Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 05-01-2019 –
LAST WEEK’S TURBO REGAL TRIVIA QUESTION ANSWERED -
The answer to last week’s Buick Turbo Regal trivia question is the two rubber caps. One is located on the stud that secures the 1986-1987 power steering reservoir to the inner driver’s fender. The other rubber plug covers the idle adjustment screw located on the side of the upper plenum.
PHOTO 1 - Shows both factory plugs or caps on the pristine WE4 we have for sale. A red arrow pinpoints the rubber cap in each photo.
THIS WEEK’S TURBO REGAL TRIVIA QUESTION –
Here is this week’s Turbo Regal Trivia Question.
This week’s trivia question is unlike any others we have done. Here are the clues. It appears under the hood on every 1986-1997 original Turbo Regal.
To figure out the answer you need to unscramble using two letters from the words “EGR VALVE.” From those two words find the two letters that can determine the company name found on this part under the hood of every 1986-1987 original Turbo Regal.
Your answer must agree with mine. Email your educated guess to me – [email protected]
TWO NEW PARTS NOW IN STOCK –
From the company Ultra Marketing, that supplies us with the new Grand National T-shirts that are GM licensed they now have licensed a baseball-style Grand National embroidered black hat. They also have a 22-ounce beverage tumbler mug with the Grand National logo on it.
PHOTO 2 – We show both the new adjustable baseball-style Grand National hat and the 22- ounce beverage mug. See New Parts for part numbers and prices.
TV SHOW JEOPARDY –
Unless you been under a rock, you know that the TV show Jeopardy is breaking all kinds of records over the last 17 days in daily winnings that James Holzhauer is racking up. The normal nightly winnings is about $20 grand. James is hitting an average of $70 grand or more per night and he keeps winning. He must be playing havoc with the game shows budget with no end in sight. James is playing a smart game by hitting all the high-dollar question in each category first and being extremely quick hitting the buzzer. The competition each night is not even close by mid game. I read the Second Place winner gets $2,000 grand and Third Place get $1,000. He has already passed the $1.3 million mark in less than 17 days.
His vast knowledge covers virtually every topic that they put on the board. His nightly winning is record breaking on a nightly basis. It’s history in the making.
I think a show such as Jeopardy using strictly automotive categories would be a huge hit. Categories could be broken down by decades, muscle cars, or companies in the business. Constants could come from various automotive companies and car dealers. Contests could be run to determine who should go to compete. Hire a good group of writers and try it for a season. They say 7 out of 10 workers in the USA are connected to the automotive business. “Automotive Jeopardy’ could prove to be a hit. I think it would be interesting.
T-TOPS - LIKE THEM OR HATE THEM –
Whether you like T-Tops or hate them, it was a popular option on the Turbo Regals during the 1984-1987 model run.
What many of you may not know is the history behind the T-Tops. The man credited with the patent is Gorden Buehrig. He patented it June 5, 1951. His track record in the automotive field is about as impressive as you will ever find.
He did automotive designs for Auburn, Buick, Dusenburg, Ford, Frankin, Jewet, Lincoln, Packard, Pearless, Pierce-Arrow, Studebaker, Stutz, White Trucks, and the Wills St Claire. Gorden Buehrig did some impressive car designs for such a wide variety of cars that make his resume quite impressive! He did the Auburn 851 Speedster and the Cord 810/812 models. Many of his designs are highly collectable cars to own today. In other words, Gordon had no problems landing a job with this impressive record. One can only imagine what his autograph would be worth on one of these cars today!
Ironically, in Chemistry class he was expelled for doodling car designs in his notebook! One can only imagine what that notebook would be worth today if it still exists! This reminds me of what Clint Eastwood was told many years ago he was told that he was too ugly to make it in the movies. We all know how that worked out for Clint.
In the GM world, the first production car to have T-Tops was the 1968 Corvette. Years ago, we had a silver one with a black interior Muncie 4-speed. T-Tops became very popular in 1970s when horsepower went away in most U.S. produced cars. Some of the most uninspired GM cars were built in the mid-1970s and later with their protruding bumpers and emissions.
The company at the forefront of T-Tops for GM, back then is a company I am very familiar with Hurst. I have a lot of original information on Hurst, as many of you know. At the time, Hurst was owned by the Sunbeam Corporation in the 1970s, which seemed like an unusual match!
PHOTO 3 – The photo to the left is a copy of the letter dated February 5, 1975. This is when Hurst applied to trademark the Hurst Hatch with the H/H logo on their T-Tops. The photo to the right is the flyer showing the various Hurst Hatches that could be installed as a factory option on various Buick, Chevrolet, Pontiac, and Oldsmobile models. The flyer states coming soon would be Hurst hatches for the Camaro and Firebird, both of which would prove to be a very popular option.
HURST/HATCH ROOF WAS NOT WITHOUT WATER LEAK ISSUES –
Hurst/Hatches were not without water leak issues, just like the water leak issues today with T-Tops on the Turbo Regals. Ford at some point during the Fox body production discontinued the T-Tops option, probably due to the water leak issues. Among my collection of literature, I actually have an original 15-page booklet put out by Buick about repairing water leaks for the Hurst/Hatches for the 1975-1976 model Buicks. This is what the mechanic at Buick would refer to back then if a customer complained about water leaks. In my opinion, this would be a frustrating job for a Buick mechanic to correct!
PHOTO 4 – We show both the cover of this 15-page Buick Hurst Hatch repair manual and a typical page from the inside of this manual.
POSSIBLE FINANCING –
One good thing about the increasing values of the 1986-1987 Turbo Regals and the GNX is that they are now easier to get financing. JJ Best is one such company that has financed several of these cars for my buyers in the past. Most Price Guides today list the various Turbo Regal models with high values. Low mileage, original engine, and 100% original paint are definitely three key features that can help a potential buyer get proper financing and be able to enjoy their purchase this summer. With the right car and care, the car will only increase in value as time goes by.
GNX #206 FOR SALE –
We are selling GNX #206 for one of our long-time customers. While several GNXs can be found for sale on the internet, what separates this one from the pack is not only does it have the GNX book and GNX jacket but the trunk is full of everything associated with a GNX and all the documents back to the original owner in 1988. It is a 2-owner car. This GNX has never been advertised since the current owner purchased it in 1998.
It has been garaged with the wheels off the ground. Even the steering wheel was covered. Most unusual is that the little rubber bumpers are on both doors that came on the car when it was shipped is still on the car! I did not count them but Molly’s signature appears on a dozen or more items, including the GNX jacket. Car has 100% original paint and 100% stock. Front and rear fillers have just been replaced in the last 30 days.
The car still smells factory new. Mileage is 23,839 and original. Car has the latest PA inspection. It’s close to 100% perfect in every regard. The factory paint is outstanding, a term you seldom see used on a black Regal of any version. The price tag is $99,900. To help ease the pain, since I hold a license, I am open to consider any car or cars in partial trade. Trade value cuts down the sales tax bite and out-of-pocket money. Remember, a partial trade car need not be a Turbo Regal. It can even be more than one car. Buying this example eliminates any surprises that some of the other GNXs seem to have that are for sale. This GNX is one that can only advance in value. You can email me for more photos. My email is [email protected]
WE4 FOR SALE –
The same day we took in the above GNX, we also took in a super mint WE4 from another customer. This WE4 is one of the very rare ones. It is a hardtop. I have owned this car twice. It also is a National winner at the GS Nationals several years ago. It has actually won twice at the GS Nationals. This WE4 has always been garaged and has 100% original paint. Mileage stands at 50,345. To be pristine, it needs front and rear fillers. Whoever buys this WE4 would get 10% off on any parts from us for the first 30 days.
This car is 99% stock. To be 100% it needs the catalytic converter put on and a factory correct oil fill tube and cap. The catalytic converter is in the trunk. We have the Window Sticker. What makes this WE4 unusual that is it has virtually every option. Most WE4 models had very few options. Options include power seat, power windows, power locks, EQ radio, power trunk release, tilt, cruise, delay wipers, factory alarm, limited slip rear, and concert sound II.
The first time we sold it, the car had 34,500 miles on it. I bought it out of Delaware. It then went to Tennessee. The next time we sold it the car had 41,700 miles on it. Back then I stated without any exaggeration that this is the best Turbo-T we have sold in the last 5 years. Richard Lasseter had appraised it for $16,800 back in 2001.
This is the WE4 Pete Serio and I went to Tennessee. This was the same day 911 attack happened. The seller sold this WE4 to me because he found a super mint brown Turbo-T. Few years later, I would go back and buy the brown Turbo-T from him as well!
This car is top notch. It needs a few very minor things to be 100%. If you have ever seen my white Turbo-T that I got $21,000 for, this car is nicer with fewer miles. This is one of the best of the best in a WE 4 model. The deal includes a 3-ring binder of info and documentation, which goes with this prime example. This is a Kirban Quality car that I have owned twice. Proof of this comes with the car as well as the Window Sticker and other information. This WE4 has never been advertised for sale since the current owner bought it from us in 2001. In Photo 3 below we show just a small part of the documentation with is extremely nice WE4. The price for the WE 4 is $19,900.
This WE4 and GNX #206 will be at our Open House Saturday, May 4th.
NEW PRODUCT COMING DESIGNED FOR JEEP OFF-ROADING –
A local company has patented a clever new product and we are the marketing agent for this new product. Jeeps are well known for having over heating issues especially when used to pull a trailer or to go off-roading.
Until now the solution has been to install lovers or vents in the hood to let the heat escape. The problem with this is the vents are open all the time. So, when it rains water gets under the hood and can cause issues with the electronics under the hood.
This company has developed a vent system that is heat activated so the vents close automatically when the engine is cooled down. No wiring is involved. The vent system is flush mounted on the hood of any Jeep and can be painted. The vent system is made from 6061 T aluminum.
In the next several months we will be approaching various Jeep companies about this new product. This clever product will be on display at our Open House. The Jeep off road market is huge. This product can be adapted to virtually any flat hood to allow heat out of the engine compartment. Email me [email protected] for more details and photos.
URGENT REQUEST –
We have an urgent need for usable 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering wheel cores. Each acceptable core is worth a Letter of Credit of $100. Help us help others by sending us any acceptable cores you may have. The cheapest method to send them is by mail. Ship to Kirban Performance, PO Box 1199, Plumsteadville, PA 18949. Be sure to include your name, address and phone number.
IS YOUR TURBO REGAL PROPERLY INSURED? –
Classic car enthusiasts know that it is sometimes difficult to reach an agreement with an insurance company on the value of a collectible car or truck. It is always better to agree on that value as soon as you arrange to insure it, rather than wait to argue it out when trying to make a claim. It is also a good idea to periodically re-evaluate the worth of your classic car or truck as the value will change as time passes.
ALS Appraisal and Litigation Services is the right choice to appraise your collectible vehicle for this or any other purpose. Get your Turbo Regal/Grand National appraised at 20% OFF at Kirban’s upcoming spring Open House event on May 4, 2019.
Contact - [email protected] Terry Shaw - 215-659-4947 - Fax 215-657-3409 - PA License #139808.
On a personal note, I have known Terry Shaw for over 35-plus years. He has appraised several vehicles for my son as well as my personal Turbo-T years ago.
CARSMARTS RADIO IS ON THE AIR AND ON THE WEB! –
Turbo V6 enthusiast Steve Saffier (who produced “The Dennis Kirban Story” on YouTube last year) is producer and host of a new automotive radio program broadcasting live every Saturday from 11am - 12 noon on 610 ESPN radio (the old WIP 610 am for those in the area.) The show talks about different aspects of the car world and Steve’s affinity for Turbo Regals and Syclone/Typhoons often is expressed in nearly every show.
You can tune in live or livestream the show at http://www.610espn.com from anywhere in the world.
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If there are any tips or ideas you want to share with our readers, email me –[email protected]
TIP FROM KIRBAN –
The place to be this coming Saturday is our annual Spring Open House rain or shine. Plenty of raffle items have been donated by various Turbo Regal suppliers and Brian and Sandy from GBodyParts will have a truck and trailer load of their parts. This is a rare treat. Bring any Turbo Regal parts you want to cash in, I may be a buyer.
2019 TURBO BUICK RELATED CAR SHOWS EVENTS -
To get your Turbo Regal event for 2019 listed here, you must email me direct [email protected] Also send me a copy of the flyer promoting the event.
KIRBAN SPRING OPEN HOUSE –
Saturday, May 4, 2019 - 9 am until 2 pm
6201 Kellers Church Road, Plumsteadville (Pipersville), PA
This event has no rain date.
Gbodyparts.com will be coming to our event as a vendor. Contact him in advance for any parts you want him to bring. Their email is [email protected] year we are combining this event with Black Ice Details, a detail shop that shares our warehouse. We will have many raffle items from various vendors that have donated to our event. A few No Reserve Auction items and our usual M&Ms contest as well. Free coffee and Yum Yums donuts as usual. Yum Yums donuts seldom last past the first hour.
Vendors that have now donated raffle prizes include: Auto Legal Appraisals, Black Ice Detailing, Casper’s Electronics, Classic Industries, Cold Case, Gbodyparts.com, H&R Parts Limit Engineering, Lorenz Racing, Max Performance, Mike’s Montes, Russ & Nancy, Spoolfool, and Yum Yum donuts.
Local motels would be in nearby Quakertown, which is about a 25-minute drive west of our shop location. They would include Quakertown Holiday Inn Express, Hampton Inn, Spring Hill Suites by Marriott, Quality Inn & Suites. There is also a Hampton Inn Warringtonsouth of us on Route 611 in Warrington.
GENERAL DIRECTIONS -
From Willow Grove... North on RT 611 through Warrington, Doylestown and into Plumsteadville (you can take the RT 611 Bypass that goes around Doylestown - it exits back onto RT 611 north of Doylestown). Watch for a shopping center with a McDonald’s on your right. Go past that light at Stump Road and the Plumsteadville Inn. Make the FIRST left at the Shelly Funeral Home onto Kellers Church Road. Ours is the second office complex just a short distance down on the right. Our unit is at the back far corner. There’s plenty of parking, since most of the other companies are closed on the weekends.
From Quakertown... Take RT 663 east and it will become RT 313 heading east (away from the turnpike.) You will cross through the major intersection at RT 309 in Quakertown. Go through Quakertown (it will take several sharp turns). RT 663 becomes Route 313 Dublin Pike, past Dublin. Make a left onto Stump Road, left onto RT 611, FIRST left at the Shelly Funeral Home onto Kellers Church Road. Ours is the second office complex on the right.
NOTE - If you are using GPS, you may have to use “Pipersville 18947” as the town.
10TH ANNUAL BUICK RACE DAY -
Saturday, MAY 25, 2019 – Gates open at 8 am
Lebanon Valley Dragway, 1746 U.S. Route 20, West Lebanon, NY
Participants in all Buick classes must be Buick-Powered. For more information, call 518-794-7130 or call 914-477-6068 (ask for John)
TURBO BUICK NATIONALS –
MAY 23, 24, and 25, 2019
Richard Clark’s Garage, Burlington, North Carolina
This event is held at Richard Clark’s Garage in Burlington, NC. For more information and a list of their program, go to Turbobuick.com and scroll down to Turbo Buick Nationals 2019 for up-to-date information. Here is the link to this event.
BATES NUT FARM BUICK SHOW -
SUNDAY, JUNE 2, 2019 - 9 am until 3 pm -
Bates Nut Farm, Valley Center, CA
According to Mike Bernard (of Spoolfool fame), this event is the second largest gathering of Turbo Buicks in the nation. Eric Brown and Mike Bernard deserve a lot of credit for putting this west coast event on every year. The event runs from 9 am until 3 pm. Vendors will be on hand and they will have many items for their raffles. They will update the info shortly for 2019 at this link.Here is a link to their website.
1ST ANNUAL BUICK BASH AT THE QUAKE -
FRIDAY & SATURDAY - JUNE 14 & 15, 2019
Quaker City Motorsports Park, 10225 West South Range Road, Salem, OH 44460
For more info, contact John Csordas 914-447-6068 [email protected] or Denny Moore 330-647-3615 [email protected] - www.quakercitymotorsportspark.com
EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS -
FRIDAY & SATURDAY - SEPTEMBER 20TH& 21ST, 2019
Cecil County Dragway, 1916 Theodore Road, Rising Sun, Maryland
This will be the 23rd year. Host hotel Information: Comfort Inn located just off exit 100 on I-95. Call 410-287-7100 and mention Northeast GS/GN Club for special pricing. For more info, contact John Csordas 914-447-6068 [email protected] or Jim Chaudrue 215-266-1052 [email protected]
GOOD NEWS - WE ARE ACCEPTING CLASSIFIED ADS -
Good news - We now accept Classified Ads in our weekly Inner Circle emails. Over the years several customers have asked about placing an ad in our weekly Inner Circle.
Here are the options and the costs.
Ads can be from any individual or company. It needs to be automotive related, meaning it does not need be specifically Turbo Regal related. It can be for something for sale or something wanted.
Maximum number of words is 125 words, which is about 7 to 9 lines of copy. No photos. You can list a website. We recommend you state your name, phone number or email, a price, and your location in your ad.
The cost for 2 consecutive weeks is $25. The cost for 4 consecutive weeks is $40. You save $10 with the 4-week plan. No changes can be made to your existing running ad. You can only run one ad at any given time. We will have a code system at the end of your ad, so we will know what week number your ad is to run - 2 or 4 weeks.
It can be an ad for something for sale or an ad for something you are looking for.
We have never missed a single week since we started the Inner Circle email format in 2009. It’s something I enjoy doing and I just always seem to have enough material to write about.
Our weekly Inner Circle reaches over 3,300 members every Wednesday direct to their inbox. The Inner Circle also appears every Wednesday on our website with the related photos. Your ad would be visible to both groups of readers. So, the exposure to your ad is well over 3,200 potential buyers.
Ads submitted properly by the previous Sunday would appear that next Wednesday in the weekly Inner Circle. Ads must be submitted by email to - [email protected]
Payment by credit card must be done by phone to our office 215-766-1611 x 0.
WANTED TO BUY -
For Sale – N.O.S. Parts for the Buick Grand National. This collection was over 20 years in the making from various car shows, etc. The collection contains mostly N.O.S. parts, with a few aftermarket and used parts added. There is too much to list. I have no means to test any of the few electronic parts that I have, however, they are new in the box. It is comprised of smaller items, NOT body panels, (i.e. doors, fenders, hoods, etc.). Text or E-mail me if you are interested in the spreadsheet. Stan E., 585 727-6024, or [email protected]. Asking $6,995 for the large inventory; near - Rochester, NY. Shipping is a possible option, pickup is best. It goes to internet auction if not sold here. Week 3 of 4.
NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE BUICK RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the Buick Rare Parts section at the end of this Inner Circle, it is because you are not an Inner Circle member, but instead are reading this on the website. You must subscribe to see the Rare Parts section each week. It would go directly to your inbox every Wednesday afternoon. It is FREE, probably one reason why nobody complains about what I write about. Simply email - [email protected] to get our weekly Inner Circle email.
The Buick Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!
Due to our upcoming Open House there is NO Rare Parts section this week. The Rare Parts section will resume next week on May 8, 2019 Inner Circle.
EMAILS TO KIRBAN PERFORMANCE -
NOTE- If you email us and do NOT get a timely reply, be sure to check your “SPAM” folder. Some emails do not go thru.
If you need to email us, use - [email protected]
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED –
POWERMASTER BRAKE UNITS. Unit must be complete. We will issue you a Letter of Credit for $150 for each acceptable core. We currently will not buy any powermaster units outright, only Letter of Credit towards parts.
TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $150 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. These are the only 2 items we are currently accepting as cores.
MAIL - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949
UPS - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
6201 Kellers Church Road
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949-1199
TECH CALLS -
If you need technical information, it’s best to email - [email protected] rather than call us. We will do our best to answer any technical questions within 24 hours. Please remember I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US –
GM Licensed -
BUICK GRAND NATIONAL 22-Ounce BEVERAGE TUMBLER MUG
This GM licensed 22-ounce beverage tumbler is made of a durable double-wall stainless steel vacuum construction with copper insulation. This allows the beverage to stay cold for 24 hours or hot for at least 6 hours!
The construction also prevents condensation on the outside of the tumbler. On-trend, durable powder coating, and easy sipping with a push-on lid with a wide opening for comfortable filing and pouring. An Eastman Tritan T straw is included.
The Grand National Turbo-six logo is imprinted in red, orange and white.
It makes a great statement at a car show, and also makes a great gift for that Turbo enthusiast or for your mechanic.
Another excellent Buick enthusiast gift idea.
7875 - GM Licensed - BUICK GRAND NATIONAL 22-ounce Beverage Tumbler Mug - $24.95
Here is a link to this Tumbler on our website.
GM Licensed -
BUICK GRAND NATIONAL BASEBALL-STYLE EMBROIDERED BLACK HAT
This GM licensed 6-panel structured low crown pre-curved visor black hat is made from moisture wicking polyester. It has a micro-hook/loop closure in the back.
The black hat has the Grand National Turbo-six logo embroidered in red, orange and white on the front and adjustable in the back.
Another excellent Buick enthusiast gift idea.
7876 - GM Licensed - BUICK GRAND NATIONAL Baseball-style Embroidered Black Hat - $17.95
Here is a link to this Hat on our website.
ALWAYS LOOKING FOR IDEAS -
If you have any product ideas that would fit our Turbo Buick market that you would like to see available, email me direct - [email protected]
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION FOR TURBO REGAL PARTS -
Got any Turbo Buick parts you are not using? Why not cash them in for parts you need with a Letter of Credit. We also may buy your new or used parts. Simply email me a list [email protected]
Also, we are still buying dead or partially dead 1984-1987 Turbo Regals under $4,000 that are within 250 to 350 miles of our location.
NOTE - ABOUT LINKS IN THE INNER CIRCLE -
We have heard from a couple people that have had problems with the links in our Inner Circle.
When we check the links, they work fine. However, if you are not able to be directed to the exact website page or internet site, you can "copy" and "paste" the link into the URL in your browser (such as Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
Most people having problems are using Internet Explorer. If you are having issues with links, try another browser to see if it works.
You may need to "UPDATE" your browser to be use you are using the current version.
NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE -
We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these must be low-resolution photos to work on the Inner Circle segments on the website, any photos of text don't appear clear when enlarged. This is a problem when you are trying to see numbers, such as those on the VIN labels or pages from Options booklet. Also, because of photo reproduction and computer screen variations, the colors may not be true to the actual product or photo.
If you would like to have us email you any photo at the higher resolution for viewing, just email us and we will email them to you. Be sure to be specific on which pictures you want to see - Reference Inner Circle date and photo number 1, 2, 3 or 4 - [email protected]
ABOUT OUR EMAILS -
Any inquiries concerning used parts, you must email me direct - [email protected] I will answer you. However, if I fail to answer you within 24 hours, please email us again. Since expanding into used parts, I get a lot of emails and sometimes I may forget your request or may not remember who requested the item.
BUICK RARE PARTS FROM US -
Because of our upcoming Open House no Rare Parts will be listed until next week May 8, 2019.
IN CLOSING –
I got my fingers crossed that the weather will be nice this coming Saturday. We have been lucky most years for our Open House events. Hope to see many of you this Saturday.
LAST WEEK’S TURBO REGAL TRIVIA QUESTION ANSWERED -
The answer to last week’s Buick Turbo Regal trivia question is the two rubber caps. One is located on the stud that secures the 1986-1987 power steering reservoir to the inner driver’s fender. The other rubber plug covers the idle adjustment screw located on the side of the upper plenum.
PHOTO 1 - Shows both factory plugs or caps on the pristine WE4 we have for sale. A red arrow pinpoints the rubber cap in each photo.
THIS WEEK’S TURBO REGAL TRIVIA QUESTION –
Here is this week’s Turbo Regal Trivia Question.
This week’s trivia question is unlike any others we have done. Here are the clues. It appears under the hood on every 1986-1997 original Turbo Regal.
To figure out the answer you need to unscramble using two letters from the words “EGR VALVE.” From those two words find the two letters that can determine the company name found on this part under the hood of every 1986-1987 original Turbo Regal.
Your answer must agree with mine. Email your educated guess to me – [email protected]
TWO NEW PARTS NOW IN STOCK –
From the company Ultra Marketing, that supplies us with the new Grand National T-shirts that are GM licensed they now have licensed a baseball-style Grand National embroidered black hat. They also have a 22-ounce beverage tumbler mug with the Grand National logo on it.
PHOTO 2 – We show both the new adjustable baseball-style Grand National hat and the 22- ounce beverage mug. See New Parts for part numbers and prices.
TV SHOW JEOPARDY –
Unless you been under a rock, you know that the TV show Jeopardy is breaking all kinds of records over the last 17 days in daily winnings that James Holzhauer is racking up. The normal nightly winnings is about $20 grand. James is hitting an average of $70 grand or more per night and he keeps winning. He must be playing havoc with the game shows budget with no end in sight. James is playing a smart game by hitting all the high-dollar question in each category first and being extremely quick hitting the buzzer. The competition each night is not even close by mid game. I read the Second Place winner gets $2,000 grand and Third Place get $1,000. He has already passed the $1.3 million mark in less than 17 days.
His vast knowledge covers virtually every topic that they put on the board. His nightly winning is record breaking on a nightly basis. It’s history in the making.
I think a show such as Jeopardy using strictly automotive categories would be a huge hit. Categories could be broken down by decades, muscle cars, or companies in the business. Constants could come from various automotive companies and car dealers. Contests could be run to determine who should go to compete. Hire a good group of writers and try it for a season. They say 7 out of 10 workers in the USA are connected to the automotive business. “Automotive Jeopardy’ could prove to be a hit. I think it would be interesting.
T-TOPS - LIKE THEM OR HATE THEM –
Whether you like T-Tops or hate them, it was a popular option on the Turbo Regals during the 1984-1987 model run.
What many of you may not know is the history behind the T-Tops. The man credited with the patent is Gorden Buehrig. He patented it June 5, 1951. His track record in the automotive field is about as impressive as you will ever find.
He did automotive designs for Auburn, Buick, Dusenburg, Ford, Frankin, Jewet, Lincoln, Packard, Pearless, Pierce-Arrow, Studebaker, Stutz, White Trucks, and the Wills St Claire. Gorden Buehrig did some impressive car designs for such a wide variety of cars that make his resume quite impressive! He did the Auburn 851 Speedster and the Cord 810/812 models. Many of his designs are highly collectable cars to own today. In other words, Gordon had no problems landing a job with this impressive record. One can only imagine what his autograph would be worth on one of these cars today!
Ironically, in Chemistry class he was expelled for doodling car designs in his notebook! One can only imagine what that notebook would be worth today if it still exists! This reminds me of what Clint Eastwood was told many years ago he was told that he was too ugly to make it in the movies. We all know how that worked out for Clint.
In the GM world, the first production car to have T-Tops was the 1968 Corvette. Years ago, we had a silver one with a black interior Muncie 4-speed. T-Tops became very popular in 1970s when horsepower went away in most U.S. produced cars. Some of the most uninspired GM cars were built in the mid-1970s and later with their protruding bumpers and emissions.
The company at the forefront of T-Tops for GM, back then is a company I am very familiar with Hurst. I have a lot of original information on Hurst, as many of you know. At the time, Hurst was owned by the Sunbeam Corporation in the 1970s, which seemed like an unusual match!
PHOTO 3 – The photo to the left is a copy of the letter dated February 5, 1975. This is when Hurst applied to trademark the Hurst Hatch with the H/H logo on their T-Tops. The photo to the right is the flyer showing the various Hurst Hatches that could be installed as a factory option on various Buick, Chevrolet, Pontiac, and Oldsmobile models. The flyer states coming soon would be Hurst hatches for the Camaro and Firebird, both of which would prove to be a very popular option.
HURST/HATCH ROOF WAS NOT WITHOUT WATER LEAK ISSUES –
Hurst/Hatches were not without water leak issues, just like the water leak issues today with T-Tops on the Turbo Regals. Ford at some point during the Fox body production discontinued the T-Tops option, probably due to the water leak issues. Among my collection of literature, I actually have an original 15-page booklet put out by Buick about repairing water leaks for the Hurst/Hatches for the 1975-1976 model Buicks. This is what the mechanic at Buick would refer to back then if a customer complained about water leaks. In my opinion, this would be a frustrating job for a Buick mechanic to correct!
PHOTO 4 – We show both the cover of this 15-page Buick Hurst Hatch repair manual and a typical page from the inside of this manual.
POSSIBLE FINANCING –
One good thing about the increasing values of the 1986-1987 Turbo Regals and the GNX is that they are now easier to get financing. JJ Best is one such company that has financed several of these cars for my buyers in the past. Most Price Guides today list the various Turbo Regal models with high values. Low mileage, original engine, and 100% original paint are definitely three key features that can help a potential buyer get proper financing and be able to enjoy their purchase this summer. With the right car and care, the car will only increase in value as time goes by.
GNX #206 FOR SALE –
We are selling GNX #206 for one of our long-time customers. While several GNXs can be found for sale on the internet, what separates this one from the pack is not only does it have the GNX book and GNX jacket but the trunk is full of everything associated with a GNX and all the documents back to the original owner in 1988. It is a 2-owner car. This GNX has never been advertised since the current owner purchased it in 1998.
It has been garaged with the wheels off the ground. Even the steering wheel was covered. Most unusual is that the little rubber bumpers are on both doors that came on the car when it was shipped is still on the car! I did not count them but Molly’s signature appears on a dozen or more items, including the GNX jacket. Car has 100% original paint and 100% stock. Front and rear fillers have just been replaced in the last 30 days.
The car still smells factory new. Mileage is 23,839 and original. Car has the latest PA inspection. It’s close to 100% perfect in every regard. The factory paint is outstanding, a term you seldom see used on a black Regal of any version. The price tag is $99,900. To help ease the pain, since I hold a license, I am open to consider any car or cars in partial trade. Trade value cuts down the sales tax bite and out-of-pocket money. Remember, a partial trade car need not be a Turbo Regal. It can even be more than one car. Buying this example eliminates any surprises that some of the other GNXs seem to have that are for sale. This GNX is one that can only advance in value. You can email me for more photos. My email is [email protected]
WE4 FOR SALE –
The same day we took in the above GNX, we also took in a super mint WE4 from another customer. This WE4 is one of the very rare ones. It is a hardtop. I have owned this car twice. It also is a National winner at the GS Nationals several years ago. It has actually won twice at the GS Nationals. This WE4 has always been garaged and has 100% original paint. Mileage stands at 50,345. To be pristine, it needs front and rear fillers. Whoever buys this WE4 would get 10% off on any parts from us for the first 30 days.
This car is 99% stock. To be 100% it needs the catalytic converter put on and a factory correct oil fill tube and cap. The catalytic converter is in the trunk. We have the Window Sticker. What makes this WE4 unusual that is it has virtually every option. Most WE4 models had very few options. Options include power seat, power windows, power locks, EQ radio, power trunk release, tilt, cruise, delay wipers, factory alarm, limited slip rear, and concert sound II.
The first time we sold it, the car had 34,500 miles on it. I bought it out of Delaware. It then went to Tennessee. The next time we sold it the car had 41,700 miles on it. Back then I stated without any exaggeration that this is the best Turbo-T we have sold in the last 5 years. Richard Lasseter had appraised it for $16,800 back in 2001.
This is the WE4 Pete Serio and I went to Tennessee. This was the same day 911 attack happened. The seller sold this WE4 to me because he found a super mint brown Turbo-T. Few years later, I would go back and buy the brown Turbo-T from him as well!
This car is top notch. It needs a few very minor things to be 100%. If you have ever seen my white Turbo-T that I got $21,000 for, this car is nicer with fewer miles. This is one of the best of the best in a WE 4 model. The deal includes a 3-ring binder of info and documentation, which goes with this prime example. This is a Kirban Quality car that I have owned twice. Proof of this comes with the car as well as the Window Sticker and other information. This WE4 has never been advertised for sale since the current owner bought it from us in 2001. In Photo 3 below we show just a small part of the documentation with is extremely nice WE4. The price for the WE 4 is $19,900.
This WE4 and GNX #206 will be at our Open House Saturday, May 4th.
NEW PRODUCT COMING DESIGNED FOR JEEP OFF-ROADING –
A local company has patented a clever new product and we are the marketing agent for this new product. Jeeps are well known for having over heating issues especially when used to pull a trailer or to go off-roading.
Until now the solution has been to install lovers or vents in the hood to let the heat escape. The problem with this is the vents are open all the time. So, when it rains water gets under the hood and can cause issues with the electronics under the hood.
This company has developed a vent system that is heat activated so the vents close automatically when the engine is cooled down. No wiring is involved. The vent system is flush mounted on the hood of any Jeep and can be painted. The vent system is made from 6061 T aluminum.
In the next several months we will be approaching various Jeep companies about this new product. This clever product will be on display at our Open House. The Jeep off road market is huge. This product can be adapted to virtually any flat hood to allow heat out of the engine compartment. Email me [email protected] for more details and photos.
URGENT REQUEST –
We have an urgent need for usable 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering wheel cores. Each acceptable core is worth a Letter of Credit of $100. Help us help others by sending us any acceptable cores you may have. The cheapest method to send them is by mail. Ship to Kirban Performance, PO Box 1199, Plumsteadville, PA 18949. Be sure to include your name, address and phone number.
IS YOUR TURBO REGAL PROPERLY INSURED? –
Classic car enthusiasts know that it is sometimes difficult to reach an agreement with an insurance company on the value of a collectible car or truck. It is always better to agree on that value as soon as you arrange to insure it, rather than wait to argue it out when trying to make a claim. It is also a good idea to periodically re-evaluate the worth of your classic car or truck as the value will change as time passes.
ALS Appraisal and Litigation Services is the right choice to appraise your collectible vehicle for this or any other purpose. Get your Turbo Regal/Grand National appraised at 20% OFF at Kirban’s upcoming spring Open House event on May 4, 2019.
Contact - [email protected] Terry Shaw - 215-659-4947 - Fax 215-657-3409 - PA License #139808.
On a personal note, I have known Terry Shaw for over 35-plus years. He has appraised several vehicles for my son as well as my personal Turbo-T years ago.
CARSMARTS RADIO IS ON THE AIR AND ON THE WEB! –
Turbo V6 enthusiast Steve Saffier (who produced “The Dennis Kirban Story” on YouTube last year) is producer and host of a new automotive radio program broadcasting live every Saturday from 11am - 12 noon on 610 ESPN radio (the old WIP 610 am for those in the area.) The show talks about different aspects of the car world and Steve’s affinity for Turbo Regals and Syclone/Typhoons often is expressed in nearly every show.
You can tune in live or livestream the show at http://www.610espn.com from anywhere in the world.
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If there are any tips or ideas you want to share with our readers, email me –[email protected]
TIP FROM KIRBAN –
The place to be this coming Saturday is our annual Spring Open House rain or shine. Plenty of raffle items have been donated by various Turbo Regal suppliers and Brian and Sandy from GBodyParts will have a truck and trailer load of their parts. This is a rare treat. Bring any Turbo Regal parts you want to cash in, I may be a buyer.
2019 TURBO BUICK RELATED CAR SHOWS EVENTS -
To get your Turbo Regal event for 2019 listed here, you must email me direct [email protected] Also send me a copy of the flyer promoting the event.
KIRBAN SPRING OPEN HOUSE –
Saturday, May 4, 2019 - 9 am until 2 pm
6201 Kellers Church Road, Plumsteadville (Pipersville), PA
This event has no rain date.
Gbodyparts.com will be coming to our event as a vendor. Contact him in advance for any parts you want him to bring. Their email is [email protected] year we are combining this event with Black Ice Details, a detail shop that shares our warehouse. We will have many raffle items from various vendors that have donated to our event. A few No Reserve Auction items and our usual M&Ms contest as well. Free coffee and Yum Yums donuts as usual. Yum Yums donuts seldom last past the first hour.
Vendors that have now donated raffle prizes include: Auto Legal Appraisals, Black Ice Detailing, Casper’s Electronics, Classic Industries, Cold Case, Gbodyparts.com, H&R Parts Limit Engineering, Lorenz Racing, Max Performance, Mike’s Montes, Russ & Nancy, Spoolfool, and Yum Yum donuts.
Local motels would be in nearby Quakertown, which is about a 25-minute drive west of our shop location. They would include Quakertown Holiday Inn Express, Hampton Inn, Spring Hill Suites by Marriott, Quality Inn & Suites. There is also a Hampton Inn Warringtonsouth of us on Route 611 in Warrington.
GENERAL DIRECTIONS -
From Willow Grove... North on RT 611 through Warrington, Doylestown and into Plumsteadville (you can take the RT 611 Bypass that goes around Doylestown - it exits back onto RT 611 north of Doylestown). Watch for a shopping center with a McDonald’s on your right. Go past that light at Stump Road and the Plumsteadville Inn. Make the FIRST left at the Shelly Funeral Home onto Kellers Church Road. Ours is the second office complex just a short distance down on the right. Our unit is at the back far corner. There’s plenty of parking, since most of the other companies are closed on the weekends.
From Quakertown... Take RT 663 east and it will become RT 313 heading east (away from the turnpike.) You will cross through the major intersection at RT 309 in Quakertown. Go through Quakertown (it will take several sharp turns). RT 663 becomes Route 313 Dublin Pike, past Dublin. Make a left onto Stump Road, left onto RT 611, FIRST left at the Shelly Funeral Home onto Kellers Church Road. Ours is the second office complex on the right.
NOTE - If you are using GPS, you may have to use “Pipersville 18947” as the town.
10TH ANNUAL BUICK RACE DAY -
Saturday, MAY 25, 2019 – Gates open at 8 am
Lebanon Valley Dragway, 1746 U.S. Route 20, West Lebanon, NY
Participants in all Buick classes must be Buick-Powered. For more information, call 518-794-7130 or call 914-477-6068 (ask for John)
TURBO BUICK NATIONALS –
MAY 23, 24, and 25, 2019
Richard Clark’s Garage, Burlington, North Carolina
This event is held at Richard Clark’s Garage in Burlington, NC. For more information and a list of their program, go to Turbobuick.com and scroll down to Turbo Buick Nationals 2019 for up-to-date information. Here is the link to this event.
BATES NUT FARM BUICK SHOW -
SUNDAY, JUNE 2, 2019 - 9 am until 3 pm -
Bates Nut Farm, Valley Center, CA
According to Mike Bernard (of Spoolfool fame), this event is the second largest gathering of Turbo Buicks in the nation. Eric Brown and Mike Bernard deserve a lot of credit for putting this west coast event on every year. The event runs from 9 am until 3 pm. Vendors will be on hand and they will have many items for their raffles. They will update the info shortly for 2019 at this link.Here is a link to their website.
1ST ANNUAL BUICK BASH AT THE QUAKE -
FRIDAY & SATURDAY - JUNE 14 & 15, 2019
Quaker City Motorsports Park, 10225 West South Range Road, Salem, OH 44460
For more info, contact John Csordas 914-447-6068 [email protected] or Denny Moore 330-647-3615 [email protected] - www.quakercitymotorsportspark.com
EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS -
FRIDAY & SATURDAY - SEPTEMBER 20TH& 21ST, 2019
Cecil County Dragway, 1916 Theodore Road, Rising Sun, Maryland
This will be the 23rd year. Host hotel Information: Comfort Inn located just off exit 100 on I-95. Call 410-287-7100 and mention Northeast GS/GN Club for special pricing. For more info, contact John Csordas 914-447-6068 [email protected] or Jim Chaudrue 215-266-1052 [email protected]
GOOD NEWS - WE ARE ACCEPTING CLASSIFIED ADS -
Good news - We now accept Classified Ads in our weekly Inner Circle emails. Over the years several customers have asked about placing an ad in our weekly Inner Circle.
Here are the options and the costs.
Ads can be from any individual or company. It needs to be automotive related, meaning it does not need be specifically Turbo Regal related. It can be for something for sale or something wanted.
Maximum number of words is 125 words, which is about 7 to 9 lines of copy. No photos. You can list a website. We recommend you state your name, phone number or email, a price, and your location in your ad.
The cost for 2 consecutive weeks is $25. The cost for 4 consecutive weeks is $40. You save $10 with the 4-week plan. No changes can be made to your existing running ad. You can only run one ad at any given time. We will have a code system at the end of your ad, so we will know what week number your ad is to run - 2 or 4 weeks.
It can be an ad for something for sale or an ad for something you are looking for.
We have never missed a single week since we started the Inner Circle email format in 2009. It’s something I enjoy doing and I just always seem to have enough material to write about.
Our weekly Inner Circle reaches over 3,300 members every Wednesday direct to their inbox. The Inner Circle also appears every Wednesday on our website with the related photos. Your ad would be visible to both groups of readers. So, the exposure to your ad is well over 3,200 potential buyers.
Ads submitted properly by the previous Sunday would appear that next Wednesday in the weekly Inner Circle. Ads must be submitted by email to - [email protected]
Payment by credit card must be done by phone to our office 215-766-1611 x 0.
WANTED TO BUY -
For Sale – N.O.S. Parts for the Buick Grand National. This collection was over 20 years in the making from various car shows, etc. The collection contains mostly N.O.S. parts, with a few aftermarket and used parts added. There is too much to list. I have no means to test any of the few electronic parts that I have, however, they are new in the box. It is comprised of smaller items, NOT body panels, (i.e. doors, fenders, hoods, etc.). Text or E-mail me if you are interested in the spreadsheet. Stan E., 585 727-6024, or [email protected]. Asking $6,995 for the large inventory; near - Rochester, NY. Shipping is a possible option, pickup is best. It goes to internet auction if not sold here. Week 3 of 4.
NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE BUICK RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the Buick Rare Parts section at the end of this Inner Circle, it is because you are not an Inner Circle member, but instead are reading this on the website. You must subscribe to see the Rare Parts section each week. It would go directly to your inbox every Wednesday afternoon. It is FREE, probably one reason why nobody complains about what I write about. Simply email - [email protected] to get our weekly Inner Circle email.
The Buick Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!
Due to our upcoming Open House there is NO Rare Parts section this week. The Rare Parts section will resume next week on May 8, 2019 Inner Circle.
EMAILS TO KIRBAN PERFORMANCE -
NOTE- If you email us and do NOT get a timely reply, be sure to check your “SPAM” folder. Some emails do not go thru.
If you need to email us, use - [email protected]
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED –
POWERMASTER BRAKE UNITS. Unit must be complete. We will issue you a Letter of Credit for $150 for each acceptable core. We currently will not buy any powermaster units outright, only Letter of Credit towards parts.
TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $150 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. These are the only 2 items we are currently accepting as cores.
MAIL - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949
UPS - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
6201 Kellers Church Road
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949-1199
TECH CALLS -
If you need technical information, it’s best to email - [email protected] rather than call us. We will do our best to answer any technical questions within 24 hours. Please remember I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US –
GM Licensed -
BUICK GRAND NATIONAL 22-Ounce BEVERAGE TUMBLER MUG
This GM licensed 22-ounce beverage tumbler is made of a durable double-wall stainless steel vacuum construction with copper insulation. This allows the beverage to stay cold for 24 hours or hot for at least 6 hours!
The construction also prevents condensation on the outside of the tumbler. On-trend, durable powder coating, and easy sipping with a push-on lid with a wide opening for comfortable filing and pouring. An Eastman Tritan T straw is included.
The Grand National Turbo-six logo is imprinted in red, orange and white.
It makes a great statement at a car show, and also makes a great gift for that Turbo enthusiast or for your mechanic.
Another excellent Buick enthusiast gift idea.
7875 - GM Licensed - BUICK GRAND NATIONAL 22-ounce Beverage Tumbler Mug - $24.95
Here is a link to this Tumbler on our website.
GM Licensed -
BUICK GRAND NATIONAL BASEBALL-STYLE EMBROIDERED BLACK HAT
This GM licensed 6-panel structured low crown pre-curved visor black hat is made from moisture wicking polyester. It has a micro-hook/loop closure in the back.
The black hat has the Grand National Turbo-six logo embroidered in red, orange and white on the front and adjustable in the back.
Another excellent Buick enthusiast gift idea.
7876 - GM Licensed - BUICK GRAND NATIONAL Baseball-style Embroidered Black Hat - $17.95
Here is a link to this Hat on our website.
ALWAYS LOOKING FOR IDEAS -
If you have any product ideas that would fit our Turbo Buick market that you would like to see available, email me direct - [email protected]
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION FOR TURBO REGAL PARTS -
Got any Turbo Buick parts you are not using? Why not cash them in for parts you need with a Letter of Credit. We also may buy your new or used parts. Simply email me a list [email protected]
Also, we are still buying dead or partially dead 1984-1987 Turbo Regals under $4,000 that are within 250 to 350 miles of our location.
NOTE - ABOUT LINKS IN THE INNER CIRCLE -
We have heard from a couple people that have had problems with the links in our Inner Circle.
When we check the links, they work fine. However, if you are not able to be directed to the exact website page or internet site, you can "copy" and "paste" the link into the URL in your browser (such as Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
Most people having problems are using Internet Explorer. If you are having issues with links, try another browser to see if it works.
You may need to "UPDATE" your browser to be use you are using the current version.
NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE -
We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these must be low-resolution photos to work on the Inner Circle segments on the website, any photos of text don't appear clear when enlarged. This is a problem when you are trying to see numbers, such as those on the VIN labels or pages from Options booklet. Also, because of photo reproduction and computer screen variations, the colors may not be true to the actual product or photo.
If you would like to have us email you any photo at the higher resolution for viewing, just email us and we will email them to you. Be sure to be specific on which pictures you want to see - Reference Inner Circle date and photo number 1, 2, 3 or 4 - [email protected]
ABOUT OUR EMAILS -
Any inquiries concerning used parts, you must email me direct - [email protected] I will answer you. However, if I fail to answer you within 24 hours, please email us again. Since expanding into used parts, I get a lot of emails and sometimes I may forget your request or may not remember who requested the item.
BUICK RARE PARTS FROM US -
Because of our upcoming Open House no Rare Parts will be listed until next week May 8, 2019.
IN CLOSING –
I got my fingers crossed that the weather will be nice this coming Saturday. We have been lucky most years for our Open House events. Hope to see many of you this Saturday.