Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 10-05-2016 -
MORE STORIES REUNITING TURBO REGAL OWNERS WITH THEIR PAPERWORK -
We heard this past week from a customer that purchased a 1987 Grand National from us in 2003. At the time, it had just 11,250 actual miles on it and he paid us just under $20,000 for it. Today it has 15,200 miles on it. I would venture a guess that today that same car, which is fully documented, is worth approximately $30,000-$35,000.
This customer hit the jackpot as I had the original color flyer advertising this car, a copy of the O’Neil Buick title when he purchased it from me, also a copy of the Kentucky title and Indiana title. The real icing on the cake so to speak, is I also had a copy of the Window Sticker. All this along with a notarized letter of authenticity enhances the value of this particular 1987 Grand National. The car originally was sold in Kentucky and the second owner resided in Indiana where I purchased it from.
I have paperwork for another customer, who owns one of the GNXs I sold. I had a copy of the Virginia title where I bought the GNX and I still had about a dozen color photos. We made another owner very happy that we had these records for him.
If you have no idea of where your car has been in the last 23 years, email me the last 6 digits of your VIN, since you may own one of the cars we have sold.
You never know you - you may just win Kirban Bingo. Any 1986, 1987 Turbo Regal or GNX, is fair game! I don’t think any one individual between 1993 and early 2000 has owned and sold more 1986-1987 Turbo Regals than I have.
Email me direct - [email protected] - with the last six digits that appear on your VIN number after the two letters. I will let you know if I have records on your car.
If you have any friends with a 1986 or 1987 Turbo Regal, tell them as I may have information on their cars.
Most of the cars we sold were really nice prime examples, including several that were national winners at the GS Nationals in years past. So, I am fairly confident that many of them are still on the road today.
Here is the deal if we have information on your car. For $34.95 we will send you by Priority Mail proof that we sold the car. All copies will be flat (not folded.) It will include a notarized Certificate of Authenticity signed by me on our company letterhead listing the VIN number and year I sold it. You also get copies of any titles, etc. to verify the VIN. No personal information on the previous owners will be displayed. If I have original photos of the car matching your VIN number, the price is $44.95 for Priority Mail. This would include a notarized Certificate of Authenticity on our company letterhead signed by me and listing the VIN number and any related titles reflecting the VIN number. It’s a small price to pay to document a bit of history related to your 1986-1987 Turbo Regal.
The key document will be the notarized Certificate of Authenticity letter listing the VIN number and year I owned the car. That is one document you, as the current owner, will want with your records. Even if you still own one of my cars I may have some info you don’t have and will include it with this notarized Certificate of Authenticity on my company letterhead. I know in the past I have seen several Turbo Regals advertised as being one of my cars, which probably helps sell the car. Now you can have physical proof. In most cases, even copies of titles and photos. With the values of these cars continuing to increase each year, having any background documented history can only add to the value. Having copies of the previous titles for your Turbo Regal is pretty clear proof!
Simply email me - [email protected] - the last six digits of your 1986 or 1987 Turbo Regal VIN number. Unless you have owned your car for 23 or more years, there is a chance I sold it. You might come up a winner from over 300 records I have of 1986 and 1987 Turbo Regals.
PHOTO 1 - Shows a copy of the original color flyer of this 1987 Grand National with 11,100 actual miles on it. Like most of the photos, I tried to take the initial photo either where I picked up the car or somewhere along my travel route back home. In this case, this photo was taken in front of a local court house in southern Indiana. I took the smaller photo on this flyer reflecting off the driver’s side quarter panel, which clearly shows just how nice this paint was on this car.
PHOTO 2 - The photo to the left shows the Kentucky title with the mileage shown as 4,652. The photo to the right shows the Indiana title when it was first registered when it had 8,375 miles showing. I bought the Grand National from the Indiana owner. It’s unfortunate that our dash clusters where so primitive and only showed miles up to 99,999. I always made it a point to record and show actual miles on the titles, even though after so many years you could state mileage exempt in Pennsylvania.
FALL CARLISLE -
Fall Carlisle was basically a wash out. I was there Thursday and it rained most of the time I was there. I suspect it also rained Friday and Saturday in Carlisle, based on our local weather of rain both days. Carlisle goes on regardless of the weather. I’ve even been there for Spring Carlisle in April and witnessed it snowing.
I took my list of VIN numbers, thinking I would spot at least one Turbo Regal for sale. I did not see a single Turbo Regal. Nor did I see so much as a single Turbo Regal part for sale except for a few brochures.
I did spot 2 cars that in my opinion were good buys. Plus, with the terrible weather, you probably could have struck a deal at a lower price on many of the cars offered for sale.
One was a really nice 1986 Monte Carlo SS hardtop. The other was a 1994 Camaro Z28 hardtop. Both were outstanding cars, good enough to enter in a car show. In other words, these were Kirban quality. The Monte Carlo SS was priced at $9,750 or best offer. This seller was open to a reasonable offer. The Camaro was described as never seeing the rain, garaged since new. It was a one-owner all-original car. The description claimed it have every available option except T-Tops. The Window Sticker showed it to be $29,800 when it was new. It had less than 50,000 miles on it. The price tag was $10,600. In my opinion, the only downside was that it was automatic. A 6-speed would have added the fun factor and been rarer.
PHOTO 3 - The photo on the left shows the 1986 Monte Carlo SS for sale for $9,750. A comparable 1986 Grand National in the same condition would bring probably twice as much. The photo on the right shows the 1994 Camaro Z28, which was under an open building. If I had to choose, the Camaro Z28 would be the better choice of the 2 cars.
MY CAMARO Z28 STORY -
This reminded me about a Z28 I owned that was the same color. It was also the same year. It was probably around 1998 or so that I bought it. I needed a 6-speed Camaro, since the company that makes our adjustable fuel regulators was going to make a 6-speed shifter for the 1993 and up Camaros and the Firebirds for us. I bought a used one off a local dealer, so I would have a test car. My initial thinking was the Firebird console should be the same as the Camaro. Guess what it isn’t. The console hole was slightly different. If we used the same handle in the Firebird, there was a chance the driver could pinch his finger between the shifter handle and the hard plastic side of the console. So, we had to make two different handles.
I later sold the car with the very first Camaro shifter we produced in it. I have no idea where that car is today. It was a hardtop. We sold those shifters for a number of years before we discontinued the shifter.
Because of the terrible weather I did not take many photos at Fall Carlisle and was only there about 3 hours. The most unique idea I saw can be seen in Photo 4.
PHOTO 4 - These photos from Fall Carlisle show some neat handy work using old car and truck hoods and cutting them to make sofa-like swings. In some cases, you can make out the emblem on the front. I don’t recall what the price was, nor would I want to try and carry one back to my truck! Besides the weight factor, I don’t think they would be very comfortable to sit on for any length of time.
HIGHEST MILEAGE GRAND NATIONAL WE HAVE SOLD -
The highest mileage Grand National we sold was in 2000. The Grand National had 221,000 miles on it and I sold it locally within 7 days for $4,395. I’ve also heard from that owner. He kept it 14 years driving it another 8,000 miles and then sold it. He still regrets selling it.
The Grand National was completely original and the owner says I gave him about $8,000 worth of receipts. He says I bought it from a 70-year-old gentleman who then bought a low-mileage Grand National from me. I never took in many cars in trade.
Every car has a story. My problem is trying to remember all of them. What makes remembering them difficult is that most were Grand Nationals, so they all look alike.
A KIRBAN REQUEST -
I am seeking the owner of Syclone #0018. This is the Syclone we owned back in 1992. I have a lot of very valuable documentation on this particular Syclone that I doubt the current owner has any idea even exists. It may be one of the rarest ones produced that first year with documentation to prove it.
Not only did my son do some neat custom work on this Syclone, but I have paperwork proving it was a GMC test vehicle.
If you are on any of the various related forums, please put this info out there.
TURBO REGAL STORY -
While I was at Fall Carlisle last Thursday, I had a customer recognize me at one my buddy’s vendor spots. He has been a New Jersey school teacher for 38 years. He remembers coming to our old house while he was in college and buying GTO parts. Years later he brought a grey Turbo Regal that I bought to my house and my daughter-in-law drove him back home to New Jersey.
YOU WOULD THINK COMPANIES WOULD USE COMMON SENSE -
You would think most major companies would use common sense when their customer dies and has a phone or cable contract. Common sense would be, if the customer dies, the contract should also end as well.
In New York they had to actually pass a law to end contracts without penalties if the person died. This new law also covers cable and telecom companies, so they cannot charge early termination fees when a customer dies.
This is something that should be a no brainer and not something each state should have to bother to make a law. Simple proof with a Death Certificate should be enough to void any long-term contract. It would be nice if the government worked on the theory of common sense.
CRIME DOES PAY -
It appears crime, in some very small circumstances, does pay. The new movie entitled, “Masterminds” is based on the biggest cash heist in America history. The heist was $17.3 million from a vault in Charlotte, North Carolina back in 1997. The mastermind behind it was David Ghantt, who worked as a driver for an armored car service.
He spent seven years in federal prison. He served as the creative consultant on the Mastermind movie. I am sure he earned a nice fee as the consultant and, if he had a smart agent, will get a cut of the gross sales as well!
WAS THIS COST EFFECTIVE? -
Was this cost effective for Cadillac, to do? They flew over from Italy all 21,000 Cadillac Allantes they produced. The Allante was produced 1987 thru 1992. A total of 21,000 were produced.
According to an article I read, they could fit 56 Allantes in a 747 plane at a time. If you do the math, that amounts to over 350 flights from Italy to Michigan. I would hope the 747s had cargo going on return trips to Italy.
The Allante is one of those limited production cars that has yet to gain any real value as a collector car. I have never owned one!
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If you have a tip or a discovery that you found that works on your Turbo Regal, drop us an email giving us the details so we can pass the info on to our readers. Remember, even with my knowledge, I don’t know it all. Simply email me at - [email protected]
TIP FROM KIRBAN -
If you own a 1986 or a 1987 Turbo Regal and plan to replace your original vacuum block with the aluminum block, be sure to have our part #7695 vacuum block replace vacuum hoses on hand. That part is 2 full sets of correct precut vacuum hoses.
In almost every case, you will break the original vacuum hoses due to age and heat. It is worth having our replacement precut hoses on hand, since those vacuum ports require several different size hoses.
These are must-have items when converting to vacuum brakes!
Buying a used car? Something that I do with virtually every used car I buy that I keep is to flush out all the fluids. Also be sure to replace the cabin filter if the car is equipped with one. These areas are usually neglected, even on the well-maintained cars.
The end result is peace of mind. I usually end up looking at 10 cars or more before I buy one.
REPRODUCTION ALUMINUM BRAKE DRUMS - NOW IN STOCK -
The reproduction aluminum brake drums are now in stock. If you purchase a set between now and Monday, October 31st, we will give you FREE shipping if you reside in the basic 48 states. Part #7716 is the correct drums for the stock rear on the 1984-1987 Turbo Regals. The price is $234.95. The quality is excellent. The weight savings over steel is just over 5 pound per drum. Besides the weight advantage, they won't rust like steel ones do. Only a few weeks left to get in on this special deal!
You must call our office to place your order to get this special pricing - 215-766-1611 x 0. Remember, this was standard equipment on every GNX.
Here is a link to the brake drums on our website - Remember, to receive free shipping, you must call in your order.
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44326/REPRODUCTION+of+the+GM+ALUMINUM+BRAKE+DRUMS+%282%29+SET+-+10-BOLT+%237716.html
TURBO REGAL ITEMS NOW IN STOCK -
The new reproduction belt tensioners are in stock. Part #7733.
Here is a link to the belt tensioner, #7733:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44328/Reproduction+BELT+TENSIONER+WITH+NEW+PULLEY+%237733.html
We also have stock on a new part, #7704 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Replacement Boost Line Vacuum T
Here is the link to this replacement boost line vacuum T on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44330/REPLACEMENT+BOOST+LINE+VACUUM+T+%237704.html
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
We currently need original good 1986-1987 AC Delco mass air flow sensors. We allow $40 Letter of Credit for each correct AC Delco core. See photo 2 in 7-13-2016 Inner Circle to determine if you have the proper mass air flow sensor we need.
URGENT NEED - TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $100 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number.
MAIL - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
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. Also, any cars that our customers have for sale will be featured here and you can see their car with photos on our website. In this category, we will run the descriptions for two-to-three weeks and, if there is no interest in that particular vehicle, it will be deleted the following week. If any of these vehicles perk your interest, email me personally - [email protected] - for more information and photos.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
REPLACEMENT BOOST LINE VACUUM T
The wastegate solenoid, turbocharger and wastegate actuator are connected by three vacuum hoses and a grey plastic “Y” fitting.
This replacement Y connector is similar in size with the correct orifice in the one outlet which match the original vacuum T. When you install this new Y, you will need to insert the same hose into the metal orifice opening as the original T.
Inside the one side of the connector “Y” fitting there is a metal orifice, which allows only a small amount of vacuum to pass through. If the “Y” or surrounding vacuum hoses are damaged or cracked, you can have an overboost condition.
You should also check the three hoses for possible cracks due to heat or swelling at the ends. This could cause engine damage from leaning out the air/fuel mixture.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #6696 Adjustable Wastegate Actuator, #6952 High-Pressure Adjustable Wastegate Actuator, and #7495 RJC Racing Boost Controller.
Another excellent replace item for the engine.
7704 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Replacement Boost Line Vacuum T - $28.95
Here is the link to this replacement boost line vacuum T on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44330/REPLACEMENT+BOOST+LINE+VACUUM+T+%237704.html
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction BELT TENSIONER WITH NEW PULLEY
Original 1986-1987 Turbo Regal belt tensioners can be worn out or broken, which can cause major charging problems.
This new reproduction belt tensioner uses better quality steel spring materials using today’s technology. The original factory tension on the OEM tensioner is rated at 19.5 to 20. The spring tension on these tested at 20.5.
This part has not been available from GM for many years.
This reproduction belt tensioner comes with a new pulley as shown.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #6609 Serpentine Belt, #7315 Brand New 120 amp Alternator Pre-tested with Manufacturer’s Limited Lifetime Warranty, and #7716 Brand New Custom-Built 200 amp Alternator Pre-tested with a Manufacturer’s Limited Lifetime Warranty.
Another great replacement item.
7733 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Reproduction Belt Tensioner with New Pulley - $156.95
Here’s a link to this belt tensioner on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44328/Reproduction+BELT+TENSIONER+WITH+NEW+PULLEY+%237733.html
1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models including Turbo Regals) -
Reproduction T-TOPS WEATHERSTRIP SEALS (4) SET
GM discontinued all the factory 1984-1987 Regals T-Tops weatherstripping several years ago. After much research and trial fitting, we now buy from a source that actually was a GM supplier.
We offer the seals as a kit of 4 pieces - 2 main surround seals and 2 anti-rattle strips.
Kit includes the two main body seals that surround the T-Tops openings. These run from the front pillar post around the entire T-Tops opening frame, and down the back side of the door jamb area. These would be the larger seals in the kit.
The other 2 seals are called the “anti-rattle” weatherstrips. These attach to the actual metal frame area, so when you place the T-Tops in position, it helps to make them seat snug and helps to prevent the T-Tops from rattling. You need to adjust the T-Tops so they are snug.
To further restore the car, we also highly recommend you install the Rear Seat Frame Brace Kit, Part #1586 or Part #7169, unless you have already done so. These help retain body stiffness.
Actual T-Tops can also be adjusted as needed, so they latch securely once you have all the new weatherstrip seals properly installed.
This kit is actually less expensive than the GM’s price when it was still available.
These T-Top seals come from a different supplier than the other seals we offer. The fitment is very good.
NOTE - This kit does NOT include the actual seals for the lift-off T-Tops panels. If you need the seals for the actual T-Tops panels, you would need to purchase #7375 kit, which includes all 6 seals.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7375 Reproduction T-Tops Weatherstrip Seals (6) Kit, #7211 T-Tops Reproduction Anti-Rattle Weatherstrip Seals (2), #1586 Powder-coated Black Rear Seat Frame Brace Kit®, #7169 Reproduction GNX Rear Seat Brace Kit, and #7171 Reproduction T-Tops Locking-style Plastic Outer Trim Rails (2) and Hardware.
These are excellent replacement parts for any restoration.
7732 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models including Turbo Regals) -
Reproduction T-TOPS WEATHERSTRIP SEALS (4) Set - $135 / set
Here’s a link to this T-Tops weatherstrip seals set on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44329/Reproduction+T-TOPS+WEATHERSTRIP+SEALS+%284%29+SET+%237732.html
1986 and 1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM Licensed - Custom-Made REPRODUCTION WINDOW STICKERS
The most important piece of paper you can have with your car is the original Window Sticker, which gives all the important "history" of your Buick. It is also something that most buyers want when they purchase an original car.
This Window Sticker would show the MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price,) all standard equipment, all optional equipment and their prices, destination and delivery charges, federal, state, and local taxes, and prep charges. It may also show the average fuel economy. This allows a consumer to walk into an automobile dealership and find an itemized, accurate price tag on every new vehicle.
If your Window Sticker is missing or damaged, we can have a GM licensed reproduction made specifically for your vehicle by ECS Automotive Concepts.
NOTE - We are only offering 1986 and 1987 Window Stickers at this time.
7744 - 1986 Buick Turbo Regal - GM Licensed Reproduction Window Sticker (1) - $80 Plus $7 Priority Mail Shipping = $87
7745 - 1986 Buick Turbo Regal - TWO - GM Licensed Reproduction Window Stickers (2) - $110 Plus $7 Priority Mail Shipping = $117
7746 - 1987 Buick Turbo Regal - GM Licensed Reproduction Window Sticker (1) - $80 Plus $7 Priority Mail Shipping = $87
7747 - 1987 Buick Turbo Regal - TWO - GM Licensed Reproduction Window Stickers (2) - $110 Plus $7 Priority Mail Shipping = $117
Here is a link to complete information on these reproduction Window Stickers on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44325/GM+Licensed+Reproduction+Window+Sticker+%237744+%237745+%237746+%237747.html
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 -
For most of the country with fall and winter fast approaching, car show season has come to an end for 2016.
Remember, unless you have owned your Turbo Regal for 23 years or longer, email me the last six digits of your VIN number. We may have sold it at some point in the last 23 years and have documented proof that would be of interest to you! My email is - [email protected]
MORE STORIES REUNITING TURBO REGAL OWNERS WITH THEIR PAPERWORK -
We heard this past week from a customer that purchased a 1987 Grand National from us in 2003. At the time, it had just 11,250 actual miles on it and he paid us just under $20,000 for it. Today it has 15,200 miles on it. I would venture a guess that today that same car, which is fully documented, is worth approximately $30,000-$35,000.
This customer hit the jackpot as I had the original color flyer advertising this car, a copy of the O’Neil Buick title when he purchased it from me, also a copy of the Kentucky title and Indiana title. The real icing on the cake so to speak, is I also had a copy of the Window Sticker. All this along with a notarized letter of authenticity enhances the value of this particular 1987 Grand National. The car originally was sold in Kentucky and the second owner resided in Indiana where I purchased it from.
I have paperwork for another customer, who owns one of the GNXs I sold. I had a copy of the Virginia title where I bought the GNX and I still had about a dozen color photos. We made another owner very happy that we had these records for him.
If you have no idea of where your car has been in the last 23 years, email me the last 6 digits of your VIN, since you may own one of the cars we have sold.
You never know you - you may just win Kirban Bingo. Any 1986, 1987 Turbo Regal or GNX, is fair game! I don’t think any one individual between 1993 and early 2000 has owned and sold more 1986-1987 Turbo Regals than I have.
Email me direct - [email protected] - with the last six digits that appear on your VIN number after the two letters. I will let you know if I have records on your car.
If you have any friends with a 1986 or 1987 Turbo Regal, tell them as I may have information on their cars.
Most of the cars we sold were really nice prime examples, including several that were national winners at the GS Nationals in years past. So, I am fairly confident that many of them are still on the road today.
Here is the deal if we have information on your car. For $34.95 we will send you by Priority Mail proof that we sold the car. All copies will be flat (not folded.) It will include a notarized Certificate of Authenticity signed by me on our company letterhead listing the VIN number and year I sold it. You also get copies of any titles, etc. to verify the VIN. No personal information on the previous owners will be displayed. If I have original photos of the car matching your VIN number, the price is $44.95 for Priority Mail. This would include a notarized Certificate of Authenticity on our company letterhead signed by me and listing the VIN number and any related titles reflecting the VIN number. It’s a small price to pay to document a bit of history related to your 1986-1987 Turbo Regal.
The key document will be the notarized Certificate of Authenticity letter listing the VIN number and year I owned the car. That is one document you, as the current owner, will want with your records. Even if you still own one of my cars I may have some info you don’t have and will include it with this notarized Certificate of Authenticity on my company letterhead. I know in the past I have seen several Turbo Regals advertised as being one of my cars, which probably helps sell the car. Now you can have physical proof. In most cases, even copies of titles and photos. With the values of these cars continuing to increase each year, having any background documented history can only add to the value. Having copies of the previous titles for your Turbo Regal is pretty clear proof!
Simply email me - [email protected] - the last six digits of your 1986 or 1987 Turbo Regal VIN number. Unless you have owned your car for 23 or more years, there is a chance I sold it. You might come up a winner from over 300 records I have of 1986 and 1987 Turbo Regals.
PHOTO 1 - Shows a copy of the original color flyer of this 1987 Grand National with 11,100 actual miles on it. Like most of the photos, I tried to take the initial photo either where I picked up the car or somewhere along my travel route back home. In this case, this photo was taken in front of a local court house in southern Indiana. I took the smaller photo on this flyer reflecting off the driver’s side quarter panel, which clearly shows just how nice this paint was on this car.
PHOTO 2 - The photo to the left shows the Kentucky title with the mileage shown as 4,652. The photo to the right shows the Indiana title when it was first registered when it had 8,375 miles showing. I bought the Grand National from the Indiana owner. It’s unfortunate that our dash clusters where so primitive and only showed miles up to 99,999. I always made it a point to record and show actual miles on the titles, even though after so many years you could state mileage exempt in Pennsylvania.
FALL CARLISLE -
Fall Carlisle was basically a wash out. I was there Thursday and it rained most of the time I was there. I suspect it also rained Friday and Saturday in Carlisle, based on our local weather of rain both days. Carlisle goes on regardless of the weather. I’ve even been there for Spring Carlisle in April and witnessed it snowing.
I took my list of VIN numbers, thinking I would spot at least one Turbo Regal for sale. I did not see a single Turbo Regal. Nor did I see so much as a single Turbo Regal part for sale except for a few brochures.
I did spot 2 cars that in my opinion were good buys. Plus, with the terrible weather, you probably could have struck a deal at a lower price on many of the cars offered for sale.
One was a really nice 1986 Monte Carlo SS hardtop. The other was a 1994 Camaro Z28 hardtop. Both were outstanding cars, good enough to enter in a car show. In other words, these were Kirban quality. The Monte Carlo SS was priced at $9,750 or best offer. This seller was open to a reasonable offer. The Camaro was described as never seeing the rain, garaged since new. It was a one-owner all-original car. The description claimed it have every available option except T-Tops. The Window Sticker showed it to be $29,800 when it was new. It had less than 50,000 miles on it. The price tag was $10,600. In my opinion, the only downside was that it was automatic. A 6-speed would have added the fun factor and been rarer.
PHOTO 3 - The photo on the left shows the 1986 Monte Carlo SS for sale for $9,750. A comparable 1986 Grand National in the same condition would bring probably twice as much. The photo on the right shows the 1994 Camaro Z28, which was under an open building. If I had to choose, the Camaro Z28 would be the better choice of the 2 cars.
MY CAMARO Z28 STORY -
This reminded me about a Z28 I owned that was the same color. It was also the same year. It was probably around 1998 or so that I bought it. I needed a 6-speed Camaro, since the company that makes our adjustable fuel regulators was going to make a 6-speed shifter for the 1993 and up Camaros and the Firebirds for us. I bought a used one off a local dealer, so I would have a test car. My initial thinking was the Firebird console should be the same as the Camaro. Guess what it isn’t. The console hole was slightly different. If we used the same handle in the Firebird, there was a chance the driver could pinch his finger between the shifter handle and the hard plastic side of the console. So, we had to make two different handles.
I later sold the car with the very first Camaro shifter we produced in it. I have no idea where that car is today. It was a hardtop. We sold those shifters for a number of years before we discontinued the shifter.
Because of the terrible weather I did not take many photos at Fall Carlisle and was only there about 3 hours. The most unique idea I saw can be seen in Photo 4.
PHOTO 4 - These photos from Fall Carlisle show some neat handy work using old car and truck hoods and cutting them to make sofa-like swings. In some cases, you can make out the emblem on the front. I don’t recall what the price was, nor would I want to try and carry one back to my truck! Besides the weight factor, I don’t think they would be very comfortable to sit on for any length of time.
HIGHEST MILEAGE GRAND NATIONAL WE HAVE SOLD -
The highest mileage Grand National we sold was in 2000. The Grand National had 221,000 miles on it and I sold it locally within 7 days for $4,395. I’ve also heard from that owner. He kept it 14 years driving it another 8,000 miles and then sold it. He still regrets selling it.
The Grand National was completely original and the owner says I gave him about $8,000 worth of receipts. He says I bought it from a 70-year-old gentleman who then bought a low-mileage Grand National from me. I never took in many cars in trade.
Every car has a story. My problem is trying to remember all of them. What makes remembering them difficult is that most were Grand Nationals, so they all look alike.
A KIRBAN REQUEST -
I am seeking the owner of Syclone #0018. This is the Syclone we owned back in 1992. I have a lot of very valuable documentation on this particular Syclone that I doubt the current owner has any idea even exists. It may be one of the rarest ones produced that first year with documentation to prove it.
Not only did my son do some neat custom work on this Syclone, but I have paperwork proving it was a GMC test vehicle.
If you are on any of the various related forums, please put this info out there.
TURBO REGAL STORY -
While I was at Fall Carlisle last Thursday, I had a customer recognize me at one my buddy’s vendor spots. He has been a New Jersey school teacher for 38 years. He remembers coming to our old house while he was in college and buying GTO parts. Years later he brought a grey Turbo Regal that I bought to my house and my daughter-in-law drove him back home to New Jersey.
YOU WOULD THINK COMPANIES WOULD USE COMMON SENSE -
You would think most major companies would use common sense when their customer dies and has a phone or cable contract. Common sense would be, if the customer dies, the contract should also end as well.
In New York they had to actually pass a law to end contracts without penalties if the person died. This new law also covers cable and telecom companies, so they cannot charge early termination fees when a customer dies.
This is something that should be a no brainer and not something each state should have to bother to make a law. Simple proof with a Death Certificate should be enough to void any long-term contract. It would be nice if the government worked on the theory of common sense.
CRIME DOES PAY -
It appears crime, in some very small circumstances, does pay. The new movie entitled, “Masterminds” is based on the biggest cash heist in America history. The heist was $17.3 million from a vault in Charlotte, North Carolina back in 1997. The mastermind behind it was David Ghantt, who worked as a driver for an armored car service.
He spent seven years in federal prison. He served as the creative consultant on the Mastermind movie. I am sure he earned a nice fee as the consultant and, if he had a smart agent, will get a cut of the gross sales as well!
WAS THIS COST EFFECTIVE? -
Was this cost effective for Cadillac, to do? They flew over from Italy all 21,000 Cadillac Allantes they produced. The Allante was produced 1987 thru 1992. A total of 21,000 were produced.
According to an article I read, they could fit 56 Allantes in a 747 plane at a time. If you do the math, that amounts to over 350 flights from Italy to Michigan. I would hope the 747s had cargo going on return trips to Italy.
The Allante is one of those limited production cars that has yet to gain any real value as a collector car. I have never owned one!
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If you have a tip or a discovery that you found that works on your Turbo Regal, drop us an email giving us the details so we can pass the info on to our readers. Remember, even with my knowledge, I don’t know it all. Simply email me at - [email protected]
TIP FROM KIRBAN -
If you own a 1986 or a 1987 Turbo Regal and plan to replace your original vacuum block with the aluminum block, be sure to have our part #7695 vacuum block replace vacuum hoses on hand. That part is 2 full sets of correct precut vacuum hoses.
In almost every case, you will break the original vacuum hoses due to age and heat. It is worth having our replacement precut hoses on hand, since those vacuum ports require several different size hoses.
These are must-have items when converting to vacuum brakes!
Buying a used car? Something that I do with virtually every used car I buy that I keep is to flush out all the fluids. Also be sure to replace the cabin filter if the car is equipped with one. These areas are usually neglected, even on the well-maintained cars.
The end result is peace of mind. I usually end up looking at 10 cars or more before I buy one.
REPRODUCTION ALUMINUM BRAKE DRUMS - NOW IN STOCK -
The reproduction aluminum brake drums are now in stock. If you purchase a set between now and Monday, October 31st, we will give you FREE shipping if you reside in the basic 48 states. Part #7716 is the correct drums for the stock rear on the 1984-1987 Turbo Regals. The price is $234.95. The quality is excellent. The weight savings over steel is just over 5 pound per drum. Besides the weight advantage, they won't rust like steel ones do. Only a few weeks left to get in on this special deal!
You must call our office to place your order to get this special pricing - 215-766-1611 x 0. Remember, this was standard equipment on every GNX.
Here is a link to the brake drums on our website - Remember, to receive free shipping, you must call in your order.
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44326/REPRODUCTION+of+the+GM+ALUMINUM+BRAKE+DRUMS+%282%29+SET+-+10-BOLT+%237716.html
TURBO REGAL ITEMS NOW IN STOCK -
The new reproduction belt tensioners are in stock. Part #7733.
Here is a link to the belt tensioner, #7733:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44328/Reproduction+BELT+TENSIONER+WITH+NEW+PULLEY+%237733.html
We also have stock on a new part, #7704 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Replacement Boost Line Vacuum T
Here is the link to this replacement boost line vacuum T on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44330/REPLACEMENT+BOOST+LINE+VACUUM+T+%237704.html
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
We currently need original good 1986-1987 AC Delco mass air flow sensors. We allow $40 Letter of Credit for each correct AC Delco core. See photo 2 in 7-13-2016 Inner Circle to determine if you have the proper mass air flow sensor we need.
URGENT NEED - TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $100 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number.
MAIL - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
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. Also, any cars that our customers have for sale will be featured here and you can see their car with photos on our website. In this category, we will run the descriptions for two-to-three weeks and, if there is no interest in that particular vehicle, it will be deleted the following week. If any of these vehicles perk your interest, email me personally - [email protected] - for more information and photos.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
REPLACEMENT BOOST LINE VACUUM T
The wastegate solenoid, turbocharger and wastegate actuator are connected by three vacuum hoses and a grey plastic “Y” fitting.
This replacement Y connector is similar in size with the correct orifice in the one outlet which match the original vacuum T. When you install this new Y, you will need to insert the same hose into the metal orifice opening as the original T.
Inside the one side of the connector “Y” fitting there is a metal orifice, which allows only a small amount of vacuum to pass through. If the “Y” or surrounding vacuum hoses are damaged or cracked, you can have an overboost condition.
You should also check the three hoses for possible cracks due to heat or swelling at the ends. This could cause engine damage from leaning out the air/fuel mixture.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #6696 Adjustable Wastegate Actuator, #6952 High-Pressure Adjustable Wastegate Actuator, and #7495 RJC Racing Boost Controller.
Another excellent replace item for the engine.
7704 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Replacement Boost Line Vacuum T - $28.95
Here is the link to this replacement boost line vacuum T on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44330/REPLACEMENT+BOOST+LINE+VACUUM+T+%237704.html
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction BELT TENSIONER WITH NEW PULLEY
Original 1986-1987 Turbo Regal belt tensioners can be worn out or broken, which can cause major charging problems.
This new reproduction belt tensioner uses better quality steel spring materials using today’s technology. The original factory tension on the OEM tensioner is rated at 19.5 to 20. The spring tension on these tested at 20.5.
This part has not been available from GM for many years.
This reproduction belt tensioner comes with a new pulley as shown.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #6609 Serpentine Belt, #7315 Brand New 120 amp Alternator Pre-tested with Manufacturer’s Limited Lifetime Warranty, and #7716 Brand New Custom-Built 200 amp Alternator Pre-tested with a Manufacturer’s Limited Lifetime Warranty.
Another great replacement item.
7733 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Reproduction Belt Tensioner with New Pulley - $156.95
Here’s a link to this belt tensioner on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44328/Reproduction+BELT+TENSIONER+WITH+NEW+PULLEY+%237733.html
1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models including Turbo Regals) -
Reproduction T-TOPS WEATHERSTRIP SEALS (4) SET
GM discontinued all the factory 1984-1987 Regals T-Tops weatherstripping several years ago. After much research and trial fitting, we now buy from a source that actually was a GM supplier.
We offer the seals as a kit of 4 pieces - 2 main surround seals and 2 anti-rattle strips.
Kit includes the two main body seals that surround the T-Tops openings. These run from the front pillar post around the entire T-Tops opening frame, and down the back side of the door jamb area. These would be the larger seals in the kit.
The other 2 seals are called the “anti-rattle” weatherstrips. These attach to the actual metal frame area, so when you place the T-Tops in position, it helps to make them seat snug and helps to prevent the T-Tops from rattling. You need to adjust the T-Tops so they are snug.
To further restore the car, we also highly recommend you install the Rear Seat Frame Brace Kit, Part #1586 or Part #7169, unless you have already done so. These help retain body stiffness.
Actual T-Tops can also be adjusted as needed, so they latch securely once you have all the new weatherstrip seals properly installed.
This kit is actually less expensive than the GM’s price when it was still available.
These T-Top seals come from a different supplier than the other seals we offer. The fitment is very good.
NOTE - This kit does NOT include the actual seals for the lift-off T-Tops panels. If you need the seals for the actual T-Tops panels, you would need to purchase #7375 kit, which includes all 6 seals.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7375 Reproduction T-Tops Weatherstrip Seals (6) Kit, #7211 T-Tops Reproduction Anti-Rattle Weatherstrip Seals (2), #1586 Powder-coated Black Rear Seat Frame Brace Kit®, #7169 Reproduction GNX Rear Seat Brace Kit, and #7171 Reproduction T-Tops Locking-style Plastic Outer Trim Rails (2) and Hardware.
These are excellent replacement parts for any restoration.
7732 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models including Turbo Regals) -
Reproduction T-TOPS WEATHERSTRIP SEALS (4) Set - $135 / set
Here’s a link to this T-Tops weatherstrip seals set on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44329/Reproduction+T-TOPS+WEATHERSTRIP+SEALS+%284%29+SET+%237732.html
1986 and 1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
GM Licensed - Custom-Made REPRODUCTION WINDOW STICKERS
The most important piece of paper you can have with your car is the original Window Sticker, which gives all the important "history" of your Buick. It is also something that most buyers want when they purchase an original car.
This Window Sticker would show the MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price,) all standard equipment, all optional equipment and their prices, destination and delivery charges, federal, state, and local taxes, and prep charges. It may also show the average fuel economy. This allows a consumer to walk into an automobile dealership and find an itemized, accurate price tag on every new vehicle.
If your Window Sticker is missing or damaged, we can have a GM licensed reproduction made specifically for your vehicle by ECS Automotive Concepts.
NOTE - We are only offering 1986 and 1987 Window Stickers at this time.
7744 - 1986 Buick Turbo Regal - GM Licensed Reproduction Window Sticker (1) - $80 Plus $7 Priority Mail Shipping = $87
7745 - 1986 Buick Turbo Regal - TWO - GM Licensed Reproduction Window Stickers (2) - $110 Plus $7 Priority Mail Shipping = $117
7746 - 1987 Buick Turbo Regal - GM Licensed Reproduction Window Sticker (1) - $80 Plus $7 Priority Mail Shipping = $87
7747 - 1987 Buick Turbo Regal - TWO - GM Licensed Reproduction Window Stickers (2) - $110 Plus $7 Priority Mail Shipping = $117
Here is a link to complete information on these reproduction Window Stickers on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44325/GM+Licensed+Reproduction+Window+Sticker+%237744+%237745+%237746+%237747.html
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 -
For most of the country with fall and winter fast approaching, car show season has come to an end for 2016.
Remember, unless you have owned your Turbo Regal for 23 years or longer, email me the last six digits of your VIN number. We may have sold it at some point in the last 23 years and have documented proof that would be of interest to you! My email is - [email protected]