Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 09-06-2017 -
EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS UPDATE -
As you know, this event is held at the Cecil County Dragway in Cecil, Maryland. The dates are September 15th and 16th. This is a very busy weekend for us. Besides the Buick event, it’s also the same weekend as my wife’s 50th High School Reunion event and my 70th birthday. We will be there as a vendor both days, but only in the mornings and early afternoons.
We will be set up as a vendor mostly with our used parts. However, if you need Spoolfool fillers and want to save the shipping money, contact our office now. If you pay up front for them, I will bring them to Cecil County for you. Space is limited in my Tahoe, so if you want to save $50 or more the shipping costs. We have a shipment of Spoolfool fillers due in any day. I think we are one of his biggest vendors Mike has a great product.
Also, bring any cores you want to cash in for a Letter of Credit. A Letter of Credit never expires as long as we are alive and in business.
This event grows bigger every year, so don’t miss it.
1985 REGAL PARTS CAR -
As we mentioned the other week, we recently purchased 2 very dead 1985 regular Regals. One is a Limited model. One was stored outside and the other was stashed in a garage for the last 10-12 years.
PHOTO 1 - The top left photo shows the passenger inner door panel of the Limited, which has a hand crank window handles instead of power windows! The top right photo shows just how badly crushed the core support bushings can get after 30-plus years. The bottom left shows the 1985 has the rare 3-piece front reinforcement bracket format. (Unfortunately, it is rusted very badly). This makes it slightly lighter than having the full-length U-shaped steel reinforcement bumper bracket. The bottom right photo shows the front of a 1986 Regal that does have a solid one-piece steel front bumper reinforcement bracket.
BARN FINDS ALWAYS SEEM TO DRAW THE CROWDS -
Barn finds seem to be the latest craze. This was especially evident at the recent Corvettes at Carlisle event that I attended the other week. In this case, it was sad to see two early Corvettes that obviously suffered many years of neglect before being dragged out into the bright sunshine. The newer Corvette of the two had already sold by Friday noon. I believe, the early Corvette had a $2,250 price tag on it. In my opinion, neither one was much more than a possible lawn ornament for some Corvette collector.
PHOTO 2 - The top left shows the earlier model Corvette. The top right shows the later model Corvette. I imagine both came from the same location. The bottom left photo shows a 1961 or 1962 Corvette that I saw that same week in my neighborhood. The bottom right shows another barn find, a Sunbeam Alpine. Again, nothing more than a possible lawn ornament.
These are all sad examples of where their fate was not originally to end up this way, but due to circumstances, were left and neglected. That day to restore them never came.
TURBO REGAL FACTORY POWER ANTENNAS -
The Turbo Regal factory power antenna is one option that has a failure rate probably almost as high as the failure rate of the powermaster brake unit. Those of us that have a fixed mast antenna on their car can be glad we don’t have the power antenna option.
Adding to the misery is that fact it is a major job to remove it in order to be repaired or replaced. One wrong move and you can end up kinking your passenger fender. Most failures can be attributed to the plastic internal cable. Like the original bumper fillers that can crumble in time, the plastic antenna cable can break.
Your best bet is to remove it and have our source repair it. Our source installs a steel cable, which eliminates that issue. He also lubricates it. Most of the repair kits or reproduction power antennas have a plastic cable and it’s only a matter of time before you repeat getting it repaired! Our part #7702 is what you want to send your original power antenna in to be rebuilt. With winter coming, it may be a good idea to do it.
PHOTO 3 - The one 1985 Regal Limited had a power antenna and this photo shows how I removed it. It’s one reason you don’t want to hire me to remove your power antenna!
OLDSMOBILE TOURING SEDANS -
The Oldsmobile Touring sedan first appeared as a 1987 model. This was a joint project with ASC and Oldsmobile. They were a well optioned 4-door sedan. The car featured Lear Seiglar leather seats! This project probably was being done at the same time ASC was busy getting 547 GNXs built for Buick! The Olds Touring sedan cars were powered by the 3800 engine. They had an analog dash cluster with a two-spoke leather-wrapped wheel.
I do recall having bought and sold one of these rare examples years ago. I think it was a 1988 model. The early ones only came in a handful of different colors. The reason I bring this up now is this past weekend I found one of these rare cars in the one You Pull Yards I go to. In all my trips to various You Pull It Yards over the years, it is the first one I have come across.
See the Rare Parts section as I have the factory am/fm cassette with EQ option radio for sale, as well as the set of 3 emblems shown in Photo 4.
PHOTO 4 - Here are the 3 factory metal emblems I removed from the Oldsmobile Touring Sedan. The larger one was on the hood and the smaller two came off the side of the car. They are made from the exact same material and were made, I am sure, the same company that made the Grand National emblems on our cars. As you can see, these are in almost mint condition.
BY THE NUMBERS -
By the numbers, with over 52 inches of rain in some sections around Houston, it is estimated over 500,000 vehicles, both private and on dealer lots, were ruined. Over 30,000 homes damaged or totally destroyed and there are 50 confirmed deaths. Unfortunately, as you read this, I am sure the numbers will increase.
Like many of you, my wife and I have watched this tragic story unfold every night on the nightly news. I never realized that Houston was the 4th largest city in the USA. Our prayers go out to those in the affected areas in and around Houston, Texas and St. Charles, Louisiana.
SALVAGE YARDS -
As many of our readers know, almost every weekend I go to one of the several big You Pull it Yards that are in a 50-mile radius of our house. I also have some pretty good connections with several other salvage yards that don’t let customers wonder into their yards. I bought his Grand National from years ago from one yard owner. At another yard the owner owns a Grand National and at another yard the owner was a GTO customer of mine years ago. When I first started doing this, I quickly discovered what parts from later GM cars were the same or would fit our cars.
Some of these parts would still be the same for 3 or 4 years after 1987. When I first started going to the yards this was great, and I would find a dozen or so of the correct radiator caps and third brake light parts etc. This is no longer the case. Now if I find 2 or 3 useable correct radiator caps, rear view mirrors, on a single outing and maybe 1 or 2 third brake lights that is a lot for a typical day in Paradise. In other words, the early 1990s GM cars are getting quite scarce in the salvage yards. Plus, I supply several other G-body vendors with these parts and other parts. G- body cars are extremely rare and unless it arrived in the junkyard a few days earlier, it will be stripped bare in quick fashion. It’s like Jeeps and Honda Civics, which seem to be the other two popular vehicles that are stripped to the bare bones within days.
GM FACTORY RADIOS -
The GM radio that was in the 1984-1987 Turbo Regals remained basically the same for just a few years after 1987. These are very hard to find today. They can also be quite costly to repair as parts are hard to get. In the early 1990s, the GM radios retained the same basic outer frame so the factory studs would allow you to bolt the later radio to your original factory side brackets. Also, soon after 1987 the factory CD player became a factory option. The am/fm CD players are extremely hard to find because they were such a costly option when they first came out. The EQ option on the radios was offered both on the cassette version and the CD option. Again, due to a cost factor for either of these radios with the EQ option, they are extremely difficult to find today.
Also the GM cars that would have a correct fitting am/fm CD player were mostly sedans that sold to an older clientele. Most of those buyers preferred the basic cassette player. Making it even more difficult is the early front-wheel drive Regals took a different format radio completely.
At some point in the mid 1990s GM went to a different frame on their car radios, making it even tougher to retro fit them into your G-body Turbo Regal. Another change happened a few years later when the radio became larger.
My point is, finding any factory early 1990s GM am/fm cassette, or GM am/fm CD is very difficult. Even tougher to find is one with the EQ upgrade option. Again, this is based on what I have discovered in the years I been going to various salvage yards. The one good thing is, I have a good supply of the plug-and-play 21-to-12 pin harnesses and antenna leads, which is what you need to plug the later GM radios into your factory harness.
I currently have a variety of GM am/fm cassette and CD radios in stock. I have some with the ultra rare EQ option. All tested and power up. Email me [email protected] with your request or see the Rare Parts section. Prices vary if the jumper harness is required.
WHAT ABOUT THE VALUE -
What about the value if you decide to upgrade to a later GM am/fm cassette player or GM am/fm CD player, or go with the lighted rearview mirror, or 16 by 8 style wheels? In my opinion none of these upgrades, hurt the value nor require anything to be cut or modified. For example, shopping for 15 inch tires can be a challenge. Where do you buy cassettes? Besides going with a GM am/fm CD player looks almost like your original am/fm cassette radio. The lighted rearview mirror should have been a factory GM part for any car, especially the ones with the T-Tops option!
WHY NOT MAKE THEM OPERATE ALL THE SAME -
I often wonder why all credit card machines don’t work the exact same way. This is especially true at the gas pumps. I can never remember which way to insert the card, since it is different at each gas station. Same goes for car titles. Why can’t every state have the same format for car titles to end confusion with buyers and sellers? Also is it really necessary that some states use front license plates while many others don’t?
UPGRADED LOWER STEERING SHAFTS -
We just got in several more of these refurbished desirable lower steering shafts. If you want one of these lower steering shafts, email me direct - [email protected]
POWERMASTER CORES -
We always have a need for powermaster cores. It is critical to properly DRAIN the powermaster unit before shipping it to us.
If the unit leaks, UPS and the Post Office will RETURN it to the sender!
1987 GRAND NATIONAL FOR SALE -
I am representing this 1987 Grand National hardtop for sale for the owner who resides in Florida. This car is at the top of the value chain and is, without any doubt, one of the best. It has been in the same family since it was new. The original owner bought it when he was single. Soon after, with a growing family, it became evident the Grand National was not a practical car, so he sold it to his brother who I have known for probably 20 years. His brother recently passed away and that is why the car is back down in Florida.
It has been made better than new. When I say better than new, it is mainly due to the fact it has had a very high-dollar repaint applied and everything has been freshened up.
I knew the brother that passed away quite well, since he was heavily involved with GTOs and even wrote a very detailed book on GTOs that is still sold today. He also had a GTO and was a very meticulous individual. His name was Eric White. The book he wrote years ago was titled, “GTOAA of America Pontiac GTO, GT-37 Illustrated Identification Guide.”
I will give a copy of Eric’s GTO identification book to whoever buys this pristine Grand National. Eric was very well known in the GTO world at the national level. I would see him every year at the National events during the 1990s. As a matter of fact, we discussed his new book and what he needed it to say since he was using GM logos, etc.
The Grand National is now in his brother’s hand, Kirk White, in Florida. They have every single document with this car since it was new. Plus, they even have the original Window Sticker. They also have every single repair receipt. Over $12,000 was spent on the repaint and to freshening up this car.
It still smells new! A smell that no company as of yet has ever duplicated. If they did, Corvette owners would line up to buy it!
The Grand National has almost every single option. The actual mileage is under 23,000 original miles. The car is 99% stock with the one exception being an aftermarket alarm system.
It has the stock powermaster brake system with the upgraded Cardone brake bowl. The car has used seat covers, which have protected the original seats. According to Kirk, he doesn’t believe anyone has ever sat in the back seat of this car.
This is a Kirban-quality car based in my numerous emails with Kirk and the fact I knew his brother from our mutual GTO connection for many years.
The new lowered price is $29,900. Keep in mind, receipts come with the car and the repaint totaled over $12,000. The repaint was only done because the car had such a poor paint job from the factory as many of them did.
NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the 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 on our weekly Inner Circle email.
URGENT NEED FOR CORRECT STEERING WHEEL CORES -
We have an urgent need for correct 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering wheel cores that are not bent. They can have minor rust on the spokes but cannot be pitted. If you owe us a steering wheel core, please send it in to get your core deposit back.
In order to continue this service, we have had to raise the core price. Without cores, owners can’t get a redone leather-wrapped steering wheel. Help us continue this needed service. We now issue a Letter of Credit for $100, if you have a correct 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering wheel core.
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]
TIP FROM KIRBAN -
Never a good idea to put off buying a part that is available that is NOS and GM original. Any of these parts for what is now over a 30-year-old car dwindle every year and eventually disappear.
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]
UPCOMING RELATED CAR SHOW EVENTS FOR 2017 -
21ST EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS -
SEPTEMBER 15th-16th, 2017
Cecil County Dragway in Cecil, Maryland
This is a very well attended event. Once again, we plan to be there as a vendor. It is the same weekend as the annual GS Nationals held in Bowling Green, Kentucky.
NOTE - We will be there the afternoon of the 15th and just in the morning of the 16th. I have to get back home since my wife’s 50th High School Reunion is that night! We will be set up as a vendor at the East Coast Buick Regionals. We will be accepting cores and interesting trades as usual. We will have a bunch of parts priced at $5 to close out the 2017 season.
For more up to date information go to their website - www.magnabuick.com
37th ANNUAL GS NATIONALS -
SEPTEMBER 13-16, 2017
Beech Bend Race Park, Bowling Green, Kentucky
For more details, go to their website or go to turbobuick.com and scroll down to the event section.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED - Powermaster brake units. The must be complete. We will issue you a letter of credit for $125 for each acceptable core. Currently we will also buy them outright.
URGENT NEED - 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering wheels. They must not be bent or rusted. We will issue a $75 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
URGENT NEED - 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.
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 -
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
DOOR PANEL ESCUTCHEON TRIM (MOLDING) 8-PIECE KIT –
Over time, the original interior trim may be broken by the pull strap or have scratches in the grey brushed area of the molding.
This is a quality reproduction that looks exactly like the originals. Kit is the correct color for all 1984-1987 Turbo Regals, including the GNX models. This is an 8-piece kit, which includes the driver’s and passenger’s sides door panel escutcheon trim brushed grey pieces and 4 strap (end) caps.
This is the complete set to replace the plastic moldings on both door panels and 4 strap (end) caps.
Sold only as a complete set.
Another excellent replacement for any interior restoration.
7808 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Door Panel Escutcheon Trim (molding) 8-Piece Kit - $164.95
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
AC DELCO NEW AC COMPRESSOR
This is a new factory AC Delco compressor for the 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal engine code 7.
It comes with the correct 6 groove pulley.
It is only the compressor. It includes an installation seal kit.
IMPORTANT - The unit has no oil. Appropriate refrigerant oil MUST be used, which is compatible with the system.
CAUTION - This compressor must be installed by a qualified mechanic.
NOTE - You may also be interested in this related part - #7768 GM AC Delco AC Accumulator (EVAPORATOR) Receiver/Drier, Powder-coated black.
Another excellent replacement for any AC restoration.
7806 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
AC DELCO NEW AC Compressor - $269.95
Here is a link to this new AC Delco AC compressor on our website:
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
CUSTOM-MADE BUICK TURBO REGAL VALVE COVER DESK LAMP
We are the exclusive supplier for this unique desk lamp.
The valve cover on this custom-made lamp is an original from a 1984-1987 Turbo Regal. The value cover is then powder-coated silver so it looks new.
The base of the lamp is a new chrome-plated timing chain cover.
The pull chain used to turn the lamp on and off features a brand new AC Delco spark plug on the end of the pull chain.
The LED light strip used to light the lamp is almost as long as the valve cover.
The overall height of the assembled desk top lamp is approximately 16".
The lamp comes with easy-to-follow directions since minor assembly is required.
NOTE - Supplies may be limited due to having to find and purchase original Turbo Regal valve covers.
Another excellent addition to any office, desk or garage. It makes the perfect unique gift for any turbo car enthusiast.
KE-017 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Custom-made Buick Turbo Regal Valve Cover Desk Lamp - $129.95
Here is a link to this desk lamp on our website.
CUSTOMIZED BUICK TAILLIGHT LED WALL DISPLAY -
CHROME EDGE OR PLAIN
During one of my many trips to various junkyards, this idea recently came to me. It’s a cool way to offer an actual original Buick part that you can personalize in the section for a license plate.
Some of you probably save you old license plates or mementos from a previous car. Now you can mount your old license plate or logo plate in this unique wall display. Better yet, you can insert a picture of you and your pride and joy in that space (see photos.) The ideas are endless.
We purchase original taillight assemblies from used Buick Regal or Century models. Both taillight assemblies are vintage early 2000 models. These are not easy to find in perfect condition.
Each taillight assembly is pre-wired with 6 LED bulbs and a 9-volt battery with a switch. Hanging hardware is attached and the display comes ready to hang on the wall. You can light it up in your garage or work shop.
Each taillight assembly has been polished and cleaned. Display piece measures approximately 38" wide and weighs about 5 lbs.
We offer two versions. The version with the chrome edge (#KE-018) is from a Buick Century model. The plain version shown without the chrome edge (#KE-019) is from a Buick Regal.
NOTE- Some assemblies may have the Regal model or Century emblem still on the surface. It can easily be removed, since it is merely stuck on.
Our photos show both versions and 4 different ideas on what to put in the section where the license plate would normally go.
Here is a unique way to have something that you can personalize to your liking, and know that it is not something that has been mass produced since it is made from an original Buick part.
The top photo shows the wall display lit. The lower photos show ideas on how the license plate area can be personalized with a license plate or photo.
Our second photo shows the wall displays without any insert.
NOTE - You may also be interested in this related item - #KE-016 Custom-made Buick Turbo Regal Valve Cover Desk Lamp.
Another excellent addition to any office or garage. It makes the perfect unique gift for any car enthusiast.
NOTE- Part is oversized for shipping.
KE-018 - Customized Buick Taillight LED Wall Display - CHROME EDGE - $79.95
KE-019 - Customized Buick Taillight LED Wall Display - PLAIN - $79.95
NOTE - Since supplies are limited, you must call our office to order these wall displays and have the oversize shipping calculated - 215-766-1611 x 0.
Here is a link to these two taillight LED wall displays 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. 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.
IN CLOSING -
Remember, if you are attending the East Coast Buick Regionals on September 15th and 16th and need Spoolfool fillers, you must call our office now 215-766-1611 X 0 and pay for them. That is the only way I will bring them to the Cecil event. I have limited space in my Tahoe, also keep in mind I am only there both days in the morning and early afternoons.
We will be set up as a vendor mostly with our used parts. Bring us any cores you wish to cash in for a Letter of Credit.
EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS UPDATE -
As you know, this event is held at the Cecil County Dragway in Cecil, Maryland. The dates are September 15th and 16th. This is a very busy weekend for us. Besides the Buick event, it’s also the same weekend as my wife’s 50th High School Reunion event and my 70th birthday. We will be there as a vendor both days, but only in the mornings and early afternoons.
We will be set up as a vendor mostly with our used parts. However, if you need Spoolfool fillers and want to save the shipping money, contact our office now. If you pay up front for them, I will bring them to Cecil County for you. Space is limited in my Tahoe, so if you want to save $50 or more the shipping costs. We have a shipment of Spoolfool fillers due in any day. I think we are one of his biggest vendors Mike has a great product.
Also, bring any cores you want to cash in for a Letter of Credit. A Letter of Credit never expires as long as we are alive and in business.
This event grows bigger every year, so don’t miss it.
1985 REGAL PARTS CAR -
As we mentioned the other week, we recently purchased 2 very dead 1985 regular Regals. One is a Limited model. One was stored outside and the other was stashed in a garage for the last 10-12 years.
PHOTO 1 - The top left photo shows the passenger inner door panel of the Limited, which has a hand crank window handles instead of power windows! The top right photo shows just how badly crushed the core support bushings can get after 30-plus years. The bottom left shows the 1985 has the rare 3-piece front reinforcement bracket format. (Unfortunately, it is rusted very badly). This makes it slightly lighter than having the full-length U-shaped steel reinforcement bumper bracket. The bottom right photo shows the front of a 1986 Regal that does have a solid one-piece steel front bumper reinforcement bracket.
BARN FINDS ALWAYS SEEM TO DRAW THE CROWDS -
Barn finds seem to be the latest craze. This was especially evident at the recent Corvettes at Carlisle event that I attended the other week. In this case, it was sad to see two early Corvettes that obviously suffered many years of neglect before being dragged out into the bright sunshine. The newer Corvette of the two had already sold by Friday noon. I believe, the early Corvette had a $2,250 price tag on it. In my opinion, neither one was much more than a possible lawn ornament for some Corvette collector.
PHOTO 2 - The top left shows the earlier model Corvette. The top right shows the later model Corvette. I imagine both came from the same location. The bottom left photo shows a 1961 or 1962 Corvette that I saw that same week in my neighborhood. The bottom right shows another barn find, a Sunbeam Alpine. Again, nothing more than a possible lawn ornament.
These are all sad examples of where their fate was not originally to end up this way, but due to circumstances, were left and neglected. That day to restore them never came.
TURBO REGAL FACTORY POWER ANTENNAS -
The Turbo Regal factory power antenna is one option that has a failure rate probably almost as high as the failure rate of the powermaster brake unit. Those of us that have a fixed mast antenna on their car can be glad we don’t have the power antenna option.
Adding to the misery is that fact it is a major job to remove it in order to be repaired or replaced. One wrong move and you can end up kinking your passenger fender. Most failures can be attributed to the plastic internal cable. Like the original bumper fillers that can crumble in time, the plastic antenna cable can break.
Your best bet is to remove it and have our source repair it. Our source installs a steel cable, which eliminates that issue. He also lubricates it. Most of the repair kits or reproduction power antennas have a plastic cable and it’s only a matter of time before you repeat getting it repaired! Our part #7702 is what you want to send your original power antenna in to be rebuilt. With winter coming, it may be a good idea to do it.
PHOTO 3 - The one 1985 Regal Limited had a power antenna and this photo shows how I removed it. It’s one reason you don’t want to hire me to remove your power antenna!
OLDSMOBILE TOURING SEDANS -
The Oldsmobile Touring sedan first appeared as a 1987 model. This was a joint project with ASC and Oldsmobile. They were a well optioned 4-door sedan. The car featured Lear Seiglar leather seats! This project probably was being done at the same time ASC was busy getting 547 GNXs built for Buick! The Olds Touring sedan cars were powered by the 3800 engine. They had an analog dash cluster with a two-spoke leather-wrapped wheel.
I do recall having bought and sold one of these rare examples years ago. I think it was a 1988 model. The early ones only came in a handful of different colors. The reason I bring this up now is this past weekend I found one of these rare cars in the one You Pull Yards I go to. In all my trips to various You Pull It Yards over the years, it is the first one I have come across.
See the Rare Parts section as I have the factory am/fm cassette with EQ option radio for sale, as well as the set of 3 emblems shown in Photo 4.
PHOTO 4 - Here are the 3 factory metal emblems I removed from the Oldsmobile Touring Sedan. The larger one was on the hood and the smaller two came off the side of the car. They are made from the exact same material and were made, I am sure, the same company that made the Grand National emblems on our cars. As you can see, these are in almost mint condition.
BY THE NUMBERS -
By the numbers, with over 52 inches of rain in some sections around Houston, it is estimated over 500,000 vehicles, both private and on dealer lots, were ruined. Over 30,000 homes damaged or totally destroyed and there are 50 confirmed deaths. Unfortunately, as you read this, I am sure the numbers will increase.
Like many of you, my wife and I have watched this tragic story unfold every night on the nightly news. I never realized that Houston was the 4th largest city in the USA. Our prayers go out to those in the affected areas in and around Houston, Texas and St. Charles, Louisiana.
SALVAGE YARDS -
As many of our readers know, almost every weekend I go to one of the several big You Pull it Yards that are in a 50-mile radius of our house. I also have some pretty good connections with several other salvage yards that don’t let customers wonder into their yards. I bought his Grand National from years ago from one yard owner. At another yard the owner owns a Grand National and at another yard the owner was a GTO customer of mine years ago. When I first started doing this, I quickly discovered what parts from later GM cars were the same or would fit our cars.
Some of these parts would still be the same for 3 or 4 years after 1987. When I first started going to the yards this was great, and I would find a dozen or so of the correct radiator caps and third brake light parts etc. This is no longer the case. Now if I find 2 or 3 useable correct radiator caps, rear view mirrors, on a single outing and maybe 1 or 2 third brake lights that is a lot for a typical day in Paradise. In other words, the early 1990s GM cars are getting quite scarce in the salvage yards. Plus, I supply several other G-body vendors with these parts and other parts. G- body cars are extremely rare and unless it arrived in the junkyard a few days earlier, it will be stripped bare in quick fashion. It’s like Jeeps and Honda Civics, which seem to be the other two popular vehicles that are stripped to the bare bones within days.
GM FACTORY RADIOS -
The GM radio that was in the 1984-1987 Turbo Regals remained basically the same for just a few years after 1987. These are very hard to find today. They can also be quite costly to repair as parts are hard to get. In the early 1990s, the GM radios retained the same basic outer frame so the factory studs would allow you to bolt the later radio to your original factory side brackets. Also, soon after 1987 the factory CD player became a factory option. The am/fm CD players are extremely hard to find because they were such a costly option when they first came out. The EQ option on the radios was offered both on the cassette version and the CD option. Again, due to a cost factor for either of these radios with the EQ option, they are extremely difficult to find today.
Also the GM cars that would have a correct fitting am/fm CD player were mostly sedans that sold to an older clientele. Most of those buyers preferred the basic cassette player. Making it even more difficult is the early front-wheel drive Regals took a different format radio completely.
At some point in the mid 1990s GM went to a different frame on their car radios, making it even tougher to retro fit them into your G-body Turbo Regal. Another change happened a few years later when the radio became larger.
My point is, finding any factory early 1990s GM am/fm cassette, or GM am/fm CD is very difficult. Even tougher to find is one with the EQ upgrade option. Again, this is based on what I have discovered in the years I been going to various salvage yards. The one good thing is, I have a good supply of the plug-and-play 21-to-12 pin harnesses and antenna leads, which is what you need to plug the later GM radios into your factory harness.
I currently have a variety of GM am/fm cassette and CD radios in stock. I have some with the ultra rare EQ option. All tested and power up. Email me [email protected] with your request or see the Rare Parts section. Prices vary if the jumper harness is required.
WHAT ABOUT THE VALUE -
What about the value if you decide to upgrade to a later GM am/fm cassette player or GM am/fm CD player, or go with the lighted rearview mirror, or 16 by 8 style wheels? In my opinion none of these upgrades, hurt the value nor require anything to be cut or modified. For example, shopping for 15 inch tires can be a challenge. Where do you buy cassettes? Besides going with a GM am/fm CD player looks almost like your original am/fm cassette radio. The lighted rearview mirror should have been a factory GM part for any car, especially the ones with the T-Tops option!
WHY NOT MAKE THEM OPERATE ALL THE SAME -
I often wonder why all credit card machines don’t work the exact same way. This is especially true at the gas pumps. I can never remember which way to insert the card, since it is different at each gas station. Same goes for car titles. Why can’t every state have the same format for car titles to end confusion with buyers and sellers? Also is it really necessary that some states use front license plates while many others don’t?
UPGRADED LOWER STEERING SHAFTS -
We just got in several more of these refurbished desirable lower steering shafts. If you want one of these lower steering shafts, email me direct - [email protected]
POWERMASTER CORES -
We always have a need for powermaster cores. It is critical to properly DRAIN the powermaster unit before shipping it to us.
If the unit leaks, UPS and the Post Office will RETURN it to the sender!
1987 GRAND NATIONAL FOR SALE -
I am representing this 1987 Grand National hardtop for sale for the owner who resides in Florida. This car is at the top of the value chain and is, without any doubt, one of the best. It has been in the same family since it was new. The original owner bought it when he was single. Soon after, with a growing family, it became evident the Grand National was not a practical car, so he sold it to his brother who I have known for probably 20 years. His brother recently passed away and that is why the car is back down in Florida.
It has been made better than new. When I say better than new, it is mainly due to the fact it has had a very high-dollar repaint applied and everything has been freshened up.
I knew the brother that passed away quite well, since he was heavily involved with GTOs and even wrote a very detailed book on GTOs that is still sold today. He also had a GTO and was a very meticulous individual. His name was Eric White. The book he wrote years ago was titled, “GTOAA of America Pontiac GTO, GT-37 Illustrated Identification Guide.”
I will give a copy of Eric’s GTO identification book to whoever buys this pristine Grand National. Eric was very well known in the GTO world at the national level. I would see him every year at the National events during the 1990s. As a matter of fact, we discussed his new book and what he needed it to say since he was using GM logos, etc.
The Grand National is now in his brother’s hand, Kirk White, in Florida. They have every single document with this car since it was new. Plus, they even have the original Window Sticker. They also have every single repair receipt. Over $12,000 was spent on the repaint and to freshening up this car.
It still smells new! A smell that no company as of yet has ever duplicated. If they did, Corvette owners would line up to buy it!
The Grand National has almost every single option. The actual mileage is under 23,000 original miles. The car is 99% stock with the one exception being an aftermarket alarm system.
It has the stock powermaster brake system with the upgraded Cardone brake bowl. The car has used seat covers, which have protected the original seats. According to Kirk, he doesn’t believe anyone has ever sat in the back seat of this car.
This is a Kirban-quality car based in my numerous emails with Kirk and the fact I knew his brother from our mutual GTO connection for many years.
The new lowered price is $29,900. Keep in mind, receipts come with the car and the repaint totaled over $12,000. The repaint was only done because the car had such a poor paint job from the factory as many of them did.
NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the 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 on our weekly Inner Circle email.
URGENT NEED FOR CORRECT STEERING WHEEL CORES -
We have an urgent need for correct 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering wheel cores that are not bent. They can have minor rust on the spokes but cannot be pitted. If you owe us a steering wheel core, please send it in to get your core deposit back.
In order to continue this service, we have had to raise the core price. Without cores, owners can’t get a redone leather-wrapped steering wheel. Help us continue this needed service. We now issue a Letter of Credit for $100, if you have a correct 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering wheel core.
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]
TIP FROM KIRBAN -
Never a good idea to put off buying a part that is available that is NOS and GM original. Any of these parts for what is now over a 30-year-old car dwindle every year and eventually disappear.
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]
UPCOMING RELATED CAR SHOW EVENTS FOR 2017 -
21ST EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS -
SEPTEMBER 15th-16th, 2017
Cecil County Dragway in Cecil, Maryland
This is a very well attended event. Once again, we plan to be there as a vendor. It is the same weekend as the annual GS Nationals held in Bowling Green, Kentucky.
NOTE - We will be there the afternoon of the 15th and just in the morning of the 16th. I have to get back home since my wife’s 50th High School Reunion is that night! We will be set up as a vendor at the East Coast Buick Regionals. We will be accepting cores and interesting trades as usual. We will have a bunch of parts priced at $5 to close out the 2017 season.
For more up to date information go to their website - www.magnabuick.com
37th ANNUAL GS NATIONALS -
SEPTEMBER 13-16, 2017
Beech Bend Race Park, Bowling Green, Kentucky
For more details, go to their website or go to turbobuick.com and scroll down to the event section.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED - Powermaster brake units. The must be complete. We will issue you a letter of credit for $125 for each acceptable core. Currently we will also buy them outright.
URGENT NEED - 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering wheels. They must not be bent or rusted. We will issue a $75 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
URGENT NEED - 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.
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 -
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
DOOR PANEL ESCUTCHEON TRIM (MOLDING) 8-PIECE KIT –
Over time, the original interior trim may be broken by the pull strap or have scratches in the grey brushed area of the molding.
This is a quality reproduction that looks exactly like the originals. Kit is the correct color for all 1984-1987 Turbo Regals, including the GNX models. This is an 8-piece kit, which includes the driver’s and passenger’s sides door panel escutcheon trim brushed grey pieces and 4 strap (end) caps.
This is the complete set to replace the plastic moldings on both door panels and 4 strap (end) caps.
Sold only as a complete set.
Another excellent replacement for any interior restoration.
7808 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Door Panel Escutcheon Trim (molding) 8-Piece Kit - $164.95
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
AC DELCO NEW AC COMPRESSOR
This is a new factory AC Delco compressor for the 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal engine code 7.
It comes with the correct 6 groove pulley.
It is only the compressor. It includes an installation seal kit.
IMPORTANT - The unit has no oil. Appropriate refrigerant oil MUST be used, which is compatible with the system.
CAUTION - This compressor must be installed by a qualified mechanic.
NOTE - You may also be interested in this related part - #7768 GM AC Delco AC Accumulator (EVAPORATOR) Receiver/Drier, Powder-coated black.
Another excellent replacement for any AC restoration.
7806 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
AC DELCO NEW AC Compressor - $269.95
Here is a link to this new AC Delco AC compressor on our website:
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
CUSTOM-MADE BUICK TURBO REGAL VALVE COVER DESK LAMP
We are the exclusive supplier for this unique desk lamp.
The valve cover on this custom-made lamp is an original from a 1984-1987 Turbo Regal. The value cover is then powder-coated silver so it looks new.
The base of the lamp is a new chrome-plated timing chain cover.
The pull chain used to turn the lamp on and off features a brand new AC Delco spark plug on the end of the pull chain.
The LED light strip used to light the lamp is almost as long as the valve cover.
The overall height of the assembled desk top lamp is approximately 16".
The lamp comes with easy-to-follow directions since minor assembly is required.
NOTE - Supplies may be limited due to having to find and purchase original Turbo Regal valve covers.
Another excellent addition to any office, desk or garage. It makes the perfect unique gift for any turbo car enthusiast.
KE-017 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Custom-made Buick Turbo Regal Valve Cover Desk Lamp - $129.95
Here is a link to this desk lamp on our website.
CUSTOMIZED BUICK TAILLIGHT LED WALL DISPLAY -
CHROME EDGE OR PLAIN
During one of my many trips to various junkyards, this idea recently came to me. It’s a cool way to offer an actual original Buick part that you can personalize in the section for a license plate.
Some of you probably save you old license plates or mementos from a previous car. Now you can mount your old license plate or logo plate in this unique wall display. Better yet, you can insert a picture of you and your pride and joy in that space (see photos.) The ideas are endless.
We purchase original taillight assemblies from used Buick Regal or Century models. Both taillight assemblies are vintage early 2000 models. These are not easy to find in perfect condition.
Each taillight assembly is pre-wired with 6 LED bulbs and a 9-volt battery with a switch. Hanging hardware is attached and the display comes ready to hang on the wall. You can light it up in your garage or work shop.
Each taillight assembly has been polished and cleaned. Display piece measures approximately 38" wide and weighs about 5 lbs.
We offer two versions. The version with the chrome edge (#KE-018) is from a Buick Century model. The plain version shown without the chrome edge (#KE-019) is from a Buick Regal.
NOTE- Some assemblies may have the Regal model or Century emblem still on the surface. It can easily be removed, since it is merely stuck on.
Our photos show both versions and 4 different ideas on what to put in the section where the license plate would normally go.
Here is a unique way to have something that you can personalize to your liking, and know that it is not something that has been mass produced since it is made from an original Buick part.
The top photo shows the wall display lit. The lower photos show ideas on how the license plate area can be personalized with a license plate or photo.
Our second photo shows the wall displays without any insert.
NOTE - You may also be interested in this related item - #KE-016 Custom-made Buick Turbo Regal Valve Cover Desk Lamp.
Another excellent addition to any office or garage. It makes the perfect unique gift for any car enthusiast.
NOTE- Part is oversized for shipping.
KE-018 - Customized Buick Taillight LED Wall Display - CHROME EDGE - $79.95
KE-019 - Customized Buick Taillight LED Wall Display - PLAIN - $79.95
NOTE - Since supplies are limited, you must call our office to order these wall displays and have the oversize shipping calculated - 215-766-1611 x 0.
Here is a link to these two taillight LED wall displays 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. 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.
IN CLOSING -
Remember, if you are attending the East Coast Buick Regionals on September 15th and 16th and need Spoolfool fillers, you must call our office now 215-766-1611 X 0 and pay for them. That is the only way I will bring them to the Cecil event. I have limited space in my Tahoe, also keep in mind I am only there both days in the morning and early afternoons.
We will be set up as a vendor mostly with our used parts. Bring us any cores you wish to cash in for a Letter of Credit.