Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 09-11-2019 –
CONTEST RESULTS –
We had a winner within minutes after 3 pm last Wednesday to the non-Turbo Regal contest. The winner was Neil McGarvey out of New York. He actually bought a 1987 Grand National from me back in 2002. He sold it in 2011 with 59,000 miles on it for $15,900. When he advertised it, he listed that it was one of our cars in the ad. A buyer flew up from Florida and drove it back home. Neil originally came to our house in 2002 to see about a 1986 Grand National I had for sale, but I had already gotten a deposit on that 1986. Then he saw the 1987 Grand National in the garage bay next to it. (We had a 5-bay garage at our old house).
The non-Turbo Regal contest had the most responses. The most popular wrong response was that the 1957 Bel Air Chevrolet was a VHS tape rewinder. I already have one of those in the form of a Corvette, which was a one of our contest questions a while ago!
The correct answer is a “home phone.” The cord plugs into the rear license plate area, which was not shown originally, but I did get it with the phone. I now have in my private collection a Princess phone from my parent’s house and an original wall hanging pay phone that is still filled with change! Many years ago, near our old house a friend of mine was tearing down a gas station and I spotted the pay phone on the wall and he removed it for me.
No one has guessed the actual Turbo Regal part that has just been reproduced. The first ones are currently in route to me and we will picture it next week. There is still time to submit your one guess as to what it is. Each year Buick offered it as an option in any 1984-1987 Regal. It did not need to be a Turbo model. Submit your single guess to [email protected]
PHOTO 1 - I show the 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air telephone. The entire top comes off while the base has the actual numbers you dial. It would have been neat had a company made one based on the Turbo Regal!
TWO USED G-BODYPARTS.COM ALUMINUM GRAND NATIONAL 15 x 8 WHEELS –
I recently purchased this pair of the GBodyParts.com aluminum Grand National 15 x 8 wheels from a customer who replaced them with GBodyParts.com aluminum Grand National 15 x 7s up front to give his Grand National a different stance. These wheels have become quite popular as it gives Grand National owners more options, plus saves considerable weight over the 30-pound steel chrome wheels.
On the original steel chrome Grand National wheels, the chrome plating when new was never that great to start with. When you add 30 years to the formula, much of the chrome area will have a hazed look to them or will have rust issues.
To see any of the various sizes and prices aluminum Grand National wheels Brian Weaver has made, go to his website GBodyParts.com These wheels are a great upgrade to allow larger tires on your Grand National while still retaining an original look. We did the same thing years ago when we had made the Pontiac Ralley I wheels in various sizes besides the stock size and even made some chrome plated steel Ralley I wheels.
PHOTO 2 – We show a pair of GBodyParts.com aluminum Grand National 15 x 8 wheels. Both wheels are in very nice condition with no curb rash. Center caps, lug nuts, and 4 new valve stems are included. They are listed for sale under the Rare Parts section. The offset allows them to fit up front of any 1986-1987 Grand National depending on tire width and how good your front springs are. NOTE - In the one photo the center cap is sitting on the wheel upside down.
ORIGINAL BUICK DEALERSHIP SIGN -
Earlier last week, a local customer called me. He had recently sold his Grand National and was moving. He had a few Turbo Regal parts that he thought I would be interested in, including an original “BUICK” dealership sign.
This Buick dealership sign is all aluminum and is in remarkably good condition. Nothing is broken or even cracked. Because it is aluminum I estimate it weighs between 45 to 50 lbs. This is based on the fact I can easily carry it. The letters are formed plastic and show no wear at all or fading. It measures 9 feet long x 17 inches tall x 6 inches deep. It is a one-piece sign. The back is finished off with a screw-on back panel, so nothing is exposed.
Unfortunately, when it was removed the power plug to light it up was cut off flush at the back panel. The back panel would need to be removed and the lights rewired to a new plug. It has no markings on it to determine the year, or even what company made it for the Buick dealership.
PHOTO 3 – We show 4 various views of this original “BUICK” dealership sign. This would look great on a garage or pole building wall where you park your Buick. Since the housing and frame is all aluminum, it could even be mounted outside. It is listed for sale under the Rare Parts section.
1921 FORD WITH THE CENTER DOOR FOR SALE –
The other day on the way home from work I spotted this 1921 Ford for sale. With a price tag of just $8,500, you could own a car that runs and drives that is nearing the 100-year mark in age.
I had a great conversation with the seller who was a helicopter mechanic during the Korean War. I told him I served in Vietnam and rode in many a helicopter. He was in remarkable health for being 89 years young! He has 2 of these 1921 Fords. Tucked away in one of his buildings he also has a real nice black 1961 or 1962 Corvette. Unfortunately, the Corvette is not currently for sale.
He was getting ready to put his 1921 Ford in his building for the night and asked me if I wanted a ride. Of course, I said yes as this is probably the oldest car I have ever rode in. While the dash gauges are simple and plain, it’s rather complicated to drive something of this vintage compared to cars I am used to. He claims top speed is a blistering 30-35 mph, although I would be hesitant of hitting those speeds based on riding on tires that look more fitting on a typical pedal bicycle!
Overall, the Ford was in nice shape, even the interior was nice. With an $8,500 price tag, it seemed to be quite reasonable, although most of the collectors that would appreciate car of that vintage are either in the nursing home or in the ground. Sad, but true.
PHOTO 4 – We show 4 photos of this fairly original 1921 Ford with the center door. I think you could change the spark plugs and the plug wires in less than 30 minutes, since they are so accessible. It would be a cute form of transportation for a wedding reception, vintage car show, etc.
MORE PAST CAR MEMORIES –
This week we will touch on the subject of junkyards, which are also called “grave yards” or “bone yards.” Growing up I remember the nearby local junkyard was about 5 miles from our house on the edge of the city of Philadelphia. During my high school years, several of my cars ended up there.
One thing about junkyards, they never go bankrupt. Even when they close up shop, the land becomes a very valuable asset. It may be tough to grow grass on the soil, but putting up a building or two is a real money maker.
When I started our towing business, I was still in the military service. George, the owner of one local junkyard, was extremely helpful to me. I could drop junk cars by his gate to his junkyard after hours. I remember him telling me one story about a car he had years earlier. This was a classic German car that his wife hated. The reason she hated the car was because the doors swung upward like a Lamborghini when you opened the door. He eventually got rid of it. The car was a Mercedes Benz Gullwing. Needless to say, the value of that car has sky rocketed in the last 50-plus years! I also remember his one old-time friend would stop in almost every week. He drove a real Cobra 289 Roadster.
When we moved to nearby Willow Grove, I got to know the local junkyard near our house. One day when I was in this junkyard I discovered a sad sight. I came across the white 1954 Ford coupe that I had in high school. It was still dented in the rear where a classmate ran into the back of it.
This is the car I butchered the floor to install a Hurst 3-speed shifter while working the night shift at a gas station in Jenkintown. By the way, Jenkintown is the town where the Goldbergs TV show is based on.
Years later at another junkyard I would come across Darrell’s 5.0 GT Mustang. I knew it was his as he had eliminated the door handles and you pushed a button for the doors to open. It was this junkyard that I would test fit many of our early GTO and Chevelle parts on. That way I could easily determine if the part I made fit several years and also if it fit several different A-body cars. Back in the late 1970s, there was no internet to figure out fitment on various car models.
All three of these local junkyards are long gone. Homes and stores now occupy those junk-yards from years ago. Now I deal with about five junkyards that are strictly You Pull It versions. Between the 5 yards I go to, probably 20,000 cars and trucks are sitting. Problem is, with the age of the G-body format, I seldom ever find a G-body car. It still remains good exercise for a Saturday morning. At least I don’t see any of my old cars in any of these yards!
LAST CHANCE SUMMER SIZZLER SALE –
The count has been updated to reflect actual quantity available. This is your last chance as remaining parts I will be taking to the East Coast Regional Event later this month. In many cases some of the parts are sold out. Because they are special pricing, you must contact [email protected] or call our office between 9 am and 4 pm –215-766-1611x0. The below items will include the 2 bonus DVDs as well.
7671 - The Top Ten Reason T-shirts - We have 5 large, and 1 2XL. Sale price is $10 each. Retail was $15.95.
7821 - The grey and black Grand National seat covers - 3 available. Sale price $12 each. Retail was $18.95. Note -Each cover does only 1 seat.
7555 - The T-Type fender covers. - 18 available. Sale price $20 each or 2 for $38. Retail was $28.95
7751 - The Buick Motorsport Seat Armor. - 3 available. Sale price is $28 each or 2 for $48 Retail was $36.95 each.
7755 - GNX Seat Armor – 11 available. Sale price $28 each or 2 for $48. Retail was $36.95 each.
7846 – The Grand National T-shirt white ONLY - 5 large, 2 extra large, 2 XXL, and 3 XXXL available. Sale price is $14 each. Retail $18.00. Only the WHITE Grand National T-shirt is on special.
All the above Summer Sizzler parts will get the free 2 pack bonus GS DVD set.
Be sure to call or email as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. [email protected] or call our office between 9 am and 4 pm - 215-766-1611x0.
NOTE – On any of the above Summer Sizzler Sale items what has not been sold I will be taking to the East Coast Regional Nationals in September. This is the last week they will appear in the weekly Inner Circle.
CLASSIFIED AD –
WANTED TO BUY: NOS (new old stock) Buick parts for 1986 to 1987 Buick Turbo Regal. Will you be attending the Magna 23rd East Coast Buick Regional’s in Maryland on Saturday, September 21st and have some NOS parts you are thinking of selling or lying around at home and want to turn in to CASH? Then please contact me ahead of time by phone or email and let me know what you have as I will be attending this event in person and I am interested in anything NOS. I travel to purchase and I am a cash buyer. Please call or e-mail and leave message. All calls returned. Jason Maxfield (416) 399-7265 or [email protected] Niagara Falls, NY 14304. Thank You. 2 of 4.
AD FOR CAR FOR SALE ON THE WEBSITE -
FOR SALE – 1987 GRAND NATIONAL
1987 Grand National – Show quality re-paint – 9 out of 10. Factory steel wheels, 3.8 L LC2 V6 Turbo, 200-4R OD transmission, 2800 stall converter, 8.5: 3.42 rear. Stock engine (80,000 miles) with bolt ons, including new TE61 Turbo. Turbo Tweak chip with fresh injectors, fuel pump, new MAF translator with LT1 MAF sensor, Terry Houston 3” downpipe, new Pypes Performance exhaust system, Cotton Performance front mount intercooler, speedometer/odometer changed to 145 mph overlay. New filler panels, LED headlights, 1000 HP motor mounts – (eliminates engine tie-down) Kenwood Blue-Tooth radio with Mosfet 300w Amplifier. Fully dressed trunk. Scanmaster. Fully guaged. A high-performance trophy winning show car. Offered at $29,800. Email Ron Griffin at [email protected] for full description and photos. Or see in Hemming Ad #2279170 Week 4 of 4.
CORES NEEDED - URGENT REQUEST –
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
POWERMASTER BRAKE UNITS. Unit must be complete. We will issue you a Letter of Credit for $150 for each acceptable core. We currently will not buy any powermaster units outright, only Letter of Credit towards parts.
TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $150 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number. These are the only 2 items we are currently accepting as cores.
MAIL - Ship to Address –
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949
UPS - Ship to Address –
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
6201 KELLERS CHURCH ROAD
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949-1199
CARSMARTS RADIO IS ON THE AIR AND ON THE WEB! –
Turbo V6 enthusiast Steve Saffier (who produced “The Dennis Kirban Story” on YouTube last year) is producer and host of a new automotive radio program broadcasting live every Saturday from 11am - 12 noon on 610 ESPN radio (the old WIP 610 am for those in the area.) The show talks about different aspects of the car world and Steve’s affinity for Turbo Regals and Syclone/Typhoons often is expressed in nearly every show.
You can tune in live or livestream the show at http://www.610espn.com from anywhere in the world.
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If there are any tips or ideas you want to share with our readers, email me –[email protected]
TIP FROM KIRBAN –
Remember, if you are attending the East Coast Buick Regionals at Cecil County Dragway, we want your powermaster cores. Also, we are a buyer of any NOS or good used Turbo Regal parts. We will be set up as a vendor Saturday only. We will have plenty of tagged and bagged Turbo Regal parts.
2019 TURBO BUICK RELATED CAR SHOWS EVENTS -
To get your Turbo Regal event for 2019 listed here, you must email me direct –[email protected] Also, send me a copy of the flyer promoting the event.
EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS -
FRIDAY & SATURDAY – SEPTEMBER 20 & 21, 2019
Cecil County Dragway, 1916 Theodore Road, Rising Sun, Maryland
This will be the 23rd year. We plan to be at this Buick event as a vendor so bring any cores or parts you want to cash in! Host hotel Information - Comfort Inn located just off exit 100 on I95. Call 410-287-7100 and mention Northeast GS/GN Club for special pricing. For more info, contact John Csordas 914-447-6068 [email protected] or Jim Chaudrue 215-266-1052 [email protected]
NOTE - We will be at the East Coast Regionals event as a vendor. Bring any cores you wish to cash in for Letter of Credit. Plus, any parts you want to sell. We are a buyer for both new and used parts. We will only be there on Saturday.
2019 GS NATIONALS
October 23-26, 2019
Beech Bend Raceway Bowling Green, KY
This is the annual event for all GS Buicks and Turbo Regals. This is the 39th GS Nationals. For more information, go to their website [email protected]
For vendor space, contact Matt and Sarah Gordon [email protected] For car show info, contact Alan Oldfield at [email protected]
GOOD NEWS - WE ARE ACCEPTING CLASSIFIED ADS -
Good news - We now accept Classified Ads in our weekly Inner Circle emails. Over the years several customers have asked about placing an ad in our weekly Inner Circle.
Here are the options and the costs.
Ads can be from any individual or company. It needs to be automotive related, meaning it does not need be specifically Turbo Regal related. It can be for something for sale or something wanted.
Maximum number of words is 125 words, which is about 7 to 9 lines of copy. No photos. You can list a website. We recommend you state your name, phone number or email, a price, and your location in your ad.
The cost for 2 consecutive weeks is $25. The cost for 4 consecutive weeks is $40. You save $10 with the 4-week plan. No changes can be made to your existing running ad. You can only run one ad at any given time. We will have a code system at the end of your ad, so we will know what week number your ad is to run - 2 or 4 weeks.
It can be an ad for something for sale or an ad for something you are looking for.
We have never missed a single week since we started the Inner Circle email format in 2009. It’s something I enjoy doing and I just always seem to have enough material to write about.
Our weekly Inner Circle reaches over 3,300 members every Wednesday direct to their inbox. The Inner Circle also appears every Wednesday on our website with the related photos. Your ad would be visible to both groups of readers. So, the exposure to your ad is well over 3,200 potential buyers.
Ads submitted properly by the previous Sunday would appear that next Wednesday in the weekly Inner Circle. Ads must be submitted by email to - [email protected]
Payment by credit card must be done by phone to our office 215-766-1611 x 0.
NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE BUICK RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the Buick Rare Parts section at the end of this Inner Circle, it is because you are not an Inner Circle member, but instead are reading this on the website. You must subscribe to see the Rare Parts section each week. It would go directly to your inbox every Wednesday afternoon. It is FREE, probably one reason why nobody complains about what I write about. To subscribe simply email- [email protected] to get our free weekly Inner Circle email.
The Buick Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!
EMAILS TO KIRBAN PERFORMANCE -
NOTE- If you email us and do NOT get a timely reply, be sure to check your “SPAM” folder. Some emails do not go thru.
If you need to email us, use - [email protected]
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED –
POWERMASTER BRAKE UNITS. Unit must be complete. We will issue you a Letter of Credit for $150 for each acceptable core.
TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $150 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number. These are the only 2 items we are currently accepting as cores.
MAIL - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949
UPS - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
6201 Kellers Church Road
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949-1199
TECH CALLS -
If you need technical information, it’s best to email - [email protected] rather than call us. We will do our best to answer any technical questions within 24 hours. Please remember I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US –
GM Licensed –
BUICK GRAND NATIONAL BASEBALL-STYLE EMBROIDERED BLACK HAT
This GM licensed 6-panel structured low crown pre-curved visor black hat is made from moisture wicking polyester. It has a micro-hook/loop closure in the back.
The black hat has the Grand National Turbo-six logo embroidered in red, orange and white on the front and adjustable in the back.
This is another excellent Buick enthusiast gift idea.
7876 - GM Licensed - BUICK GRAND NATIONAL Baseball-style Embroidered Black Hat - $17.95
Here is a link to this Hat on our website.
ALWAYS LOOKING FOR IDEAS -
If you have any product ideas that would fit our Turbo Buick market that you would like to see available, email me direct - [email protected]
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION FOR TURBO REGAL PARTS -
Got any Turbo Buick parts you are not using? Why not cash them in for parts you need with a Letter of Credit. We also may buy your new or used parts. Simply email me a list [email protected]
Also, we are still buying dead or partially dead 1984-1987 Turbo Regals under $4,000 that are within 250 to 350 miles of our location.
NOTE - ABOUT LINKS IN THE INNER CIRCLE -
We have heard from a couple people that have had problems with the links in our Inner Circle.
When we check the links, they work fine. However, if you are not able to be directed to the exact website page or internet site, you can "copy" and "paste" the link into the URL in your browser (such as Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
Most people having problems are using Internet Explorer. If you are having issues with links, try another browser to see if it works.
You may need to "UPDATE" your browser to be use you are using the current version.
NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE -
We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these must be low-resolution photos to work on the Inner Circle segments on the website, any photos of text don't appear clear when enlarged. This is a problem when you are trying to see numbers, such as those on the VIN labels or pages from Options booklet. Also, because of photo reproduction and computer screen variations, the colors may not be true to the actual product or photo.
If you would like to have us email you any photo at the higher resolution for viewing, just email us and we will email them to you. Be sure to be specific on which pictures you want to see - Reference Inner Circle date and photo number 1, 2, 3 or 4 - [email protected]
ABOUT OUR EMAILS -
Any inquiries concerning used parts, you must email me direct - [email protected] I will answer you. However, if I fail to answer you within 24 hours, please email us again. Since expanding into used parts, I get a lot of emails and sometimes I may forget your request or may not remember who requested the item.
IN CLOSING –
I hope to see many of our local customers at the upcoming East Coast Buick Regionals in nearby Cecil County Race track, September 20th and 21st. I will only be set up as a vendor on Saturday, the 20th.
CONTEST RESULTS –
We had a winner within minutes after 3 pm last Wednesday to the non-Turbo Regal contest. The winner was Neil McGarvey out of New York. He actually bought a 1987 Grand National from me back in 2002. He sold it in 2011 with 59,000 miles on it for $15,900. When he advertised it, he listed that it was one of our cars in the ad. A buyer flew up from Florida and drove it back home. Neil originally came to our house in 2002 to see about a 1986 Grand National I had for sale, but I had already gotten a deposit on that 1986. Then he saw the 1987 Grand National in the garage bay next to it. (We had a 5-bay garage at our old house).
The non-Turbo Regal contest had the most responses. The most popular wrong response was that the 1957 Bel Air Chevrolet was a VHS tape rewinder. I already have one of those in the form of a Corvette, which was a one of our contest questions a while ago!
The correct answer is a “home phone.” The cord plugs into the rear license plate area, which was not shown originally, but I did get it with the phone. I now have in my private collection a Princess phone from my parent’s house and an original wall hanging pay phone that is still filled with change! Many years ago, near our old house a friend of mine was tearing down a gas station and I spotted the pay phone on the wall and he removed it for me.
No one has guessed the actual Turbo Regal part that has just been reproduced. The first ones are currently in route to me and we will picture it next week. There is still time to submit your one guess as to what it is. Each year Buick offered it as an option in any 1984-1987 Regal. It did not need to be a Turbo model. Submit your single guess to [email protected]
PHOTO 1 - I show the 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air telephone. The entire top comes off while the base has the actual numbers you dial. It would have been neat had a company made one based on the Turbo Regal!
TWO USED G-BODYPARTS.COM ALUMINUM GRAND NATIONAL 15 x 8 WHEELS –
I recently purchased this pair of the GBodyParts.com aluminum Grand National 15 x 8 wheels from a customer who replaced them with GBodyParts.com aluminum Grand National 15 x 7s up front to give his Grand National a different stance. These wheels have become quite popular as it gives Grand National owners more options, plus saves considerable weight over the 30-pound steel chrome wheels.
On the original steel chrome Grand National wheels, the chrome plating when new was never that great to start with. When you add 30 years to the formula, much of the chrome area will have a hazed look to them or will have rust issues.
To see any of the various sizes and prices aluminum Grand National wheels Brian Weaver has made, go to his website GBodyParts.com These wheels are a great upgrade to allow larger tires on your Grand National while still retaining an original look. We did the same thing years ago when we had made the Pontiac Ralley I wheels in various sizes besides the stock size and even made some chrome plated steel Ralley I wheels.
PHOTO 2 – We show a pair of GBodyParts.com aluminum Grand National 15 x 8 wheels. Both wheels are in very nice condition with no curb rash. Center caps, lug nuts, and 4 new valve stems are included. They are listed for sale under the Rare Parts section. The offset allows them to fit up front of any 1986-1987 Grand National depending on tire width and how good your front springs are. NOTE - In the one photo the center cap is sitting on the wheel upside down.
ORIGINAL BUICK DEALERSHIP SIGN -
Earlier last week, a local customer called me. He had recently sold his Grand National and was moving. He had a few Turbo Regal parts that he thought I would be interested in, including an original “BUICK” dealership sign.
This Buick dealership sign is all aluminum and is in remarkably good condition. Nothing is broken or even cracked. Because it is aluminum I estimate it weighs between 45 to 50 lbs. This is based on the fact I can easily carry it. The letters are formed plastic and show no wear at all or fading. It measures 9 feet long x 17 inches tall x 6 inches deep. It is a one-piece sign. The back is finished off with a screw-on back panel, so nothing is exposed.
Unfortunately, when it was removed the power plug to light it up was cut off flush at the back panel. The back panel would need to be removed and the lights rewired to a new plug. It has no markings on it to determine the year, or even what company made it for the Buick dealership.
PHOTO 3 – We show 4 various views of this original “BUICK” dealership sign. This would look great on a garage or pole building wall where you park your Buick. Since the housing and frame is all aluminum, it could even be mounted outside. It is listed for sale under the Rare Parts section.
1921 FORD WITH THE CENTER DOOR FOR SALE –
The other day on the way home from work I spotted this 1921 Ford for sale. With a price tag of just $8,500, you could own a car that runs and drives that is nearing the 100-year mark in age.
I had a great conversation with the seller who was a helicopter mechanic during the Korean War. I told him I served in Vietnam and rode in many a helicopter. He was in remarkable health for being 89 years young! He has 2 of these 1921 Fords. Tucked away in one of his buildings he also has a real nice black 1961 or 1962 Corvette. Unfortunately, the Corvette is not currently for sale.
He was getting ready to put his 1921 Ford in his building for the night and asked me if I wanted a ride. Of course, I said yes as this is probably the oldest car I have ever rode in. While the dash gauges are simple and plain, it’s rather complicated to drive something of this vintage compared to cars I am used to. He claims top speed is a blistering 30-35 mph, although I would be hesitant of hitting those speeds based on riding on tires that look more fitting on a typical pedal bicycle!
Overall, the Ford was in nice shape, even the interior was nice. With an $8,500 price tag, it seemed to be quite reasonable, although most of the collectors that would appreciate car of that vintage are either in the nursing home or in the ground. Sad, but true.
PHOTO 4 – We show 4 photos of this fairly original 1921 Ford with the center door. I think you could change the spark plugs and the plug wires in less than 30 minutes, since they are so accessible. It would be a cute form of transportation for a wedding reception, vintage car show, etc.
MORE PAST CAR MEMORIES –
This week we will touch on the subject of junkyards, which are also called “grave yards” or “bone yards.” Growing up I remember the nearby local junkyard was about 5 miles from our house on the edge of the city of Philadelphia. During my high school years, several of my cars ended up there.
One thing about junkyards, they never go bankrupt. Even when they close up shop, the land becomes a very valuable asset. It may be tough to grow grass on the soil, but putting up a building or two is a real money maker.
When I started our towing business, I was still in the military service. George, the owner of one local junkyard, was extremely helpful to me. I could drop junk cars by his gate to his junkyard after hours. I remember him telling me one story about a car he had years earlier. This was a classic German car that his wife hated. The reason she hated the car was because the doors swung upward like a Lamborghini when you opened the door. He eventually got rid of it. The car was a Mercedes Benz Gullwing. Needless to say, the value of that car has sky rocketed in the last 50-plus years! I also remember his one old-time friend would stop in almost every week. He drove a real Cobra 289 Roadster.
When we moved to nearby Willow Grove, I got to know the local junkyard near our house. One day when I was in this junkyard I discovered a sad sight. I came across the white 1954 Ford coupe that I had in high school. It was still dented in the rear where a classmate ran into the back of it.
This is the car I butchered the floor to install a Hurst 3-speed shifter while working the night shift at a gas station in Jenkintown. By the way, Jenkintown is the town where the Goldbergs TV show is based on.
Years later at another junkyard I would come across Darrell’s 5.0 GT Mustang. I knew it was his as he had eliminated the door handles and you pushed a button for the doors to open. It was this junkyard that I would test fit many of our early GTO and Chevelle parts on. That way I could easily determine if the part I made fit several years and also if it fit several different A-body cars. Back in the late 1970s, there was no internet to figure out fitment on various car models.
All three of these local junkyards are long gone. Homes and stores now occupy those junk-yards from years ago. Now I deal with about five junkyards that are strictly You Pull It versions. Between the 5 yards I go to, probably 20,000 cars and trucks are sitting. Problem is, with the age of the G-body format, I seldom ever find a G-body car. It still remains good exercise for a Saturday morning. At least I don’t see any of my old cars in any of these yards!
LAST CHANCE SUMMER SIZZLER SALE –
The count has been updated to reflect actual quantity available. This is your last chance as remaining parts I will be taking to the East Coast Regional Event later this month. In many cases some of the parts are sold out. Because they are special pricing, you must contact [email protected] or call our office between 9 am and 4 pm –215-766-1611x0. The below items will include the 2 bonus DVDs as well.
7671 - The Top Ten Reason T-shirts - We have 5 large, and 1 2XL. Sale price is $10 each. Retail was $15.95.
7821 - The grey and black Grand National seat covers - 3 available. Sale price $12 each. Retail was $18.95. Note -Each cover does only 1 seat.
7555 - The T-Type fender covers. - 18 available. Sale price $20 each or 2 for $38. Retail was $28.95
7751 - The Buick Motorsport Seat Armor. - 3 available. Sale price is $28 each or 2 for $48 Retail was $36.95 each.
7755 - GNX Seat Armor – 11 available. Sale price $28 each or 2 for $48. Retail was $36.95 each.
7846 – The Grand National T-shirt white ONLY - 5 large, 2 extra large, 2 XXL, and 3 XXXL available. Sale price is $14 each. Retail $18.00. Only the WHITE Grand National T-shirt is on special.
All the above Summer Sizzler parts will get the free 2 pack bonus GS DVD set.
Be sure to call or email as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. [email protected] or call our office between 9 am and 4 pm - 215-766-1611x0.
NOTE – On any of the above Summer Sizzler Sale items what has not been sold I will be taking to the East Coast Regional Nationals in September. This is the last week they will appear in the weekly Inner Circle.
CLASSIFIED AD –
WANTED TO BUY: NOS (new old stock) Buick parts for 1986 to 1987 Buick Turbo Regal. Will you be attending the Magna 23rd East Coast Buick Regional’s in Maryland on Saturday, September 21st and have some NOS parts you are thinking of selling or lying around at home and want to turn in to CASH? Then please contact me ahead of time by phone or email and let me know what you have as I will be attending this event in person and I am interested in anything NOS. I travel to purchase and I am a cash buyer. Please call or e-mail and leave message. All calls returned. Jason Maxfield (416) 399-7265 or [email protected] Niagara Falls, NY 14304. Thank You. 2 of 4.
AD FOR CAR FOR SALE ON THE WEBSITE -
FOR SALE – 1987 GRAND NATIONAL
1987 Grand National – Show quality re-paint – 9 out of 10. Factory steel wheels, 3.8 L LC2 V6 Turbo, 200-4R OD transmission, 2800 stall converter, 8.5: 3.42 rear. Stock engine (80,000 miles) with bolt ons, including new TE61 Turbo. Turbo Tweak chip with fresh injectors, fuel pump, new MAF translator with LT1 MAF sensor, Terry Houston 3” downpipe, new Pypes Performance exhaust system, Cotton Performance front mount intercooler, speedometer/odometer changed to 145 mph overlay. New filler panels, LED headlights, 1000 HP motor mounts – (eliminates engine tie-down) Kenwood Blue-Tooth radio with Mosfet 300w Amplifier. Fully dressed trunk. Scanmaster. Fully guaged. A high-performance trophy winning show car. Offered at $29,800. Email Ron Griffin at [email protected] for full description and photos. Or see in Hemming Ad #2279170 Week 4 of 4.
CORES NEEDED - URGENT REQUEST –
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
POWERMASTER BRAKE UNITS. Unit must be complete. We will issue you a Letter of Credit for $150 for each acceptable core. We currently will not buy any powermaster units outright, only Letter of Credit towards parts.
TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $150 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number. These are the only 2 items we are currently accepting as cores.
MAIL - Ship to Address –
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949
UPS - Ship to Address –
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
6201 KELLERS CHURCH ROAD
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949-1199
CARSMARTS RADIO IS ON THE AIR AND ON THE WEB! –
Turbo V6 enthusiast Steve Saffier (who produced “The Dennis Kirban Story” on YouTube last year) is producer and host of a new automotive radio program broadcasting live every Saturday from 11am - 12 noon on 610 ESPN radio (the old WIP 610 am for those in the area.) The show talks about different aspects of the car world and Steve’s affinity for Turbo Regals and Syclone/Typhoons often is expressed in nearly every show.
You can tune in live or livestream the show at http://www.610espn.com from anywhere in the world.
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If there are any tips or ideas you want to share with our readers, email me –[email protected]
TIP FROM KIRBAN –
Remember, if you are attending the East Coast Buick Regionals at Cecil County Dragway, we want your powermaster cores. Also, we are a buyer of any NOS or good used Turbo Regal parts. We will be set up as a vendor Saturday only. We will have plenty of tagged and bagged Turbo Regal parts.
2019 TURBO BUICK RELATED CAR SHOWS EVENTS -
To get your Turbo Regal event for 2019 listed here, you must email me direct –[email protected] Also, send me a copy of the flyer promoting the event.
EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS -
FRIDAY & SATURDAY – SEPTEMBER 20 & 21, 2019
Cecil County Dragway, 1916 Theodore Road, Rising Sun, Maryland
This will be the 23rd year. We plan to be at this Buick event as a vendor so bring any cores or parts you want to cash in! Host hotel Information - Comfort Inn located just off exit 100 on I95. Call 410-287-7100 and mention Northeast GS/GN Club for special pricing. For more info, contact John Csordas 914-447-6068 [email protected] or Jim Chaudrue 215-266-1052 [email protected]
NOTE - We will be at the East Coast Regionals event as a vendor. Bring any cores you wish to cash in for Letter of Credit. Plus, any parts you want to sell. We are a buyer for both new and used parts. We will only be there on Saturday.
2019 GS NATIONALS
October 23-26, 2019
Beech Bend Raceway Bowling Green, KY
This is the annual event for all GS Buicks and Turbo Regals. This is the 39th GS Nationals. For more information, go to their website [email protected]
For vendor space, contact Matt and Sarah Gordon [email protected] For car show info, contact Alan Oldfield at [email protected]
GOOD NEWS - WE ARE ACCEPTING CLASSIFIED ADS -
Good news - We now accept Classified Ads in our weekly Inner Circle emails. Over the years several customers have asked about placing an ad in our weekly Inner Circle.
Here are the options and the costs.
Ads can be from any individual or company. It needs to be automotive related, meaning it does not need be specifically Turbo Regal related. It can be for something for sale or something wanted.
Maximum number of words is 125 words, which is about 7 to 9 lines of copy. No photos. You can list a website. We recommend you state your name, phone number or email, a price, and your location in your ad.
The cost for 2 consecutive weeks is $25. The cost for 4 consecutive weeks is $40. You save $10 with the 4-week plan. No changes can be made to your existing running ad. You can only run one ad at any given time. We will have a code system at the end of your ad, so we will know what week number your ad is to run - 2 or 4 weeks.
It can be an ad for something for sale or an ad for something you are looking for.
We have never missed a single week since we started the Inner Circle email format in 2009. It’s something I enjoy doing and I just always seem to have enough material to write about.
Our weekly Inner Circle reaches over 3,300 members every Wednesday direct to their inbox. The Inner Circle also appears every Wednesday on our website with the related photos. Your ad would be visible to both groups of readers. So, the exposure to your ad is well over 3,200 potential buyers.
Ads submitted properly by the previous Sunday would appear that next Wednesday in the weekly Inner Circle. Ads must be submitted by email to - [email protected]
Payment by credit card must be done by phone to our office 215-766-1611 x 0.
NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE BUICK RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the Buick Rare Parts section at the end of this Inner Circle, it is because you are not an Inner Circle member, but instead are reading this on the website. You must subscribe to see the Rare Parts section each week. It would go directly to your inbox every Wednesday afternoon. It is FREE, probably one reason why nobody complains about what I write about. To subscribe simply email- [email protected] to get our free weekly Inner Circle email.
The Buick Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!
EMAILS TO KIRBAN PERFORMANCE -
NOTE- If you email us and do NOT get a timely reply, be sure to check your “SPAM” folder. Some emails do not go thru.
If you need to email us, use - [email protected]
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED –
POWERMASTER BRAKE UNITS. Unit must be complete. We will issue you a Letter of Credit for $150 for each acceptable core.
TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $150 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number. These are the only 2 items we are currently accepting as cores.
MAIL - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949
UPS - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
6201 Kellers Church Road
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949-1199
TECH CALLS -
If you need technical information, it’s best to email - [email protected] rather than call us. We will do our best to answer any technical questions within 24 hours. Please remember I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US –
GM Licensed –
BUICK GRAND NATIONAL BASEBALL-STYLE EMBROIDERED BLACK HAT
This GM licensed 6-panel structured low crown pre-curved visor black hat is made from moisture wicking polyester. It has a micro-hook/loop closure in the back.
The black hat has the Grand National Turbo-six logo embroidered in red, orange and white on the front and adjustable in the back.
This is another excellent Buick enthusiast gift idea.
7876 - GM Licensed - BUICK GRAND NATIONAL Baseball-style Embroidered Black Hat - $17.95
Here is a link to this Hat on our website.
ALWAYS LOOKING FOR IDEAS -
If you have any product ideas that would fit our Turbo Buick market that you would like to see available, email me direct - [email protected]
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION FOR TURBO REGAL PARTS -
Got any Turbo Buick parts you are not using? Why not cash them in for parts you need with a Letter of Credit. We also may buy your new or used parts. Simply email me a list [email protected]
Also, we are still buying dead or partially dead 1984-1987 Turbo Regals under $4,000 that are within 250 to 350 miles of our location.
NOTE - ABOUT LINKS IN THE INNER CIRCLE -
We have heard from a couple people that have had problems with the links in our Inner Circle.
When we check the links, they work fine. However, if you are not able to be directed to the exact website page or internet site, you can "copy" and "paste" the link into the URL in your browser (such as Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
Most people having problems are using Internet Explorer. If you are having issues with links, try another browser to see if it works.
You may need to "UPDATE" your browser to be use you are using the current version.
NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE -
We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these must be low-resolution photos to work on the Inner Circle segments on the website, any photos of text don't appear clear when enlarged. This is a problem when you are trying to see numbers, such as those on the VIN labels or pages from Options booklet. Also, because of photo reproduction and computer screen variations, the colors may not be true to the actual product or photo.
If you would like to have us email you any photo at the higher resolution for viewing, just email us and we will email them to you. Be sure to be specific on which pictures you want to see - Reference Inner Circle date and photo number 1, 2, 3 or 4 - [email protected]
ABOUT OUR EMAILS -
Any inquiries concerning used parts, you must email me direct - [email protected] I will answer you. However, if I fail to answer you within 24 hours, please email us again. Since expanding into used parts, I get a lot of emails and sometimes I may forget your request or may not remember who requested the item.
IN CLOSING –
I hope to see many of our local customers at the upcoming East Coast Buick Regionals in nearby Cecil County Race track, September 20th and 21st. I will only be set up as a vendor on Saturday, the 20th.