Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 01-18-2017 -
MECUM FLORIDA AUCTION CONTEST - RESULTS AND WINNERS -
Here are the results and winners of the Mecum Auction contest. The announced selling price of the three contest vehicles were confirmed by Paul Laframboise from Canada who watched some of it and Jason Maxfield from Canada who flew down to Florida last weekend. I also checked the results on the internet as well as on the Turbo Buick forum.
Additional buyer fees are not included in the selling price of the cars.
The 15,000-mile Grand National sold on Thursday, lot #126, for a cool $41,000. The winner of that contest was David Parks from Jackson, Tennessee. His guess was $38,500. His guess was just $500 higher than the next closest guess. Dave has been a customer of ours since 2000. He owns a low-mileage 1987 Grand National and he also has a WE4.
The second vehicle in our contest, a Morris Minor Tow Truck, sold on Friday afternoon, lot #132. This winning bid was higher than the auction prediction and was a real surprise. It hammered down at an astounding $40,000, just $1,000 less than the 1987 Grand National. The winner of our contest was Preston Mullins who nailed it exactly with a $40,000 guess!
Of course, the crown jewel of our contest was the GNX #547. It had a reserve, which was lifted as the bids grew. It sold for $220,000. I am told it was won by a bidder on the phone. Our contest winner with a guess of $214,999.99 was Clem Sousa.
Each gets a Letter of Credit for $50 plus a laser engraved custom-made maple wood pen and case.
The winner of the Grand National guess and the Morris Minor Tow Truck guess will also receive the Buick Motorsport laser engraved custom-made maple wood pen and case. The winner of the GNX guess will also receive the GNX laser engraved custom-made maple wood pen and case. Both of these pen cases and pens appear in photo 1. (Note: We do have some of these for sale in the Rare Parts section of this Inner Circle).
PHOTO 1 - The photo shows both the Buick Motorsports and GNX laser engraved custom-made maple wood pen and case sets that were sent to the winners. The Grand National winner and the Morris Minor Tow Truck winner received the Buick Motorsport set and Letter of Credit for $50. The GNX winner received the GNX set and Letter of Credit for $50.
MUSCLE CAR REVIEW FEBRUARY ISSUE -
The February issue of Muscle Car Review just hit the newsstands the day before GNX #547 went on the auction block. GNX #547 is featured on the cover of the February issue. Inside is a very detailed 6-page article on the history of GNX 547. The only mistake I caught in the article was that it listed the rear ratio as a 3.73, when it fact it is a 3.42 - same as the regular Turbo Regals.
Many of you know the story since the original owner is a long-time friend of ours and the car has been featured at two of our Reunion events. Of course, back then many of us did not realize we were looking at the one GNX to break the $200,000 mark in our lifetime!
In the same issue is a 5-page article on the famous Hairy Oldsmobile that was showcased by Hurst in 1967. They also recognize the 10 collectible cars for Generation X in this issue. In their top ten pick is, of course, the three popular G-body cars - Oldsmobile 442, Monte Carlo SS, and the Grand National. The 5.0 Mustangs are also part of the group.
This is an issue worth picking up at your local newsstand.
PHOTO 2 - We show the cover of the February issue of Musclecar Review and the first two pages of this informative article.
NEWSSTANDS - WHERE HAVE THEY ALL GONE? -
Finding a newsstand today is like finding a book store. Both have virtually disappeared from the landscape. I am fortunate as I deal with a newsstand that has been around since the late 1940s. I’ve been going to this one since the mid-1960s. They offer well over 150 different magazine titles, lottery tickets, and enough different tobacco brands to provide health issues for untold number of customers! (I always kid the owner and tell them, “You know, all these tobacco products are shortening the lives of your customers!”).
They also still have a fully functioning soda fountain, complete with stools to sit on! It is the same place I get my free bundles of newspaper we use for packing orders. My point is, if you can’t find the February issue of Musclecar Review, you can email me - [email protected] - as I can probably get you a copy.
1987 GRAND NATIONAL FOR SALE LOCAL TO US -
In my area, there is a weekly little newspaper of ads we get free in the mail. I generally glance over it.
A 1987 Grand National week appeared for sale in it this past week. I was quite surprised since this is the first time I have seen any car of interest to me in this publication. I called the seller asked him point blank if he knew Dennis Kirban. He said yes, he knew me from years ago as he stored GTOs on my property. I then told him I was Dennis Kirban. With that said, I arranged to see his Grand National.
The owner is 79 years old and is suffering health issues which limits his abilities. He has been a car guy his entire life. The Grand National is quite nice with just under 90,000 miles on it. It has been garaged. It is a hardtop, however, it does have a dealer installed astroroof, which is slightly different in size than the ASC factory roof. It does work the same way as a slider.
The car is well optioned - power windows, locks, concert sound, am/fm EQ radio, power antenna (works), posi, trunk kit, body side molding, tilt, and cruise. No power seat. Car is very straight with nice original wheels. The car started right up, even though it had been sitting for over a month. I found that amazing since no battery charger was hooked up to it. Car has not been smoked in. It has been converted to vacuum brakes. It does have a chrome inlet pipe on it and a K&N cone filter, a chrome oil fill cap, and aftermarket plug wires. Other than that, it appears stock. Doors shut real nice.
Since the owner is 79 years old, the car has not been abused. It rides on brand new BF Goodrich tires. The wheels are mint, although dusty, because they were stored off the car for many years. The interior, outside of the drooping headliner, is extremely nice. The interior is almost flawless with very little fade or wear issues anywhere. Trunk ID label is intact. Paint overall is extremely nice and shiny from being garage kept.
Here are the flaws: The Grand National emblem on the trunk lid is on the wrong side and a 3.8 emblem is on the left side of the trunk lid. The front bumper is not exactly straight and the headlight bezels don’t seat properly in the header panel. It has fiberglass front fillers. Several minor imperfections are in the paint. None of these issues will show up in the photos because they are so slight. The car presents its self very well.
The price is $19,250 to buy it. He will not budge on his price. Remember, it is advertised in this local newspaper where I saw it and it is also being advertised by us. Based on the rising values of the 1987 Grand Nationals, this is probably a fair price in my opinion.
It does have flaws, but the condition of the interior, the low miles of 88,000, the list of options, the fact it’s been garaged and not abused, are all key desirable features. Granted, 5-10 years ago it would have been a $10,000 Grand National but the market is strong right now. This car is located within 10 minutes of my house.
PHOTO 3 - We show various photos of this 88,000-mile 1987 Grand National. It shows quite well. Finding unmolested Grand Nationals is becoming tougher as each year passes. If you are interested, email me [email protected] for more photos. Keep in mind, this car is in his workshop garage surrounded by several other vehicles.
ONE SKILLED CAR BUILDER -
The same owner of the Grand National that we listed above has this next car, which is also for sale. Bill (the owner,) who built this custom Ford convertible, is one of the best metal fabricators I have ever seen besides my son. What this person has accomplished when he was in his 70s on this Ford is nothing short of amazing.
He has built several cars over his career and this one was his last one. There is a connection with this custom Ford and the Grand Nationals. He has used a complete Grand National frame and suspension to build the custom Fords. It would have been far easier if he had dropped the turbo engine into the Ford engine compartment than how he modified the Ford body to fit on the Grand National frame and suspension. His skills become more evident if you were to see this car in person like I did.
The car is a completely modified 1949 Ford convertible that is sitting on a Grand National frame that has been totally boxed, which makes it even stronger. It is not tack welded but completely welded. Where the real skill comes in is that the Grand National frame, complete with the stock 8.5 rear, sits four inches wider than the 1949 Ford body. Four inches is a lot of space. The cheap, less time-consuming way would be to cut the axles and tubes to make the wheels tuck under the Ford quarter panels. Bill did not take the easy road, instead he widened the distance by two inches between the body trunk lid lip and the taillights, all done with steel.
It’s such a smooth transition that most observers would not notice the difference. The rear quarter panels have been shortened 4-¼ inches. The roof is chopped 3-½ inches. The front and rear bumpers are comprised of Camaro bumpers from the 1970s, cut then made seamless and finished smooth on the back sides. The photos don’t do this car justice.
This car was done all by Bill about four years ago. The real proof that the body work was done right is the fact that the body and paint remain perfect, no cracks anywhere in the body work! The interior is all from a G-body Olds Cutlass. The engine is a ZZ4 Chevy 350 crate motor that puts out over 385 horsepower. It has AC and all the AC lines are completely hidden. Both the inside of the hood and trunk lid are completely finished. The exterior color is 1995 Ford truck Lapus Blue.
PHOTO 4 - Shows four different views of this 1949 Ford convertible. Although hardly visible, the front bumper incorporates the nose cones from a 1957 Chevrolet the cones are fitted with functioning fog lights. Although not visible, the front parking lights are 1961 Ford glass back-up lights.
The owner has over 180 photos showing the process of building the car. It has won numerous awards. Because of Bill’s health issues, it now sits unused. The price on this car is $42,500. As you can imagine, the amount of money and man hours far surpass the price he wants. This was a car he built for himself, so everything was done top notch. If you know of someone who would be interested in this unique car, email me - [email protected] - for more details and photos. This car sits in the same building as the Grand National. It’s kind of neat that both cars share the same frame and suspension. You have the ride of the Grand National suspension with the look of the early days of custom cars.
HERE IS AN EASY PREDICTION -
I think most of my readers agree that the Pontiac GTO, notably the 1964-1970 models, set the stage for the muscle car values in that category. Restored GTOs, especially the four-speed models, routinely sell for $50,000 or more depending on the model and year. Pontiac was the first to set the stage for others to follow.
Corvettes are in their own collectible world. The 1980s were not very kind to Corvette values.
The GTO represented the original muscle car era from the sixties. The other U.S. muscle car makes and models came later. The 1986-1987 Turbo Regals, specifically the Grand National, brought in the next wave of muscle cars that are steadily increasing in value each year. To a lesser degree, they help bring along the values for the Olds 442 and Monte Carlo SS models. The Pontiac GP model just did not make the collectible grade. While magazines list a group of ten cars from the 1980s they predict will be collectible, it is the 1986-1987 Grand Nationals and Turbo Regals that are the safest bet. The GNX, of course, is in crown jewel in that G-body group.
With that said, looking ahead 15-20 years from now, Chrysler will have the next collectible U.S. muscle car, especially with their various SRT models, notably the 2015 and up Hellcats. Production is being driven by demand. If that was not enough, this April at the New York International Auto Show they are introducing the Challenger Demon SRT. Although they have not said what the horsepower will be in the Demon, it’s reported that it will be more than the 707 the Hellcat produces.
You can clearly see how Chrysler/Fiat has carefully laid out the groundwork for making some impressive muscle cars. These will be highly collectible in years to come. They are making enough of them to insure they will be collectible. You would have to think long and hard of a U.S. made mainstream muscle car in the last 30-50 years that has not gained collectability. Again, this is my opinion.
I did pick the correct two cars for a retail business - first the GTOs and followed by the Turbo Regals.
SPEAKING OF CORVETTES -
For 35 years, one of the leaders of buying and selling Corvettes is Mershons located in Springfield, Ohio. On the list of the ten U.S. cars they are seeking (besides 1964-1967 GTOs), they list 1986-1987 Grand Nationals. Outside of Corvettes, the Grand Nationals appear to be the only late-model U.S. car they are looking to buy. No need to wonder why.
THE DMV AND 300,000 THOUSAND PENNIES -
I read where one Virginia man had issues with his local DMV. So, he decided to pay the taxes on two of his cars with 300,000 pennies delivered in five wheel barrows. My question is, does he have huge stash of nickels, dimes and quarters also in reserve? How long did it take him to acquire 300,000 pennies?
NEW PART COMING SOON - SPECIAL INTRODUCTION PRICE -
Our newest part for the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal is a fiberglass reproduction of the radiator top cover, part #7774. The originals are usually rusted.
These are being made for us by Mike at SPOOLFOOL, and our first order is in stock.The excellent quality of this item is just like his ready-to-install filler panels. The fit is excellent. The cover weighs a mere 1 pound, whereas the steel cover weighs 3 pounds.
Each one comes with 5 new powder-coated black bolts. The introductory price for this radiator top plate is $114.95. This price is only in effect until Friday, February 10th, 2017. The price will be higher after that date. These radiator top plates are in stock, however the bolts are now getting powder coated. The Spoolfool quality has these looking like metal and will outshine a factory Grand National paint job. Mike does such a super job on these. You have to touch it to believe that it is not metal. We will picture it in next week’s Inner Circle.
If you are interested, contact our to get one of the first ones - 215-766-1611 x 0
SEVERAL OF THE REFURBISHED LOWER STEERING SHAFT, #7574, IN STOCK-
I have a shipment of refurbished lower steering shafts, part #7574, in stock. I have maybe 2 available as of this writing.
If you want one of these highly-desirable refurbished lower steering shafts for your Turbo Regal, email me direct - [email protected] The price is $119.95, which includes UPS ground shipping to the basic 48 states.
UPDATE ON THE 1986-1987 TURBO REGAL EIGHT-HOLE HOOD PADS -
The price for the eight-hole hood pad picked up at our location is $279.95. If you want it shipped, the price is $349.95 to any of the basic 48 states.
Another option is to pay for it now and pick it up at our Spring Open House on April 22nd. We also have a source that can sell you the pattern so you can imprint the Buick logo on the hood pad.
These are not on our website. You must call our office and talk to Christina if you want one of thesehood pads. You can contact Christina - 215-766-1611 x 0.
UPCOMING RELATED CAR SHOW EVENTS FOR 2017 -
KIRBAN SPRING 2017 OPEN HOUSE -
Our Spring Open House will be held rain or shine on Saturday, April 22nd, 2017. It is the same weekend as Spring Carlisle. Spring Carlisle starts Wednesday the 19th. You could hit two events, since Carlisle is only about two hours from our location. I go to Spring Carlisle mid week every year.
Our Open House will have the usual features - YumYum donuts, M&M contest, sale prices on parts, and no reserve auction.
TURBO BUICK NATIONALS -
The dates for the Turbo Buick Nationals in Burlington, NC are May 3rd thru May 6th. The main event is held at Richard Clark’s Garage, where you can see the largest array of turbo cars and parts.
For more up-to-date information, go to turbobuick.com, and scroll down to events.
We plan to attend with a variety of parts for sale.
PYPES EXHAUST/MAX PERFORMANCE CAR & TRUCK SHOW -
The annual Pypes Exhaust/Max Performance Car & Truck Show is June 16th and 17th, 2017. It is held at Pypes Exhaust Headquarters, 2705 Clemens Road, Hatfield, PA. 19440.
This is a huge event. You can contact Mike - 267-638-5030 - for more information about registering your car for the event. I have attended this event in the past. It is located about 15 miles from our location.
UPDATE ON ORIGINAL BLACK AND GREY PALLEX SEATMATERIAL -
I still do not have my black pallex material and I am not exactly sure if I am getting what I ordered. This has been a nightmare dealing with this source. Be sure to specify how many yards you want. My email is - [email protected]
We still have various length of the original grey pallex material available that was strictly used in the 1986-1987 Grand Nationals. This is the original 30-year-old material that is brand new, never used. Email me direct your requirements and I’ll get back to you about availability and pricing. I also have several yards of the original grey 1987 material used in the WE4 Turbo Regals and Turbo Regals that received the grey cloth interior.
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 -
Here is a cheap kit available from us that every 1986-1987 Turbo Regal owner should have for their car. Going to the vacuum block on top of the throttle body are five small hoses. Those five hoses are made up from three different diameter hoses. In most cases, you probably have to go to several different auto stores to get all three correct size hoses.
The originals on your car are now very hard rubber. If you switch out the vacuum block to a billet one, you need this kit, part #7695, Vacuum Block Replacement Vacuum Hoses (10) - 2 sets of 5 hoses. It is probably the best $6.95 you ever spent on your car. This saves you time trying to find the correct size hoses. You get two full sets of these hoses, pre-cut to the proper size.
NEW TURBO REGAL ITEMS NOW IN STOCK -
#7773 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal Reproduction Front Air Dams (2) $219.95.
Here is a link to these Front Air Dams on our website:
XXXXXXXXXX
#7772 - 1981-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regals) - Reproduction 3-Piece Baffles Set - $26.95 / 3-piece set
Here is a link to this baffles set on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44343/Reproduction+3+PIECE+BAFFLES+SET+%237772.html
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED - TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $125 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. 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.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal Reproduction Front Air Dams
Eileen add copy and website link here
1981-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regals) -
Reproduction 3-PIECE BAFFLES SET
These baffles are often overlooked, but are critical to keep a turbo engine cool.
Buick had a 3-piece baffles set, which consisted of 3 individual baffles that directed the air flow towards the radiator core. The long baffle went under the center and attached to the bottom of the front of the core support. The 2 small baffles attached to each side of the core support and to the front bumper shock pistons.
This format directs more airflow to the front of the radiator.
Overtime, the originals may be ripped or missing completely.
These reproduction baffles are made from the same rubber-like material as the originals.
NOTE - You will need to re-use the original hardware and plastic tie straps to attach the baffles.
Our top photo shows the 3 baffles in the set, and lower photos show the baffles in position on the front and driver’s side.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7457 Upgraded New ALUMINUM Radiator, #KE003 Used Original AC Delco “MADE IN ENGLAND” Radiator Cap, #1507 1984-1987 Regal Fiberglass Front Bumper, #7215 GNX, Grand National, WE4, and 1987 Turbo-T with the black-out package Reproduction BLACK Grille, and #7239 1984-1987 Regal (Including Turbo Models) Reproduction CHROME-plated Plastic Grille.
Another great restoration set.
7772 - 1981-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regals) - Reproduction 3-Piece Baffles Set - $26.95 / 3-piece set
Here is a link to this baffles set on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44343/Reproduction+3+PIECE+BAFFLES+SET+%237772.html
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM AC Delco AC ACCUMULATOR RECEIVER / DRIER, POWDER-COATED BLACK
Over time, the original AC accumulator receiver / drier may leak.
Unfortunately, until now all the replacement units come in bare metal.
The unit in the Turbo Regal was originally black.
We purchase brand new AC Delco #2724877 units, then have each unit powder-coated black for a lasting correct finish. Each unit is put back into the AC Delco box and comes with new O-rings.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7769 AC Delco AC Accumulator Pressure Switch and #7494 Reproduction Air Conditioning Hoses (2) Set.
Another great restoration item.
7768 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM AC Delco AC Accumulator Receiver / Drier, Powder-coated Black - $41.95
Here is a link to this item on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7768&submit_button=
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM AC Delco AC ACCUMULATOR SWITCH & O-RING
This is a genuine AC Delco part. This switch attaches to the AC Accumulator Receiver/Drier. If you are replacing the accumulator, it’s best to also replace the accumulator switch.
Switch comes in the original AC Delco box with an O-ring, as shown in the photo on the left. We show an used original switch and a this new AC Delco switch in the photo on the right.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7768 GM AC Delco AC Accumulator Receiver/Drier, Powder-coated Black and #7494 Reproduction Air Conditioning Hoses (2) Set.
Another great restoration item.
7769 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - GM AC Delco AC Accumulator Switch & O-Ring - $21.95
Here is a link to this accumulator switch on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7768&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]
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 -
As I write this issue its snowing, the Midwest is getting hammered with an ice storm and the one playoff game has been moved back to Sunday night. The older you get the more you come to love the warm weather!
MECUM FLORIDA AUCTION CONTEST - RESULTS AND WINNERS -
Here are the results and winners of the Mecum Auction contest. The announced selling price of the three contest vehicles were confirmed by Paul Laframboise from Canada who watched some of it and Jason Maxfield from Canada who flew down to Florida last weekend. I also checked the results on the internet as well as on the Turbo Buick forum.
Additional buyer fees are not included in the selling price of the cars.
The 15,000-mile Grand National sold on Thursday, lot #126, for a cool $41,000. The winner of that contest was David Parks from Jackson, Tennessee. His guess was $38,500. His guess was just $500 higher than the next closest guess. Dave has been a customer of ours since 2000. He owns a low-mileage 1987 Grand National and he also has a WE4.
The second vehicle in our contest, a Morris Minor Tow Truck, sold on Friday afternoon, lot #132. This winning bid was higher than the auction prediction and was a real surprise. It hammered down at an astounding $40,000, just $1,000 less than the 1987 Grand National. The winner of our contest was Preston Mullins who nailed it exactly with a $40,000 guess!
Of course, the crown jewel of our contest was the GNX #547. It had a reserve, which was lifted as the bids grew. It sold for $220,000. I am told it was won by a bidder on the phone. Our contest winner with a guess of $214,999.99 was Clem Sousa.
Each gets a Letter of Credit for $50 plus a laser engraved custom-made maple wood pen and case.
The winner of the Grand National guess and the Morris Minor Tow Truck guess will also receive the Buick Motorsport laser engraved custom-made maple wood pen and case. The winner of the GNX guess will also receive the GNX laser engraved custom-made maple wood pen and case. Both of these pen cases and pens appear in photo 1. (Note: We do have some of these for sale in the Rare Parts section of this Inner Circle).
PHOTO 1 - The photo shows both the Buick Motorsports and GNX laser engraved custom-made maple wood pen and case sets that were sent to the winners. The Grand National winner and the Morris Minor Tow Truck winner received the Buick Motorsport set and Letter of Credit for $50. The GNX winner received the GNX set and Letter of Credit for $50.
MUSCLE CAR REVIEW FEBRUARY ISSUE -
The February issue of Muscle Car Review just hit the newsstands the day before GNX #547 went on the auction block. GNX #547 is featured on the cover of the February issue. Inside is a very detailed 6-page article on the history of GNX 547. The only mistake I caught in the article was that it listed the rear ratio as a 3.73, when it fact it is a 3.42 - same as the regular Turbo Regals.
Many of you know the story since the original owner is a long-time friend of ours and the car has been featured at two of our Reunion events. Of course, back then many of us did not realize we were looking at the one GNX to break the $200,000 mark in our lifetime!
In the same issue is a 5-page article on the famous Hairy Oldsmobile that was showcased by Hurst in 1967. They also recognize the 10 collectible cars for Generation X in this issue. In their top ten pick is, of course, the three popular G-body cars - Oldsmobile 442, Monte Carlo SS, and the Grand National. The 5.0 Mustangs are also part of the group.
This is an issue worth picking up at your local newsstand.
PHOTO 2 - We show the cover of the February issue of Musclecar Review and the first two pages of this informative article.
NEWSSTANDS - WHERE HAVE THEY ALL GONE? -
Finding a newsstand today is like finding a book store. Both have virtually disappeared from the landscape. I am fortunate as I deal with a newsstand that has been around since the late 1940s. I’ve been going to this one since the mid-1960s. They offer well over 150 different magazine titles, lottery tickets, and enough different tobacco brands to provide health issues for untold number of customers! (I always kid the owner and tell them, “You know, all these tobacco products are shortening the lives of your customers!”).
They also still have a fully functioning soda fountain, complete with stools to sit on! It is the same place I get my free bundles of newspaper we use for packing orders. My point is, if you can’t find the February issue of Musclecar Review, you can email me - [email protected] - as I can probably get you a copy.
1987 GRAND NATIONAL FOR SALE LOCAL TO US -
In my area, there is a weekly little newspaper of ads we get free in the mail. I generally glance over it.
A 1987 Grand National week appeared for sale in it this past week. I was quite surprised since this is the first time I have seen any car of interest to me in this publication. I called the seller asked him point blank if he knew Dennis Kirban. He said yes, he knew me from years ago as he stored GTOs on my property. I then told him I was Dennis Kirban. With that said, I arranged to see his Grand National.
The owner is 79 years old and is suffering health issues which limits his abilities. He has been a car guy his entire life. The Grand National is quite nice with just under 90,000 miles on it. It has been garaged. It is a hardtop, however, it does have a dealer installed astroroof, which is slightly different in size than the ASC factory roof. It does work the same way as a slider.
The car is well optioned - power windows, locks, concert sound, am/fm EQ radio, power antenna (works), posi, trunk kit, body side molding, tilt, and cruise. No power seat. Car is very straight with nice original wheels. The car started right up, even though it had been sitting for over a month. I found that amazing since no battery charger was hooked up to it. Car has not been smoked in. It has been converted to vacuum brakes. It does have a chrome inlet pipe on it and a K&N cone filter, a chrome oil fill cap, and aftermarket plug wires. Other than that, it appears stock. Doors shut real nice.
Since the owner is 79 years old, the car has not been abused. It rides on brand new BF Goodrich tires. The wheels are mint, although dusty, because they were stored off the car for many years. The interior, outside of the drooping headliner, is extremely nice. The interior is almost flawless with very little fade or wear issues anywhere. Trunk ID label is intact. Paint overall is extremely nice and shiny from being garage kept.
Here are the flaws: The Grand National emblem on the trunk lid is on the wrong side and a 3.8 emblem is on the left side of the trunk lid. The front bumper is not exactly straight and the headlight bezels don’t seat properly in the header panel. It has fiberglass front fillers. Several minor imperfections are in the paint. None of these issues will show up in the photos because they are so slight. The car presents its self very well.
The price is $19,250 to buy it. He will not budge on his price. Remember, it is advertised in this local newspaper where I saw it and it is also being advertised by us. Based on the rising values of the 1987 Grand Nationals, this is probably a fair price in my opinion.
It does have flaws, but the condition of the interior, the low miles of 88,000, the list of options, the fact it’s been garaged and not abused, are all key desirable features. Granted, 5-10 years ago it would have been a $10,000 Grand National but the market is strong right now. This car is located within 10 minutes of my house.
PHOTO 3 - We show various photos of this 88,000-mile 1987 Grand National. It shows quite well. Finding unmolested Grand Nationals is becoming tougher as each year passes. If you are interested, email me [email protected] for more photos. Keep in mind, this car is in his workshop garage surrounded by several other vehicles.
ONE SKILLED CAR BUILDER -
The same owner of the Grand National that we listed above has this next car, which is also for sale. Bill (the owner,) who built this custom Ford convertible, is one of the best metal fabricators I have ever seen besides my son. What this person has accomplished when he was in his 70s on this Ford is nothing short of amazing.
He has built several cars over his career and this one was his last one. There is a connection with this custom Ford and the Grand Nationals. He has used a complete Grand National frame and suspension to build the custom Fords. It would have been far easier if he had dropped the turbo engine into the Ford engine compartment than how he modified the Ford body to fit on the Grand National frame and suspension. His skills become more evident if you were to see this car in person like I did.
The car is a completely modified 1949 Ford convertible that is sitting on a Grand National frame that has been totally boxed, which makes it even stronger. It is not tack welded but completely welded. Where the real skill comes in is that the Grand National frame, complete with the stock 8.5 rear, sits four inches wider than the 1949 Ford body. Four inches is a lot of space. The cheap, less time-consuming way would be to cut the axles and tubes to make the wheels tuck under the Ford quarter panels. Bill did not take the easy road, instead he widened the distance by two inches between the body trunk lid lip and the taillights, all done with steel.
It’s such a smooth transition that most observers would not notice the difference. The rear quarter panels have been shortened 4-¼ inches. The roof is chopped 3-½ inches. The front and rear bumpers are comprised of Camaro bumpers from the 1970s, cut then made seamless and finished smooth on the back sides. The photos don’t do this car justice.
This car was done all by Bill about four years ago. The real proof that the body work was done right is the fact that the body and paint remain perfect, no cracks anywhere in the body work! The interior is all from a G-body Olds Cutlass. The engine is a ZZ4 Chevy 350 crate motor that puts out over 385 horsepower. It has AC and all the AC lines are completely hidden. Both the inside of the hood and trunk lid are completely finished. The exterior color is 1995 Ford truck Lapus Blue.
PHOTO 4 - Shows four different views of this 1949 Ford convertible. Although hardly visible, the front bumper incorporates the nose cones from a 1957 Chevrolet the cones are fitted with functioning fog lights. Although not visible, the front parking lights are 1961 Ford glass back-up lights.
The owner has over 180 photos showing the process of building the car. It has won numerous awards. Because of Bill’s health issues, it now sits unused. The price on this car is $42,500. As you can imagine, the amount of money and man hours far surpass the price he wants. This was a car he built for himself, so everything was done top notch. If you know of someone who would be interested in this unique car, email me - [email protected] - for more details and photos. This car sits in the same building as the Grand National. It’s kind of neat that both cars share the same frame and suspension. You have the ride of the Grand National suspension with the look of the early days of custom cars.
HERE IS AN EASY PREDICTION -
I think most of my readers agree that the Pontiac GTO, notably the 1964-1970 models, set the stage for the muscle car values in that category. Restored GTOs, especially the four-speed models, routinely sell for $50,000 or more depending on the model and year. Pontiac was the first to set the stage for others to follow.
Corvettes are in their own collectible world. The 1980s were not very kind to Corvette values.
The GTO represented the original muscle car era from the sixties. The other U.S. muscle car makes and models came later. The 1986-1987 Turbo Regals, specifically the Grand National, brought in the next wave of muscle cars that are steadily increasing in value each year. To a lesser degree, they help bring along the values for the Olds 442 and Monte Carlo SS models. The Pontiac GP model just did not make the collectible grade. While magazines list a group of ten cars from the 1980s they predict will be collectible, it is the 1986-1987 Grand Nationals and Turbo Regals that are the safest bet. The GNX, of course, is in crown jewel in that G-body group.
With that said, looking ahead 15-20 years from now, Chrysler will have the next collectible U.S. muscle car, especially with their various SRT models, notably the 2015 and up Hellcats. Production is being driven by demand. If that was not enough, this April at the New York International Auto Show they are introducing the Challenger Demon SRT. Although they have not said what the horsepower will be in the Demon, it’s reported that it will be more than the 707 the Hellcat produces.
You can clearly see how Chrysler/Fiat has carefully laid out the groundwork for making some impressive muscle cars. These will be highly collectible in years to come. They are making enough of them to insure they will be collectible. You would have to think long and hard of a U.S. made mainstream muscle car in the last 30-50 years that has not gained collectability. Again, this is my opinion.
I did pick the correct two cars for a retail business - first the GTOs and followed by the Turbo Regals.
SPEAKING OF CORVETTES -
For 35 years, one of the leaders of buying and selling Corvettes is Mershons located in Springfield, Ohio. On the list of the ten U.S. cars they are seeking (besides 1964-1967 GTOs), they list 1986-1987 Grand Nationals. Outside of Corvettes, the Grand Nationals appear to be the only late-model U.S. car they are looking to buy. No need to wonder why.
THE DMV AND 300,000 THOUSAND PENNIES -
I read where one Virginia man had issues with his local DMV. So, he decided to pay the taxes on two of his cars with 300,000 pennies delivered in five wheel barrows. My question is, does he have huge stash of nickels, dimes and quarters also in reserve? How long did it take him to acquire 300,000 pennies?
NEW PART COMING SOON - SPECIAL INTRODUCTION PRICE -
Our newest part for the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal is a fiberglass reproduction of the radiator top cover, part #7774. The originals are usually rusted.
These are being made for us by Mike at SPOOLFOOL, and our first order is in stock.The excellent quality of this item is just like his ready-to-install filler panels. The fit is excellent. The cover weighs a mere 1 pound, whereas the steel cover weighs 3 pounds.
Each one comes with 5 new powder-coated black bolts. The introductory price for this radiator top plate is $114.95. This price is only in effect until Friday, February 10th, 2017. The price will be higher after that date. These radiator top plates are in stock, however the bolts are now getting powder coated. The Spoolfool quality has these looking like metal and will outshine a factory Grand National paint job. Mike does such a super job on these. You have to touch it to believe that it is not metal. We will picture it in next week’s Inner Circle.
If you are interested, contact our to get one of the first ones - 215-766-1611 x 0
SEVERAL OF THE REFURBISHED LOWER STEERING SHAFT, #7574, IN STOCK-
I have a shipment of refurbished lower steering shafts, part #7574, in stock. I have maybe 2 available as of this writing.
If you want one of these highly-desirable refurbished lower steering shafts for your Turbo Regal, email me direct - [email protected] The price is $119.95, which includes UPS ground shipping to the basic 48 states.
UPDATE ON THE 1986-1987 TURBO REGAL EIGHT-HOLE HOOD PADS -
The price for the eight-hole hood pad picked up at our location is $279.95. If you want it shipped, the price is $349.95 to any of the basic 48 states.
Another option is to pay for it now and pick it up at our Spring Open House on April 22nd. We also have a source that can sell you the pattern so you can imprint the Buick logo on the hood pad.
These are not on our website. You must call our office and talk to Christina if you want one of thesehood pads. You can contact Christina - 215-766-1611 x 0.
UPCOMING RELATED CAR SHOW EVENTS FOR 2017 -
KIRBAN SPRING 2017 OPEN HOUSE -
Our Spring Open House will be held rain or shine on Saturday, April 22nd, 2017. It is the same weekend as Spring Carlisle. Spring Carlisle starts Wednesday the 19th. You could hit two events, since Carlisle is only about two hours from our location. I go to Spring Carlisle mid week every year.
Our Open House will have the usual features - YumYum donuts, M&M contest, sale prices on parts, and no reserve auction.
TURBO BUICK NATIONALS -
The dates for the Turbo Buick Nationals in Burlington, NC are May 3rd thru May 6th. The main event is held at Richard Clark’s Garage, where you can see the largest array of turbo cars and parts.
For more up-to-date information, go to turbobuick.com, and scroll down to events.
We plan to attend with a variety of parts for sale.
PYPES EXHAUST/MAX PERFORMANCE CAR & TRUCK SHOW -
The annual Pypes Exhaust/Max Performance Car & Truck Show is June 16th and 17th, 2017. It is held at Pypes Exhaust Headquarters, 2705 Clemens Road, Hatfield, PA. 19440.
This is a huge event. You can contact Mike - 267-638-5030 - for more information about registering your car for the event. I have attended this event in the past. It is located about 15 miles from our location.
UPDATE ON ORIGINAL BLACK AND GREY PALLEX SEATMATERIAL -
I still do not have my black pallex material and I am not exactly sure if I am getting what I ordered. This has been a nightmare dealing with this source. Be sure to specify how many yards you want. My email is - [email protected]
We still have various length of the original grey pallex material available that was strictly used in the 1986-1987 Grand Nationals. This is the original 30-year-old material that is brand new, never used. Email me direct your requirements and I’ll get back to you about availability and pricing. I also have several yards of the original grey 1987 material used in the WE4 Turbo Regals and Turbo Regals that received the grey cloth interior.
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 -
Here is a cheap kit available from us that every 1986-1987 Turbo Regal owner should have for their car. Going to the vacuum block on top of the throttle body are five small hoses. Those five hoses are made up from three different diameter hoses. In most cases, you probably have to go to several different auto stores to get all three correct size hoses.
The originals on your car are now very hard rubber. If you switch out the vacuum block to a billet one, you need this kit, part #7695, Vacuum Block Replacement Vacuum Hoses (10) - 2 sets of 5 hoses. It is probably the best $6.95 you ever spent on your car. This saves you time trying to find the correct size hoses. You get two full sets of these hoses, pre-cut to the proper size.
NEW TURBO REGAL ITEMS NOW IN STOCK -
#7773 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal Reproduction Front Air Dams (2) $219.95.
Here is a link to these Front Air Dams on our website:
XXXXXXXXXX
#7772 - 1981-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regals) - Reproduction 3-Piece Baffles Set - $26.95 / 3-piece set
Here is a link to this baffles set on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44343/Reproduction+3+PIECE+BAFFLES+SET+%237772.html
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED - TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $125 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. 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.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal Reproduction Front Air Dams
Eileen add copy and website link here
1981-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regals) -
Reproduction 3-PIECE BAFFLES SET
These baffles are often overlooked, but are critical to keep a turbo engine cool.
Buick had a 3-piece baffles set, which consisted of 3 individual baffles that directed the air flow towards the radiator core. The long baffle went under the center and attached to the bottom of the front of the core support. The 2 small baffles attached to each side of the core support and to the front bumper shock pistons.
This format directs more airflow to the front of the radiator.
Overtime, the originals may be ripped or missing completely.
These reproduction baffles are made from the same rubber-like material as the originals.
NOTE - You will need to re-use the original hardware and plastic tie straps to attach the baffles.
Our top photo shows the 3 baffles in the set, and lower photos show the baffles in position on the front and driver’s side.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7457 Upgraded New ALUMINUM Radiator, #KE003 Used Original AC Delco “MADE IN ENGLAND” Radiator Cap, #1507 1984-1987 Regal Fiberglass Front Bumper, #7215 GNX, Grand National, WE4, and 1987 Turbo-T with the black-out package Reproduction BLACK Grille, and #7239 1984-1987 Regal (Including Turbo Models) Reproduction CHROME-plated Plastic Grille.
Another great restoration set.
7772 - 1981-1987 Buick Regal (Including Turbo Regals) - Reproduction 3-Piece Baffles Set - $26.95 / 3-piece set
Here is a link to this baffles set on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44343/Reproduction+3+PIECE+BAFFLES+SET+%237772.html
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM AC Delco AC ACCUMULATOR RECEIVER / DRIER, POWDER-COATED BLACK
Over time, the original AC accumulator receiver / drier may leak.
Unfortunately, until now all the replacement units come in bare metal.
The unit in the Turbo Regal was originally black.
We purchase brand new AC Delco #2724877 units, then have each unit powder-coated black for a lasting correct finish. Each unit is put back into the AC Delco box and comes with new O-rings.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7769 AC Delco AC Accumulator Pressure Switch and #7494 Reproduction Air Conditioning Hoses (2) Set.
Another great restoration item.
7768 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM AC Delco AC Accumulator Receiver / Drier, Powder-coated Black - $41.95
Here is a link to this item on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7768&submit_button=
1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM AC Delco AC ACCUMULATOR SWITCH & O-RING
This is a genuine AC Delco part. This switch attaches to the AC Accumulator Receiver/Drier. If you are replacing the accumulator, it’s best to also replace the accumulator switch.
Switch comes in the original AC Delco box with an O-ring, as shown in the photo on the left. We show an used original switch and a this new AC Delco switch in the photo on the right.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7768 GM AC Delco AC Accumulator Receiver/Drier, Powder-coated Black and #7494 Reproduction Air Conditioning Hoses (2) Set.
Another great restoration item.
7769 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - GM AC Delco AC Accumulator Switch & O-Ring - $21.95
Here is a link to this accumulator switch on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7768&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]
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 -
As I write this issue its snowing, the Midwest is getting hammered with an ice storm and the one playoff game has been moved back to Sunday night. The older you get the more you come to love the warm weather!