Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 04-15-2015
GETTING READY FOR OUR SPRING OPEN HOUSE -
The last time I had our 1987 Turbo-T out of the garage, it was to bring it to our Fall Open House. At that time, the six-year-old AC Delco battery had completely died.
I went out last week to O’Neil Buick/GMC and picked up a new AC Delco battery #88863833. I took my old one with me just to make sure the new one was the same height.
The battery now lists for $99.99 and I paid $81.99. It’s a good thing I took my old one as they have a $16 core charge!
The new AC Delco batteries have a handle that sits flush in the top when it is not in use, which is nice. The same day I took another battery the same size to the local scrap yard near our shop to see what they would give me. I got $5 for that battery.
Just for comparison sake, I checked what the main battery for a Prius will set you back. The going rate for the main battery in a Prius is $1,200 to $1,300 each! The core charge is an additional $900! That is a hefty core charge!
PHOTO 1 - Shows the top of the newest design AC Delco battery. In case you’re wondering, when the Turbo Regals were new the original battery had a black top with white sides. I can only guess how many design changes the AC Delco battery has undergone in the last 27-28 years. My guess is probably three or four design changes.
CUSTOM-MADE BATTERY JUMPER WIRE HARNESS -
We now have a custom-made battery jumper wire harness that will fit on virtually every motorcycle, ATV, or snowmobile. We made it the correct length so it can be hardwired to the 12 volt battery and be able to get to the male connector if you need to jump start your bike. On some late model motorcycles you can be almost one-hour removing parts just to get to the battery. You also need to have the proper tools with you if your battery was to fail. All the various hand held battery jumper modules have the same one way blue male and female connectors. This custom-made wire harness takes the worry out of ever being stranded on a motorcycle with a dead battery.
It’s one of those products that you will be glad you have, yet hope you never have to use it! It has a one-way circuit breaker in the positive wire so only power can go to your battery. No power can come from your battery when it is not in use. This clever product now makes those hand held battery jumper modules useful for motorcycle owners. If you own a motorcycle shop or ATV shop we are looking for dealers. Our part number is #7643. These are in stock and will be for sale at our Spring Open House. The retail price is just under $25 each. Email me [email protected] for more details.
PHOTO 2 - The top left photo shows the actual 23 inch long custom-made wire harness. The top right photo shows it hard wired to my brother-in-laws 2012 Harley Davidson Electric Glide bike. The bottom left photo shows the end connector pulled down so it can be used to jump the motorcycle. The bottom right photo shows our battery jumper module hooked up to the custom-made harness to jump start the motorcycle. Ideally you want to nest this harness alongside your battery maintainer harness.
JUNKYARDING -
Hard to believe that most weekends over this past winter I was going to various junkyards to hunt down parts for our company. I was mainly getting vacuum brake pedals.
I know that the least smelly cars have no doors on them. The easiest brake pedals to remove are ones where the steering column is already out of the car.
At one junkyard many of the older vintage cars are just piled together and not in neat rows. I figured I would share a few of these photos with you our readers.
PHOTO 3 - The photo to the top left shows a 1985-1987 regular Regal that I got the brake pedal out of one day. The top right photo shows a very rare 1958 Ford Ranchero needing some TLC. The bottom left photo shows the interior of a Cadillac limo, complete with TV and plush seating! The bottom right shows a foreign car… I have no idea what it is! I am not usually stumped. Anyone know what make car this is?
DEVYN OUR GRANDDAUGHTER DRIVES OUR TURBO-T -
PHOTO 4 - This past Sunday the weather finally felt like spring, so I fired up the Turbo-T and let our granddaughter Devyn drive it. Over the winter, I had promised her I would let her drive it. Here is a photo of her and me after the drive. It was an “interesting” experience. Next week, we will explain what that means!
MORE LED INTERIOR LIGHTING -
As you know, we now have most of the interior lighting upgraded to the LED format. This makes a huge difference in our cars.
Mike Frayler, who bugged me about getting it done for the T-Top lighting, emailed me last week about what would fit in the shifter indicator and also the heater/AC control panel?
The heater/AC control panel is lit by one single light socket and its way over to the right side of the panel. It turns out the one LED light that is part of the under dash kit for the driver’s side works perfectly for not only the shifter indicator in the console but also the heater/AC panel.
When I was installing the new AC Delco battery, I also installed the LED light in the shifter indicator and the heater/AC panel. The big difference is with the shifter indicator. The original bulb puts out a yellow light. With the LED it’s a crisp bright white. The heater/AC panel is also improved, but the brightness remains basically on the right side of the panel.
I was able to do the shifter indicator light by simply unscrewing the diecast panel and angling it over the console. I did not have to remove the shifter handle. You also have to remove the two small screws that secure the ribbed plastic track to the base so you can twist out the light socket to remove the original bulb.
We will have a new kit that will feature the two small LED lights for the shifter indicator and the heater/AC panel next week. The price would be $8.95. I am mentioning it now, since we will have them available at our Open House this Saturday along with all the other interior LED lighting. All these are just nice small improvements to enhance your car without hurting the value. Plus all these LEDs draw far less amps than the old-style glass bulbs.
ELECTRONICS CAN BE BAFFLING AT TIMES -
As many of you realize, not every electronic device operates flawlessly. Here are some examples.
My brother-in-law’s son borrowed his Mom’s Subaru the other day. Coming home from work he hit a massive pothole that shut the car off. My brother-in-law was baffled as to why the car shut off and they could not start it. It turns out the car has a fuel shut off switch that shuts the fuel off if the car gets hit in the rear. The pothole must have triggered it.
Kathy, our new secretary, says her husband was in a store the other day and left his keys in the vehicle. Another person drove up next to him and hit his automatic lock on his key fob, and it also LOCKED her husband’s vehicle! This became a problem because the other person’s key fob would not UNLOCK Kathy’s husband’s vehicle!
A friend of mine stored a late-model Corvette in his shop over the winter. He got in it the other day to move it and when he shut the door it locked. The battery was weak from sitting and he could not get the door to unlock nor get the window to go down. He sat locked in the Corvette for a few minutes before the battery must have recharged enough to open the door again. Scary! The newer Corvettes don’t have manual door handles. It would be interesting to compare how many feet of wire were used in a 1953 Corvette and how many feet of wire are now in a 2015 Corvette.
YOU LEARN SOMETHING EVERY DAY ABOUT YOUR TURBO REGAL -
I think it’s amazing that even 27-28 years later many of us, myself included, are still learning more about the Turbo Regals.
Richard Clark called me last week about something he recently discovered while browsing through an original 1987 Regal Owner’s Manual. Probably less than 10% of my readers have even read the Owner’s Manual, myself included!
It turns out GM made two different 1987 Regal Owner’s Manuals.
The way to tell which you have is by the GM part number that appears on the first inside page. Part number 25527272 would be for the first printing. The corrected version is part number 25527272-A.
Neither part number appears in my December 1987 parts book. At some point in the printing of the 1987 Regal Owner’s Manual, someone discovered a glowing error regarding tires in Section 5 Page 13. There is a paragraph that reads in part, “Regardless of the legal speed limit, your Buick must not be operated at speeds faster than 85 mph (140 km/h) unless it has the required high-speed capability tires.” In the initial copies of the 1987 Regal regarding tires the word NOT was left out. So it read, “Regardless of the legal speed limit, your Buick must be operated at speeds faster than 85 mph (140 km/h) unless it has the required high-speed capability tires.”
Richard has several copies of the incorrect Owner’s Manuals from cars in his collection. He will be bringing a copy to our Spring Open House to show people. This error reminds me of the one brand new GM hood pad I had a few years ago where the printing was upside down. I should have kept it!
GNX #331 - FOR SALE - NEW LOWER PRICE -
I was able to get back to take better photos of GNX #331 earlier this week. We pulled the car outside.
There are 3 small outward dings in the quarter panels from something being in the trunk.
The front fillers are cracked and need to be replaced. The rear filler seem to be fine.
Because of cob webbing in the paint, the front header panel should be repainted, since the rest of the body and paint is exceptional. The interior is absolutely pristine. Even the door panels and steering wheel show virtually no wear at all.
The motor is whisper quiet. The gas tank is still silver. In talking to Jean, the owner, she has agreed to lower the price to $46,900. She has only driven it a few hundred miles in the last 1-2 years. The car needs a new home. You would be hard pressed to find a better deal for this price. It has had the same original owner since 1989.
Unfortunately, this car will not be at our Open House this weekend. We will have printed photos to give to interested buyers.
For more information and photos contact me - [email protected]
IN STOCK - BOB BAILEY’S TR-6 HIGH TECH IGNITION SYSTEM -
We have several units now in stock. Bob only builds these a few times a year.
#7442 - TR-6 High Tech Ignition System
#7443 - TR-6 High Tech Ignition System and Custom-Cut High-Performance Grey Plug Wires Set
Here is a link to these to options on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7442&submit_button=
SPOOLFOOL REAR SPOILER CONTEST UPDATE -
Good News - Mike Barnard has confirmed he will be coming to our upcoming Spring Open House event, April 18th. He has also sent us a supply of each of his new rear spoilers.
Get to meet the man behind the popular one-piece rear filler panel that has been a hit since it was first introduced.
He also made two rear spoilers - one is the same as the original 3-piece spoiler, and the other is a one-piece design. The one-piece design simply overhangs the top edge of both rear quarter panels and is attached to the trunk lid.
Both spoilers are made in the same high-quality as his popular Spoolfool fillers. In most cases, the finish on them needs no work.
We have both rear spoilers available at our upcoming Spring Open House. In the meantime, Mike is running a contest, which will award the winner their choice of one of the new rear spoilers that he has produced.
The contest started on April 1, 2015 - April Fools Day!
You can request a “FUN METER” button when you contact our office. We have them in stock. The Fun Meter button is what you need for the contest.
Here is the link for the contest rules:
http://turbobuick.com/forums/threads/spoolfools-all-new-spoiler-give-away-photo-contest.424396/#post-3529132
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 or $75 cash 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
You can save shipping costs by bringing any cores to our Open House, April 18th 2015.
NOTE - You are welcome to bring other good parts you do not need or want to sell to our Open House. We may be interested in trading something we have for what you have, or we may purchase your parts outright.
MORE SPRING OPEN HOUSE BREAKING NEWS -
We hope to announce word on two new products we have been involved with for the Turbo Regal market. Watch for word in a future Inner Circle.
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.
1987 BUICK TURBO REGAL T - FOR SALE
For Sale - 1987 Buick Turbo Regal T, 71k mile original light-weight CA survivor, 100% rust free, aluminum drums and factory aluminum bumper inserts, too many Kirban upgrades to list, totally stock looking, ice cold A/C still uses R12, PW, tilt, cruise, 342 posi, window sticker, original exhaust with stock replacement muffler, under carriage as clean as top side, fully detailed for show or drive anywhere.
Received “Award of Excellence” at 2013 BPG East Coast Regionals.
Over $17k invested, needs nothing, runs better than new.
Sell $15,000 FIRM. Need to make room for newly acquired ‘70 GSX.
Member NE GS/GN Club and Co-Director local BCA club.
Steve Perry - 914-262-9965, - Carmel NY.
PRICE - $15,000
Here is a link to this Turbo-T with photos on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44234/1987+BUICK+GRAND+NATIONAL+-+FOR%E2%80%88SALE.html
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.
MORE NEWS ON THE MULTI-FUNCTION JUMP STARTERS -
We will have a supply of these at our Spring Open House. It is one of the most powerful ones on the market, putting out 250 cranking amps and 500 peak amps for less than $100. It is this larger module that has very few limitations on what it can do.
Here is a link to these Multi-Function Jump Starter parts on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7629&submit_button=
DISTRIBUTORS WANTED -
The company is starting to get inquiries on their products, which they forward to us since we are their U.S. distributor. We already have several automotive mail-order companies going to start carrying this unit.
Now that we are the only supplier for the Multi-Function Jump Starter for this company is the U.S.A., we want to line up more distributors.
We are looking for distributors for this product. We currently have two price breaks - 5-9 units or 10 or more.
The product is very easy to sell and not limited to any specific car or truck owner. For pricing and more details, email me personally - [email protected]
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 -
1984-1987 Buick Regal - All Models (including Buick Turbo Regal) -
REPRODUCTION DASH CONNECTOR SEALING GASKET
Over time, water can enter the interior due to a deteriorating dash connector sealing gasket. This can potentially create rust and water damage to the driver’s side floor and surrounding materials.
This new reproduction dash connector sealing gasket fixes the problem. It restores a weather-tight seal to the harness feed-thru location.
This is a critical gasket, since it’s for the dash bulkhead.
GM has discontinued the actual connectors.
If you are restoring the interior, this is the time to check to see if you need this part.
The gasket comes with very detailed directions.
Our first picture shows the actual gasket and the second photo shows the general area (indicated by a red oval) where this gasket is used.
Another great interior restoration item.
7657 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal - All Models (including Buick Turbo Regal) -
Reproduction Dash Connector Sealing Gasket - $24.95
Here is a link to this Dash Connecting Sealing Gasket on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44235/REPRODUCTION%E2%80%88DASH+CONNECTOR+SEALING%E2%80%88GASKET+%237657.html
1984-1988 GM G-Body - All Models (Including Buick Turbo Regal)
AFTERMARKET LED UNDER-THE-DASH INTERIOR LIGHT BULBS (3) SET
& LED TRUNK or UNDER-THE-HOOD LIGHT BULB
This aftermarket LED under-the-dash interior light kit will replace both of the under-the-dash factory lights to the upgraded LED format.
GM used two different styles of sockets under the dash. It used a slotted socket on the driver’s side and a regular round socket on the passenger’s side.
This kit includes 1 round LED bulb for the passenger’s side and 2 of the slotted LED lights for the driver’s side. This will give you 1 extra slotted LED light. You can use this to replace the stock bulb for the license plate light in most cars. Because of its flat face, the LED will fit in the housing for the license plate light.
You can also purchase an extra passenger’s side LED light, if you want to upgrade the trunk light since it takes the same LED bulb. The same LED bulb will also work for the under-the-hood light.
LED lights greatly increase the amount of light over the stock glass bulbs, draws far less amperage, and does not generate the extreme heat like the original glass bulbs.
Our top left photo shows the original bulbs in the housings, and these replacement LED bulbs.
Our top right photo shows a single LED bulb, which can be purchased separately as a trunk or under-the-hood light bulb, Part #7664.
Our lower left photo shows the interior driver’s side.
Our lower right photo shows the interior passenger’s side.
NOTE - The round LED bulb may look slightly different than the bulb shown in the photos, depending on our supplier.
NOTE - The slotted LED bulb in #7663 will fit the driver’s side under-the-dash interior light or the license plate light on most GM G-Body cars. The round LED bulb #7664 will fit the passenger’s side under-the-dash interior light, the trunk light, or the under-the-hood light.
We also recommend you check out our Aftermarket LED Interior Light Panel, Part #7661. This would give you a complete kit of LED interior lights.
Excellent replacement items for any interior restoration.
7663 - 1984-1988 GM G-Body - All Models (Including Buick Turbo Regal) -
Aftermarket LED Under-the-Dash Interior Lights Bulbs (3) Set - $12.95
7664 - 1984-1988 GM G-Body - All Models (Including Buick Turbo Regal) -
SINGLE Aftermarket LED Trunk or Under-the-Hood Light Bulb - $4.95
Here is a link to these LED bulbs on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44236/Aftermarket+LED+Under-the-Dash+Interior+Lights+Bulbs+%283%29+Set+%237663.html
1986-1988 G-Body - All Models (including Buick Turbo Regal) -
THIRD BRAKE LIGHT USED HOUSING WITH NEW BULB AND USED DEFLECTOR WITH LENS
In many cases, you may find that the third brake light socket may be burnt or cracked from heat or age. Also the deflector may become warped over a period of time due to summer heat over the years.
We now have good used third brake light housings available, complete with a brand new 1156 bulb installed. The socket and housing are in very good condition.
We also have good used deflectors with the red lens.
You can buy either or, if you purchase both, you can save $3.95.
We also recommend you check out our Third Brake Light LED Panel, Part #7660. It would be an excellent upgrade with the good used housing.
Excellent replacement items for any interior restoration.
7667 - 1986-1988 G-Body - All Models (including Buick Turbo Regal) -
Third Brake Light Used Housing with New Bulb - $19.95
7668 - 1986-1988 G-Body - All Models (including Buick Turbo Regal) -
Third Brake Light Used Deflector with Lens - $6.95
7669 - 1986-1988 G-Body - All Models (including Buick Turbo Regal) -
Third Brake Light Used Housing with New Bulb AND Used Deflector with Lens - $22.95 (save $3.95)
Here is a link to this Housing and Deflector on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7667&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 WORKS -
Got any Turbo Buick parts you are not using? Why not cash them in for parts you need with a Letter of Credit. Simply email me a list - [email protected]. Also, we are still buying dead or partially dead 1984-1987 Turbo Regals under $4,000 that are within 250 to 350 miles of our location.
NOTE - ABOUT LINKS IN THE INNER CIRCLE -
We have heard from a couple people that have had problems with the links in our Inner Circle.
When we check the links, they work fine. However, if you are not able to be directed to the exact website page or internet site, you can "copy" and "paste" the link into the URL in your browser (such as Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
Most people having problems are using Internet Explorer… If you are having issues with links, try another browser to see if it works.
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 -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE SPRING OPEN HOUSE -
SATURDAY - APRIL 18, 2015 - RAIN or SHINE - 9 am until 3 pm.
One of the first events for 2015 is our Annual Spring Open House.
Once again Russ and Nancy will be providing an excellent prepared meal for this event - this time brunch.
Brunch Menu - County Ham, Biscuits and Gravy, Bacon, French Toast, Bacon and Egg Wraps, Hash Browns, and much more.
Our spring event is always our biggest event. We will have several of our new products on display, special pricing, Yum Yum donuts, our favorite M&M contest, and our popular no reserve auction. This event has no rain date. More details as they become available. Mark your calendar!
This would be an excellent time to bring any cores we need or parts you have to trade.
It’s the perfect opportunity to see our latest products, meet new friends, and enjoy a specially prepared gourmet brunch by Russ and Nancy. Pete Hoffman and myself will have an array of used parts for sale as well. It’s always a good time.
CONFIRMED GUESTS - Richard Clark will be making a return visit to our event. Coming for the first time from Arizona is Nick Micale. Nick is a well-known enthusiast that has been involved with the Turbo Regals for many years. Mike Barnard, Spoolfool Productions (Filler Panels) is also coming from California.
LODGING IN THE GENERAL AREA - Quakertown is about 25 minutes west of our warehouse location and the newest motels are by Route 663 and the exit for Quakertown off the northeast extension of the turnpike Route 476.
COMFORT SUITES INN RT 663, 1905 John Fries Highway, Quakertown, PA 18951 - 215 / 538-3000
HAMPTON INN RT 663, 1915 John Fries Highway, Quakertown, PA 18951 - 215 / 536-7779
QUAKERTOWN HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS RT 663, 1915 John Fries Highway, Quakertown, PA 18951 - 215 / 529-7979
This is one of the first major events of 2015 for the Turbo Regal owner. Don't miss it.
5th ANNUAL “RIDE ON MOLLY” MEMORIAL RIDE -
April 25th and 26th, 2015
Headquarters - Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach, 450 E Harbor Blvd, Ventura, CA 93001.
Join them for a weekend of great fun and to honor the memory of a truly unique and wonderful friend. Donations are not required, but 100% of any offered are deposited directly to the Brooke Sanders College Fund.
Here is a link for more information on “Ride on Molly” event:
https://www.etouches.com/ehome/index.php?eventid=95341&
25TH ANNUAL BUICK RACE DAY 2015 -
May 29-31, 2015 - Norwalk, Ohio
Time trials start Friday, May 29th and Buick Car Show is Saturday, May 30th, and Race Day is Sunday May 31st, 2015. Summit Motorsports Park, 1300 State Route 18 Norwalk, Ohio 44857. Quick 16 - Turbo Heads Up - Renegade, Cash and Trophies.
For more details, contact Roberta Vasilow 810-655-8277 - email - [email protected]
OR Bill Wills 330-747-1029 - email [email protected]
This is the last time Roberta and Bill will be promoting this event as they plan to retire.
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 -
Hoping for good weather this Saturday, however, this event has no rain date.
We will several of our new products on display and plenty of food! Don’t miss it!
GETTING READY FOR OUR SPRING OPEN HOUSE -
The last time I had our 1987 Turbo-T out of the garage, it was to bring it to our Fall Open House. At that time, the six-year-old AC Delco battery had completely died.
I went out last week to O’Neil Buick/GMC and picked up a new AC Delco battery #88863833. I took my old one with me just to make sure the new one was the same height.
The battery now lists for $99.99 and I paid $81.99. It’s a good thing I took my old one as they have a $16 core charge!
The new AC Delco batteries have a handle that sits flush in the top when it is not in use, which is nice. The same day I took another battery the same size to the local scrap yard near our shop to see what they would give me. I got $5 for that battery.
Just for comparison sake, I checked what the main battery for a Prius will set you back. The going rate for the main battery in a Prius is $1,200 to $1,300 each! The core charge is an additional $900! That is a hefty core charge!
PHOTO 1 - Shows the top of the newest design AC Delco battery. In case you’re wondering, when the Turbo Regals were new the original battery had a black top with white sides. I can only guess how many design changes the AC Delco battery has undergone in the last 27-28 years. My guess is probably three or four design changes.
CUSTOM-MADE BATTERY JUMPER WIRE HARNESS -
We now have a custom-made battery jumper wire harness that will fit on virtually every motorcycle, ATV, or snowmobile. We made it the correct length so it can be hardwired to the 12 volt battery and be able to get to the male connector if you need to jump start your bike. On some late model motorcycles you can be almost one-hour removing parts just to get to the battery. You also need to have the proper tools with you if your battery was to fail. All the various hand held battery jumper modules have the same one way blue male and female connectors. This custom-made wire harness takes the worry out of ever being stranded on a motorcycle with a dead battery.
It’s one of those products that you will be glad you have, yet hope you never have to use it! It has a one-way circuit breaker in the positive wire so only power can go to your battery. No power can come from your battery when it is not in use. This clever product now makes those hand held battery jumper modules useful for motorcycle owners. If you own a motorcycle shop or ATV shop we are looking for dealers. Our part number is #7643. These are in stock and will be for sale at our Spring Open House. The retail price is just under $25 each. Email me [email protected] for more details.
PHOTO 2 - The top left photo shows the actual 23 inch long custom-made wire harness. The top right photo shows it hard wired to my brother-in-laws 2012 Harley Davidson Electric Glide bike. The bottom left photo shows the end connector pulled down so it can be used to jump the motorcycle. The bottom right photo shows our battery jumper module hooked up to the custom-made harness to jump start the motorcycle. Ideally you want to nest this harness alongside your battery maintainer harness.
JUNKYARDING -
Hard to believe that most weekends over this past winter I was going to various junkyards to hunt down parts for our company. I was mainly getting vacuum brake pedals.
I know that the least smelly cars have no doors on them. The easiest brake pedals to remove are ones where the steering column is already out of the car.
At one junkyard many of the older vintage cars are just piled together and not in neat rows. I figured I would share a few of these photos with you our readers.
PHOTO 3 - The photo to the top left shows a 1985-1987 regular Regal that I got the brake pedal out of one day. The top right photo shows a very rare 1958 Ford Ranchero needing some TLC. The bottom left photo shows the interior of a Cadillac limo, complete with TV and plush seating! The bottom right shows a foreign car… I have no idea what it is! I am not usually stumped. Anyone know what make car this is?
DEVYN OUR GRANDDAUGHTER DRIVES OUR TURBO-T -
PHOTO 4 - This past Sunday the weather finally felt like spring, so I fired up the Turbo-T and let our granddaughter Devyn drive it. Over the winter, I had promised her I would let her drive it. Here is a photo of her and me after the drive. It was an “interesting” experience. Next week, we will explain what that means!
MORE LED INTERIOR LIGHTING -
As you know, we now have most of the interior lighting upgraded to the LED format. This makes a huge difference in our cars.
Mike Frayler, who bugged me about getting it done for the T-Top lighting, emailed me last week about what would fit in the shifter indicator and also the heater/AC control panel?
The heater/AC control panel is lit by one single light socket and its way over to the right side of the panel. It turns out the one LED light that is part of the under dash kit for the driver’s side works perfectly for not only the shifter indicator in the console but also the heater/AC panel.
When I was installing the new AC Delco battery, I also installed the LED light in the shifter indicator and the heater/AC panel. The big difference is with the shifter indicator. The original bulb puts out a yellow light. With the LED it’s a crisp bright white. The heater/AC panel is also improved, but the brightness remains basically on the right side of the panel.
I was able to do the shifter indicator light by simply unscrewing the diecast panel and angling it over the console. I did not have to remove the shifter handle. You also have to remove the two small screws that secure the ribbed plastic track to the base so you can twist out the light socket to remove the original bulb.
We will have a new kit that will feature the two small LED lights for the shifter indicator and the heater/AC panel next week. The price would be $8.95. I am mentioning it now, since we will have them available at our Open House this Saturday along with all the other interior LED lighting. All these are just nice small improvements to enhance your car without hurting the value. Plus all these LEDs draw far less amps than the old-style glass bulbs.
ELECTRONICS CAN BE BAFFLING AT TIMES -
As many of you realize, not every electronic device operates flawlessly. Here are some examples.
My brother-in-law’s son borrowed his Mom’s Subaru the other day. Coming home from work he hit a massive pothole that shut the car off. My brother-in-law was baffled as to why the car shut off and they could not start it. It turns out the car has a fuel shut off switch that shuts the fuel off if the car gets hit in the rear. The pothole must have triggered it.
Kathy, our new secretary, says her husband was in a store the other day and left his keys in the vehicle. Another person drove up next to him and hit his automatic lock on his key fob, and it also LOCKED her husband’s vehicle! This became a problem because the other person’s key fob would not UNLOCK Kathy’s husband’s vehicle!
A friend of mine stored a late-model Corvette in his shop over the winter. He got in it the other day to move it and when he shut the door it locked. The battery was weak from sitting and he could not get the door to unlock nor get the window to go down. He sat locked in the Corvette for a few minutes before the battery must have recharged enough to open the door again. Scary! The newer Corvettes don’t have manual door handles. It would be interesting to compare how many feet of wire were used in a 1953 Corvette and how many feet of wire are now in a 2015 Corvette.
YOU LEARN SOMETHING EVERY DAY ABOUT YOUR TURBO REGAL -
I think it’s amazing that even 27-28 years later many of us, myself included, are still learning more about the Turbo Regals.
Richard Clark called me last week about something he recently discovered while browsing through an original 1987 Regal Owner’s Manual. Probably less than 10% of my readers have even read the Owner’s Manual, myself included!
It turns out GM made two different 1987 Regal Owner’s Manuals.
The way to tell which you have is by the GM part number that appears on the first inside page. Part number 25527272 would be for the first printing. The corrected version is part number 25527272-A.
Neither part number appears in my December 1987 parts book. At some point in the printing of the 1987 Regal Owner’s Manual, someone discovered a glowing error regarding tires in Section 5 Page 13. There is a paragraph that reads in part, “Regardless of the legal speed limit, your Buick must not be operated at speeds faster than 85 mph (140 km/h) unless it has the required high-speed capability tires.” In the initial copies of the 1987 Regal regarding tires the word NOT was left out. So it read, “Regardless of the legal speed limit, your Buick must be operated at speeds faster than 85 mph (140 km/h) unless it has the required high-speed capability tires.”
Richard has several copies of the incorrect Owner’s Manuals from cars in his collection. He will be bringing a copy to our Spring Open House to show people. This error reminds me of the one brand new GM hood pad I had a few years ago where the printing was upside down. I should have kept it!
GNX #331 - FOR SALE - NEW LOWER PRICE -
I was able to get back to take better photos of GNX #331 earlier this week. We pulled the car outside.
There are 3 small outward dings in the quarter panels from something being in the trunk.
The front fillers are cracked and need to be replaced. The rear filler seem to be fine.
Because of cob webbing in the paint, the front header panel should be repainted, since the rest of the body and paint is exceptional. The interior is absolutely pristine. Even the door panels and steering wheel show virtually no wear at all.
The motor is whisper quiet. The gas tank is still silver. In talking to Jean, the owner, she has agreed to lower the price to $46,900. She has only driven it a few hundred miles in the last 1-2 years. The car needs a new home. You would be hard pressed to find a better deal for this price. It has had the same original owner since 1989.
Unfortunately, this car will not be at our Open House this weekend. We will have printed photos to give to interested buyers.
For more information and photos contact me - [email protected]
IN STOCK - BOB BAILEY’S TR-6 HIGH TECH IGNITION SYSTEM -
We have several units now in stock. Bob only builds these a few times a year.
#7442 - TR-6 High Tech Ignition System
#7443 - TR-6 High Tech Ignition System and Custom-Cut High-Performance Grey Plug Wires Set
Here is a link to these to options on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7442&submit_button=
SPOOLFOOL REAR SPOILER CONTEST UPDATE -
Good News - Mike Barnard has confirmed he will be coming to our upcoming Spring Open House event, April 18th. He has also sent us a supply of each of his new rear spoilers.
Get to meet the man behind the popular one-piece rear filler panel that has been a hit since it was first introduced.
He also made two rear spoilers - one is the same as the original 3-piece spoiler, and the other is a one-piece design. The one-piece design simply overhangs the top edge of both rear quarter panels and is attached to the trunk lid.
Both spoilers are made in the same high-quality as his popular Spoolfool fillers. In most cases, the finish on them needs no work.
We have both rear spoilers available at our upcoming Spring Open House. In the meantime, Mike is running a contest, which will award the winner their choice of one of the new rear spoilers that he has produced.
The contest started on April 1, 2015 - April Fools Day!
You can request a “FUN METER” button when you contact our office. We have them in stock. The Fun Meter button is what you need for the contest.
Here is the link for the contest rules:
http://turbobuick.com/forums/threads/spoolfools-all-new-spoiler-give-away-photo-contest.424396/#post-3529132
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 or $75 cash 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
You can save shipping costs by bringing any cores to our Open House, April 18th 2015.
NOTE - You are welcome to bring other good parts you do not need or want to sell to our Open House. We may be interested in trading something we have for what you have, or we may purchase your parts outright.
MORE SPRING OPEN HOUSE BREAKING NEWS -
We hope to announce word on two new products we have been involved with for the Turbo Regal market. Watch for word in a future Inner Circle.
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.
1987 BUICK TURBO REGAL T - FOR SALE
For Sale - 1987 Buick Turbo Regal T, 71k mile original light-weight CA survivor, 100% rust free, aluminum drums and factory aluminum bumper inserts, too many Kirban upgrades to list, totally stock looking, ice cold A/C still uses R12, PW, tilt, cruise, 342 posi, window sticker, original exhaust with stock replacement muffler, under carriage as clean as top side, fully detailed for show or drive anywhere.
Received “Award of Excellence” at 2013 BPG East Coast Regionals.
Over $17k invested, needs nothing, runs better than new.
Sell $15,000 FIRM. Need to make room for newly acquired ‘70 GSX.
Member NE GS/GN Club and Co-Director local BCA club.
Steve Perry - 914-262-9965, - Carmel NY.
PRICE - $15,000
Here is a link to this Turbo-T with photos on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44234/1987+BUICK+GRAND+NATIONAL+-+FOR%E2%80%88SALE.html
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.
MORE NEWS ON THE MULTI-FUNCTION JUMP STARTERS -
We will have a supply of these at our Spring Open House. It is one of the most powerful ones on the market, putting out 250 cranking amps and 500 peak amps for less than $100. It is this larger module that has very few limitations on what it can do.
Here is a link to these Multi-Function Jump Starter parts on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7629&submit_button=
DISTRIBUTORS WANTED -
The company is starting to get inquiries on their products, which they forward to us since we are their U.S. distributor. We already have several automotive mail-order companies going to start carrying this unit.
Now that we are the only supplier for the Multi-Function Jump Starter for this company is the U.S.A., we want to line up more distributors.
We are looking for distributors for this product. We currently have two price breaks - 5-9 units or 10 or more.
The product is very easy to sell and not limited to any specific car or truck owner. For pricing and more details, email me personally - [email protected]
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 -
1984-1987 Buick Regal - All Models (including Buick Turbo Regal) -
REPRODUCTION DASH CONNECTOR SEALING GASKET
Over time, water can enter the interior due to a deteriorating dash connector sealing gasket. This can potentially create rust and water damage to the driver’s side floor and surrounding materials.
This new reproduction dash connector sealing gasket fixes the problem. It restores a weather-tight seal to the harness feed-thru location.
This is a critical gasket, since it’s for the dash bulkhead.
GM has discontinued the actual connectors.
If you are restoring the interior, this is the time to check to see if you need this part.
The gasket comes with very detailed directions.
Our first picture shows the actual gasket and the second photo shows the general area (indicated by a red oval) where this gasket is used.
Another great interior restoration item.
7657 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal - All Models (including Buick Turbo Regal) -
Reproduction Dash Connector Sealing Gasket - $24.95
Here is a link to this Dash Connecting Sealing Gasket on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44235/REPRODUCTION%E2%80%88DASH+CONNECTOR+SEALING%E2%80%88GASKET+%237657.html
1984-1988 GM G-Body - All Models (Including Buick Turbo Regal)
AFTERMARKET LED UNDER-THE-DASH INTERIOR LIGHT BULBS (3) SET
& LED TRUNK or UNDER-THE-HOOD LIGHT BULB
This aftermarket LED under-the-dash interior light kit will replace both of the under-the-dash factory lights to the upgraded LED format.
GM used two different styles of sockets under the dash. It used a slotted socket on the driver’s side and a regular round socket on the passenger’s side.
This kit includes 1 round LED bulb for the passenger’s side and 2 of the slotted LED lights for the driver’s side. This will give you 1 extra slotted LED light. You can use this to replace the stock bulb for the license plate light in most cars. Because of its flat face, the LED will fit in the housing for the license plate light.
You can also purchase an extra passenger’s side LED light, if you want to upgrade the trunk light since it takes the same LED bulb. The same LED bulb will also work for the under-the-hood light.
LED lights greatly increase the amount of light over the stock glass bulbs, draws far less amperage, and does not generate the extreme heat like the original glass bulbs.
Our top left photo shows the original bulbs in the housings, and these replacement LED bulbs.
Our top right photo shows a single LED bulb, which can be purchased separately as a trunk or under-the-hood light bulb, Part #7664.
Our lower left photo shows the interior driver’s side.
Our lower right photo shows the interior passenger’s side.
NOTE - The round LED bulb may look slightly different than the bulb shown in the photos, depending on our supplier.
NOTE - The slotted LED bulb in #7663 will fit the driver’s side under-the-dash interior light or the license plate light on most GM G-Body cars. The round LED bulb #7664 will fit the passenger’s side under-the-dash interior light, the trunk light, or the under-the-hood light.
We also recommend you check out our Aftermarket LED Interior Light Panel, Part #7661. This would give you a complete kit of LED interior lights.
Excellent replacement items for any interior restoration.
7663 - 1984-1988 GM G-Body - All Models (Including Buick Turbo Regal) -
Aftermarket LED Under-the-Dash Interior Lights Bulbs (3) Set - $12.95
7664 - 1984-1988 GM G-Body - All Models (Including Buick Turbo Regal) -
SINGLE Aftermarket LED Trunk or Under-the-Hood Light Bulb - $4.95
Here is a link to these LED bulbs on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44236/Aftermarket+LED+Under-the-Dash+Interior+Lights+Bulbs+%283%29+Set+%237663.html
1986-1988 G-Body - All Models (including Buick Turbo Regal) -
THIRD BRAKE LIGHT USED HOUSING WITH NEW BULB AND USED DEFLECTOR WITH LENS
In many cases, you may find that the third brake light socket may be burnt or cracked from heat or age. Also the deflector may become warped over a period of time due to summer heat over the years.
We now have good used third brake light housings available, complete with a brand new 1156 bulb installed. The socket and housing are in very good condition.
We also have good used deflectors with the red lens.
You can buy either or, if you purchase both, you can save $3.95.
We also recommend you check out our Third Brake Light LED Panel, Part #7660. It would be an excellent upgrade with the good used housing.
Excellent replacement items for any interior restoration.
7667 - 1986-1988 G-Body - All Models (including Buick Turbo Regal) -
Third Brake Light Used Housing with New Bulb - $19.95
7668 - 1986-1988 G-Body - All Models (including Buick Turbo Regal) -
Third Brake Light Used Deflector with Lens - $6.95
7669 - 1986-1988 G-Body - All Models (including Buick Turbo Regal) -
Third Brake Light Used Housing with New Bulb AND Used Deflector with Lens - $22.95 (save $3.95)
Here is a link to this Housing and Deflector on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7667&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 WORKS -
Got any Turbo Buick parts you are not using? Why not cash them in for parts you need with a Letter of Credit. Simply email me a list - [email protected]. Also, we are still buying dead or partially dead 1984-1987 Turbo Regals under $4,000 that are within 250 to 350 miles of our location.
NOTE - ABOUT LINKS IN THE INNER CIRCLE -
We have heard from a couple people that have had problems with the links in our Inner Circle.
When we check the links, they work fine. However, if you are not able to be directed to the exact website page or internet site, you can "copy" and "paste" the link into the URL in your browser (such as Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
Most people having problems are using Internet Explorer… If you are having issues with links, try another browser to see if it works.
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 -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE SPRING OPEN HOUSE -
SATURDAY - APRIL 18, 2015 - RAIN or SHINE - 9 am until 3 pm.
One of the first events for 2015 is our Annual Spring Open House.
Once again Russ and Nancy will be providing an excellent prepared meal for this event - this time brunch.
Brunch Menu - County Ham, Biscuits and Gravy, Bacon, French Toast, Bacon and Egg Wraps, Hash Browns, and much more.
Our spring event is always our biggest event. We will have several of our new products on display, special pricing, Yum Yum donuts, our favorite M&M contest, and our popular no reserve auction. This event has no rain date. More details as they become available. Mark your calendar!
This would be an excellent time to bring any cores we need or parts you have to trade.
It’s the perfect opportunity to see our latest products, meet new friends, and enjoy a specially prepared gourmet brunch by Russ and Nancy. Pete Hoffman and myself will have an array of used parts for sale as well. It’s always a good time.
CONFIRMED GUESTS - Richard Clark will be making a return visit to our event. Coming for the first time from Arizona is Nick Micale. Nick is a well-known enthusiast that has been involved with the Turbo Regals for many years. Mike Barnard, Spoolfool Productions (Filler Panels) is also coming from California.
LODGING IN THE GENERAL AREA - Quakertown is about 25 minutes west of our warehouse location and the newest motels are by Route 663 and the exit for Quakertown off the northeast extension of the turnpike Route 476.
COMFORT SUITES INN RT 663, 1905 John Fries Highway, Quakertown, PA 18951 - 215 / 538-3000
HAMPTON INN RT 663, 1915 John Fries Highway, Quakertown, PA 18951 - 215 / 536-7779
QUAKERTOWN HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS RT 663, 1915 John Fries Highway, Quakertown, PA 18951 - 215 / 529-7979
This is one of the first major events of 2015 for the Turbo Regal owner. Don't miss it.
5th ANNUAL “RIDE ON MOLLY” MEMORIAL RIDE -
April 25th and 26th, 2015
Headquarters - Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach, 450 E Harbor Blvd, Ventura, CA 93001.
Join them for a weekend of great fun and to honor the memory of a truly unique and wonderful friend. Donations are not required, but 100% of any offered are deposited directly to the Brooke Sanders College Fund.
Here is a link for more information on “Ride on Molly” event:
https://www.etouches.com/ehome/index.php?eventid=95341&
25TH ANNUAL BUICK RACE DAY 2015 -
May 29-31, 2015 - Norwalk, Ohio
Time trials start Friday, May 29th and Buick Car Show is Saturday, May 30th, and Race Day is Sunday May 31st, 2015. Summit Motorsports Park, 1300 State Route 18 Norwalk, Ohio 44857. Quick 16 - Turbo Heads Up - Renegade, Cash and Trophies.
For more details, contact Roberta Vasilow 810-655-8277 - email - [email protected]
OR Bill Wills 330-747-1029 - email [email protected]
This is the last time Roberta and Bill will be promoting this event as they plan to retire.
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 -
Hoping for good weather this Saturday, however, this event has no rain date.
We will several of our new products on display and plenty of food! Don’t miss it!