Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 10-14-2015
MINI GNX CONTEST RESULTS -
Jason called me about 3 pm eastern time Saturday afternoon from the Mecum auction. He had driven 11 hours to get to the Chicago Mecum Auction from Canada.
He reports the GNX was as advertised, even down to the original black brake bowl and black brake switch. Underneath was super clean with all the part number stickers attached to the various components. He did notice the headliner had one small minor bubble near the driver’s side. I was surprised that the headliner wasn’t worse than that after all these years. Also the horn ring had a crack on it.
The exhaust system was like new. You could still see traces of the parts sticker on the catalytic convertor. The GNX wheels were mint with the original wheel weights intact. The intercooler decal was mint. Even the SPID label on the trunk lid was perfect with no air bubbles. The fuel tank was bright silver with no corrosion.
According to Jason, the auctioneer spent a good bit of time working the crowd. The reserve was lifted at some point and the final hammered price was $112,500.
Jason says he got the impression that sales were weak overall Saturday for the quality of cars that were presented.
This price is considerably less than the GNX that sold this past spring, which went for $150,000 plus depending on the addition of the fees.
At least two thirds of the contest entries I received were above $115,000 and the highest was near the quarter million mark.
According to Jason, there was no other GNXs or even a Grand National at this auction. It appears on the face of it that the GNX fell short of expectations.
Because we actually had one contestant guess the exact selling price, we will be awarding 3 winners of this contest instead of two. I was smart enough to get a dozen of the unique GNX item made, which is one of the prizes. I have the remaining ones available for sale at the GS Nationals. I only made 12 of these unique GNX items. I wanted it to stay as unique as the GNX.
I asked Jason to track 2 other cars. One was the Volkswagon 21 window micro bus. That seller also paid the extra grand for the Saturday auction. This was a no sale topping out at $70,000. Strong money for a Volkswagon micro bus! The other car was a first production Bricklin SV1, serial number 0001, was sold it fetched $43,000. These cars were quite crude. I remember them well as I towed for a foreign car dealership that was also a Bricklin dealership back in the day.
HERE ARE THE GNX CONTEST WINNERS -
Coming in First Place with the exact hammered price of $112,500 was Scott Weaver.
Taking Second Place - Harry Sutherland with a guess of $111,999.
Taking Third Place - Scott Lambert with a guess of $111,700.
Congrats to all the winners. Your prizes have been shipped.
MORE VIEWS FROM CORVETTES AT CARLISLE -
As we stated in an earlier Inner Circle issue, Corvettes at Carlisle is one of the biggest yearly gatherings of Corvettes and related parts. All the big players are there to showcase their products and, in many cases, do onsite installations.
As many of you are aware, the Corvette segment really sets the high standard on restoration leaving nothing to guess work. If they could bottle up the correct air for every year Corvette, it would be a huge seller. Here is a case in point.
While walking around the swap area, I saw one vendor who had nothing but wheel weights in neat rows on a table. I struck up a conversation with him. He was quite knowledgeable on the subject and has even done power point seminars on that one single subject! He probably had 600-700 lbs of wheel weights with him. He explained the way to pinpoint the years and makers of the various wheel weights to me.
Example - Years ago weights were measured in ounces, now its grams. It turns out he lives about a half-mile from our old house!
PHOTO 1 - The photo to the left shows an angle view of the long table he had featuring just wheel weights for sale. Some of the weights were priced at $10 or more! He says the Corvette Judges even check the wheel weights on the spare tire to make sure they are period correct. The photo to the right shows a very neat display of various Corvette parts for sale.
PHOTO 2 - The left photo shows a huge array of like new exhaust systems for sale. The photo to the right shows another barn find, this one was a 1968 or 1969 Corvette.
PHOTO 3 - The photo to the left shows 2 of the large dealer signs a vendor had for sale. If I recall, these were priced at several thousand dollars each. The photo to the right shows more of the vendor’s display of dealer signs for sale.
PHOTO 4 - The photo to the left shows a very nice original El Camino that was for sale. The photo to the right shows one of the unique animals I spotted being shown around in what appeared to be a baby stroller! I don’t believe this is one of the $20 cats you get at any of the animal shelters!
GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA -
Last weekend we were treated by our good friend Jason to hear the Glenn Miller orchestra in concert. Jason actually drove down from Canada to take us to the concert and dinner.
The orchestra consisted of 18 band members and they played many of Glenn Millers hits from the war years. They have toured constantly for over 56 years and travel over a 100,000 miles a year. The recording of “Chattanooga Choo-Choo” earned Glenn Miller the first Gold Record ever awarded to a performing artist.
The Glenn Miller orchestra has had more hit records in one year than anybody in the history of the recording industry. This was back in the early 1940s.
His theme song “Moonlight Serenade” even today is considered a standard in the field of popular music. Glenn Miller wrote the music to that song.
His story was later made into a movie starring Jimmie Stewart. In 1940 for Christmas his band members all chipped in and bought Glenn Miller a brand new 1940 Buick coupe. It seems strange they settled on giving Glenn a Buick! We show a picture of him in his Buick in our lower photo in Photo 4
SLIGHTLY DAMAGED REAR SPOOLFOOL FILLER -
We just got back a slightly damaged, never used Spoolfool rear filler panel. It has one very small crack at the one edge. The crack is smaller than your little finger. Normal retail is $370 plus shipping. You can own this one for just $335 plus shipping. The damage is so slight it is barely visible in a photo. However, you can email me - [email protected] - if you want to see a photo.
Call our office to order this particular damaged rear spool fool filler. This is a real bargain as damage is quite minimal.
We also have another Spoolfool rear filler panel. It has a few chips in it, otherwise it is perfect. Normal retail is $370. You can own this one for $335 plus shipping.
You must call Christina to purchase either of these Spoolfool rear filler panels - 215-766-1611 x 0. Both are a bargain for being slightly damaged as described.
Remember you can cash in any acceptable cores you have towards their purchase!
VEHICLES FOR SALE
At one of the shops that makes parts for us there sits a Ford conversion van. It’s one of those Turtle Top conversions. I am not sure of the vintage, maybe late 1980s or early 1990s. It’s been parked for several years and appears to be in extremely nice condition even the interior. Body is super straight and I don’t see any rust issues at all. I think it can be bought for under $3,500.
I can try and find out more about this van when I return from the GS Nationals. If interested, email me - [email protected]
THOUGHTS TO PONDER -
Here go some more sayings:
If you travel a lot like I did years ago, here is something I discovered at many of the motels. Why are most pictures bolted to the walls? Are they afraid someone is going to steal them?
Motel pricing - Whether you pay $50 a night or $150 a night, when you turn the lights off, they all look the same!
One thing I would always ask or is a ground floor room. My thinking is, if there was ever a fire, at least I would be on the first floor if I was disoriented!
The nicer you keep your car, the better chance you have that it will be stolen!
COMMENT FROM LAST WEEK’S INNER CIRCLE -
Ian Reeves lives in England and responded to one of my quotes the other week about the age of aircraft.
He and his family were in Florida on vacation when Hurricane Katrina hit in 2005. The airlines were having trouble evacuating people and were using whatever aircraft were available to them.
He and his family boarded a plane to go back to the UK. They were told they might have to stop in New York to take on extra fuel. Also, only one bathroom was working. They then were told they could land in Ireland if they needed more fuel. Fortunately they didn’t.
Although Ian wasn’t sure of the age of the plane, he did notice the armrest on the seats still had ashtrays in them!
We appreciate all the comments we receive on the various stories we present each week. We strive to keep things interesting and share our life with you.
SPECIAL LIMITED SALE -
Currently we are overstocked with our fiberglass front and rear bumpers. Part #1507 is the front bumper and #1532 is the rear bumper. The retail is normally $190 each. However, if you purchase both the front and rear at the same time, your cost would be $365. You would save $15 by purchasing both. These are for off road use only.
LIGHTED REARVIEW MIRRORS -
These mirrors are extremely difficult to find. It seems this one version that I can easily modify with the LED bulbs and has the set screw to attach to your windshield was not used in many GM cars or trucks.
We will have a few of them available at the GS Nationals.
FOURTH GENERATION CAMAROS & FIREBIRDS -
We are looking for someone that deals in the 4th Generation Camaro parts that wants a deal on a bunch of related 4th Generation Camaro/Firebird parts.
CORES NEEDED -
We have an urgent need for powermaster cores, steering wheel cores, and turbo cores. We are taking cores at GS Nationals!
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
POWERMASTER CORES must be complete with brake bowl and brake switch. You get $100 Letter of Credit or we will trade our complete headlight kit #7530 a $129.95 value for each acceptable core. Powermaster units must be nice and not look like they been in a river for the last 10 years.
TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock ones. They must be complete. We will issue you a $100 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core. WE HAVE AN URGENT NEED FOR THESE.
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 -
ATTN - DENNIS
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADSVILLE, PA 18949-1199
TECH CALLS -
If you need technical information, it’s best to email - [email protected] rather than call us.
We will do our best to answer any technical questions within 24 hours.
VEHICLES 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. Any new vehicles that we add will appear first, so the oldest listing would be at the end of this section.
If any of these vehicles perk your interest, email me personally - [email protected] - for more information and photos.
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If you have a tip or a discovery that you found that works on your Turbo Regal, drop us an email giving us the details so we can pass the info on to our readers. Remember, even with my knowledge, I don’t know it all. Simply email me at - [email protected]
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
OEM BEARING for the Stock Belt Tensioner Pulley
We discovered that most of the aftermarket belt tensioner pulleys from the various suppliers do not match up to the original design.
The simple solution was to find the manufacturer of the actual bearing that GM used. We carry that exact bearing, made by the same manufacturer.
It is a double-sealed ball bearing.
You need to get it pressed in by someone that has a bench press. It does not require much effort to press in the new bearing.
Our photo shows an original on the lower left, this new replacement bearing on the lower right and a stock belt tensioner pulley at the top.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7115 Air Conditioning Bypass Pulley and #6609 Serpentine Belt.
Another great replacement item.
7693 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
OEM Bearing for the Stock Belt Tensioner Pulley - $13.95
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction UPPER PLENUM GASKET
This reproduction upper plenum gasket is an exact duplicate of the original gasket. It is made by the same source that makes most of our other reproduction gaskets.
NOTE - You may also be interested in this related gasket - #6839 Reproduction Vacuum Block Gasket
Another excellent placement for the engine compartment!
7692 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction Upper Plenum Gasket - $5.95
Here is a link to the Upper Plenum Gasket on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44273/Reproduction+UPPER+PLENUM+GASKET+%237692.html
1984-1987 Buick Regal -
Regal Hardtop Reproduction
GREY HEADLINER & SUN VISORS MATERIAL - 3 YARDS
Over time, the headliner deteriorates or may start to sag.
We offer a reproduction grey headliner material for the 1984-1987 Buick Regals hardtop models. It will also be correct for the T-Tops models, but you’ll have extra material left over.
If you are having the interior restored, this is the time to replace the headliner.
The only sure way to get a positive color match with the sun visors is to use the same material from the same roll for the hardtop headliner and sun visors at the same time.
We only offer the correct factory grey headliner material for the Grand National and T-Type Regal hardtops.
This is the same material that our local supplier has been using for years when he does Grand National headliners.
NOTE - Colors may not appear correctly on the website due to computer monitor differences. If you would like us to send you a small piece of the material, contact our office - 215-766-1611 x 0.
According to the reference books that companies use, this is the only grey GM used during the 1980s, except for the Cadillac models.
We offer it in a 3-yard length only, which is ample material to do a hardtop headliner as well as both sun visors.
If the factory headliner board is still in good shape and not cracked or ruined, this is the best method to redo the headliner. Also plan to have the sun visors redone at the same time.
NOTE - We no longer offer the ABS pre-covered headliner shell, part #7418, as shown in the second photo.
NOTE - We recommend this headliner material be installed by an upholstery shop. You will need to have a hole cut out for the interior light.
NOTE - We recommend you also purchase Part #7362, Headliner Molding Clips (8) Set. Since the original clips are old, they may break when you remove them to install the new headliner.
Another great restoration item.
7690 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal -
Regal Hardtop Reproduction Grey Headliner & Sun Visors Material - 3 yards - $59.95
Here is a link to this Headliner material on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44272/Regal+Hardtop+Reproduction+GREY+HEADLINER+%26+SUN+VISORS+MATERIAL+-+3+YARDS+%237690.html
1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
UPPER DASH DUAL CONE SPEAKERS (2) SET
One of the toughest replacement speakers to find are the small ones that go in the upper dash corners. The speaker size is 3-1/2 inches.
Because of the age of these cars, the original speakers may be cracked from the heat or age.
We offer these new 3-1/2" diameter replacement dual cone speakers.
They have been tested by Richard Clark and are an excellent replacement speaker. These are a 2-way Performance Series Dual Cone Coaxial Car Speaker. You will have to modify one or both connectors on the plug end to attach the factory plug harness properly to these speakers. The plug end is basically the same, but the width is different from the original factory speakers.
If you have the Concert Sound II option in the doors, you need to order part #7689.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related items - #7386 Reproduction Upper Dash Trim Panel, #7065 Late-Model Radio Plug-in Harness Kit 21 Pin to 12 Pin Harness with Antenna Lead and Antenna Lead Adapter, or #7684 & #7685 Radio/Cassette Buttons Reproduction Aluminum ID Inserts (3) Set
Another nice interior restoration item.
Here are the two options for these switches. We have highlighted in RED the one you are ordering if you order through this particular page.
7688 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Upper Dash Dual Cone Speakers (2) Set - $49.95 / set
7689 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (with Concert Sound II) -
Upper Dash Dual Cone Speakers (2) Set - $54.95 / set Call for Availability
Here is a link to these speakers on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7688&submit_button=
1978-1987 Buick Regal with 200, 200R, 350 and 700 Transmission -
REPLACEMENT TRANSMISSION REAR SEAL
for 200, 200R, 350 and 700 Transmission
This transmission rear seal fits all the 200, 2004R, 350 and 700 transmissions. This seal is a factory replacement part and is made in the U.S.A.
If you find the transmission is leaking out the tail shaft area, this is the seal you need. It can be installed without removing the transmission from the car.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related items - #7208 Replacement Transmission TCC Solenoid, or #7486 Electrical Solenoid Pass-through Connector with O-ring for 200-4R Transmission.
NOTE - We recommend this seal be installed by a qualified mechanic.
Another excellent replacement part for transmission restoration.
7686 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal with 200, 200R, 350 and 700 Transmission-
Replacement Transmission Rear Seal for 200, 200R, 350 and 700 Transmission - $6.50
Here is a link to this transmission rear seal on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44268/REPLACEMENT+TRANSMISSION+REAR+SEAL+for+200%2C+200R%2C+350+and+700+Transmission+%237686.html
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
REPLACEMENT STAINLESS STEEL FUEL VAPOR LINE
This is the fuel vapor line that runs from the gas tank to the rubber hose that connects to the fuel vapor canister.
Line is formed to match the original formation, is made from stainless steel, and is pre-bent for shipping. You will have to unbend it to install it in the car.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related items - #6957 Both Fuel Feed Line and Fuel Return Line, #6955 Reproduction Stainless Steel Fuel Return Line, or #6954 Reproduction Stainless Steel Fuel Feed Line.
Another excellent replacement for any restoration.
7687 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Replacement Stainless Steel Fuel Vapor Line - $115
Here is a link to this stainless steel fuel vapor line on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44267/REPLACEMENT+STAINLESS+STEEL+FUEL+VAPOR+LINE+%237687.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 -
Congrats to our three winners of our mini GNX contest. Your prizes have been sent by UPS. Hope to see many of our customers this week at the GS Nationals. Have a safe trip.
MINI GNX CONTEST RESULTS -
Jason called me about 3 pm eastern time Saturday afternoon from the Mecum auction. He had driven 11 hours to get to the Chicago Mecum Auction from Canada.
He reports the GNX was as advertised, even down to the original black brake bowl and black brake switch. Underneath was super clean with all the part number stickers attached to the various components. He did notice the headliner had one small minor bubble near the driver’s side. I was surprised that the headliner wasn’t worse than that after all these years. Also the horn ring had a crack on it.
The exhaust system was like new. You could still see traces of the parts sticker on the catalytic convertor. The GNX wheels were mint with the original wheel weights intact. The intercooler decal was mint. Even the SPID label on the trunk lid was perfect with no air bubbles. The fuel tank was bright silver with no corrosion.
According to Jason, the auctioneer spent a good bit of time working the crowd. The reserve was lifted at some point and the final hammered price was $112,500.
Jason says he got the impression that sales were weak overall Saturday for the quality of cars that were presented.
This price is considerably less than the GNX that sold this past spring, which went for $150,000 plus depending on the addition of the fees.
At least two thirds of the contest entries I received were above $115,000 and the highest was near the quarter million mark.
According to Jason, there was no other GNXs or even a Grand National at this auction. It appears on the face of it that the GNX fell short of expectations.
Because we actually had one contestant guess the exact selling price, we will be awarding 3 winners of this contest instead of two. I was smart enough to get a dozen of the unique GNX item made, which is one of the prizes. I have the remaining ones available for sale at the GS Nationals. I only made 12 of these unique GNX items. I wanted it to stay as unique as the GNX.
I asked Jason to track 2 other cars. One was the Volkswagon 21 window micro bus. That seller also paid the extra grand for the Saturday auction. This was a no sale topping out at $70,000. Strong money for a Volkswagon micro bus! The other car was a first production Bricklin SV1, serial number 0001, was sold it fetched $43,000. These cars were quite crude. I remember them well as I towed for a foreign car dealership that was also a Bricklin dealership back in the day.
HERE ARE THE GNX CONTEST WINNERS -
Coming in First Place with the exact hammered price of $112,500 was Scott Weaver.
Taking Second Place - Harry Sutherland with a guess of $111,999.
Taking Third Place - Scott Lambert with a guess of $111,700.
Congrats to all the winners. Your prizes have been shipped.
MORE VIEWS FROM CORVETTES AT CARLISLE -
As we stated in an earlier Inner Circle issue, Corvettes at Carlisle is one of the biggest yearly gatherings of Corvettes and related parts. All the big players are there to showcase their products and, in many cases, do onsite installations.
As many of you are aware, the Corvette segment really sets the high standard on restoration leaving nothing to guess work. If they could bottle up the correct air for every year Corvette, it would be a huge seller. Here is a case in point.
While walking around the swap area, I saw one vendor who had nothing but wheel weights in neat rows on a table. I struck up a conversation with him. He was quite knowledgeable on the subject and has even done power point seminars on that one single subject! He probably had 600-700 lbs of wheel weights with him. He explained the way to pinpoint the years and makers of the various wheel weights to me.
Example - Years ago weights were measured in ounces, now its grams. It turns out he lives about a half-mile from our old house!
PHOTO 1 - The photo to the left shows an angle view of the long table he had featuring just wheel weights for sale. Some of the weights were priced at $10 or more! He says the Corvette Judges even check the wheel weights on the spare tire to make sure they are period correct. The photo to the right shows a very neat display of various Corvette parts for sale.
PHOTO 2 - The left photo shows a huge array of like new exhaust systems for sale. The photo to the right shows another barn find, this one was a 1968 or 1969 Corvette.
PHOTO 3 - The photo to the left shows 2 of the large dealer signs a vendor had for sale. If I recall, these were priced at several thousand dollars each. The photo to the right shows more of the vendor’s display of dealer signs for sale.
PHOTO 4 - The photo to the left shows a very nice original El Camino that was for sale. The photo to the right shows one of the unique animals I spotted being shown around in what appeared to be a baby stroller! I don’t believe this is one of the $20 cats you get at any of the animal shelters!
GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA -
Last weekend we were treated by our good friend Jason to hear the Glenn Miller orchestra in concert. Jason actually drove down from Canada to take us to the concert and dinner.
The orchestra consisted of 18 band members and they played many of Glenn Millers hits from the war years. They have toured constantly for over 56 years and travel over a 100,000 miles a year. The recording of “Chattanooga Choo-Choo” earned Glenn Miller the first Gold Record ever awarded to a performing artist.
The Glenn Miller orchestra has had more hit records in one year than anybody in the history of the recording industry. This was back in the early 1940s.
His theme song “Moonlight Serenade” even today is considered a standard in the field of popular music. Glenn Miller wrote the music to that song.
His story was later made into a movie starring Jimmie Stewart. In 1940 for Christmas his band members all chipped in and bought Glenn Miller a brand new 1940 Buick coupe. It seems strange they settled on giving Glenn a Buick! We show a picture of him in his Buick in our lower photo in Photo 4
SLIGHTLY DAMAGED REAR SPOOLFOOL FILLER -
We just got back a slightly damaged, never used Spoolfool rear filler panel. It has one very small crack at the one edge. The crack is smaller than your little finger. Normal retail is $370 plus shipping. You can own this one for just $335 plus shipping. The damage is so slight it is barely visible in a photo. However, you can email me - [email protected] - if you want to see a photo.
Call our office to order this particular damaged rear spool fool filler. This is a real bargain as damage is quite minimal.
We also have another Spoolfool rear filler panel. It has a few chips in it, otherwise it is perfect. Normal retail is $370. You can own this one for $335 plus shipping.
You must call Christina to purchase either of these Spoolfool rear filler panels - 215-766-1611 x 0. Both are a bargain for being slightly damaged as described.
Remember you can cash in any acceptable cores you have towards their purchase!
VEHICLES FOR SALE
At one of the shops that makes parts for us there sits a Ford conversion van. It’s one of those Turtle Top conversions. I am not sure of the vintage, maybe late 1980s or early 1990s. It’s been parked for several years and appears to be in extremely nice condition even the interior. Body is super straight and I don’t see any rust issues at all. I think it can be bought for under $3,500.
I can try and find out more about this van when I return from the GS Nationals. If interested, email me - [email protected]
THOUGHTS TO PONDER -
Here go some more sayings:
If you travel a lot like I did years ago, here is something I discovered at many of the motels. Why are most pictures bolted to the walls? Are they afraid someone is going to steal them?
Motel pricing - Whether you pay $50 a night or $150 a night, when you turn the lights off, they all look the same!
One thing I would always ask or is a ground floor room. My thinking is, if there was ever a fire, at least I would be on the first floor if I was disoriented!
The nicer you keep your car, the better chance you have that it will be stolen!
COMMENT FROM LAST WEEK’S INNER CIRCLE -
Ian Reeves lives in England and responded to one of my quotes the other week about the age of aircraft.
He and his family were in Florida on vacation when Hurricane Katrina hit in 2005. The airlines were having trouble evacuating people and were using whatever aircraft were available to them.
He and his family boarded a plane to go back to the UK. They were told they might have to stop in New York to take on extra fuel. Also, only one bathroom was working. They then were told they could land in Ireland if they needed more fuel. Fortunately they didn’t.
Although Ian wasn’t sure of the age of the plane, he did notice the armrest on the seats still had ashtrays in them!
We appreciate all the comments we receive on the various stories we present each week. We strive to keep things interesting and share our life with you.
SPECIAL LIMITED SALE -
Currently we are overstocked with our fiberglass front and rear bumpers. Part #1507 is the front bumper and #1532 is the rear bumper. The retail is normally $190 each. However, if you purchase both the front and rear at the same time, your cost would be $365. You would save $15 by purchasing both. These are for off road use only.
LIGHTED REARVIEW MIRRORS -
These mirrors are extremely difficult to find. It seems this one version that I can easily modify with the LED bulbs and has the set screw to attach to your windshield was not used in many GM cars or trucks.
We will have a few of them available at the GS Nationals.
FOURTH GENERATION CAMAROS & FIREBIRDS -
We are looking for someone that deals in the 4th Generation Camaro parts that wants a deal on a bunch of related 4th Generation Camaro/Firebird parts.
CORES NEEDED -
We have an urgent need for powermaster cores, steering wheel cores, and turbo cores. We are taking cores at GS Nationals!
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
POWERMASTER CORES must be complete with brake bowl and brake switch. You get $100 Letter of Credit or we will trade our complete headlight kit #7530 a $129.95 value for each acceptable core. Powermaster units must be nice and not look like they been in a river for the last 10 years.
TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock ones. They must be complete. We will issue you a $100 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core. WE HAVE AN URGENT NEED FOR THESE.
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 -
ATTN - DENNIS
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADSVILLE, PA 18949-1199
TECH CALLS -
If you need technical information, it’s best to email - [email protected] rather than call us.
We will do our best to answer any technical questions within 24 hours.
VEHICLES 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. Any new vehicles that we add will appear first, so the oldest listing would be at the end of this section.
If any of these vehicles perk your interest, email me personally - [email protected] - for more information and photos.
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If you have a tip or a discovery that you found that works on your Turbo Regal, drop us an email giving us the details so we can pass the info on to our readers. Remember, even with my knowledge, I don’t know it all. Simply email me at - [email protected]
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US -
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
OEM BEARING for the Stock Belt Tensioner Pulley
We discovered that most of the aftermarket belt tensioner pulleys from the various suppliers do not match up to the original design.
The simple solution was to find the manufacturer of the actual bearing that GM used. We carry that exact bearing, made by the same manufacturer.
It is a double-sealed ball bearing.
You need to get it pressed in by someone that has a bench press. It does not require much effort to press in the new bearing.
Our photo shows an original on the lower left, this new replacement bearing on the lower right and a stock belt tensioner pulley at the top.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related parts - #7115 Air Conditioning Bypass Pulley and #6609 Serpentine Belt.
Another great replacement item.
7693 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
OEM Bearing for the Stock Belt Tensioner Pulley - $13.95
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction UPPER PLENUM GASKET
This reproduction upper plenum gasket is an exact duplicate of the original gasket. It is made by the same source that makes most of our other reproduction gaskets.
NOTE - You may also be interested in this related gasket - #6839 Reproduction Vacuum Block Gasket
Another excellent placement for the engine compartment!
7692 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction Upper Plenum Gasket - $5.95
Here is a link to the Upper Plenum Gasket on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44273/Reproduction+UPPER+PLENUM+GASKET+%237692.html
1984-1987 Buick Regal -
Regal Hardtop Reproduction
GREY HEADLINER & SUN VISORS MATERIAL - 3 YARDS
Over time, the headliner deteriorates or may start to sag.
We offer a reproduction grey headliner material for the 1984-1987 Buick Regals hardtop models. It will also be correct for the T-Tops models, but you’ll have extra material left over.
If you are having the interior restored, this is the time to replace the headliner.
The only sure way to get a positive color match with the sun visors is to use the same material from the same roll for the hardtop headliner and sun visors at the same time.
We only offer the correct factory grey headliner material for the Grand National and T-Type Regal hardtops.
This is the same material that our local supplier has been using for years when he does Grand National headliners.
NOTE - Colors may not appear correctly on the website due to computer monitor differences. If you would like us to send you a small piece of the material, contact our office - 215-766-1611 x 0.
According to the reference books that companies use, this is the only grey GM used during the 1980s, except for the Cadillac models.
We offer it in a 3-yard length only, which is ample material to do a hardtop headliner as well as both sun visors.
If the factory headliner board is still in good shape and not cracked or ruined, this is the best method to redo the headliner. Also plan to have the sun visors redone at the same time.
NOTE - We no longer offer the ABS pre-covered headliner shell, part #7418, as shown in the second photo.
NOTE - We recommend this headliner material be installed by an upholstery shop. You will need to have a hole cut out for the interior light.
NOTE - We recommend you also purchase Part #7362, Headliner Molding Clips (8) Set. Since the original clips are old, they may break when you remove them to install the new headliner.
Another great restoration item.
7690 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal -
Regal Hardtop Reproduction Grey Headliner & Sun Visors Material - 3 yards - $59.95
Here is a link to this Headliner material on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44272/Regal+Hardtop+Reproduction+GREY+HEADLINER+%26+SUN+VISORS+MATERIAL+-+3+YARDS+%237690.html
1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
UPPER DASH DUAL CONE SPEAKERS (2) SET
One of the toughest replacement speakers to find are the small ones that go in the upper dash corners. The speaker size is 3-1/2 inches.
Because of the age of these cars, the original speakers may be cracked from the heat or age.
We offer these new 3-1/2" diameter replacement dual cone speakers.
They have been tested by Richard Clark and are an excellent replacement speaker. These are a 2-way Performance Series Dual Cone Coaxial Car Speaker. You will have to modify one or both connectors on the plug end to attach the factory plug harness properly to these speakers. The plug end is basically the same, but the width is different from the original factory speakers.
If you have the Concert Sound II option in the doors, you need to order part #7689.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related items - #7386 Reproduction Upper Dash Trim Panel, #7065 Late-Model Radio Plug-in Harness Kit 21 Pin to 12 Pin Harness with Antenna Lead and Antenna Lead Adapter, or #7684 & #7685 Radio/Cassette Buttons Reproduction Aluminum ID Inserts (3) Set
Another nice interior restoration item.
Here are the two options for these switches. We have highlighted in RED the one you are ordering if you order through this particular page.
7688 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Upper Dash Dual Cone Speakers (2) Set - $49.95 / set
7689 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (with Concert Sound II) -
Upper Dash Dual Cone Speakers (2) Set - $54.95 / set Call for Availability
Here is a link to these speakers on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7688&submit_button=
1978-1987 Buick Regal with 200, 200R, 350 and 700 Transmission -
REPLACEMENT TRANSMISSION REAR SEAL
for 200, 200R, 350 and 700 Transmission
This transmission rear seal fits all the 200, 2004R, 350 and 700 transmissions. This seal is a factory replacement part and is made in the U.S.A.
If you find the transmission is leaking out the tail shaft area, this is the seal you need. It can be installed without removing the transmission from the car.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related items - #7208 Replacement Transmission TCC Solenoid, or #7486 Electrical Solenoid Pass-through Connector with O-ring for 200-4R Transmission.
NOTE - We recommend this seal be installed by a qualified mechanic.
Another excellent replacement part for transmission restoration.
7686 - 1978-1987 Buick Regal with 200, 200R, 350 and 700 Transmission-
Replacement Transmission Rear Seal for 200, 200R, 350 and 700 Transmission - $6.50
Here is a link to this transmission rear seal on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44268/REPLACEMENT+TRANSMISSION+REAR+SEAL+for+200%2C+200R%2C+350+and+700+Transmission+%237686.html
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
REPLACEMENT STAINLESS STEEL FUEL VAPOR LINE
This is the fuel vapor line that runs from the gas tank to the rubber hose that connects to the fuel vapor canister.
Line is formed to match the original formation, is made from stainless steel, and is pre-bent for shipping. You will have to unbend it to install it in the car.
NOTE - You may also be interested in these related items - #6957 Both Fuel Feed Line and Fuel Return Line, #6955 Reproduction Stainless Steel Fuel Return Line, or #6954 Reproduction Stainless Steel Fuel Feed Line.
Another excellent replacement for any restoration.
7687 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Replacement Stainless Steel Fuel Vapor Line - $115
Here is a link to this stainless steel fuel vapor line on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/44267/REPLACEMENT+STAINLESS+STEEL+FUEL+VAPOR+LINE+%237687.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 -
Congrats to our three winners of our mini GNX contest. Your prizes have been sent by UPS. Hope to see many of our customers this week at the GS Nationals. Have a safe trip.