966 GTO that features a complete 2004-2006 GTO drivetrain. The top right photo shows the entire 2004-2006 GTO interior, including the dash transplanted into the 1966 GTO body. The bottom left shows another view and you can see even the later-model GTO wheels where used. The bottom right photo gives the details on the car.

PHOT0 4 - This top left photo shows a set of Hurst wheels with the optional spinners that had been in storage since around 1970. The seller is a good friend of mine and he was asking $7,500. While I was there, someone told him the tires alone were worth $3,000. The top right photo shows a brand new set of 1964 GTO grilles that had a $2,500 price tag alongside a set of trips that was priced at $1,800. The bottom left shows some trunk lids for sale. The price on the 1969 GTO trunk lid was $900. The bottom right photo shows one of the few GTOs I spotted for sale. The price on this car was $32,000. It was a rare 4-speed with a bench seat. I saw several early 4-speed consoles in the $500 to $1,000 price range. I also saw some correct numbered four barrel carburetors in the $500 to $900 price range. It’s hard to believe that we used to buy whole running GTOs years ago in the $500 to $1,000 range. The most money we ever got for Hurst wheels was $3,200 back around the early 1990s.



HEADACHES CONTINUE FOR GM -

The headaches for GM continue to grow and now the total recalls affect over 29 million GM vehicles.

I saw a recent cartoon that showed a salesperson explaining to a potential customer, “This GM car was only driven by a little old lady to recalls and back.”

Maybe it’s time to return the ignition switch back to the dashboard? I often wonder how miles of electrical wire are used in a current well-optioned car versus one from 25 or more years ago? I know one thing, almost any Turbo Regal owner that has the optional power antenna wishes it was a fixed one instead because of the high failure rate



URGENT REQUEST -

I am looking for an outlet to purchase metal drums, similar in size to a typical 55 gallon drum. They must be new. The drum size needs to be about 19 inches tall by 15-16 inches in diameter. I would buy 25-50 of them to start. I greatly appreciate any leads you may have for me - [email protected]



DEFYING THE ODDS -

With several print magazines struggling to stay afloat, it’s amazing that Hemmings Motor News seems to grow each month. The July issue is almost 600 pages long!



WINDOW STICKER UPDATE -

As of this writing, we can no longer order the reproduction Window Stickers. I don’t know all the details, but I also know they are not even doing any of the Corvette or Pontiac Window Sticker at the present time. Watch for updates in the future.



UNUSUAL CAR AD SPOTTED -

I recently spotted this ad for a Grand National for sale. It reads in part, “$16,000 firm or higher offer.”



MORE UNUSUAL VEHICLES FOR SALE -

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


2009 OPEN UTILITY TRAILER - This is a 5 by 8 open utility trailer that has a railing around the outside that is about one foot up from the wooden floor surface. A matching height tailgate is on the back. The floor has been reinforced underneath as I used it to take Turbo Regal drive trains down to Richard’s place in North Carolina. It has a front mounted spare, which is included. It will need tires due to heat cracks. Price is $795 or best offer. This is owned by our company and is in Kintnersville, PA.

1999 PONTIAC FIREBIRD HARDTOP - See Photo 2 in (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. I have records showing the second owner had it from 24,000 miles until 84,000 miles. 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 and exhaust 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 $6,495 or best reasonable offer. NEW LOWER PRICE – EXCELLENT VALUE FOR THE MONEY.

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. Car is automatic. 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.

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



TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -

If you have a tip or a discovery that you found that works on your Turbo Regal, drop us an email giving us the details so we can pass the info on to our readers. Remember, even with my knowledge, I don’t know it all. Simply email me at - [email protected]



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 UPDATE -

We should have all this information and pricing available by the next inner circle.

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 - Enjoy the summer!

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