Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members - 06-27-2012
MORE ON AC DELCO BATTERIES -
In last week's Inner Circle (6-20-12) Photo 2 we showed AC Delco 2 AA batteries and a flashlight that had the AC Delco decal on it. I was in Lancaster the other day, and at this same chain store I found another interesting AC Delco item related to the various household batteries.
Neatly packaged in a reusable plastic storage box was an assortment of 25 AC Delco batteries. The package contains 12-AA, 8-AAA, 2-C, 2-D 2-9 volt, plus a small plastic flashlight complete with 2-AA batteries - all for just $9.99. The "Best to Use Date" is 2014, so they are still good. I have never seen AC Delco batteries packaged like this. The Duracell has the copper top and AC Delco has the red top!
PHOTO 1 - Our top left photo shows this AC Delco storage box complete with the 25 batteries included, all for just $9.99.
In the top right photo we show a Buick metal key chain we purchased at GM at Carlisle last week. I bought all the seller had and you can see them listed in this week's Inner Circle. It's a beautiful silver metal key ring with a blue enamel type center featuring the word BUICK and tri-shield logo. On the back it says "USA." The seller seemed to think these are about a dozen years old or more. It's a very classy looking key ring.
In looking back at the various horn centers, it would have been nice if the GNX models were given a unique horn medallion.
The 1984 through 1987 Turbo Regals all had a 3-spoke leather steering wheel. To the best of my knowledge, Buick only used three different plastic center horn medallions on these cars.
In the lower left photo in this group we show first the one that says T-Type (left) along side the one with just the big letter T in the center (right).
The T-Type would be correct for all 1984-1986 T-Type Turbo Regals. In 1987 the T-Type model was dropped and it was now called the Turbo-T, or in the case of the horn medallion, just the letter T. There is another very subtle change Buick did that is not visible is on the surrounding rubber foam part on the 1987 version.
It appears that around 1987 Buick started to emboss a small horn symbol on the horn foam portion. Earlier years (1984-1986) don't seem to have this symbol. Perhaps this was done for any owners with limited eyesight; they could simply feel the symbol and know it's the horn!
In the lower right photo we show what Buick used on all the Grand Nationals and even the GNX. It was a black plastic medallion (left) and although barely visible in a very light grey was the Buick tri-shield symbol. The other medallion next to it (right) was used on other Buick horn medallion but is also the same size. This medallion is more colorful but would not be correct. I am not sure what models this multi-colored medallion came on.
SEEING SOME OF OUR PARTS AT SWAP MEETS -
Our company has in business for over 30 years now. I'm always surprised to find parts we have produced at various swap meets.
At the Fords at Carlisle event last week, we did see one of our billet style adjustable fuel regulators on a fuel rail.
Our billet style adjustable fuel regulators are very well known among Mustang owners as being one of the best buys for the money.
PHOTO 2 - The top photo shows the fuel rail with our billet adjustable fuel regulator still attached. I spoke to the seller, and he told me he uses the same adjustable fuel regulator on his own car. We had the part made, so he was surprised to meet me. We have been having them made for the Mustangs since 1991.
In the lower photo we show a very early style of our popular 1964-1965 GTO exhaust splitters. At the Performance Years Open House last weekend, I was next to the vendor that was selling our old GTO splitters! This was our first design where the stainless was welded to regular tubed tailpipe material.
These were made around 1981-1982 and were still in good shape. Later we went to making them 100% identical to the original ones, which look crude, but it is what owners that restore 1964-1965 GTOs actually want. (At the time it cost $10,000 to make the tooling needed to make them correct. The cost was the reason we did not do it right away!) This was the very first part we had made beginning back in 1978. We still get the 1964-1965 GTO tailpipe splitters made today and we supply the entire industry with them. No other company has successfully made this part except us!
One of the rarest items for sale at Performance Years event was this used pair of 1968 Ram Air II heads. The price tag was $5,000, which did not include the unique round port factory Pontiac exhaust manifolds.
PHOTO 3 - In this top left photo we show the 1968 GTO round port heads and behind them you can see the round port factory exhaust manifolds. The top right photo shows the trunk of a 1965 GTO complete with original literature, one of the very rare Hurst wheel cans, and the owner even has a Hurst wheel as the spare. In the lower left photo we show this same car highlighting one of the Hurst wheels and you can see our reproduction GTO splitters as well. Long before Buick owners were requesting Window Stickers, the same source we use has been doing the GTO Window Stickers. This lower right photo shows a typical 1960's Pontiac Window Sticker.
One of the most impressive Pontiacs I spotted at the Performance Years Open House was this 1957 Pontiac Safari station wagon. This was not the Nomad style, but a regular four-door station wagon. I can’t imagine how hard it must have been to locate many of the unique parts that the owner must have needed for that restoration.
PHOTO 4 - This first photo shows the 1957 Safari Pontiac station wagon. The second photo shows the upgraded 400 engine under the hood. The third photo shows a close up of the left taillight and quarter panel. I can’t imagine what the cost was just to redo all the exterior chrome on the car! Inside the car was all wood paneling on the floor. The last photo shows the owner (I assume) when he trailered the car home prior to beginning this project.
In quick review, it's the unusual cars that I really take notice of, because those owners really face a lot of restoration challenges.
ON THE NEWS FRONT -
Check out the August 2012 Issue of MOTOR TREND. They have a very good indepth article on Carroll Shelby, "The Life and Legacy of an Automotive Icon."
COLLECTIBLE AUTOMOBILE, August 2012 issue has an article, "1982-1987 Buick Regal Grand Nationals, Black Lightning." (This is the wording right off the cover of the magazine. I do not get this magazine nor have I found it in my travels.)
CAR CRAFT August 2012 issue has a 5-page article, GRANDMA'S COOKIN', on Chad Moskery's 1980 Malibu that has a nicely modified 1986-1987 turbo Buick engine under the hood. He has taken the “sleeper” approach, keeping the outside totally stock down to the “dog dish” hubcaps on painted steel rims. Chad hails from Missouri.
URGENT REQUEST - WE NEED STOCK TURBO CORES -
Currently we have a urgent need for 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo cores. They must have the exhaust housing. We will allow $75 Letter of Credit for any cores you send in.
It's important you contact our office first, so we know to expect it - 215-766-1611 x 0
By providing cores, you are helping other owners restore their cars.
CHECK THIS CAR OUT - KIRBAN FIND -
Currently the 1937 Packard coupe is still for sale. We have heard from several customers and have sent them a bunch of photos on this pristine modified 1937 Packard coupe. (See 6-6-2012 Inner Circle for more details.) Email me direct - [email protected] - for photos of this car.
Also the 3,500-mile 1987 Grand National hardtop that I found for Mike O’Neil several years ago is also still available. (See 6-6-2012 Inner Circle for more details). Email me direct [email protected] - for photos of this car.
NEW PARTS & NEW LINKS -
On the new items listed below, we do have some of each in stock for immediately delivery.
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction BLACK PLASTIC POWER ANTENNA BEZEL
This bezel will fit 1984-1987 Grand Nationals or Turbo Regals with the factory black bezel for the power antenna.
This is a reproduction of the black plastic bezel that sits at the base of the power antenna mast on the outside of the fender. Over a period of time this bezel can crack or fade.
If you have to replace the power antenna, we recommend you replace the black bezel at the same time. This part is unique to this application only.
This new reproduction bezel is made in ABS plastic with increased UV protection over the originals for a longer life. This ensures the part from dulling and cracking like the originals over a longer period of time.
Another nice finishing touch for any exterior restoration.
7426 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction Black Plastic Power Antenna Bezel - $13.95
Here is a link to the this antenna bezel on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/43980/Reproduction+BLACK%E2%80%88PLASTIC+POWER+ANTENNA%E2%80%88BEZEL+%23+7426.html
REPRODUCTION GNX SUSPENSION - NOW AVAILABLE -
Pete Hoffman has a limited number of the reproduction GNX Suspension Systems available. These are the Richard Clark systems that he has had made locally.
They are nearly exact to the originals, down to the welds and material used. They come with complete detailed instructions.
Limited availability!
Call or email Pete 215-778-1036
[email protected]
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION WORKS -
Got any turbo 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 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].
2012 CALENDAR OF EVENTS -
2012 BUICK PERFORMANCE GROUP "CLASS OF 1987" and "BIG BOAT BASH"
AUGUST 3rd and 4th, 2012 - Friday & Saturday
National Trail Raceway, Hebron, Ohio
The Buick Performance Group presents The Class of 1987 Buick Reunion featuring the 25th Anniversary of the Buick GNX and the 1987 Buick Grand National with presentations from personnel from both Buick and ASC. The ASC quality control car as well as a GNX Factory Prototype will also be on display. Doug Niro will be presenting a power point presentation. Louis Infante from ASC will also be present as well as Rick Hunt who was an employee. Visit -www.buickperformancegroup.com - for more information
2012 EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS and FAST EVENT -
SEPTEMBER 21st and 22nd, 2012 - Friday & Saturday
Cecil County Dragway, Maryland
Event is open to all models of Buicks
Featuring the 2nd Annual MAGNA (Mid-Atlantic Grand National Association) All Buick powered judged Car Show! All Buick's! All years! All makes!
Goodie bags for the first 50 Buicks in the show. Door prizes all day and 50/50 to win some cash. The ONLY ALL-Buick car show on the east coast!
For more information, contact Doug Dougherty - 302-653-2201 or John Csordas - 914-447-6068 or email questions to - [email protected] or [email protected] Visit their website -http://tristategsclub.com
2012 GS NATIONALS -
OCTOBER 17-20, 2012 - Wednesday-Saturday
Beach Bend Raceway, Bowling Green, Kentucky
Racing is FREE on Wednesday, October 17th. The correct dates are October 17-20, 2012. Because of the reschedule, they have negotiated FREE racing on Wednesday, October 17th. This includes "everyone" who comes thru the gate and pays the usual nominal entrance fee. There is NO usual additional charge to race your Buick powered cars on Wednesday.
The BCA (Buick Club of America) will be joining the GSCA event. This combination will make for a well-rounded event featuring all kinds of Buicks. This is one fall event you do not want to miss!
EBAY LISTINGS -
If you would like to see any of the Kirban Performance Products items listed on eBay, here is a link to our store and auctions - http://stores.ebay.com/Kirban-Performance-Products-Inc_W0QQssPageNameZl2QQtZ km
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 -
Next week, we will show you in pictures just how remarkable the Ultra Degreaser product really is!
We are working on an article about lighted rearview mirrors next week.
We will also have some photos of GM at Carlisle.
MORE ON AC DELCO BATTERIES -
In last week's Inner Circle (6-20-12) Photo 2 we showed AC Delco 2 AA batteries and a flashlight that had the AC Delco decal on it. I was in Lancaster the other day, and at this same chain store I found another interesting AC Delco item related to the various household batteries.
Neatly packaged in a reusable plastic storage box was an assortment of 25 AC Delco batteries. The package contains 12-AA, 8-AAA, 2-C, 2-D 2-9 volt, plus a small plastic flashlight complete with 2-AA batteries - all for just $9.99. The "Best to Use Date" is 2014, so they are still good. I have never seen AC Delco batteries packaged like this. The Duracell has the copper top and AC Delco has the red top!
PHOTO 1 - Our top left photo shows this AC Delco storage box complete with the 25 batteries included, all for just $9.99.
In the top right photo we show a Buick metal key chain we purchased at GM at Carlisle last week. I bought all the seller had and you can see them listed in this week's Inner Circle. It's a beautiful silver metal key ring with a blue enamel type center featuring the word BUICK and tri-shield logo. On the back it says "USA." The seller seemed to think these are about a dozen years old or more. It's a very classy looking key ring.
In looking back at the various horn centers, it would have been nice if the GNX models were given a unique horn medallion.
The 1984 through 1987 Turbo Regals all had a 3-spoke leather steering wheel. To the best of my knowledge, Buick only used three different plastic center horn medallions on these cars.
In the lower left photo in this group we show first the one that says T-Type (left) along side the one with just the big letter T in the center (right).
The T-Type would be correct for all 1984-1986 T-Type Turbo Regals. In 1987 the T-Type model was dropped and it was now called the Turbo-T, or in the case of the horn medallion, just the letter T. There is another very subtle change Buick did that is not visible is on the surrounding rubber foam part on the 1987 version.
It appears that around 1987 Buick started to emboss a small horn symbol on the horn foam portion. Earlier years (1984-1986) don't seem to have this symbol. Perhaps this was done for any owners with limited eyesight; they could simply feel the symbol and know it's the horn!
In the lower right photo we show what Buick used on all the Grand Nationals and even the GNX. It was a black plastic medallion (left) and although barely visible in a very light grey was the Buick tri-shield symbol. The other medallion next to it (right) was used on other Buick horn medallion but is also the same size. This medallion is more colorful but would not be correct. I am not sure what models this multi-colored medallion came on.
SEEING SOME OF OUR PARTS AT SWAP MEETS -
Our company has in business for over 30 years now. I'm always surprised to find parts we have produced at various swap meets.
At the Fords at Carlisle event last week, we did see one of our billet style adjustable fuel regulators on a fuel rail.
Our billet style adjustable fuel regulators are very well known among Mustang owners as being one of the best buys for the money.
PHOTO 2 - The top photo shows the fuel rail with our billet adjustable fuel regulator still attached. I spoke to the seller, and he told me he uses the same adjustable fuel regulator on his own car. We had the part made, so he was surprised to meet me. We have been having them made for the Mustangs since 1991.
In the lower photo we show a very early style of our popular 1964-1965 GTO exhaust splitters. At the Performance Years Open House last weekend, I was next to the vendor that was selling our old GTO splitters! This was our first design where the stainless was welded to regular tubed tailpipe material.
These were made around 1981-1982 and were still in good shape. Later we went to making them 100% identical to the original ones, which look crude, but it is what owners that restore 1964-1965 GTOs actually want. (At the time it cost $10,000 to make the tooling needed to make them correct. The cost was the reason we did not do it right away!) This was the very first part we had made beginning back in 1978. We still get the 1964-1965 GTO tailpipe splitters made today and we supply the entire industry with them. No other company has successfully made this part except us!
One of the rarest items for sale at Performance Years event was this used pair of 1968 Ram Air II heads. The price tag was $5,000, which did not include the unique round port factory Pontiac exhaust manifolds.
PHOTO 3 - In this top left photo we show the 1968 GTO round port heads and behind them you can see the round port factory exhaust manifolds. The top right photo shows the trunk of a 1965 GTO complete with original literature, one of the very rare Hurst wheel cans, and the owner even has a Hurst wheel as the spare. In the lower left photo we show this same car highlighting one of the Hurst wheels and you can see our reproduction GTO splitters as well. Long before Buick owners were requesting Window Stickers, the same source we use has been doing the GTO Window Stickers. This lower right photo shows a typical 1960's Pontiac Window Sticker.
One of the most impressive Pontiacs I spotted at the Performance Years Open House was this 1957 Pontiac Safari station wagon. This was not the Nomad style, but a regular four-door station wagon. I can’t imagine how hard it must have been to locate many of the unique parts that the owner must have needed for that restoration.
PHOTO 4 - This first photo shows the 1957 Safari Pontiac station wagon. The second photo shows the upgraded 400 engine under the hood. The third photo shows a close up of the left taillight and quarter panel. I can’t imagine what the cost was just to redo all the exterior chrome on the car! Inside the car was all wood paneling on the floor. The last photo shows the owner (I assume) when he trailered the car home prior to beginning this project.
In quick review, it's the unusual cars that I really take notice of, because those owners really face a lot of restoration challenges.
ON THE NEWS FRONT -
Check out the August 2012 Issue of MOTOR TREND. They have a very good indepth article on Carroll Shelby, "The Life and Legacy of an Automotive Icon."
COLLECTIBLE AUTOMOBILE, August 2012 issue has an article, "1982-1987 Buick Regal Grand Nationals, Black Lightning." (This is the wording right off the cover of the magazine. I do not get this magazine nor have I found it in my travels.)
CAR CRAFT August 2012 issue has a 5-page article, GRANDMA'S COOKIN', on Chad Moskery's 1980 Malibu that has a nicely modified 1986-1987 turbo Buick engine under the hood. He has taken the “sleeper” approach, keeping the outside totally stock down to the “dog dish” hubcaps on painted steel rims. Chad hails from Missouri.
URGENT REQUEST - WE NEED STOCK TURBO CORES -
Currently we have a urgent need for 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo cores. They must have the exhaust housing. We will allow $75 Letter of Credit for any cores you send in.
It's important you contact our office first, so we know to expect it - 215-766-1611 x 0
By providing cores, you are helping other owners restore their cars.
CHECK THIS CAR OUT - KIRBAN FIND -
Currently the 1937 Packard coupe is still for sale. We have heard from several customers and have sent them a bunch of photos on this pristine modified 1937 Packard coupe. (See 6-6-2012 Inner Circle for more details.) Email me direct - [email protected] - for photos of this car.
Also the 3,500-mile 1987 Grand National hardtop that I found for Mike O’Neil several years ago is also still available. (See 6-6-2012 Inner Circle for more details). Email me direct [email protected] - for photos of this car.
NEW PARTS & NEW LINKS -
On the new items listed below, we do have some of each in stock for immediately delivery.
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction BLACK PLASTIC POWER ANTENNA BEZEL
This bezel will fit 1984-1987 Grand Nationals or Turbo Regals with the factory black bezel for the power antenna.
This is a reproduction of the black plastic bezel that sits at the base of the power antenna mast on the outside of the fender. Over a period of time this bezel can crack or fade.
If you have to replace the power antenna, we recommend you replace the black bezel at the same time. This part is unique to this application only.
This new reproduction bezel is made in ABS plastic with increased UV protection over the originals for a longer life. This ensures the part from dulling and cracking like the originals over a longer period of time.
Another nice finishing touch for any exterior restoration.
7426 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction Black Plastic Power Antenna Bezel - $13.95
Here is a link to the this antenna bezel on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/43980/Reproduction+BLACK%E2%80%88PLASTIC+POWER+ANTENNA%E2%80%88BEZEL+%23+7426.html
REPRODUCTION GNX SUSPENSION - NOW AVAILABLE -
Pete Hoffman has a limited number of the reproduction GNX Suspension Systems available. These are the Richard Clark systems that he has had made locally.
They are nearly exact to the originals, down to the welds and material used. They come with complete detailed instructions.
Limited availability!
Call or email Pete 215-778-1036
[email protected]
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION WORKS -
Got any turbo 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 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].
2012 CALENDAR OF EVENTS -
2012 BUICK PERFORMANCE GROUP "CLASS OF 1987" and "BIG BOAT BASH"
AUGUST 3rd and 4th, 2012 - Friday & Saturday
National Trail Raceway, Hebron, Ohio
The Buick Performance Group presents The Class of 1987 Buick Reunion featuring the 25th Anniversary of the Buick GNX and the 1987 Buick Grand National with presentations from personnel from both Buick and ASC. The ASC quality control car as well as a GNX Factory Prototype will also be on display. Doug Niro will be presenting a power point presentation. Louis Infante from ASC will also be present as well as Rick Hunt who was an employee. Visit -www.buickperformancegroup.com - for more information
2012 EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS and FAST EVENT -
SEPTEMBER 21st and 22nd, 2012 - Friday & Saturday
Cecil County Dragway, Maryland
Event is open to all models of Buicks
Featuring the 2nd Annual MAGNA (Mid-Atlantic Grand National Association) All Buick powered judged Car Show! All Buick's! All years! All makes!
Goodie bags for the first 50 Buicks in the show. Door prizes all day and 50/50 to win some cash. The ONLY ALL-Buick car show on the east coast!
For more information, contact Doug Dougherty - 302-653-2201 or John Csordas - 914-447-6068 or email questions to - [email protected] or [email protected] Visit their website -http://tristategsclub.com
2012 GS NATIONALS -
OCTOBER 17-20, 2012 - Wednesday-Saturday
Beach Bend Raceway, Bowling Green, Kentucky
Racing is FREE on Wednesday, October 17th. The correct dates are October 17-20, 2012. Because of the reschedule, they have negotiated FREE racing on Wednesday, October 17th. This includes "everyone" who comes thru the gate and pays the usual nominal entrance fee. There is NO usual additional charge to race your Buick powered cars on Wednesday.
The BCA (Buick Club of America) will be joining the GSCA event. This combination will make for a well-rounded event featuring all kinds of Buicks. This is one fall event you do not want to miss!
EBAY LISTINGS -
If you would like to see any of the Kirban Performance Products items listed on eBay, here is a link to our store and auctions - http://stores.ebay.com/Kirban-Performance-Products-Inc_W0QQssPageNameZl2QQtZ km
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 -
Next week, we will show you in pictures just how remarkable the Ultra Degreaser product really is!
We are working on an article about lighted rearview mirrors next week.
We will also have some photos of GM at Carlisle.