Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 09-18-2019 –
UPDATE - RESULTS ON THE TURBO REGAL CONTEST QUESTION –
For once I have stumped my readers as nobody got the correct answer. Even though I know we have a number of Turbo Regal experts that get our weekly Inner Circle, it remained unanswered. The most popular wrong answer was “Twilight Sentinel.” Buick refers to that as “Twilight Sentinel Headlamp Control.” The code on the trunk ID label (SPID) is “T82” listed for $57.
While this was a good guess, it is not an option companies would consider making since it may not prove to be very popular depending on the price of the project.
Having reproduced many parts since 1978, no company (myself included) hits a home run every time. Some projects pay off very slowly and others may never pay off.
The correct answer for this option that was just reproduced is found in every 1984-1987 Buick Price Directory under the Regal model. The category it is found under is “Radio and Related options.” The part is the 4” x 10” rear deck 10 ohm radio speakers. The code on your SPID trunk label is “U66”. This rear deck speaker has the larger magnets for extended range.
The definition in the Buick Price Directory is “Speakers Rear-Dual Extended Range” and was a $25 option. It was required with all the upgraded radios listed each year. In other words, from what I am reading, a good percentage of Turbo Regal owners would have these larger magnet rear deck radio speakers.
Unless your Turbo Regal has enjoyed a lifetime in the garage the rear deck speakers are probably blown out.
I had given one of these original upgraded speakers to a company probably 6-7 years ago to see if he had any or could find them. He called me about 3 weeks ago and says in the last 6 months or so he had been getting calls for this very speaker.
This speaker with the larger magnet used a different factory cage to secure it under the back window deck area. Both versions of the 4”x10” rear speakers GM used are 10 ohm. This new reproduction 4”x10” speaker is Made in the USA. The original Delco speaker says it was Made in Japan.
To my knowledge, our company and GBodyParts.com are the only two Turbo Regal suppliers that have them. The quality is excellent. On this initial run, the terminals on the actual speaker that the original harness connectors would attach to are not correct. However, to overcome this minor issue, we have located an adapter harness, which we include with each set of rear speakers. This way you do not have to cut the factory harness.
Like your car battery, there is a plus and minus for the 2 wires. If you hook it up wrong, it affects the sound quality in some way. Again, keep in mind I am not an expert on radios or related matters.
1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) - Reproduction Extended Range 10 OHM Rear Speakers (2) Set, part #7877, $109.95. However, it’s best to call Christina to order as currently I only have 5 sets on hand. We will have more shortly. If you find you do not have the code “U66” on the trunk ID label, you would have the basic 10 ohm short range speakers. To step up to these extended range speakers you need a different set of cages to secure them, since the cage you have is a smaller format to secure the smaller magnet in the center of the speaker.
If you can obtain the bigger speaker cages, it gives you the upgraded extended range speakers for your rear deck. You could try gbodyparts.com to see if he has a set of the bigger cages for the extended range speakers.
Here is a link to these speakers on our website.
PHOTO 1 - The left photo shows both an original Delco Sound extended range speaker with the new reproduction speaker under it. The tabs you see on the end of the housing cause no issues with installation. The height remains the same, both have a nice foam lip on the mounting side. The right photo shows both the smaller speaker cage on top and the larger speaker cage on the bottom that accepts the bigger magnet found on the extended range speakers.
PHOTO 2 – The photo on the left shows a factory extended range original Delco speaker pulled down from the back deck. This is the driver’s side and the factory harness wires are yellow and brown. The factory speaker wires for the passenger side are blue and green. The photo to the right the shows the new speaker with the adapter harness that the one end plugs into the factory harness. You need to install new female ends on the other end to attach to the actual speaker terminals.
Although these new 10 ohm speakers can solve the rear deck speaker issue, if you have a faulty original radio, it is almost impossible to repair as parts are obsolete. Those radios are quite primitive compared to any of the new radios. Electronics is one area where changes happen very rapidly and parts become obsolete rather quickly. In case you’re wondering, several different GM part numbers could be on the back of the original extended range Delco speakers. All of them would be correct in this application, if you have a matching 10 ohm extended range speaker.
PHOTO 3 – We show all 4 original 1984-1985-1986-1987 Buick Price Directories. This is where the information on the code for the speakers is found. When these cars were still just a few years old, I was always buying as much related original Buick literature as possible. This way it is hard to dispute my findings when I have the proof to back it up. Based on no one winning this particular contest, it’s safe to say this is one option that Turbo Regal owners tend to overlook!
Next week we will show you a later GM upgrade that fits the G-Body rear deck speakers.
GBODYPARTS.COM HAS REPRODUCED THE 1978-1988 GM SHIFTERS –
This new shifter fits all 1978-1988 Buick Regal floor shift applications and Oldsmobile Cutlass 4-speed shifters. He has corrected several of the issues that the original shifters developed over a period of time.
They include rust issues with the chrome at the top grooved area which can sometimes break off the original shifter handle. The bases of these new shifters are painted unlike the factory ones, which were never painted and would turn to rust. He also used a stainless steel pin to correct the issues of a bad cable wearing the pin. Also, an original detent bracket over a period of time can wear allowing the shifter not lock in like it did when it was new. This new unit features a stainless steel detent bracket. Improvements have also been made with the J rod and the spring. The tension has been upgraded for cleaner firmer shifts and the J rod is hardened steel. These are all major improvements to what was a primitive format that was never designed to last over 30 years. While none of the improvements will be visible, once the shifter is installed, the feel of the new shifter will be noticeably better. Price is just $169.95 plus shipping, Gbodyparts is running a Special Limited Offer You can purchase in addition any color handle for just $55 more, normally it runs $99. This is for a complete handle. The handle and the shifter makes the complete package!
Hurst was probably one of the first companies to capitalize on making a superior shifter over the OEM shifters back in the sixties. I expect to have one on display at the East Coast Buick Regionals this coming Saturday.
Here is the link to Gbodyparts.com reproduction shifter:
https://gbodyparts.com/advanced_search_result.php?keywords=1978-88+GM+Buick+Regal+Oldsmob&x=4&y=10
PHOTO 4 - We show several views of GBodyparts new Buick Turbo shifter.
MORE PAST CAR MEMORIES –
A better title would be, “The Power of Yum Yums Donuts”. You know that if you have ever attended any of the 30 plus Kirban Open House Events YumYums donuts was always part of the program for food. It is a local chain of just 3 stores that began over 50 years ago. I know the one owner and I used to go to their one shop almost every morning.
Matter of fact, a photo on page 10 in my book, “Kirban Guide to 1986-1987 Turbo Regals” shows Ian Reeves and his friend Steve Danbury in front of the Warminster Yum Yums back in January 1997. They flew over from England to buy one of my Grand Nationals. Usually when buyers came to pick up their Turbo Regal from me, I would go to YumYums with the new owner as they embarked on their homebound trip.
But my story goes back even further. The mid-to-late 1970s when we started the GTO business alongside our towing business, I was getting Hurst shifters rebuilt almost every other day or so. I quickly found out I could get quicker service if I simply brought the two guys that worked in that department a half dozen YumYums donuts.
Fast forward to the 1980s. We were looking at getting an addition built on to our house in Furlong. This would involve extending the basement, the main floor, and the second floor. This was quite a huge project. We were good friends with these two German brothers who did all kinds of home additions and construction. They also had one helper. The workers comprised of two brothers and one assistant. The one brother would tell us “My brother’s main job is to cast his shadow on our work.” In other words, he was not as motivated!
I devised a clever idea to have them stick to a projected deadline. I told them I would bring back every morning a dozen Yum Yums donuts. Each box would be numbered and when it hit number 50. the project had to be done. These guys quit promptly every day at 4 pm. Come 4 pm, tools were laid down exactly where they were until the next morning at 7 am.
The addition was completed exactly in 50 days. The investment in a dozen donuts for 50 straight days sealed the outcome. The one clever thing I had them do since we did our mail- order business out of the basement is they rigged up a sliding electric door that would slid open when you pushed a button. They also cemented a GTO emblem into the basement floor.
Years from now, some new home owner will wonder who lived there and why that emblem is embedded in the concrete floor. Also, they may wonder why the basement has a power electric door! (The house is currently in disrepair and in foreclosure!). One German brother still makes car parts for us to this very day.
BUYING A NEW CAR?
Now more than ever the cost of owning a new car in 2019 is pricier than ever. The average cost per year is now just over $9,000. Of this figure, over $900 is in annual financing costs. The biggest cost as always is depreciation. The average depreciation runs about $3,400 of the $9,000 operating costs. A small sedan is slightly less and the cost for a pickup truck is over $10,000 in operating costs. What is the solution? Let the first-time buyer take the big depreciation hit.
CLASSIFIED AD –
WANTED TO BUY: NOS (new old stock) Buick parts for 1986 to 1987 Buick Turbo Regal. Will you be attending the Magna 23rd East Coast Buick Regional’s in Maryland on Saturday, September 21st and have some NOS parts you are thinking of selling or lying around at home and want to turn in to CASH? Then please contact me ahead of time by phone or email and let me know what you have as I will be attending this event in person and I am interested in anything NOS. I travel to purchase and I am a cash buyer. Please call or e-mail and leave message. All calls returned. Jason Maxfield (416) 399-7265 or [email protected] Niagara Falls, NY 14304. Thank You. 3 of 4.
CORES NEEDED - URGENT REQUEST –
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
POWERMASTER BRAKE UNITS. Unit must be complete. We will issue you a Letter of Credit for $150 for each acceptable core. We currently will not buy any powermaster units outright, only Letter of Credit towards parts.
TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $150 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number. These are the only 2 items we are currently accepting as cores.
MAIL - Ship to Address –
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949
UPS - Ship to Address –
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
6201 KELLERS CHURCH ROAD
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949-1199
CARSMARTS RADIO IS ON THE AIR AND ON THE WEB! –
Turbo V6 enthusiast Steve Saffier (who produced “The Dennis Kirban Story” on YouTube last year) is producer and host of a new automotive radio program broadcasting live every Saturday from 11am - 12 noon on 610 ESPN radio (the old WIP 610 am for those in the area.) The show talks about different aspects of the car world and Steve’s affinity for Turbo Regals and Syclone/Typhoons often is expressed in nearly every show.
You can tune in live or livestream the show at http://www.610espn.com from anywhere in the world.
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If there are any tips or ideas you want to share with our readers, email me –[email protected]
TIP FROM KIRBAN –
Remember, if you are attending the East Coast Buick Regionals at Cecil County Dragway, we want your powermaster cores. Also, we are a buyer of any NOS or good used Turbo Regal parts. We will be set up as a vendor Saturday only. We will have plenty of tagged and bagged Turbo Regal parts.
2019 TURBO BUICK RELATED CAR SHOWS EVENTS -
To get your Turbo Regal event for 2019 listed here, you must email me direct –[email protected] Also, send me a copy of the flyer promoting the event.
EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS -
FRIDAY & SATURDAY – SEPTEMBER 20 & 21, 2019
Cecil County Dragway, 1916 Theodore Road, Rising Sun, Maryland
This will be the 23rd year. We plan to be at this Buick event as a vendor so bring any cores or parts you want to cash in! Host hotel Information - Comfort Inn located just off exit 100 on I95. Call 410-287-7100 and mention Northeast GS/GN Club for special pricing. For more info, contact John Csordas 914-447-6068 [email protected] or Jim Chaudrue 215-266-1052 [email protected]
NOTE - We will be at the East Coast Regionals event as a vendor. Bring any cores you wish to cash in for Letter of Credit. Plus, any parts you want to sell. We are a buyer for both new and used parts. We will only be there on Saturday.
2019 GS NATIONALS
October 23-26, 2019
Beech Bend Raceway Bowling Green, KY
This is the annual event for all GS Buicks and Turbo Regals. This is the 39th GS Nationals. For more information, go to their website [email protected]
For vendor space, contact Matt and Sarah Gordon [email protected] For car show info, contact Alan Oldfield at [email protected]
GOOD NEWS - WE ARE ACCEPTING CLASSIFIED ADS -
Good news - We now accept Classified Ads in our weekly Inner Circle emails. Over the years several customers have asked about placing an ad in our weekly Inner Circle.
Here are the options and the costs.
Ads can be from any individual or company. It needs to be automotive related, meaning it does not need be specifically Turbo Regal related. It can be for something for sale or something wanted.
Maximum number of words is 125 words, which is about 7 to 9 lines of copy. No photos. You can list a website. We recommend you state your name, phone number or email, a price, and your location in your ad.
The cost for 2 consecutive weeks is $25. The cost for 4 consecutive weeks is $40. You save $10 with the 4-week plan. No changes can be made to your existing running ad. You can only run one ad at any given time. We will have a code system at the end of your ad, so we will know what week number your ad is to run - 2 or 4 weeks.
It can be an ad for something for sale or an ad for something you are looking for.
We have never missed a single week since we started the Inner Circle email format in 2009. It’s something I enjoy doing and I just always seem to have enough material to write about.
Our weekly Inner Circle reaches over 3,300 members every Wednesday direct to their inbox. The Inner Circle also appears every Wednesday on our website with the related photos. Your ad would be visible to both groups of readers. So, the exposure to your ad is well over 3,200 potential buyers.
Ads submitted properly by the previous Sunday would appear that next Wednesday in the weekly Inner Circle. Ads must be submitted by email to - [email protected]
Payment by credit card must be done by phone to our office 215-766-1611 x 0.
NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE BUICK RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the Buick Rare Parts section at the end of this Inner Circle, it is because you are not an Inner Circle member, but instead are reading this on the website. You must subscribe to see the Rare Parts section each week. It would go directly to your inbox every Wednesday afternoon. It is FREE, probably one reason why nobody complains about what I write about. To subscribe simply email- [email protected] to get our free weekly Inner Circle email.
The Buick Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!
EMAILS TO KIRBAN PERFORMANCE -
NOTE- If you email us and do NOT get a timely reply, be sure to check your “SPAM” folder. Some emails do not go thru.
If you need to email us, use - [email protected]
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED –
POWERMASTER BRAKE UNITS. Unit must be complete. We will issue you a Letter of Credit for $150 for each acceptable core.
TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $150 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number. These are the only 2 items we are currently accepting as cores.
MAIL - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949
UPS - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
6201 Kellers Church Road
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949-1199
TECH CALLS -
If you need technical information, it’s best to email - [email protected] rather than call us. We will do our best to answer any technical questions within 24 hours. Please remember I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US –
1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Reproduction REAR DUAL EXTENDED RANGE 10 OHM SPEAKERS (2) Set
Finally, a company has reproduced the extended range 10 ohm 4" x 10" rear speakers that was an option available on every 1984-1987 Regal, including the Turbo models.
To determine if your car came equipped with the extended range speakers, check for the code “U66” on the trunk ID label (SPID).
These upgraded extended range speakers were included with most of the various upgraded factory radios for an additional cost of $25 for the pair.
NOTE - You must have the factory cages to properly secure this speaker to the back deck.
These have the same matching 3-1/4" diameter magnet. To see if you car has this format check the SPID label for the “U66” code. If the label is missing, measure the magnet on the current rear deck speakers to see if it measures 3-1/4" diameter.
If it does, these are the speakers you need.
After more than 30 years, many are blown out due to heat and the age of the speaker.
Each pair comes with an adapter harness so you do not have to cut the factory harness.
Speakers are marked and come with directions so you know which is the plus terminal and which is the minus terminal.
NOTE - You may also be interested in this related part - #7433 Power Antenna Upgraded Steel Cable Repair Kit
Another excellent replacement for any interior restoration.
7877 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) - Reproduction Rear Dual Extended Range 10 OHM Speakers (2) Set - $109.95
Here is a link to these speakers on our website.
GM Licensed –
BUICK GRAND NATIONAL BASEBALL-STYLE EMBROIDERED BLACK HAT
This GM licensed 6-panel structured low crown pre-curved visor black hat is made from moisture wicking polyester. It has a micro-hook/loop closure in the back.
The black hat has the Grand National Turbo-six logo embroidered in red, orange and white on the front and adjustable in the back.
This is another excellent Buick enthusiast gift idea.
7876 - GM Licensed - BUICK GRAND NATIONAL Baseball-style Embroidered Black Hat - $17.95
Here is a link to this Hat on our website.
ALWAYS LOOKING FOR IDEAS -
If you have any product ideas that would fit our Turbo Buick market that you would like to see available, email me direct - [email protected]
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION FOR TURBO REGAL PARTS -
Got any Turbo Buick parts you are not using? Why not cash them in for parts you need with a Letter of Credit. We also may buy your new or used parts. Simply email me a list [email protected]
Also, we are still buying dead or partially dead 1984-1987 Turbo Regals under $4,000 that are within 250 to 350 miles of our location.
NOTE - ABOUT LINKS IN THE INNER CIRCLE -
We have heard from a couple people that have had problems with the links in our Inner Circle.
When we check the links, they work fine. However, if you are not able to be directed to the exact website page or internet site, you can "copy" and "paste" the link into the URL in your browser (such as Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
Most people having problems are using Internet Explorer. If you are having issues with links, try another browser to see if it works.
You may need to "UPDATE" your browser to be use you are using the current version.
NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE -
We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these must be low-resolution photos to work on the Inner Circle segments on the website, any photos of text don't appear clear when enlarged. This is a problem when you are trying to see numbers, such as those on the VIN labels or pages from Options booklet. Also, because of photo reproduction and computer screen variations, the colors may not be true to the actual product or photo.
If you would like to have us email you any photo at the higher resolution for viewing, just email us and we will email them to you. Be sure to be specific on which pictures you want to see - Reference Inner Circle date and photo number 1, 2, 3 or 4 - [email protected]
ABOUT OUR EMAILS -
Any inquiries concerning used parts, you must email me direct - [email protected] I will answer you. However, if I fail to answer you within 24 hours, please email us again. Since expanding into used parts, I get a lot of emails and sometimes I may forget your request or may not remember who requested the item.
IN CLOSING –
I hope to see many of our local customers at the upcoming East Coast Buick Regionals in nearby Cecil County Race track, September 20th and 21st. I will only be set up as a vendor on Saturday, the 20th.
We will have a set of our new long range rear deck speakers on display.
UPDATE - RESULTS ON THE TURBO REGAL CONTEST QUESTION –
For once I have stumped my readers as nobody got the correct answer. Even though I know we have a number of Turbo Regal experts that get our weekly Inner Circle, it remained unanswered. The most popular wrong answer was “Twilight Sentinel.” Buick refers to that as “Twilight Sentinel Headlamp Control.” The code on the trunk ID label (SPID) is “T82” listed for $57.
While this was a good guess, it is not an option companies would consider making since it may not prove to be very popular depending on the price of the project.
Having reproduced many parts since 1978, no company (myself included) hits a home run every time. Some projects pay off very slowly and others may never pay off.
The correct answer for this option that was just reproduced is found in every 1984-1987 Buick Price Directory under the Regal model. The category it is found under is “Radio and Related options.” The part is the 4” x 10” rear deck 10 ohm radio speakers. The code on your SPID trunk label is “U66”. This rear deck speaker has the larger magnets for extended range.
The definition in the Buick Price Directory is “Speakers Rear-Dual Extended Range” and was a $25 option. It was required with all the upgraded radios listed each year. In other words, from what I am reading, a good percentage of Turbo Regal owners would have these larger magnet rear deck radio speakers.
Unless your Turbo Regal has enjoyed a lifetime in the garage the rear deck speakers are probably blown out.
I had given one of these original upgraded speakers to a company probably 6-7 years ago to see if he had any or could find them. He called me about 3 weeks ago and says in the last 6 months or so he had been getting calls for this very speaker.
This speaker with the larger magnet used a different factory cage to secure it under the back window deck area. Both versions of the 4”x10” rear speakers GM used are 10 ohm. This new reproduction 4”x10” speaker is Made in the USA. The original Delco speaker says it was Made in Japan.
To my knowledge, our company and GBodyParts.com are the only two Turbo Regal suppliers that have them. The quality is excellent. On this initial run, the terminals on the actual speaker that the original harness connectors would attach to are not correct. However, to overcome this minor issue, we have located an adapter harness, which we include with each set of rear speakers. This way you do not have to cut the factory harness.
Like your car battery, there is a plus and minus for the 2 wires. If you hook it up wrong, it affects the sound quality in some way. Again, keep in mind I am not an expert on radios or related matters.
1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) - Reproduction Extended Range 10 OHM Rear Speakers (2) Set, part #7877, $109.95. However, it’s best to call Christina to order as currently I only have 5 sets on hand. We will have more shortly. If you find you do not have the code “U66” on the trunk ID label, you would have the basic 10 ohm short range speakers. To step up to these extended range speakers you need a different set of cages to secure them, since the cage you have is a smaller format to secure the smaller magnet in the center of the speaker.
If you can obtain the bigger speaker cages, it gives you the upgraded extended range speakers for your rear deck. You could try gbodyparts.com to see if he has a set of the bigger cages for the extended range speakers.
Here is a link to these speakers on our website.
PHOTO 1 - The left photo shows both an original Delco Sound extended range speaker with the new reproduction speaker under it. The tabs you see on the end of the housing cause no issues with installation. The height remains the same, both have a nice foam lip on the mounting side. The right photo shows both the smaller speaker cage on top and the larger speaker cage on the bottom that accepts the bigger magnet found on the extended range speakers.
PHOTO 2 – The photo on the left shows a factory extended range original Delco speaker pulled down from the back deck. This is the driver’s side and the factory harness wires are yellow and brown. The factory speaker wires for the passenger side are blue and green. The photo to the right the shows the new speaker with the adapter harness that the one end plugs into the factory harness. You need to install new female ends on the other end to attach to the actual speaker terminals.
Although these new 10 ohm speakers can solve the rear deck speaker issue, if you have a faulty original radio, it is almost impossible to repair as parts are obsolete. Those radios are quite primitive compared to any of the new radios. Electronics is one area where changes happen very rapidly and parts become obsolete rather quickly. In case you’re wondering, several different GM part numbers could be on the back of the original extended range Delco speakers. All of them would be correct in this application, if you have a matching 10 ohm extended range speaker.
PHOTO 3 – We show all 4 original 1984-1985-1986-1987 Buick Price Directories. This is where the information on the code for the speakers is found. When these cars were still just a few years old, I was always buying as much related original Buick literature as possible. This way it is hard to dispute my findings when I have the proof to back it up. Based on no one winning this particular contest, it’s safe to say this is one option that Turbo Regal owners tend to overlook!
Next week we will show you a later GM upgrade that fits the G-Body rear deck speakers.
GBODYPARTS.COM HAS REPRODUCED THE 1978-1988 GM SHIFTERS –
This new shifter fits all 1978-1988 Buick Regal floor shift applications and Oldsmobile Cutlass 4-speed shifters. He has corrected several of the issues that the original shifters developed over a period of time.
They include rust issues with the chrome at the top grooved area which can sometimes break off the original shifter handle. The bases of these new shifters are painted unlike the factory ones, which were never painted and would turn to rust. He also used a stainless steel pin to correct the issues of a bad cable wearing the pin. Also, an original detent bracket over a period of time can wear allowing the shifter not lock in like it did when it was new. This new unit features a stainless steel detent bracket. Improvements have also been made with the J rod and the spring. The tension has been upgraded for cleaner firmer shifts and the J rod is hardened steel. These are all major improvements to what was a primitive format that was never designed to last over 30 years. While none of the improvements will be visible, once the shifter is installed, the feel of the new shifter will be noticeably better. Price is just $169.95 plus shipping, Gbodyparts is running a Special Limited Offer You can purchase in addition any color handle for just $55 more, normally it runs $99. This is for a complete handle. The handle and the shifter makes the complete package!
Hurst was probably one of the first companies to capitalize on making a superior shifter over the OEM shifters back in the sixties. I expect to have one on display at the East Coast Buick Regionals this coming Saturday.
Here is the link to Gbodyparts.com reproduction shifter:
https://gbodyparts.com/advanced_search_result.php?keywords=1978-88+GM+Buick+Regal+Oldsmob&x=4&y=10
PHOTO 4 - We show several views of GBodyparts new Buick Turbo shifter.
MORE PAST CAR MEMORIES –
A better title would be, “The Power of Yum Yums Donuts”. You know that if you have ever attended any of the 30 plus Kirban Open House Events YumYums donuts was always part of the program for food. It is a local chain of just 3 stores that began over 50 years ago. I know the one owner and I used to go to their one shop almost every morning.
Matter of fact, a photo on page 10 in my book, “Kirban Guide to 1986-1987 Turbo Regals” shows Ian Reeves and his friend Steve Danbury in front of the Warminster Yum Yums back in January 1997. They flew over from England to buy one of my Grand Nationals. Usually when buyers came to pick up their Turbo Regal from me, I would go to YumYums with the new owner as they embarked on their homebound trip.
But my story goes back even further. The mid-to-late 1970s when we started the GTO business alongside our towing business, I was getting Hurst shifters rebuilt almost every other day or so. I quickly found out I could get quicker service if I simply brought the two guys that worked in that department a half dozen YumYums donuts.
Fast forward to the 1980s. We were looking at getting an addition built on to our house in Furlong. This would involve extending the basement, the main floor, and the second floor. This was quite a huge project. We were good friends with these two German brothers who did all kinds of home additions and construction. They also had one helper. The workers comprised of two brothers and one assistant. The one brother would tell us “My brother’s main job is to cast his shadow on our work.” In other words, he was not as motivated!
I devised a clever idea to have them stick to a projected deadline. I told them I would bring back every morning a dozen Yum Yums donuts. Each box would be numbered and when it hit number 50. the project had to be done. These guys quit promptly every day at 4 pm. Come 4 pm, tools were laid down exactly where they were until the next morning at 7 am.
The addition was completed exactly in 50 days. The investment in a dozen donuts for 50 straight days sealed the outcome. The one clever thing I had them do since we did our mail- order business out of the basement is they rigged up a sliding electric door that would slid open when you pushed a button. They also cemented a GTO emblem into the basement floor.
Years from now, some new home owner will wonder who lived there and why that emblem is embedded in the concrete floor. Also, they may wonder why the basement has a power electric door! (The house is currently in disrepair and in foreclosure!). One German brother still makes car parts for us to this very day.
BUYING A NEW CAR?
Now more than ever the cost of owning a new car in 2019 is pricier than ever. The average cost per year is now just over $9,000. Of this figure, over $900 is in annual financing costs. The biggest cost as always is depreciation. The average depreciation runs about $3,400 of the $9,000 operating costs. A small sedan is slightly less and the cost for a pickup truck is over $10,000 in operating costs. What is the solution? Let the first-time buyer take the big depreciation hit.
CLASSIFIED AD –
WANTED TO BUY: NOS (new old stock) Buick parts for 1986 to 1987 Buick Turbo Regal. Will you be attending the Magna 23rd East Coast Buick Regional’s in Maryland on Saturday, September 21st and have some NOS parts you are thinking of selling or lying around at home and want to turn in to CASH? Then please contact me ahead of time by phone or email and let me know what you have as I will be attending this event in person and I am interested in anything NOS. I travel to purchase and I am a cash buyer. Please call or e-mail and leave message. All calls returned. Jason Maxfield (416) 399-7265 or [email protected] Niagara Falls, NY 14304. Thank You. 3 of 4.
CORES NEEDED - URGENT REQUEST –
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
POWERMASTER BRAKE UNITS. Unit must be complete. We will issue you a Letter of Credit for $150 for each acceptable core. We currently will not buy any powermaster units outright, only Letter of Credit towards parts.
TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $150 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number. These are the only 2 items we are currently accepting as cores.
MAIL - Ship to Address –
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949
UPS - Ship to Address –
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
6201 KELLERS CHURCH ROAD
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949-1199
CARSMARTS RADIO IS ON THE AIR AND ON THE WEB! –
Turbo V6 enthusiast Steve Saffier (who produced “The Dennis Kirban Story” on YouTube last year) is producer and host of a new automotive radio program broadcasting live every Saturday from 11am - 12 noon on 610 ESPN radio (the old WIP 610 am for those in the area.) The show talks about different aspects of the car world and Steve’s affinity for Turbo Regals and Syclone/Typhoons often is expressed in nearly every show.
You can tune in live or livestream the show at http://www.610espn.com from anywhere in the world.
TIPS AND IDEAS YOU HAVE TRIED -
If there are any tips or ideas you want to share with our readers, email me –[email protected]
TIP FROM KIRBAN –
Remember, if you are attending the East Coast Buick Regionals at Cecil County Dragway, we want your powermaster cores. Also, we are a buyer of any NOS or good used Turbo Regal parts. We will be set up as a vendor Saturday only. We will have plenty of tagged and bagged Turbo Regal parts.
2019 TURBO BUICK RELATED CAR SHOWS EVENTS -
To get your Turbo Regal event for 2019 listed here, you must email me direct –[email protected] Also, send me a copy of the flyer promoting the event.
EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS -
FRIDAY & SATURDAY – SEPTEMBER 20 & 21, 2019
Cecil County Dragway, 1916 Theodore Road, Rising Sun, Maryland
This will be the 23rd year. We plan to be at this Buick event as a vendor so bring any cores or parts you want to cash in! Host hotel Information - Comfort Inn located just off exit 100 on I95. Call 410-287-7100 and mention Northeast GS/GN Club for special pricing. For more info, contact John Csordas 914-447-6068 [email protected] or Jim Chaudrue 215-266-1052 [email protected]
NOTE - We will be at the East Coast Regionals event as a vendor. Bring any cores you wish to cash in for Letter of Credit. Plus, any parts you want to sell. We are a buyer for both new and used parts. We will only be there on Saturday.
2019 GS NATIONALS
October 23-26, 2019
Beech Bend Raceway Bowling Green, KY
This is the annual event for all GS Buicks and Turbo Regals. This is the 39th GS Nationals. For more information, go to their website [email protected]
For vendor space, contact Matt and Sarah Gordon [email protected] For car show info, contact Alan Oldfield at [email protected]
GOOD NEWS - WE ARE ACCEPTING CLASSIFIED ADS -
Good news - We now accept Classified Ads in our weekly Inner Circle emails. Over the years several customers have asked about placing an ad in our weekly Inner Circle.
Here are the options and the costs.
Ads can be from any individual or company. It needs to be automotive related, meaning it does not need be specifically Turbo Regal related. It can be for something for sale or something wanted.
Maximum number of words is 125 words, which is about 7 to 9 lines of copy. No photos. You can list a website. We recommend you state your name, phone number or email, a price, and your location in your ad.
The cost for 2 consecutive weeks is $25. The cost for 4 consecutive weeks is $40. You save $10 with the 4-week plan. No changes can be made to your existing running ad. You can only run one ad at any given time. We will have a code system at the end of your ad, so we will know what week number your ad is to run - 2 or 4 weeks.
It can be an ad for something for sale or an ad for something you are looking for.
We have never missed a single week since we started the Inner Circle email format in 2009. It’s something I enjoy doing and I just always seem to have enough material to write about.
Our weekly Inner Circle reaches over 3,300 members every Wednesday direct to their inbox. The Inner Circle also appears every Wednesday on our website with the related photos. Your ad would be visible to both groups of readers. So, the exposure to your ad is well over 3,200 potential buyers.
Ads submitted properly by the previous Sunday would appear that next Wednesday in the weekly Inner Circle. Ads must be submitted by email to - [email protected]
Payment by credit card must be done by phone to our office 215-766-1611 x 0.
NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE BUICK RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the Buick Rare Parts section at the end of this Inner Circle, it is because you are not an Inner Circle member, but instead are reading this on the website. You must subscribe to see the Rare Parts section each week. It would go directly to your inbox every Wednesday afternoon. It is FREE, probably one reason why nobody complains about what I write about. To subscribe simply email- [email protected] to get our free weekly Inner Circle email.
The Buick Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!
EMAILS TO KIRBAN PERFORMANCE -
NOTE- If you email us and do NOT get a timely reply, be sure to check your “SPAM” folder. Some emails do not go thru.
If you need to email us, use - [email protected]
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED –
POWERMASTER BRAKE UNITS. Unit must be complete. We will issue you a Letter of Credit for $150 for each acceptable core.
TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $150 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number. These are the only 2 items we are currently accepting as cores.
MAIL - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
PO BOX 1199
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949
UPS - Ship to Address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
6201 Kellers Church Road
PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA 18949-1199
TECH CALLS -
If you need technical information, it’s best to email - [email protected] rather than call us. We will do our best to answer any technical questions within 24 hours. Please remember I have very little knowledge of the mechanical workings of the engine.
NEW PRODUCTS FROM US –
1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Reproduction REAR DUAL EXTENDED RANGE 10 OHM SPEAKERS (2) Set
Finally, a company has reproduced the extended range 10 ohm 4" x 10" rear speakers that was an option available on every 1984-1987 Regal, including the Turbo models.
To determine if your car came equipped with the extended range speakers, check for the code “U66” on the trunk ID label (SPID).
These upgraded extended range speakers were included with most of the various upgraded factory radios for an additional cost of $25 for the pair.
NOTE - You must have the factory cages to properly secure this speaker to the back deck.
These have the same matching 3-1/4" diameter magnet. To see if you car has this format check the SPID label for the “U66” code. If the label is missing, measure the magnet on the current rear deck speakers to see if it measures 3-1/4" diameter.
If it does, these are the speakers you need.
After more than 30 years, many are blown out due to heat and the age of the speaker.
Each pair comes with an adapter harness so you do not have to cut the factory harness.
Speakers are marked and come with directions so you know which is the plus terminal and which is the minus terminal.
NOTE - You may also be interested in this related part - #7433 Power Antenna Upgraded Steel Cable Repair Kit
Another excellent replacement for any interior restoration.
7877 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) - Reproduction Rear Dual Extended Range 10 OHM Speakers (2) Set - $109.95
Here is a link to these speakers on our website.
GM Licensed –
BUICK GRAND NATIONAL BASEBALL-STYLE EMBROIDERED BLACK HAT
This GM licensed 6-panel structured low crown pre-curved visor black hat is made from moisture wicking polyester. It has a micro-hook/loop closure in the back.
The black hat has the Grand National Turbo-six logo embroidered in red, orange and white on the front and adjustable in the back.
This is another excellent Buick enthusiast gift idea.
7876 - GM Licensed - BUICK GRAND NATIONAL Baseball-style Embroidered Black Hat - $17.95
Here is a link to this Hat on our website.
ALWAYS LOOKING FOR IDEAS -
If you have any product ideas that would fit our Turbo Buick market that you would like to see available, email me direct - [email protected]
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION FOR TURBO REGAL PARTS -
Got any Turbo Buick parts you are not using? Why not cash them in for parts you need with a Letter of Credit. We also may buy your new or used parts. Simply email me a list [email protected]
Also, we are still buying dead or partially dead 1984-1987 Turbo Regals under $4,000 that are within 250 to 350 miles of our location.
NOTE - ABOUT LINKS IN THE INNER CIRCLE -
We have heard from a couple people that have had problems with the links in our Inner Circle.
When we check the links, they work fine. However, if you are not able to be directed to the exact website page or internet site, you can "copy" and "paste" the link into the URL in your browser (such as Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, etc.) If it doesn't link in one browser, it may work in another.
Most people having problems are using Internet Explorer. If you are having issues with links, try another browser to see if it works.
You may need to "UPDATE" your browser to be use you are using the current version.
NOTE ABOUT PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE -
We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these must be low-resolution photos to work on the Inner Circle segments on the website, any photos of text don't appear clear when enlarged. This is a problem when you are trying to see numbers, such as those on the VIN labels or pages from Options booklet. Also, because of photo reproduction and computer screen variations, the colors may not be true to the actual product or photo.
If you would like to have us email you any photo at the higher resolution for viewing, just email us and we will email them to you. Be sure to be specific on which pictures you want to see - Reference Inner Circle date and photo number 1, 2, 3 or 4 - [email protected]
ABOUT OUR EMAILS -
Any inquiries concerning used parts, you must email me direct - [email protected] I will answer you. However, if I fail to answer you within 24 hours, please email us again. Since expanding into used parts, I get a lot of emails and sometimes I may forget your request or may not remember who requested the item.
IN CLOSING –
I hope to see many of our local customers at the upcoming East Coast Buick Regionals in nearby Cecil County Race track, September 20th and 21st. I will only be set up as a vendor on Saturday, the 20th.
We will have a set of our new long range rear deck speakers on display.