Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 07-15-2015
“CHRYSLERS AT CARLISLE” Event -
I attended Chryslers at Carlisle event last Friday. The weather was picture perfect. This Chrysler event is one of the biggest car line events held at Carlisle. The show was packed. There was a huge number of Darts, Dusters, Challengers, and Cudas on the show field. If I had to take a guess, there had to be at least 25-to-30 of the new 707 HP Challenger Hellcats on the show field! Until Friday I had yet to see one personally.
Chrysler was there with several huge displays. They even had three Hellcats they used to give spectators a quick accelerated ride! There was a constant line for getting to ride shotgun in a 707 HP Hellcat.
PHOTO 1 - The photo on the left shows the setup where the three Dodge Hellcats would pick up spectators and then take a blast up the one hill on the Carlisle Fairgrounds. In the photo on the right, you may be able to see that one of the Hellcats drivers was a woman. I doubt there was much tread left on the rear tires after running the three Hellcats all day in that heat.
I did see one individual selling a new Hellcat in the car corral. It also included a vanity tag for the state of Montana. The plastic was still on the seats and a cover was still on the steering wheel. The Window Sticker was also on the one window. The price tag, I believe, was $90,000. It reminds me of the days when secondary sellers were selling GNXs above the Suggested Retail Price.
PHOTO 2 - The top left photo shows a brand new Chrysler display showing a turbo intercooler engine. When it was turned on you could see the flow through the turbo. The display was brand new and for sale for $250. This was probably a Dealer Promotion Display for a mid-1980s Chrysler Turbo car. The top right photo shows several of the ultra high-dollar Mopars, the Super Birds. The lower left and lower right show the two Warner Brother cartoon characters that Chrysler used on several of their muscle car back in the day.
One of the most interesting cars was a barn find. A real 1970 Plymouth Superbird with less than 4,000 miles on it that was never titled, and had been tucked away for about 30 years. The story goes that at the original dealership, the owner’s son took it out one day soon after the car was delivered to the dealership. He was in a small accident and once it was fixed, the car could not be sold as a new car. The owner then took it to his home and simply stored it. The Superbird is the rare Richard Petty Blue color.
PHOTO 3 - The top left photo shows the barn find Superbird complete with 30 years of dirt and dust! The top right photo shows a close up of what remains of the original Window Sticker on the side glass. The lower left photo shows the front view of the Superbird. The lower right photo is the display giving the complete history of the car.
I clearly remember these cars when they were new. They were not exactly highly sought after in some parts of the country back then.
IF ONLY I COULD HAVE KNOWN -
“If only I could have known,” are probably six words many people my age say when they take time to reflect on the cars they had in the past.
Back in the 1980s, I focused on buying two car brands. Pontiac GTOs and buying mint or nearly-mint Mopars. I was never into collecting the popular cars, such as Chevrolet, except Corvettes, of course.
Here is a quick list of the Mopars that we owned.
We had three different 1967 GTXs. One was a Hemi and one was a black-on-black convertible. We also had a mint 1968 blue GTX convertible.
A 1970 Road Runner 4-speed, 1972 Duster triple black 4-speed, a 1970 Cuda 4-speed, a AAR Cuda, and one of the rare 1969 Dart GTS with the optional 383 engine.
I restored a low-optioned 1968 Road Runner 4-speed bench seat car. The most I paid for any of these cars was $5,000 and that was for the 1967 GTX Hemi with 22,000 miles on it. I think I had that car the longest of all the Mopars. For some reason I enjoyed driving that car. It’s also the only Mopar that I restored.
RARE COLORS Continued -
Owning a car with a rare color combination is not just limited to Buick or GM. I am sure over the years every car manufacturer has produced some very rare color examples. In some cases, purely by accident because they just were not popular among buyers.
PHOTO 4 - In 1957 Chevrolet had a color called Canyon Coral, which looked like a very light purple. The photo to the left shows this very rare color on a restored 1957 Chevrolet Nomad. At the Chrysler event I spotted a very rare 1956 Dodge two-door hardtop that featured a tri-color combination. This can be seen in the photo on the right. I am not sure how many years Dodge offered the tri-color. In both cases, the owner was very aware of just how rare their cars are, based on the color combinations.
I was able to go through some of my Buick literature and pinpoint when Buick cancelled certain colors. On March 3rd, 1987 Buick cancelled three exterior colors - light sage, cream beige, and brown. They also cancelled the matching body side stripes (moldings) and sage color interiors. On March 20th, 1987 the two-tone brown “Designer Accent Paint” treatment, as they called it, was cancelled for the remainder of the year. None of those colors were very popular back when the cars were new.
Next week we will cover another color that, because of a new option, created a rare combination. Stay tuned!
KEN STABLER PASSED AWAY -
If you follow football and watched it during the 1970s, you’ll remember that Ken Stabler was a huge part of the Oakland Raiders success. It was always thrilling to watch him play. He was one of the great quarterbacks in the 1970s.
CLOSE OUT ITEMS -
We are discontinuing the “Black Air: The Buick Grand National Documentary” 24" x 36" Poster, part #7466. However, we will continue to offer the Black Air DVD, part #7465. We have just 4 of the posters left. The price is $21.95, which includes free shipping. You must call our office 215-766-1611 x 0 to order this part!
We are also discontinuing part #7594, the Aftermarket Idler Arm Assembly that fits all 1978-1987 Buick Regals, including the Turbo models. We have just one left. The price is $34.95, which includes free shipping. You must call our office 215-766-1611 x 0 to order this last one.
NOTE - We have a damaged one-piece Spoolfool rear filler panel. If you are handy with repairing fiberglass, this can be repaired. It is cracked near the center. Normal retail is $370. You can buy this panel for $165 and FREE UPS shipping to any of the basic 48 states. If you are interested, email me [email protected] I can email you a photo of the damage. NEW LOWER PRICE
NOTE - Here’s a one-of-a-kind mistake that you can own. Our supplier of the carpeted floor mats made a mistake on a pair of fronts. They are black floor mats, and the T-Type logo and under that logo is the power six logo in red/yellow/white embroidered on them. The “T” is in red the word “TYPE” is in black on the T-Type logo, so it is not very visible against the carpeted black floor mats. This is a one pair only. Price is $40 and $12 UPS ground shipping.
REPRODUCTION GNX-STYLE DASH FOR SALE -
Complete pre-mounted GNX dash for sale. All of the cutting, fitting and alignment work is complete, just wire the dash and install the entire unit.
Kit Includes:
Applique with correct color indicators
Metal mounting plate
Plastic gauge bezel
Stock pre-cut cluster harness
Stock dash bezel (pre-cut with plastic gauge bezel attached)
New Stewart Warner speedometer with upper speedometer cable
New Stewart Warner tachometer
New Stewart Warner oil pressure gauge with sending unit
New Stewart Warner water temperature gauge with sending unit
New Stewart Warner fuel gauge
New Stewart Warner vacuum/ boost gauge
Plug-and-play harness
$2,250 plus shipping
This one was hand built by a good friend of ours who owns three Grand Nationals and has built several of these.
It comes with stock bezel already precut so you do not have to cut your dash bezel. This kit eliminates any possible issues of trial and error since they have built several of these. Buyer would have to inform us which dash is currently in the car - either digital or analog.
If interested, email me direct - [email protected] - I can provide photos.
REFURBISHED UPGRADED USED LOWER STEERING SHAFTS -
As you read this, I have just 2 left of the refurbished upgraded used lower steering shafts now in stock, part #7572. Email me - [email protected] - if you want one from this batch.
Here is a link to this shaft on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44150/UPGRADED+REFURBISHED+USED+LOWER+STEERING+SHAFT+%237574.html
CORES NEEDED -
We have an urgent need for powermaster cores, steering wheel cores, and turbo cores.
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
POWERMASTER CORES must be complete with brake bowl and brake switch. You get $100 Letter of Credit or we will trade our complete headlight kit #7530 a $129.95 value for each acceptable core. Powermaster units must be nice and not look like they been in a river for the last 10 years.
STEERING WHEEL CORES must be the 1986-1987 style. They can’t have any bent spokes and spokes, and can’t be rusty. We will issue you a $75 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock ones. They must be complete. We will issue you a $100 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number
MAIL - Ship to Address -
ATTN DENNIS
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADSVILLE, PA 18949-1199
TECH CALLS -
Because our busy season is starting, 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.
ORIGINAL GM AC DELCO HEATER WATER VALVE -
Our supplier was able to locate a few more of these original brand new AC Delco heater water valves. You must call our office to order one - 215-766-1611 x 0. The price is $60 plus shipping. It appears this AC Delco heater water valve will be discontinued from GM and AC Delco. It doesn’t appear that we will be getting any more of theses. We have just 2 left!
DISCONTINUED - 1987 GENERAL MOTORS BODY SERVICE MANUAL -
It appears we have exhausted the supply of original 1987 General Motors Body Service Manuals, our part #7196.
Our source in Michigan has not been able to ship us any in the last 5-6 months. Actually, I was surprised that their inventory lasted that long!
CAR FOR SALE - 2004 CADILLAC CTS V - CFS027
One of our Turbo Buick customers has his personal 2004 Cadillac CTS V for sale. He purchased it originally in 2007 and it has 86,400 miles on it. This is the first year for the CTS V model.
The CTS V has been well cared for, since he has treated the car like his Grand National. It was never smoked in, garage kept, and never used in bad weather. Car is completely stock. He has all the service records, which will go with the car.
You may remember a few years back I found one for Richard Clark. The car is the best of both worlds - the Corvette drive train with seating for the family! The price is $14,250. Car is located in New York.
For photos, see our website. Contact Dennis Zach direct for additional photos or more information.
Contact Dennis Zach at 914-325-3499 or email is [email protected]
Here is a link to this Cadillac CTS V on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44258/CAR+FOR+SALE+-+2004+CADILLAC+CTS+V+-+CFS027.html
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. Also any cars that our customers have for sale will be featured here and you can see their car with photos on our website. 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.
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]
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
“THE POWER PAC BUICK - PERFORMANCE AND RESTORATION TIPS” Book
and Guide to 1978-1987 Buick Grand National, T-Type and GNX “THE FACTS & FIGURES BOOK - SERIES #II” Book
“The Power Pac Buick Performance and Restoration Tips” book by Steven L. Dove covers the popular Buick Turbo Regals; Grand Nationals, T-Types, Turbo-Ts, and GNXs. It was published in 1998.
The book measures 6" x 9", has 230 pages and includes eight chapters of information. One chapter highlights all the major players with fast Turbo Regals from Marka Gallina to Kenny Duttweiler. Another chapter covers transmission upgrades by Art Carr. That same chapter includes tidbits on getting your turbo car to run in the 11’s and 12’s.
A later chapter covers restoration and care of your Turbo Regal. There is a tech talk section with John Craig on turbo upgrades and a chapter on suspension and brake upgrades. Another chapter deals with all the specifications with quick data information covering all Turbo Regals from 1982 through 1987, including the GNX.
The “Guide to 1978-1987 Buick Grand National, T-Type and GNX - FACTS & FIGURES BOOK - SERIES #II” covers the history of the Buick Regal from 1978 through 1987. It has many pictures and shows actual Service Bulletins covering the Turbo Regals from GM. Very informative with many pictures and illustrations. It measures 6" x 9" and has 260+ pages, and was published in 1992.
These are great additions to your Buick library of information.
NOTE - We recently acquired a limited supply of these two books from the 1990s. Once our stock is sold, there are no more. Order now, while supplies last.
Here are the 3 options for these books.
6791 - “THE POWER PAC BUICK - PERFORMANCE AND RESTORATION TIPS” Book by Steven L. Dove - $18.95
6618 - “Guide to 1978-1987 Buick Grand National, T-Type and GNX - FACTS & FIGURES - SERIES #II” Book by Steven L. Dove - $18.95
7681 - “THE POWER PAC BUICK - PERFORMANCE AND RESTORATION TIPS” Book
AND Guide to 1978-1987 Buick Grand National, T-Type and GNX - “THE FACTS & FIGURES BOOK - SERIES #II” Book - $30 / 2 book set (Save $7.90)
Here is a link to these books on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7681&submit_button=
1985-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
CONVERSION VACUUM BRAKE BOOSTER KIT with New Correct Size PIN for the Stock Brake Pedal
This is another option to consider if you have a fairly stock 1985-1987 Buick Turbo Regal and want to switch from the original powermaster brake system.
This kit comes complete with everything you need as shown. This kit is very similar to Part #7625 however, it does not include a factory vacuum brake pedal. Instead we include a correct size machined pin that needs to be welded to the original stock brake pedal. Directions showing proper measurements come with it, so this machined pin can be done by a welder on the original brake pedal rod.
It comes with a REBUILT Cardone brake booster and a BRAND new master cylinder. The booster has a 9" diameter. The master cylinder and vacuum booster in this kit are exactly what GM used in 1986-1987 on a non-Turbo Regal application.
There are no clearance issues with this unit and the stock remote power steering reservoir.
It also comes with our new vacuum block with gasket and hardware. It has the vacuum port similar to what GM used on the 1989 Turbo Trans Am. We also include 2 feet of vacuum hose and our new reproduction gasket to firewall.
This booster kit uses the same factory holes in the firewall as the powermaster.
Since nothing gets cut or drilled related to the original powermaster, the original powermaster can be re-used should you want to convert back to the factory set up at a later date. However, you would need to acquire a brake pedal for a Turbo Regal to have it function properly.
We highly recommend installation be done by a qualified mechanic, since you have to properly bleed the brakes and need to weld the new brake pedal pin to the factory pedal rod. You also have to cut off the original pin from the brake pedal rod. Make sure the system is operating properly under all conditions.
Remember, your best option is always to stay with the factory GM powermaster brake system. This unit is only to be used with a stock or a fairly stock Turbo Regal. A modified engine or one with a performance cam would cause vacuum levels to be greatly reduced, which could cause braking problems. One possible solution would be to purchase an additional vacuum canister to retain proper vacuum levels from Summit or Jegs.
When purchasing this kit, you may also want to purchase Part #7218, Stainless Braided Brake Hoses, as these will improve the stopping ability.
For our rebuilt powermaster brake unit, See our Part #7021 Rebuilt Powermaster Brake Unit.
However, if you have a STOCK engine, there is adequate vacuum to switch over to a vacuum brake system. We have another option: Our Part #7625 - Conversion Vacuum Brake Booster Kit with vacuum brake pedal.
The difference between #7625 and this kit #7679, is that this kit comes with the correct pin instead of a vacuum brake pedal.
NOTE - A vacuum brake system is NOT recommended for a Turbo Regal with a modified engine or one with a performance cam because vacuum levels are greatly reduced, which could cause braking problems.
NOTE - Be sure to check out the other options we offer for converting the Turbo Regal brake system - Part #7625 Conversion Vacuum Brake Booster Kit with Vacuum Brake Pedal, Part #7617 Hydro-Boost Conversion Kit, or #7618 HYDRATECH Hydro-Boost System conversion. Related parts to consider are #7218 Stainless Braided Brake Hoses and #7021 Rebuilt Powermaster Brake Unit.
NOTE - We recommend installation be done by a qualified auto mechanic. Welding is required.
7679 - 1985-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Conversion Vacuum Brake Booster Kit with New Correct Size PIN for the Stock Brake Pedal - $329.95
Here is a link to this kit on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7679&submit_button=
ALWAYS LOOKING FOR IDEAS -
If you have any product ideas that would fit our Turbo Buick market that you would like to see available, email me direct - [email protected]
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION FOR TURBO REGAL PARTS -
Got any Turbo Buick parts you are not using? Why not cash them in for parts you need with a Letter of Credit. Simply email me a list - [email protected]. Also, we are still buying dead or partially dead 1984-1987 Turbo Regals under $4,000 that are within 250 to 350 miles of our location.
NOTE - ABOUT LINKS IN THE INNER CIRCLE -
We have heard from a couple people that have had problems with the links in our Inner Circle.
When we check the links, they work fine. However, if you are not able to be directed to the exact website page or internet site, you can "copy" and "paste" the link into the URL in your browser (such as Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
Most people having problems are using Internet Explorer… If you are having issues with links, try another browser to see if it works.
You may need to "UPDATE" your browser to be use you are using the current version.
NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE -
We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these 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.
2015 CALENDAR OF EVENTS -
EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS & MAGNA PRESENTS ALL BUICK POWERED JUDGED CAR SHOW
September 18th and 19th, 2015
Cecil County Dragway, Maryland - Interstate 95 and MD Route 272 (Exit 100)
I plan to be there Saturday only.
Host Hotel - Comfort Inn, phone 410-287-7100
Free Vending
For more information, contact Doug Dougherty 302-653-2201 or John Csordas 914-447-6068 or email - [email protected]
35th Annual GS NATIONALS 2015
October 14-17, 2015
Beech Bend Raceway, Bowling Green, Kentucky
Here is a link to the event on their website:
http://www.gsnationals.com
IN CLOSING -
Watch for upcoming article in our Turbo Regal Inner Circle on the original radios that Buick offered in the Turbo Regals.
“CHRYSLERS AT CARLISLE” Event -
I attended Chryslers at Carlisle event last Friday. The weather was picture perfect. This Chrysler event is one of the biggest car line events held at Carlisle. The show was packed. There was a huge number of Darts, Dusters, Challengers, and Cudas on the show field. If I had to take a guess, there had to be at least 25-to-30 of the new 707 HP Challenger Hellcats on the show field! Until Friday I had yet to see one personally.
Chrysler was there with several huge displays. They even had three Hellcats they used to give spectators a quick accelerated ride! There was a constant line for getting to ride shotgun in a 707 HP Hellcat.
PHOTO 1 - The photo on the left shows the setup where the three Dodge Hellcats would pick up spectators and then take a blast up the one hill on the Carlisle Fairgrounds. In the photo on the right, you may be able to see that one of the Hellcats drivers was a woman. I doubt there was much tread left on the rear tires after running the three Hellcats all day in that heat.
I did see one individual selling a new Hellcat in the car corral. It also included a vanity tag for the state of Montana. The plastic was still on the seats and a cover was still on the steering wheel. The Window Sticker was also on the one window. The price tag, I believe, was $90,000. It reminds me of the days when secondary sellers were selling GNXs above the Suggested Retail Price.
PHOTO 2 - The top left photo shows a brand new Chrysler display showing a turbo intercooler engine. When it was turned on you could see the flow through the turbo. The display was brand new and for sale for $250. This was probably a Dealer Promotion Display for a mid-1980s Chrysler Turbo car. The top right photo shows several of the ultra high-dollar Mopars, the Super Birds. The lower left and lower right show the two Warner Brother cartoon characters that Chrysler used on several of their muscle car back in the day.
One of the most interesting cars was a barn find. A real 1970 Plymouth Superbird with less than 4,000 miles on it that was never titled, and had been tucked away for about 30 years. The story goes that at the original dealership, the owner’s son took it out one day soon after the car was delivered to the dealership. He was in a small accident and once it was fixed, the car could not be sold as a new car. The owner then took it to his home and simply stored it. The Superbird is the rare Richard Petty Blue color.
PHOTO 3 - The top left photo shows the barn find Superbird complete with 30 years of dirt and dust! The top right photo shows a close up of what remains of the original Window Sticker on the side glass. The lower left photo shows the front view of the Superbird. The lower right photo is the display giving the complete history of the car.
I clearly remember these cars when they were new. They were not exactly highly sought after in some parts of the country back then.
IF ONLY I COULD HAVE KNOWN -
“If only I could have known,” are probably six words many people my age say when they take time to reflect on the cars they had in the past.
Back in the 1980s, I focused on buying two car brands. Pontiac GTOs and buying mint or nearly-mint Mopars. I was never into collecting the popular cars, such as Chevrolet, except Corvettes, of course.
Here is a quick list of the Mopars that we owned.
We had three different 1967 GTXs. One was a Hemi and one was a black-on-black convertible. We also had a mint 1968 blue GTX convertible.
A 1970 Road Runner 4-speed, 1972 Duster triple black 4-speed, a 1970 Cuda 4-speed, a AAR Cuda, and one of the rare 1969 Dart GTS with the optional 383 engine.
I restored a low-optioned 1968 Road Runner 4-speed bench seat car. The most I paid for any of these cars was $5,000 and that was for the 1967 GTX Hemi with 22,000 miles on it. I think I had that car the longest of all the Mopars. For some reason I enjoyed driving that car. It’s also the only Mopar that I restored.
RARE COLORS Continued -
Owning a car with a rare color combination is not just limited to Buick or GM. I am sure over the years every car manufacturer has produced some very rare color examples. In some cases, purely by accident because they just were not popular among buyers.
PHOTO 4 - In 1957 Chevrolet had a color called Canyon Coral, which looked like a very light purple. The photo to the left shows this very rare color on a restored 1957 Chevrolet Nomad. At the Chrysler event I spotted a very rare 1956 Dodge two-door hardtop that featured a tri-color combination. This can be seen in the photo on the right. I am not sure how many years Dodge offered the tri-color. In both cases, the owner was very aware of just how rare their cars are, based on the color combinations.
I was able to go through some of my Buick literature and pinpoint when Buick cancelled certain colors. On March 3rd, 1987 Buick cancelled three exterior colors - light sage, cream beige, and brown. They also cancelled the matching body side stripes (moldings) and sage color interiors. On March 20th, 1987 the two-tone brown “Designer Accent Paint” treatment, as they called it, was cancelled for the remainder of the year. None of those colors were very popular back when the cars were new.
Next week we will cover another color that, because of a new option, created a rare combination. Stay tuned!
KEN STABLER PASSED AWAY -
If you follow football and watched it during the 1970s, you’ll remember that Ken Stabler was a huge part of the Oakland Raiders success. It was always thrilling to watch him play. He was one of the great quarterbacks in the 1970s.
CLOSE OUT ITEMS -
We are discontinuing the “Black Air: The Buick Grand National Documentary” 24" x 36" Poster, part #7466. However, we will continue to offer the Black Air DVD, part #7465. We have just 4 of the posters left. The price is $21.95, which includes free shipping. You must call our office 215-766-1611 x 0 to order this part!
We are also discontinuing part #7594, the Aftermarket Idler Arm Assembly that fits all 1978-1987 Buick Regals, including the Turbo models. We have just one left. The price is $34.95, which includes free shipping. You must call our office 215-766-1611 x 0 to order this last one.
NOTE - We have a damaged one-piece Spoolfool rear filler panel. If you are handy with repairing fiberglass, this can be repaired. It is cracked near the center. Normal retail is $370. You can buy this panel for $165 and FREE UPS shipping to any of the basic 48 states. If you are interested, email me [email protected] I can email you a photo of the damage. NEW LOWER PRICE
NOTE - Here’s a one-of-a-kind mistake that you can own. Our supplier of the carpeted floor mats made a mistake on a pair of fronts. They are black floor mats, and the T-Type logo and under that logo is the power six logo in red/yellow/white embroidered on them. The “T” is in red the word “TYPE” is in black on the T-Type logo, so it is not very visible against the carpeted black floor mats. This is a one pair only. Price is $40 and $12 UPS ground shipping.
REPRODUCTION GNX-STYLE DASH FOR SALE -
Complete pre-mounted GNX dash for sale. All of the cutting, fitting and alignment work is complete, just wire the dash and install the entire unit.
Kit Includes:
Applique with correct color indicators
Metal mounting plate
Plastic gauge bezel
Stock pre-cut cluster harness
Stock dash bezel (pre-cut with plastic gauge bezel attached)
New Stewart Warner speedometer with upper speedometer cable
New Stewart Warner tachometer
New Stewart Warner oil pressure gauge with sending unit
New Stewart Warner water temperature gauge with sending unit
New Stewart Warner fuel gauge
New Stewart Warner vacuum/ boost gauge
Plug-and-play harness
$2,250 plus shipping
This one was hand built by a good friend of ours who owns three Grand Nationals and has built several of these.
It comes with stock bezel already precut so you do not have to cut your dash bezel. This kit eliminates any possible issues of trial and error since they have built several of these. Buyer would have to inform us which dash is currently in the car - either digital or analog.
If interested, email me direct - [email protected] - I can provide photos.
REFURBISHED UPGRADED USED LOWER STEERING SHAFTS -
As you read this, I have just 2 left of the refurbished upgraded used lower steering shafts now in stock, part #7572. Email me - [email protected] - if you want one from this batch.
Here is a link to this shaft on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44150/UPGRADED+REFURBISHED+USED+LOWER+STEERING+SHAFT+%237574.html
CORES NEEDED -
We have an urgent need for powermaster cores, steering wheel cores, and turbo cores.
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
POWERMASTER CORES must be complete with brake bowl and brake switch. You get $100 Letter of Credit or we will trade our complete headlight kit #7530 a $129.95 value for each acceptable core. Powermaster units must be nice and not look like they been in a river for the last 10 years.
STEERING WHEEL CORES must be the 1986-1987 style. They can’t have any bent spokes and spokes, and can’t be rusty. We will issue you a $75 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock ones. They must be complete. We will issue you a $100 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number
MAIL - Ship to Address -
ATTN DENNIS
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADSVILLE, PA 18949-1199
TECH CALLS -
Because our busy season is starting, 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.
ORIGINAL GM AC DELCO HEATER WATER VALVE -
Our supplier was able to locate a few more of these original brand new AC Delco heater water valves. You must call our office to order one - 215-766-1611 x 0. The price is $60 plus shipping. It appears this AC Delco heater water valve will be discontinued from GM and AC Delco. It doesn’t appear that we will be getting any more of theses. We have just 2 left!
DISCONTINUED - 1987 GENERAL MOTORS BODY SERVICE MANUAL -
It appears we have exhausted the supply of original 1987 General Motors Body Service Manuals, our part #7196.
Our source in Michigan has not been able to ship us any in the last 5-6 months. Actually, I was surprised that their inventory lasted that long!
CAR FOR SALE - 2004 CADILLAC CTS V - CFS027
One of our Turbo Buick customers has his personal 2004 Cadillac CTS V for sale. He purchased it originally in 2007 and it has 86,400 miles on it. This is the first year for the CTS V model.
The CTS V has been well cared for, since he has treated the car like his Grand National. It was never smoked in, garage kept, and never used in bad weather. Car is completely stock. He has all the service records, which will go with the car.
You may remember a few years back I found one for Richard Clark. The car is the best of both worlds - the Corvette drive train with seating for the family! The price is $14,250. Car is located in New York.
For photos, see our website. Contact Dennis Zach direct for additional photos or more information.
Contact Dennis Zach at 914-325-3499 or email is [email protected]
Here is a link to this Cadillac CTS V on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44258/CAR+FOR+SALE+-+2004+CADILLAC+CTS+V+-+CFS027.html
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. Also any cars that our customers have for sale will be featured here and you can see their car with photos on our website. 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.
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]
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
“THE POWER PAC BUICK - PERFORMANCE AND RESTORATION TIPS” Book
and Guide to 1978-1987 Buick Grand National, T-Type and GNX “THE FACTS & FIGURES BOOK - SERIES #II” Book
“The Power Pac Buick Performance and Restoration Tips” book by Steven L. Dove covers the popular Buick Turbo Regals; Grand Nationals, T-Types, Turbo-Ts, and GNXs. It was published in 1998.
The book measures 6" x 9", has 230 pages and includes eight chapters of information. One chapter highlights all the major players with fast Turbo Regals from Marka Gallina to Kenny Duttweiler. Another chapter covers transmission upgrades by Art Carr. That same chapter includes tidbits on getting your turbo car to run in the 11’s and 12’s.
A later chapter covers restoration and care of your Turbo Regal. There is a tech talk section with John Craig on turbo upgrades and a chapter on suspension and brake upgrades. Another chapter deals with all the specifications with quick data information covering all Turbo Regals from 1982 through 1987, including the GNX.
The “Guide to 1978-1987 Buick Grand National, T-Type and GNX - FACTS & FIGURES BOOK - SERIES #II” covers the history of the Buick Regal from 1978 through 1987. It has many pictures and shows actual Service Bulletins covering the Turbo Regals from GM. Very informative with many pictures and illustrations. It measures 6" x 9" and has 260+ pages, and was published in 1992.
These are great additions to your Buick library of information.
NOTE - We recently acquired a limited supply of these two books from the 1990s. Once our stock is sold, there are no more. Order now, while supplies last.
Here are the 3 options for these books.
6791 - “THE POWER PAC BUICK - PERFORMANCE AND RESTORATION TIPS” Book by Steven L. Dove - $18.95
6618 - “Guide to 1978-1987 Buick Grand National, T-Type and GNX - FACTS & FIGURES - SERIES #II” Book by Steven L. Dove - $18.95
7681 - “THE POWER PAC BUICK - PERFORMANCE AND RESTORATION TIPS” Book
AND Guide to 1978-1987 Buick Grand National, T-Type and GNX - “THE FACTS & FIGURES BOOK - SERIES #II” Book - $30 / 2 book set (Save $7.90)
Here is a link to these books on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7681&submit_button=
1985-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
CONVERSION VACUUM BRAKE BOOSTER KIT with New Correct Size PIN for the Stock Brake Pedal
This is another option to consider if you have a fairly stock 1985-1987 Buick Turbo Regal and want to switch from the original powermaster brake system.
This kit comes complete with everything you need as shown. This kit is very similar to Part #7625 however, it does not include a factory vacuum brake pedal. Instead we include a correct size machined pin that needs to be welded to the original stock brake pedal. Directions showing proper measurements come with it, so this machined pin can be done by a welder on the original brake pedal rod.
It comes with a REBUILT Cardone brake booster and a BRAND new master cylinder. The booster has a 9" diameter. The master cylinder and vacuum booster in this kit are exactly what GM used in 1986-1987 on a non-Turbo Regal application.
There are no clearance issues with this unit and the stock remote power steering reservoir.
It also comes with our new vacuum block with gasket and hardware. It has the vacuum port similar to what GM used on the 1989 Turbo Trans Am. We also include 2 feet of vacuum hose and our new reproduction gasket to firewall.
This booster kit uses the same factory holes in the firewall as the powermaster.
Since nothing gets cut or drilled related to the original powermaster, the original powermaster can be re-used should you want to convert back to the factory set up at a later date. However, you would need to acquire a brake pedal for a Turbo Regal to have it function properly.
We highly recommend installation be done by a qualified mechanic, since you have to properly bleed the brakes and need to weld the new brake pedal pin to the factory pedal rod. You also have to cut off the original pin from the brake pedal rod. Make sure the system is operating properly under all conditions.
Remember, your best option is always to stay with the factory GM powermaster brake system. This unit is only to be used with a stock or a fairly stock Turbo Regal. A modified engine or one with a performance cam would cause vacuum levels to be greatly reduced, which could cause braking problems. One possible solution would be to purchase an additional vacuum canister to retain proper vacuum levels from Summit or Jegs.
When purchasing this kit, you may also want to purchase Part #7218, Stainless Braided Brake Hoses, as these will improve the stopping ability.
For our rebuilt powermaster brake unit, See our Part #7021 Rebuilt Powermaster Brake Unit.
However, if you have a STOCK engine, there is adequate vacuum to switch over to a vacuum brake system. We have another option: Our Part #7625 - Conversion Vacuum Brake Booster Kit with vacuum brake pedal.
The difference between #7625 and this kit #7679, is that this kit comes with the correct pin instead of a vacuum brake pedal.
NOTE - A vacuum brake system is NOT recommended for a Turbo Regal with a modified engine or one with a performance cam because vacuum levels are greatly reduced, which could cause braking problems.
NOTE - Be sure to check out the other options we offer for converting the Turbo Regal brake system - Part #7625 Conversion Vacuum Brake Booster Kit with Vacuum Brake Pedal, Part #7617 Hydro-Boost Conversion Kit, or #7618 HYDRATECH Hydro-Boost System conversion. Related parts to consider are #7218 Stainless Braided Brake Hoses and #7021 Rebuilt Powermaster Brake Unit.
NOTE - We recommend installation be done by a qualified auto mechanic. Welding is required.
7679 - 1985-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Conversion Vacuum Brake Booster Kit with New Correct Size PIN for the Stock Brake Pedal - $329.95
Here is a link to this kit on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7679&submit_button=
ALWAYS LOOKING FOR IDEAS -
If you have any product ideas that would fit our Turbo Buick market that you would like to see available, email me direct - [email protected]
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION FOR TURBO REGAL PARTS -
Got any Turbo Buick parts you are not using? Why not cash them in for parts you need with a Letter of Credit. Simply email me a list - [email protected]. Also, we are still buying dead or partially dead 1984-1987 Turbo Regals under $4,000 that are within 250 to 350 miles of our location.
NOTE - ABOUT LINKS IN THE INNER CIRCLE -
We have heard from a couple people that have had problems with the links in our Inner Circle.
When we check the links, they work fine. However, if you are not able to be directed to the exact website page or internet site, you can "copy" and "paste" the link into the URL in your browser (such as Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
Most people having problems are using Internet Explorer… If you are having issues with links, try another browser to see if it works.
You may need to "UPDATE" your browser to be use you are using the current version.
NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE -
We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these 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.
2015 CALENDAR OF EVENTS -
EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS & MAGNA PRESENTS ALL BUICK POWERED JUDGED CAR SHOW
September 18th and 19th, 2015
Cecil County Dragway, Maryland - Interstate 95 and MD Route 272 (Exit 100)
I plan to be there Saturday only.
Host Hotel - Comfort Inn, phone 410-287-7100
Free Vending
For more information, contact Doug Dougherty 302-653-2201 or John Csordas 914-447-6068 or email - [email protected]
35th Annual GS NATIONALS 2015
October 14-17, 2015
Beech Bend Raceway, Bowling Green, Kentucky
Here is a link to the event on their website:
http://www.gsnationals.com
IN CLOSING -
Watch for upcoming article in our Turbo Regal Inner Circle on the original radios that Buick offered in the Turbo Regals.