Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 09-07-2016 -
BEFORE AUTOMOTIVE WINDOW STICKERS -
Before automotive Window Stickers were issued in the late 1950s, automotive dealers simply typed the information on a preprinted dealer invoice. The dealer invoice usually would list all the particulars on the car or truck, including the VIN number. It may or may not show the codes and prices associated with any of the options. It would however, show the total price less your trade in, title fees, DMV fees, dreaded sales tax on top of the cost of the vehicle, less any deposit you gave them initially.
I don’t know how I came across it, but in my private collection of paperwork I have the original invoice for my Mother’s Father’s Ford purchase, dated July 29th 1933 from Swenson Ford in Philadelphia, PA. Back then the invoice was pretty basic.
PHOTO 1 - The first photo shows the actual copy of my grandfather’s purchase from July 29th, 1933. It reads, “One Ford Model “40” Standard Tudor Sedan $615.”
Transfer and title was $7.40, making it a total of $622.40. They allowed him $35 on his used car, making the final total due $587.40. It doesn’t even state what year or model car was traded in for the Ford Tudor Sedan or even what year Ford my grandfather purchased back in 1933.
One of the most unusual Turbo Regal invoices I have in my private collection is shown in the next photo. It is unusual on several counts. The most obvious is the car is a new 1987 Grand National. The dealership is a Dodge agency located in the New England area. I have no idea how a Dodge dealer would have a new Grand National. Perhaps a dealer trade was done since the model year had ended? The car was not sold until June of 1988. The trade in was a 1986 Monte Carlo SS and that the dealership allowed $10,000 trade in. However, the buyer owed $8,344.85 on the Monte Carlo.
The invoice doesn’t show any of the options on the Grand National, which seems strange. The price tag of $18,500 is quite high, which may indicate it was well optioned or in the summer of 1988 finding a new Grand National was difficult, so demand was high.
PHOTO 2 - The photo to the left is the Anderson Dodge invoice for a brand new 1987 Grand National that was sold in June of 1988. The buyer financed it for 60 months at $374.82 per month. The photo to the right shows a more detailed dealer invoice, again for a 1987 Grand National. This invoice does list all the options and is dated November 16th, 1987. This 1987 Grand National was roughly $2,500 cheaper.
Both of these invoices are from my records. That means I owned both of these Grand Nationals at some point during the 1990s or early 2000. The last 8 digits read “HP461717” on one VIN #. The other reads “HP462424.” After typing both VIN numbers it seems weird that both VIN numbers duplicate two digits. If you have one of these 1987 Grand Nationals, email me photo of your title or VIN number.
If anyone reading this Inner Circle has 1987 Grand National last eight digits HP462424 contact me as I have some interesting items this person will want. This car, by the way, only had 13,000 miles on it when I sold it in the fall of 2002, according to my records.
MORE GNX SPID DATA
As you may recall in recent Inner Circles we discussed GNX SPID labels. What I discovered based on photos of over 20 different GNX SPID labels is “J41” was listed for steel drums and no codes where listed for front or rear bumper reinforcement braces.
Since one of the main goals of the GNX project was to have a quicker Turbo Regal over a production Grand National, I assumed GNXs would be equipped with every weight-saving part as possible. These aluminum parts would help offset the weight of all the options the GNX received. To help accomplish this Buick would use aluminum rear brake drums and aluminum front and rear bumper supports.
One source I had forgotten to check to verify if this was true was the Dealer Service Bulletin dated Nov ’88. It is a 12-page Bulletin entitled, “1987 REGAL GNX SERVICE MANUAL, LIMITED WARRANTY SUPPLEMENT AND PARTS LISTING.” Along with illustrations of the various unique GNX parts, it also gives every part number for the parts. A notation is made by the parts that you do not need a GNX VIN number to order.
On the third page it gives the part number for aluminum brake drums and part numbers for the aluminum front and rear bumper reinforcement braces. So, this verifies that the GNX did receive those aluminum parts.
On the GNX SPID label it lists J41 for steel drums and it fails to list any part numbers for steel or aluminum bumper supports. I have no idea why.
PHOTO 3 - The photo on the left shows the front page of this original GNX Dealer Service Bulletin. The photo on the right shows a partial listing of the parts used on the GNX. We have red arrows going to the aluminum brake drums and the reinforcement aluminum bumper brackets.
GM SPREADS THE WEALTH -
Here are two recent examples of GM spreading the wealth worldwide. Every car collector knows that a percentage of the parts in your General Motors car or truck is manufactured outside of the U.S.
I recently discovered two items made overseas, both are new car related. The exterior Camaro SS small plastic SS emblems are actually made in Korea…I assume South Korea. I know this for a fact as we buy them for a Camaro SS part we make for companies.
This other item baffles me because they are so heavy to ship. We recently ordered an AC Delco battery and the sticker on the top of the battery said, “Made in Saudi Arabia.”
PHOTO 4 - The photo on the left shows the “Made in Korea” sticker on the back of the SS Camaro emblem. Funny, it doesn’t say “South Korea”? The photo on the right shows the top of a brand new AC Delco battery. Batteries are not light weight. It seems hard to believe that it is cost effective to have them made thousands of miles away and shipped to the U.S.
I HAVE A SPECIAL REQUEST FOR A GOOD FRIEND -
Many of you probably remember Trey Crease, who for many years operated 0 to Sixty Performance. Prior to this in the early 1990s he worked for our company. He also attended several of the GS National Events as a vendor.
Over the last several years he has had complications due to diabetes. For the last month and half he has been hospitalized again.
His birthday falls on the same day as mine - next Wednesday, September 14th. He looks forward to any mail he gets. I try to send him various car magazines every week.
I’m sure he would love to get a card from you.
His address is
Trey Crease
5325 Old York Road, Suite #225
Philadelphia, PA 19141.
I would appreciate it any of my customers would take time to send him a card or a note.
UPDATE ON AVAILABILITY ON REMAINING 11-PIECE CUSTOM TRUNK KITS -
As of today, Wednesday September 7th, our supplier can only make the following embroidered trunk kits:
1 of #7287
2 of #7285
1 of #7295
1 of #7294
4 of #7293
Once these are gone, there are no more.
All the above #s are the embroidered ones in grey or black.
TODAY - SEPTEMBER 7TH - WOULD HAVE BEEN BUDDY HOLLY’S 80TH BIRTHDAY -
The big event being celebrating what would have been Buddy Holly’s 80th birthday is happening in Lubbock Texas today, where he was born. When I was in Vietnam, 1966-1967, I probably had every record album he did, and I would play them in the barracks.
He was an amazing talent to die so young and how several twists of fate - good and bad played out on who got on that plane that morning and who decided to not take that fateful trip.
I remember selling two of the rare 1967 GTXs to one guy in Lubbock, Texas years later. One was a black on black convertible. Both were 440 powered. I remember years later being in Iowa with my truck and trailer taking a photo of the Clear Lake, Iowa exit. This is the site of his last concert and where the plane crashed..
PRIVATE 5 BUICKS COLLECTION FOR SALE -
The collection consists of 5 1980s Buick Regals. They are a 1987 Grand National with 26,000 original miles, 1982 Buick Grand National with 61,500 miles, a 1981 Buick Regal Pace Car #35 with 55,000 miles, a 1982 Buick Regal Sports Coupe with 26,000 miles, and a 1987 Buick Regal T with the Y56 option. This is the V8 version which is quite rare today.
Also with the package is about a half ton of parts. All 5 cars are on the road and run great.
To see more information and photos appear on our website. It has taken over 20 years to amass this unusual collection. The price tag is $90,000. Cars are located in Canada.
Contact Randy Horton at 705-292-7369.
Here is the link for photos and more information:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44323/CAR+FOR+SALE+-+5+BUICK+CARS+COLLECTION+-+CFS042.html
GM LICENSED - 1986 AND 1987 REPRODUCTION TURBO REGAL WINDOW STICKERS UPDATE -
We expect to have all the details to order a reproduction 1986 or 1987 Turbo Regal Window Sticker posted in next week’s Inner Circle.
I can’t stress it enough, the format, paper stock, and font will be exactly like the original. Even the correct GM part number will appear in the bottom right hand corner like it did originally. What we can’t duplicate exact is the wording Buick used for the options section of the Window Sticker unless ECS Automotive Concepts has the exact wording Buick used on a previous Window Sticker that they have on file. I don’t know if the wording you have on your invoice you get from GM Media Archive is the same wording that appears on the Window Sticker.
We can only work with what you provide. However, the one exception is ECS Automotive Concepts will substitute a selling Buick dealership from a list they have, which includes all the correct codes and zone associate with that dealership. Unless you have this information on the original selling dealership and the codes associated with that dealership and the zone number, we will be substitute another dealership information.
A proof will be emailed to you to approve prior to the reproduction Window Sticker being made. The price for the first copy will be $80 and $7 Priority Mail shipping. A second copy of the same reproduction Window Sticker would cost $30 more. This service for a correct looking reproduction Window Sticker is only available from our company through ECS Automotive Concepts. A correct looking Window Sticker is by far the most valuable piece of paper you could have associated with your Turbo Regal outside of the car title.
If you currently do not have an original Window Sticker, you need to gather up all the information you can so we can create one for you. One good source to contact for information on your Regal is -gmmediaarchives.com
Their Buick files go back to 1982. Their email is - [email protected]
They have files to verify options and, in most cases, the selling dealership for your specific car. Their fee is $50 and this can take 2 to 3 weeks to complete. Keep in mind in some cases, they may not be able to provide you with all the information you need because some of the files may not be readable.
As far as determining the original dealership that sold the car, you need all the codes associated with that dealership to make your Window Stickers accurate. Again, I have no idea if this information will be available from the files you get from GM Media Archives. Since all this takes 2 or 3 weeks you may want to get the ball rolling now so you have as much information as possible to provide us when you want to get a Window Stickers reproduced for your 1986 or 1987 Turbo Regal.
If you already have an original Window Stickers, it will be easier for us to get you an exact copy made so you can display it with your car and not risk something happening to your original one.
We are very fortunate that ECS Automotive Concepts has agreed to make this service available to our customers. We are the only company he is doing this for.
IMPORTANT NEWS ON REPRODUCTION ALUMINUM DRUMS UPDATE -
I am hoping to get an exact delivery date from A1 Cardone this week as I hope to have them in time for the East Coast Buick Regionals on September 16th and 17th. I will be set up at this event on only on Saturday the 17th, 2016.
We welcome cores for a Letters of Credit. Also we are a buyer of any good 1986-1987 Turbo Regal parts.
Watch for details as we may have a special price on this next shipment of aluminum drums that you could pick up at the East Coast Buick Regionals in a few weeks. They would have to be paid for in advance.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
We currently need original good 1986-1987 AC Delco mass air flow sensors. We allow $40 Letter of Credit for each correct AC Delco core. See photo 2 in 7-13-2016 Inner Circle to determine if you have the proper mass air flow sensor we need.
URGENT NEED - TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. 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 -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADSVILLE, PA 18949
UPS - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
6201 Kellers Church Road
PLUMSTEADSVILLE, 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. Keep in mind I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
CARS 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. 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]
TIP FROM KIRBAN -
If you own a hardtop Turbo Regal and need to replace the headliner, it’s the perfect time to pick up one of our used GM lighted rearview mirrors. The part number is #7708 for $28.95. It needs to be wired under the headliner to the positive lead going to the interior light. This is a very nice later GM upgrade to add to your Turbo Regal.
Here is a link to this lighted rearview mirror on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44287/ORIGINAL+GM+USED+LIGHTED+REARVIEW+MIRROR+WITH+LED+LIGHTS+%237708.html
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models including Turbo Regal) -
Reproduction RADIO BRACKETS (2) AND ATTACHING SCREWS (4) SET
The brackets to secure the factory radio in the 1984-1987 Buick Regals is unique to these cars.
You need these brackets to secure it the factory radio to the dash opening. The brackets are the same for both sides. You also need to have the factory 4 clips in order to attach these two reproduction brackets to the radio (see photo 2.)
The reproduction brackets are made in aluminum, so they will not rust. Set includes 2 brackets and 4 screws.
NOTE - You need to have the original 4 factory clips on the radio. If you do not have these clips, contact our office - 215-766-1611 x 0. We may have some used clips available, but they are not on the website.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7702 Rebuild Service for Original Power Antenna, #7703 Kirban Performance Products Rebuilt Power Antenna, #7684 Radio/Cassette Buttons Reproduction Aluminum ID Inserts (3) Set, or #7685 TWO Radio/Cassette Buttons Reproduction Aluminum ID Inserts (3) Sets.
7719 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models including Turbo Regal) -
Reproduction Radio Brackets (2) and Attaching Screws (4) Set - $19.95 / set
Here is a link to this to these brackets on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44324/Reproduction+RADIO+BRACKETS+%282%29+AND+ATTACHING+SCREWS+%284%29+SET+%237719.html
1987 Buick GNX -
Reproduction ascMcLaren DOOR JAMB DECAL
This is an exact reproduction of the original ascMcLaren decal done in vinyl, like the original.
It was on the driver’s door jamb on the GNX models. It was part of the GNX package, showing it came through ascMcLaren. Decal measures 4" x 1-1/2", is printed in red and black on a white vinyl material.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related items - #7900, #7901 and #7902 GM LICENSED DOOR JAMB VIN DATA DECALS.
Another excellent restoration item.
7731 - 1987 Buick GNX - Reproduction ascMcLaren Door Jamb Decal - $14.95
Here is a link to this decal on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44322/Reproduction+ascMcLaren+DOOR+JAMB+DECAL+%237731.html
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
INTAKE MANIFOLD TO HEATER PIPE REPRODUCTION FITTING -
BLACK OR ALUMINUM ANODIZED
This is a reproduction the 1/2" NPT fitting nipple that is required to install the coolant line to the intake manifold. It replaces the GM part #25518895, which is made in steel and is prone to rust.
This is an aluminum Black or aluminum anodized fitting. It replaces the old used steel unit that is over 30 years old.
It saves weight and gives that nice clean look to an old or new ported intake manifold.
Whether you are restoring or simply lost this fitting, this is an excellent replacement.
The fitting can be stripped or painted a color like the fitting painted blue shown in the photo.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #1508 160-Degree Thermostat, #6706 Reproduction Stainless Thermostat Housing and 0-Ring, #7269 Aftermarket DAYCO Molded Upper Radiator Hose, and #7299 Reproduction Rubber By-Pass “S” Hose, and #7300 Reproduction Upgraded Silicone By-Pass “S” Hose.
7644 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Intake Manifold to Heater Pipe Reproduction Fitting - ALUMINUM BLACK - $9.95
7645 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Intake Manifold to Heater Pipe Reproduction Fitting - ALUMINUM ANODIZED - $9.95
Here is a link to these fittings on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7644&submit_button=
ALWAYS LOOKING FOR IDEAS -
If you have any product ideas that would fit our Turbo Buick market that you would like to see available, email me direct [email protected]
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION FOR TURBO REGAL PARTS -
Got any Turbo Buick parts you are not using? Why not cash them in for parts you need with a Letter of Credit. Simply email me a list - [email protected]. Also, we are still buying dead or partially dead 1984-1987 Turbo Regals under $4,000 that are within 250 to 350 miles of our location.
NOTE - ABOUT LINKS IN THE INNER CIRCLE -
We have heard from a couple people that have had problems with the links in our Inner Circle.
When we check the links, they work fine. However, if you are not able to be directed to the exact website page or internet site, you can "copy" and "paste" the link into the URL in your browser (such as Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
Most people having problems are using Internet Explorer… If you are having issues with links, try another browser to see if it works.
You may need to "UPDATE" your browser to be use you are using the current version.
NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE -
We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these have to be low-resolution photos to work on the Inner Circle segments on the website, any photos of text don't appear clear when enlarged. This is a problem when you are trying to see numbers, such as those on the VIN labels or pages from Options booklet. Also, because of photo reproduction and computer screen variations, the colors may not be true to the actual product or photo.
If you would like to have us email you any photo at the higher resolution for viewing, just email us and we will email them to you. Be sure to be specific on which pictures you want to see - Reference Inner Circle date and photo number 1, 2, 3 or 4 - [email protected]
2016 CALENDAR OF EVENTS -
GS NATIONALS - September 14th-17th, 2016 -
Beach Bend Raceway in Bowling Green, Kentucky
See the GSXtra for more details, or their website - gsnationals.com
EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS - September 16th-17th, 2016 at Cecil County Dragway in Rising Sun, Maryland
Event includes a judged car show on Saturday open to all Buick makes and anything Buick powered. Free Vending. Saturday race classes must be Buick powered. For more information, contact - [email protected] or [email protected]
NOTE - This is not a misprint. Both the GS Nationals and East Coast Buick Regionals fall on the same weekend. We will be attending the East Coast Buick Regionals as a vendor on Saturday only September 17th. Bring any parts you want to trade also any cores you want to cash in for credit as we need mass air flow sensor cores, steering wheel cores, and could use a few powermaster cores.
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 -
Watch next week’s Turbo Inner Circle as we will have a very unique item only available to a few hundred customers at most. I just have to have someone arrange it so I can determine exactly what I have. Nobody else has this item in the quantity that I have.
BEFORE AUTOMOTIVE WINDOW STICKERS -
Before automotive Window Stickers were issued in the late 1950s, automotive dealers simply typed the information on a preprinted dealer invoice. The dealer invoice usually would list all the particulars on the car or truck, including the VIN number. It may or may not show the codes and prices associated with any of the options. It would however, show the total price less your trade in, title fees, DMV fees, dreaded sales tax on top of the cost of the vehicle, less any deposit you gave them initially.
I don’t know how I came across it, but in my private collection of paperwork I have the original invoice for my Mother’s Father’s Ford purchase, dated July 29th 1933 from Swenson Ford in Philadelphia, PA. Back then the invoice was pretty basic.
PHOTO 1 - The first photo shows the actual copy of my grandfather’s purchase from July 29th, 1933. It reads, “One Ford Model “40” Standard Tudor Sedan $615.”
Transfer and title was $7.40, making it a total of $622.40. They allowed him $35 on his used car, making the final total due $587.40. It doesn’t even state what year or model car was traded in for the Ford Tudor Sedan or even what year Ford my grandfather purchased back in 1933.
One of the most unusual Turbo Regal invoices I have in my private collection is shown in the next photo. It is unusual on several counts. The most obvious is the car is a new 1987 Grand National. The dealership is a Dodge agency located in the New England area. I have no idea how a Dodge dealer would have a new Grand National. Perhaps a dealer trade was done since the model year had ended? The car was not sold until June of 1988. The trade in was a 1986 Monte Carlo SS and that the dealership allowed $10,000 trade in. However, the buyer owed $8,344.85 on the Monte Carlo.
The invoice doesn’t show any of the options on the Grand National, which seems strange. The price tag of $18,500 is quite high, which may indicate it was well optioned or in the summer of 1988 finding a new Grand National was difficult, so demand was high.
PHOTO 2 - The photo to the left is the Anderson Dodge invoice for a brand new 1987 Grand National that was sold in June of 1988. The buyer financed it for 60 months at $374.82 per month. The photo to the right shows a more detailed dealer invoice, again for a 1987 Grand National. This invoice does list all the options and is dated November 16th, 1987. This 1987 Grand National was roughly $2,500 cheaper.
Both of these invoices are from my records. That means I owned both of these Grand Nationals at some point during the 1990s or early 2000. The last 8 digits read “HP461717” on one VIN #. The other reads “HP462424.” After typing both VIN numbers it seems weird that both VIN numbers duplicate two digits. If you have one of these 1987 Grand Nationals, email me photo of your title or VIN number.
If anyone reading this Inner Circle has 1987 Grand National last eight digits HP462424 contact me as I have some interesting items this person will want. This car, by the way, only had 13,000 miles on it when I sold it in the fall of 2002, according to my records.
MORE GNX SPID DATA
As you may recall in recent Inner Circles we discussed GNX SPID labels. What I discovered based on photos of over 20 different GNX SPID labels is “J41” was listed for steel drums and no codes where listed for front or rear bumper reinforcement braces.
Since one of the main goals of the GNX project was to have a quicker Turbo Regal over a production Grand National, I assumed GNXs would be equipped with every weight-saving part as possible. These aluminum parts would help offset the weight of all the options the GNX received. To help accomplish this Buick would use aluminum rear brake drums and aluminum front and rear bumper supports.
One source I had forgotten to check to verify if this was true was the Dealer Service Bulletin dated Nov ’88. It is a 12-page Bulletin entitled, “1987 REGAL GNX SERVICE MANUAL, LIMITED WARRANTY SUPPLEMENT AND PARTS LISTING.” Along with illustrations of the various unique GNX parts, it also gives every part number for the parts. A notation is made by the parts that you do not need a GNX VIN number to order.
On the third page it gives the part number for aluminum brake drums and part numbers for the aluminum front and rear bumper reinforcement braces. So, this verifies that the GNX did receive those aluminum parts.
On the GNX SPID label it lists J41 for steel drums and it fails to list any part numbers for steel or aluminum bumper supports. I have no idea why.
PHOTO 3 - The photo on the left shows the front page of this original GNX Dealer Service Bulletin. The photo on the right shows a partial listing of the parts used on the GNX. We have red arrows going to the aluminum brake drums and the reinforcement aluminum bumper brackets.
GM SPREADS THE WEALTH -
Here are two recent examples of GM spreading the wealth worldwide. Every car collector knows that a percentage of the parts in your General Motors car or truck is manufactured outside of the U.S.
I recently discovered two items made overseas, both are new car related. The exterior Camaro SS small plastic SS emblems are actually made in Korea…I assume South Korea. I know this for a fact as we buy them for a Camaro SS part we make for companies.
This other item baffles me because they are so heavy to ship. We recently ordered an AC Delco battery and the sticker on the top of the battery said, “Made in Saudi Arabia.”
PHOTO 4 - The photo on the left shows the “Made in Korea” sticker on the back of the SS Camaro emblem. Funny, it doesn’t say “South Korea”? The photo on the right shows the top of a brand new AC Delco battery. Batteries are not light weight. It seems hard to believe that it is cost effective to have them made thousands of miles away and shipped to the U.S.
I HAVE A SPECIAL REQUEST FOR A GOOD FRIEND -
Many of you probably remember Trey Crease, who for many years operated 0 to Sixty Performance. Prior to this in the early 1990s he worked for our company. He also attended several of the GS National Events as a vendor.
Over the last several years he has had complications due to diabetes. For the last month and half he has been hospitalized again.
His birthday falls on the same day as mine - next Wednesday, September 14th. He looks forward to any mail he gets. I try to send him various car magazines every week.
I’m sure he would love to get a card from you.
His address is
Trey Crease
5325 Old York Road, Suite #225
Philadelphia, PA 19141.
I would appreciate it any of my customers would take time to send him a card or a note.
UPDATE ON AVAILABILITY ON REMAINING 11-PIECE CUSTOM TRUNK KITS -
As of today, Wednesday September 7th, our supplier can only make the following embroidered trunk kits:
1 of #7287
2 of #7285
1 of #7295
1 of #7294
4 of #7293
Once these are gone, there are no more.
All the above #s are the embroidered ones in grey or black.
TODAY - SEPTEMBER 7TH - WOULD HAVE BEEN BUDDY HOLLY’S 80TH BIRTHDAY -
The big event being celebrating what would have been Buddy Holly’s 80th birthday is happening in Lubbock Texas today, where he was born. When I was in Vietnam, 1966-1967, I probably had every record album he did, and I would play them in the barracks.
He was an amazing talent to die so young and how several twists of fate - good and bad played out on who got on that plane that morning and who decided to not take that fateful trip.
I remember selling two of the rare 1967 GTXs to one guy in Lubbock, Texas years later. One was a black on black convertible. Both were 440 powered. I remember years later being in Iowa with my truck and trailer taking a photo of the Clear Lake, Iowa exit. This is the site of his last concert and where the plane crashed..
PRIVATE 5 BUICKS COLLECTION FOR SALE -
The collection consists of 5 1980s Buick Regals. They are a 1987 Grand National with 26,000 original miles, 1982 Buick Grand National with 61,500 miles, a 1981 Buick Regal Pace Car #35 with 55,000 miles, a 1982 Buick Regal Sports Coupe with 26,000 miles, and a 1987 Buick Regal T with the Y56 option. This is the V8 version which is quite rare today.
Also with the package is about a half ton of parts. All 5 cars are on the road and run great.
To see more information and photos appear on our website. It has taken over 20 years to amass this unusual collection. The price tag is $90,000. Cars are located in Canada.
Contact Randy Horton at 705-292-7369.
Here is the link for photos and more information:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44323/CAR+FOR+SALE+-+5+BUICK+CARS+COLLECTION+-+CFS042.html
GM LICENSED - 1986 AND 1987 REPRODUCTION TURBO REGAL WINDOW STICKERS UPDATE -
We expect to have all the details to order a reproduction 1986 or 1987 Turbo Regal Window Sticker posted in next week’s Inner Circle.
I can’t stress it enough, the format, paper stock, and font will be exactly like the original. Even the correct GM part number will appear in the bottom right hand corner like it did originally. What we can’t duplicate exact is the wording Buick used for the options section of the Window Sticker unless ECS Automotive Concepts has the exact wording Buick used on a previous Window Sticker that they have on file. I don’t know if the wording you have on your invoice you get from GM Media Archive is the same wording that appears on the Window Sticker.
We can only work with what you provide. However, the one exception is ECS Automotive Concepts will substitute a selling Buick dealership from a list they have, which includes all the correct codes and zone associate with that dealership. Unless you have this information on the original selling dealership and the codes associated with that dealership and the zone number, we will be substitute another dealership information.
A proof will be emailed to you to approve prior to the reproduction Window Sticker being made. The price for the first copy will be $80 and $7 Priority Mail shipping. A second copy of the same reproduction Window Sticker would cost $30 more. This service for a correct looking reproduction Window Sticker is only available from our company through ECS Automotive Concepts. A correct looking Window Sticker is by far the most valuable piece of paper you could have associated with your Turbo Regal outside of the car title.
If you currently do not have an original Window Sticker, you need to gather up all the information you can so we can create one for you. One good source to contact for information on your Regal is -gmmediaarchives.com
Their Buick files go back to 1982. Their email is - [email protected]
They have files to verify options and, in most cases, the selling dealership for your specific car. Their fee is $50 and this can take 2 to 3 weeks to complete. Keep in mind in some cases, they may not be able to provide you with all the information you need because some of the files may not be readable.
As far as determining the original dealership that sold the car, you need all the codes associated with that dealership to make your Window Stickers accurate. Again, I have no idea if this information will be available from the files you get from GM Media Archives. Since all this takes 2 or 3 weeks you may want to get the ball rolling now so you have as much information as possible to provide us when you want to get a Window Stickers reproduced for your 1986 or 1987 Turbo Regal.
If you already have an original Window Stickers, it will be easier for us to get you an exact copy made so you can display it with your car and not risk something happening to your original one.
We are very fortunate that ECS Automotive Concepts has agreed to make this service available to our customers. We are the only company he is doing this for.
IMPORTANT NEWS ON REPRODUCTION ALUMINUM DRUMS UPDATE -
I am hoping to get an exact delivery date from A1 Cardone this week as I hope to have them in time for the East Coast Buick Regionals on September 16th and 17th. I will be set up at this event on only on Saturday the 17th, 2016.
We welcome cores for a Letters of Credit. Also we are a buyer of any good 1986-1987 Turbo Regal parts.
Watch for details as we may have a special price on this next shipment of aluminum drums that you could pick up at the East Coast Buick Regionals in a few weeks. They would have to be paid for in advance.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
We currently need original good 1986-1987 AC Delco mass air flow sensors. We allow $40 Letter of Credit for each correct AC Delco core. See photo 2 in 7-13-2016 Inner Circle to determine if you have the proper mass air flow sensor we need.
URGENT NEED - TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. 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 -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADSVILLE, PA 18949
UPS - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
6201 Kellers Church Road
PLUMSTEADSVILLE, 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. Keep in mind I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
CARS 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. 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]
TIP FROM KIRBAN -
If you own a hardtop Turbo Regal and need to replace the headliner, it’s the perfect time to pick up one of our used GM lighted rearview mirrors. The part number is #7708 for $28.95. It needs to be wired under the headliner to the positive lead going to the interior light. This is a very nice later GM upgrade to add to your Turbo Regal.
Here is a link to this lighted rearview mirror on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44287/ORIGINAL+GM+USED+LIGHTED+REARVIEW+MIRROR+WITH+LED+LIGHTS+%237708.html
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models including Turbo Regal) -
Reproduction RADIO BRACKETS (2) AND ATTACHING SCREWS (4) SET
The brackets to secure the factory radio in the 1984-1987 Buick Regals is unique to these cars.
You need these brackets to secure it the factory radio to the dash opening. The brackets are the same for both sides. You also need to have the factory 4 clips in order to attach these two reproduction brackets to the radio (see photo 2.)
The reproduction brackets are made in aluminum, so they will not rust. Set includes 2 brackets and 4 screws.
NOTE - You need to have the original 4 factory clips on the radio. If you do not have these clips, contact our office - 215-766-1611 x 0. We may have some used clips available, but they are not on the website.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7702 Rebuild Service for Original Power Antenna, #7703 Kirban Performance Products Rebuilt Power Antenna, #7684 Radio/Cassette Buttons Reproduction Aluminum ID Inserts (3) Set, or #7685 TWO Radio/Cassette Buttons Reproduction Aluminum ID Inserts (3) Sets.
7719 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models including Turbo Regal) -
Reproduction Radio Brackets (2) and Attaching Screws (4) Set - $19.95 / set
Here is a link to this to these brackets on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44324/Reproduction+RADIO+BRACKETS+%282%29+AND+ATTACHING+SCREWS+%284%29+SET+%237719.html
1987 Buick GNX -
Reproduction ascMcLaren DOOR JAMB DECAL
This is an exact reproduction of the original ascMcLaren decal done in vinyl, like the original.
It was on the driver’s door jamb on the GNX models. It was part of the GNX package, showing it came through ascMcLaren. Decal measures 4" x 1-1/2", is printed in red and black on a white vinyl material.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related items - #7900, #7901 and #7902 GM LICENSED DOOR JAMB VIN DATA DECALS.
Another excellent restoration item.
7731 - 1987 Buick GNX - Reproduction ascMcLaren Door Jamb Decal - $14.95
Here is a link to this decal on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44322/Reproduction+ascMcLaren+DOOR+JAMB+DECAL+%237731.html
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
INTAKE MANIFOLD TO HEATER PIPE REPRODUCTION FITTING -
BLACK OR ALUMINUM ANODIZED
This is a reproduction the 1/2" NPT fitting nipple that is required to install the coolant line to the intake manifold. It replaces the GM part #25518895, which is made in steel and is prone to rust.
This is an aluminum Black or aluminum anodized fitting. It replaces the old used steel unit that is over 30 years old.
It saves weight and gives that nice clean look to an old or new ported intake manifold.
Whether you are restoring or simply lost this fitting, this is an excellent replacement.
The fitting can be stripped or painted a color like the fitting painted blue shown in the photo.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #1508 160-Degree Thermostat, #6706 Reproduction Stainless Thermostat Housing and 0-Ring, #7269 Aftermarket DAYCO Molded Upper Radiator Hose, and #7299 Reproduction Rubber By-Pass “S” Hose, and #7300 Reproduction Upgraded Silicone By-Pass “S” Hose.
7644 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Intake Manifold to Heater Pipe Reproduction Fitting - ALUMINUM BLACK - $9.95
7645 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Intake Manifold to Heater Pipe Reproduction Fitting - ALUMINUM ANODIZED - $9.95
Here is a link to these fittings on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7644&submit_button=
ALWAYS LOOKING FOR IDEAS -
If you have any product ideas that would fit our Turbo Buick market that you would like to see available, email me direct [email protected]
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION FOR TURBO REGAL PARTS -
Got any Turbo Buick parts you are not using? Why not cash them in for parts you need with a Letter of Credit. Simply email me a list - [email protected]. Also, we are still buying dead or partially dead 1984-1987 Turbo Regals under $4,000 that are within 250 to 350 miles of our location.
NOTE - ABOUT LINKS IN THE INNER CIRCLE -
We have heard from a couple people that have had problems with the links in our Inner Circle.
When we check the links, they work fine. However, if you are not able to be directed to the exact website page or internet site, you can "copy" and "paste" the link into the URL in your browser (such as Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
Most people having problems are using Internet Explorer… If you are having issues with links, try another browser to see if it works.
You may need to "UPDATE" your browser to be use you are using the current version.
NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE -
We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these have to be low-resolution photos to work on the Inner Circle segments on the website, any photos of text don't appear clear when enlarged. This is a problem when you are trying to see numbers, such as those on the VIN labels or pages from Options booklet. Also, because of photo reproduction and computer screen variations, the colors may not be true to the actual product or photo.
If you would like to have us email you any photo at the higher resolution for viewing, just email us and we will email them to you. Be sure to be specific on which pictures you want to see - Reference Inner Circle date and photo number 1, 2, 3 or 4 - [email protected]
2016 CALENDAR OF EVENTS -
GS NATIONALS - September 14th-17th, 2016 -
Beach Bend Raceway in Bowling Green, Kentucky
See the GSXtra for more details, or their website - gsnationals.com
EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS - September 16th-17th, 2016 at Cecil County Dragway in Rising Sun, Maryland
Event includes a judged car show on Saturday open to all Buick makes and anything Buick powered. Free Vending. Saturday race classes must be Buick powered. For more information, contact - [email protected] or [email protected]
NOTE - This is not a misprint. Both the GS Nationals and East Coast Buick Regionals fall on the same weekend. We will be attending the East Coast Buick Regionals as a vendor on Saturday only September 17th. Bring any parts you want to trade also any cores you want to cash in for credit as we need mass air flow sensor cores, steering wheel cores, and could use a few powermaster cores.
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 -
Watch next week’s Turbo Inner Circle as we will have a very unique item only available to a few hundred customers at most. I just have to have someone arrange it so I can determine exactly what I have. Nobody else has this item in the quantity that I have.