Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 07-05-2018 -
GTOAA NATIONAL EVENT AND PYPES CAR SHOW -
I am exhausted from attending the 2-day GTOAA Nationals as well as the 1-day Pypes Car Show. I think both events happened on the hottest days of the year thus far!
Both my son Darrell and granddaughter Devyn were able to attend the GTOAA event last Thursday and helped me with my seminar. We had about 50-60 people at my seminar.
At the end of the seminar, I found out I had a celebrity from Georgia in attendance. He had just returned from Russia a few days prior. He had performed with Pitbull at the 2018 World Cup. Devyn then went to YouTube and saw that the music video had over 4 million views in just 5 days. He is seeking a GNX. Mileage is not a critical factor, but the car must be original and close to mint condition. If you have an original GNX and are interested in selling it, contact me personally - [email protected]
I can’t begin to count the number of people that came up to me with stories of attending the Reunion events we did years ago. Many people remember Darrell when he was just a young lad.
Devyn got a rare treat and was able to sit in Arnie “The Farmer” Tameless Tiger II - Beswick’s race car which was on display. Arnie has had an amazing racing history and at 88 years young, he seems ageless! Arnie still does some exhibition 1/8 mile runs and burnouts even at age 88. He has stopped ¼ mile racing, not because of his age, but because the engine should be freshened up. Arnie started in the 1950s first with a 1950 Oldsmobile sedan, which had the rocket Oldsmobile engine in it. His career was mostly with Pontiacs, but he also had Dodges and Fords for a brief time in the 1950s and 1960s before switching entirely to Pontiacs.
The GTOAA National club has almost 4,000 members and my membership number is 44. I got to see many of my old-time customers and their cars. There was a display of about a dozen GTOs that their owners had bought brand new. This is amazing when you realize some of them were purchased over 40 years ago and they’ve kept their car all these years.
One of the most impressive cars in the Modified Class was a 1967 GTO that was sitting on a late-model GTO frame, chassis, engine, and interior. The body looked 100% stock. This was a 7-year effort by the owner who was in the construction trade. Everything functioned perfectly from the late-model GTO in his 1967 GTO body. In other words, it was the perfect combination of the popular GTO with the upgrades from the newer drivetrain, interior, and suspension.
PHOTO 1 - The top left photo shows me conducting my seminar. When I was done, everyone applauded. I’m not sure if it was because it was over or because they enjoyed my seminar jokes and information. The top right photo shows Devyn, Arnie, and Darrell. The bottom left shows Devyn sitting in the Tameless Tiger II race car with Arnie. You can see the Monkeemobile behind Arnie’s race car. The bottom right shows one the neat displays featuring two prestine 1965 GTOs with Hurst wheels.
PHOTO 2 - We show 4 photos of this impressive one-of-a-kind 1967 GTO that took 7 years to build. It’s truly a work of art since no manual exists on how to do a build like this. Willam Bugg, out of Kentucky, is the owner and did the work. Ironically, while talking to him it turns out as a young lad he grew up in Warminster at the same time we lived in Warminster. He lived within a mile of the Hurst plant.
PHOTO 3 - The top left photo is a one-owner 1966 GTO again 1 of 1. Back in those days, you could order any GM paint color you wanted for less than $100 addition. This was a 1966 Cadillac green with a white vinyl top and white interior. A dealer ordered this unusual combination for a display in his Pontiac showroom. The top right shows the prototype Pontiac Banshee from 1964. This car never made it into production. This car looks like a later Corvette or Opel GT. The bottom left shows a factory overhead cam 6 cylinder featuring 3 carbs! This was in a 1967 Lemans. The bottom right photo shows a closeup of a painted pinstripe at the front edge of the fender of a 1965 GTO. What is very clever is at the end it shows a Tiger. The tiger theme was a major part of the advertising pitch for the 1965 and later GTOs.
The quality of GTOs was impressive. I probably saw at least a dozen show-quality GTOs featuring original Hurst wheels. Most owners attribute the rise of Hurst wheels and the high value in the GTO world due to us marketing and selling them back in the early 1980s. I sold over a dozen sets back in those days. The Hurst wheel was really a flop for Hurst. No car company picked it up and they were quite costly. I think back then the most I sold a set for was around $1,500.
I saw at least one used set that would require major work for about $2,000. I witnessed a transaction firsthand as one of my old-time customers sold his prestine set and spinner centers for just a bit over $5,000. Others told me that was a real steal as most mint sets will fetch $7,000 or more today. Various reproductions exist but the copies are nothing like the originals.
I saw early 8 track players priced in the $600 range. The 8-track format came out in 1967 as an option. Some GTO taillights sold in the $400 and up range. Gauge clusters sold for $650 or more. My point is, it may not be too many years in the future where the Turbo Regal parts are in that ball park. Some parts are already fetching huge dollars. They produced many, many more GTOs and for more years than they did the Turbo Regals, so you know demand will be stronger for the rarer parts you seek for your restoration.
GTOs are a lot like the Turbo Regals. They have some of the same issues, especially some poor-quality reproduction parts that don’t fit and some that do. A segment of the GTO market will always seek out the original parts for their restoration, just like some of you for your Turbo Regal project.
PYPES CAR SHOW - PONTIAC HALL OF FAME -
This past Saturday I attended the Pypes annual car show where they unveiled the Pontiac Hall of Fame showing the very first 10 inductees. Five were choosen from a list of people that had passed away and 5 were chosen from those still living. I was one of the nominees in this later group, and will be eligible for the next 4 years long as I can maintain my living status!
The display was truly a work of art. The entire display is over 6 feet tall. You can see it was done with a lot of passion by those involved.
The Pontiac Hall of Fame project is headed up by Chris Casperson, who I have known for over 25 years. Later that day they took it to the GTOAA awards banquet and announced the honorees that were inducted this first year. Arnie “The Farmer” Beswick was one of those inductees and he is well deserving of the honor since he has been involved with Pontiac for well over 50 years.
Of course, John DeLorean headed up the list of those that passed away. His daughter had sent in a recorded video that was played at the ceremony. Another one in that category was John Sawruk, who I knew for many, many years. He started working at Pontiac around 1968. I am just honored to have even been one of the nominees on the first round.
PHOTO 4 - The left photo shows the Hall of Fame Display shortly after it was unveiled at Pypes showroom at the Pypes Car Show on Saturday. The right photo shows the 5 living legends that were voted in this first year. To the far left not visible is the 5 Legends that have passed away. In some cases, a relative accepted the award in their behalf. Names on one side would be those that have passed away and the other side would be for those that are still living. The winners received what appeared to be a solid granite-like block with a stainless arrow head in the top with Pontiac Chieftain logo medallion on the front.
One sad note - it was announced at the banquet Saturday night that one of the GTO members who was an original 1967 GTO owner and had his car at the show had passed away suddenly that morning. His car was on display at the banquet and his family got a special award. It was his first time to the National GTO event.
INSIDE STORIES FROM PONTIAC MOTOR DIVISION -
At the GTOAA event, I met a gentleman for the first time that has a wealth of stories about Pontiac since his brother worked there for many years. He knew I was good friends with his brother. Here is one quick story he told me.
When the Pontiac Fiero production started, they built them around the clock, 24 hours a day. They only stopped for Christmas and Easter that first year.
They also built one at least one 4-door Fiero that later would be crushed. The 4 cylinder Fiero engine, known as the iron duke, was completely assembled by robots. It was not touched by a human until it was installed in the Fiero! Years ago, I did own a 1987 GT Fiero that I bought to sell. Those later GT models were not bad.
SPECIAL PRICE ON SEVERAL LIMITED UNIQUE BUICK BANNERS -
The GM licensed company we deal with made 2 banners that they don’t currently plan to continue to make and they sent them to me. We have 2 of each left.
We have two different Buick Motorsports banners. Both are on a white background. These are 6 ft wide by 2 ft high. Both banner design feature the turbo-six logo with the grey Buick Motorsports logo. On one banner the turbo-six logo is all red, and on the other it’s red and orange. These large banners are ideal for a side of a race trailer or display. These are the same high quality as the other GM licensed banners. Sale price is $49.95 each, plus $10 shipping.
Total shipping is just $10 even if you buy more than one. You must call our office 215-766-1611 x 0 since we only have 2 of each.
You can email - [email protected] if you want to see a photo first. However, keep in mind, someone else may not need to see a photo and simply buy it.
TOUCH-UP PAINT -
We sell a lot of the popular colors of the spray paint for the Turbo Regals. The company we deal with is really good at nailing down exact colors.
Recently I wanted to get a spray can of paint and a touch-up pen of paint for my 1996 Ford Ranger. Nowhere on the truck is the exterior color indicated. I gave the VIN number to my local Ford dealer who gave me the color code for the paint - Cayman Blue Metallic DA/4438. With that information, I was able to get our supplier to mix up an 11-ounce spray can and one of those touch-up pens. The match is perfect.
I then wanted to get it for another one of my personal cars, which is a 2003 model. Many of the later car models have the paint code on a label on the door jamb. This 2003 and my 2004 car both have the paint code on the door jamb area. All three of these vehicles have original paint.
It occurred to me that some of our customers may also be looking for a spray can and touch-up pen of the correct matching paint for their used car. Dealers only can provide you with a Touch-Up Pen as they do not offer a spray can.
I am testing the waters to see if there is any demand to add this service to our website. If you provide the paint code for any U.S. or foreign car, we can get you an 11-ounce spray can and a Touch-Up Pen both for $49.95 plus shipping. Simply email - [email protected] with the paint code and within 3-4 days we can have it made up and on its way to you.
UPDATE ON REPRODUCTION SPID DECALS -
ECS Automotive has recently sent us a reproduction of the 1987 SPID decal GM #14085266. I am happy to report the reproduction is dead on correct. Like all their products this is GM licensed. The price will be $60 plus $7 Priority Mail. The turn-around time is about 10 days. This is only for the GM #14085266. The earlier SPID decal GM #14065987 is not available yet. You must have a readable copy of your original to get one of these reproduced by ECS Automotive. Email - [email protected] your scanned original if you want one reproduced. Next week we will show a photo of an original alongside the new reproduction that ECS Automotive sent us. We had them reproduce one from a SPID decal I removed from a junker.
2018 TURBO BUICK RELATED CAR SHOWS EVENTS -
MAGNA - MID ATLANTIC GRAND NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
22nd EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS -
September 14th and 15th, 2018 - Cecil County Dragway, Cecil, Maryland
The MAGNA Group has their annual event September 14th and 15th at Cecil County Dragway in Cecil County, Maryland. This event grows bigger each year and is open to all Buick muscle cars not just the Turbo Regals. We expect to be attending this event. (It falls on my birthday). For more details, go to turbobuick.com - or - their website - magnabuick.com
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 3,200 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.
My Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!
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 RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the 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. Simply email - [email protected] - to get on our weekly Inner Circle email.
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]
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 -
Beware of some of the various reproductions on the parts you need. It’s always smart to buy original whenever possible.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED - Powermaster brake units. The must be complete. We will now 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.
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 -
***Here is a link to all our GM Licensed banners on our website.
GM Licensed - “GNX - AD from ASC” 2'W x 3'H VINYL BANNER
This high-quality vinyl banner is GM licensed and measures approximately 2' wide x 3' high. The banner has metal grommets on four corners.
This distinctive GNX design features the extremely rare GNX ad that ASC did back in 1988.
8601 - GM Licensed - “GNX - AD from ASC” 2'W x 3'H Vinyl Banner - $38.95
GM Licensed - “1987 GRAND NATIONAL” With Hub Caps Background 4'W x 2'H VINYL BANNER
This high-quality vinyl banner is GM licensed and measures approximately 4' wide x 2' high. The banner has metal grommets on four corners.
This distinctive 1987 GRAND NATONAL design with an awesome hub caps background features a color photo from the actual 1987 Buick Dealer Album.
8602 - GM Licensed - “1987 GRAND NATIONAL” with Hub Caps Background - 4'W x 2'H Vinyl Banner - $42.95
GM Licensed - “WE4” with Racing Checkered Flags Background - 3'W x 2'H VINYL BANNER
This high-quality vinyl banner is GM licensed and measures approximately 3'W wide x 2H' tall. The banner has metal grommets on four corners.
This distinctive ultra-rare WE4 design features an extremely rare color original flyer that Buick produced.
8603 - GM Licensed - “WE4” with Racing Checkered Flags Background - 3'W x 2'H Vinyl Banner - $38.95
GM Licensed - “T-TYPE - A BOOST OF BUICK PERFORMANCE” 4'W x 2'H VINYL BANNER
This high-quality vinyl banner is GM licensed and measures approximately 4' wide x 2' high. The banner has metal grommets on four corners.
This distinctive T-TYPE design features the logo and the quote “A BOOST OF BUICK PERFORMANCE,” a tag line we came up with years ago for the Turbo Regals.
8604 - GM Licensed - “T-TYPE - A BOOST OF BUICK PERFORMANCE” 4'W x 2'H Vinyl Banner - $42.95
GM Licensed - “GNX - A HIGH-PERFORMANCE INVESTMENT FOR THE FORTUNATE 547” 2' x 4' VINYL BANNER -
This high-quality vinyl banner is GM licensed and measures approximately 2' tall x 4' wide. The banner has metal grommets on four corners.
This distinctive GNX design features the “GNX” logo in red and white and the quote “A HIGH-PERFORMANCE INVESTMENT FOR THE FORTUNATE 547” in white. The design is on 13 oz vinyl with nylon scrim (mesh) reinforced with hems and grommets.
It’s just one of several distinctive banners we offer.
These banners make an excellent gift for any Buick enthusiast or mechanic. Ideal to hang in any garage, workshop, office or to display at a car show.
8600 - GM Licensed - “GNX” A HIGH-PERFORMANCE INVESTMENT FOR THE FORTUNATE 547” 2' x 4' Vinyl Banner - $42.95
Here is a link to this new GNX banner 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 can’t begin to count the number of high-quality cars I saw between the two events in 95 degree weather this past weekend. It was a lot to take in.
GTOAA NATIONAL EVENT AND PYPES CAR SHOW -
I am exhausted from attending the 2-day GTOAA Nationals as well as the 1-day Pypes Car Show. I think both events happened on the hottest days of the year thus far!
Both my son Darrell and granddaughter Devyn were able to attend the GTOAA event last Thursday and helped me with my seminar. We had about 50-60 people at my seminar.
At the end of the seminar, I found out I had a celebrity from Georgia in attendance. He had just returned from Russia a few days prior. He had performed with Pitbull at the 2018 World Cup. Devyn then went to YouTube and saw that the music video had over 4 million views in just 5 days. He is seeking a GNX. Mileage is not a critical factor, but the car must be original and close to mint condition. If you have an original GNX and are interested in selling it, contact me personally - [email protected]
I can’t begin to count the number of people that came up to me with stories of attending the Reunion events we did years ago. Many people remember Darrell when he was just a young lad.
Devyn got a rare treat and was able to sit in Arnie “The Farmer” Tameless Tiger II - Beswick’s race car which was on display. Arnie has had an amazing racing history and at 88 years young, he seems ageless! Arnie still does some exhibition 1/8 mile runs and burnouts even at age 88. He has stopped ¼ mile racing, not because of his age, but because the engine should be freshened up. Arnie started in the 1950s first with a 1950 Oldsmobile sedan, which had the rocket Oldsmobile engine in it. His career was mostly with Pontiacs, but he also had Dodges and Fords for a brief time in the 1950s and 1960s before switching entirely to Pontiacs.
The GTOAA National club has almost 4,000 members and my membership number is 44. I got to see many of my old-time customers and their cars. There was a display of about a dozen GTOs that their owners had bought brand new. This is amazing when you realize some of them were purchased over 40 years ago and they’ve kept their car all these years.
One of the most impressive cars in the Modified Class was a 1967 GTO that was sitting on a late-model GTO frame, chassis, engine, and interior. The body looked 100% stock. This was a 7-year effort by the owner who was in the construction trade. Everything functioned perfectly from the late-model GTO in his 1967 GTO body. In other words, it was the perfect combination of the popular GTO with the upgrades from the newer drivetrain, interior, and suspension.
PHOTO 1 - The top left photo shows me conducting my seminar. When I was done, everyone applauded. I’m not sure if it was because it was over or because they enjoyed my seminar jokes and information. The top right photo shows Devyn, Arnie, and Darrell. The bottom left shows Devyn sitting in the Tameless Tiger II race car with Arnie. You can see the Monkeemobile behind Arnie’s race car. The bottom right shows one the neat displays featuring two prestine 1965 GTOs with Hurst wheels.
PHOTO 2 - We show 4 photos of this impressive one-of-a-kind 1967 GTO that took 7 years to build. It’s truly a work of art since no manual exists on how to do a build like this. Willam Bugg, out of Kentucky, is the owner and did the work. Ironically, while talking to him it turns out as a young lad he grew up in Warminster at the same time we lived in Warminster. He lived within a mile of the Hurst plant.
PHOTO 3 - The top left photo is a one-owner 1966 GTO again 1 of 1. Back in those days, you could order any GM paint color you wanted for less than $100 addition. This was a 1966 Cadillac green with a white vinyl top and white interior. A dealer ordered this unusual combination for a display in his Pontiac showroom. The top right shows the prototype Pontiac Banshee from 1964. This car never made it into production. This car looks like a later Corvette or Opel GT. The bottom left shows a factory overhead cam 6 cylinder featuring 3 carbs! This was in a 1967 Lemans. The bottom right photo shows a closeup of a painted pinstripe at the front edge of the fender of a 1965 GTO. What is very clever is at the end it shows a Tiger. The tiger theme was a major part of the advertising pitch for the 1965 and later GTOs.
The quality of GTOs was impressive. I probably saw at least a dozen show-quality GTOs featuring original Hurst wheels. Most owners attribute the rise of Hurst wheels and the high value in the GTO world due to us marketing and selling them back in the early 1980s. I sold over a dozen sets back in those days. The Hurst wheel was really a flop for Hurst. No car company picked it up and they were quite costly. I think back then the most I sold a set for was around $1,500.
I saw at least one used set that would require major work for about $2,000. I witnessed a transaction firsthand as one of my old-time customers sold his prestine set and spinner centers for just a bit over $5,000. Others told me that was a real steal as most mint sets will fetch $7,000 or more today. Various reproductions exist but the copies are nothing like the originals.
I saw early 8 track players priced in the $600 range. The 8-track format came out in 1967 as an option. Some GTO taillights sold in the $400 and up range. Gauge clusters sold for $650 or more. My point is, it may not be too many years in the future where the Turbo Regal parts are in that ball park. Some parts are already fetching huge dollars. They produced many, many more GTOs and for more years than they did the Turbo Regals, so you know demand will be stronger for the rarer parts you seek for your restoration.
GTOs are a lot like the Turbo Regals. They have some of the same issues, especially some poor-quality reproduction parts that don’t fit and some that do. A segment of the GTO market will always seek out the original parts for their restoration, just like some of you for your Turbo Regal project.
PYPES CAR SHOW - PONTIAC HALL OF FAME -
This past Saturday I attended the Pypes annual car show where they unveiled the Pontiac Hall of Fame showing the very first 10 inductees. Five were choosen from a list of people that had passed away and 5 were chosen from those still living. I was one of the nominees in this later group, and will be eligible for the next 4 years long as I can maintain my living status!
The display was truly a work of art. The entire display is over 6 feet tall. You can see it was done with a lot of passion by those involved.
The Pontiac Hall of Fame project is headed up by Chris Casperson, who I have known for over 25 years. Later that day they took it to the GTOAA awards banquet and announced the honorees that were inducted this first year. Arnie “The Farmer” Beswick was one of those inductees and he is well deserving of the honor since he has been involved with Pontiac for well over 50 years.
Of course, John DeLorean headed up the list of those that passed away. His daughter had sent in a recorded video that was played at the ceremony. Another one in that category was John Sawruk, who I knew for many, many years. He started working at Pontiac around 1968. I am just honored to have even been one of the nominees on the first round.
PHOTO 4 - The left photo shows the Hall of Fame Display shortly after it was unveiled at Pypes showroom at the Pypes Car Show on Saturday. The right photo shows the 5 living legends that were voted in this first year. To the far left not visible is the 5 Legends that have passed away. In some cases, a relative accepted the award in their behalf. Names on one side would be those that have passed away and the other side would be for those that are still living. The winners received what appeared to be a solid granite-like block with a stainless arrow head in the top with Pontiac Chieftain logo medallion on the front.
One sad note - it was announced at the banquet Saturday night that one of the GTO members who was an original 1967 GTO owner and had his car at the show had passed away suddenly that morning. His car was on display at the banquet and his family got a special award. It was his first time to the National GTO event.
INSIDE STORIES FROM PONTIAC MOTOR DIVISION -
At the GTOAA event, I met a gentleman for the first time that has a wealth of stories about Pontiac since his brother worked there for many years. He knew I was good friends with his brother. Here is one quick story he told me.
When the Pontiac Fiero production started, they built them around the clock, 24 hours a day. They only stopped for Christmas and Easter that first year.
They also built one at least one 4-door Fiero that later would be crushed. The 4 cylinder Fiero engine, known as the iron duke, was completely assembled by robots. It was not touched by a human until it was installed in the Fiero! Years ago, I did own a 1987 GT Fiero that I bought to sell. Those later GT models were not bad.
SPECIAL PRICE ON SEVERAL LIMITED UNIQUE BUICK BANNERS -
The GM licensed company we deal with made 2 banners that they don’t currently plan to continue to make and they sent them to me. We have 2 of each left.
We have two different Buick Motorsports banners. Both are on a white background. These are 6 ft wide by 2 ft high. Both banner design feature the turbo-six logo with the grey Buick Motorsports logo. On one banner the turbo-six logo is all red, and on the other it’s red and orange. These large banners are ideal for a side of a race trailer or display. These are the same high quality as the other GM licensed banners. Sale price is $49.95 each, plus $10 shipping.
Total shipping is just $10 even if you buy more than one. You must call our office 215-766-1611 x 0 since we only have 2 of each.
You can email - [email protected] if you want to see a photo first. However, keep in mind, someone else may not need to see a photo and simply buy it.
TOUCH-UP PAINT -
We sell a lot of the popular colors of the spray paint for the Turbo Regals. The company we deal with is really good at nailing down exact colors.
Recently I wanted to get a spray can of paint and a touch-up pen of paint for my 1996 Ford Ranger. Nowhere on the truck is the exterior color indicated. I gave the VIN number to my local Ford dealer who gave me the color code for the paint - Cayman Blue Metallic DA/4438. With that information, I was able to get our supplier to mix up an 11-ounce spray can and one of those touch-up pens. The match is perfect.
I then wanted to get it for another one of my personal cars, which is a 2003 model. Many of the later car models have the paint code on a label on the door jamb. This 2003 and my 2004 car both have the paint code on the door jamb area. All three of these vehicles have original paint.
It occurred to me that some of our customers may also be looking for a spray can and touch-up pen of the correct matching paint for their used car. Dealers only can provide you with a Touch-Up Pen as they do not offer a spray can.
I am testing the waters to see if there is any demand to add this service to our website. If you provide the paint code for any U.S. or foreign car, we can get you an 11-ounce spray can and a Touch-Up Pen both for $49.95 plus shipping. Simply email - [email protected] with the paint code and within 3-4 days we can have it made up and on its way to you.
UPDATE ON REPRODUCTION SPID DECALS -
ECS Automotive has recently sent us a reproduction of the 1987 SPID decal GM #14085266. I am happy to report the reproduction is dead on correct. Like all their products this is GM licensed. The price will be $60 plus $7 Priority Mail. The turn-around time is about 10 days. This is only for the GM #14085266. The earlier SPID decal GM #14065987 is not available yet. You must have a readable copy of your original to get one of these reproduced by ECS Automotive. Email - [email protected] your scanned original if you want one reproduced. Next week we will show a photo of an original alongside the new reproduction that ECS Automotive sent us. We had them reproduce one from a SPID decal I removed from a junker.
2018 TURBO BUICK RELATED CAR SHOWS EVENTS -
MAGNA - MID ATLANTIC GRAND NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
22nd EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS -
September 14th and 15th, 2018 - Cecil County Dragway, Cecil, Maryland
The MAGNA Group has their annual event September 14th and 15th at Cecil County Dragway in Cecil County, Maryland. This event grows bigger each year and is open to all Buick muscle cars not just the Turbo Regals. We expect to be attending this event. (It falls on my birthday). For more details, go to turbobuick.com - or - their website - magnabuick.com
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 3,200 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.
My Rare Parts section is only viewed by those that subscribe. Subscription is free, so complaints on what I write are nonexistent!
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 RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the 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. Simply email - [email protected] - to get on our weekly Inner Circle email.
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]
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 -
Beware of some of the various reproductions on the parts you need. It’s always smart to buy original whenever possible.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
URGENT NEED - Powermaster brake units. The must be complete. We will now 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.
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 -
***Here is a link to all our GM Licensed banners on our website.
GM Licensed - “GNX - AD from ASC” 2'W x 3'H VINYL BANNER
This high-quality vinyl banner is GM licensed and measures approximately 2' wide x 3' high. The banner has metal grommets on four corners.
This distinctive GNX design features the extremely rare GNX ad that ASC did back in 1988.
8601 - GM Licensed - “GNX - AD from ASC” 2'W x 3'H Vinyl Banner - $38.95
GM Licensed - “1987 GRAND NATIONAL” With Hub Caps Background 4'W x 2'H VINYL BANNER
This high-quality vinyl banner is GM licensed and measures approximately 4' wide x 2' high. The banner has metal grommets on four corners.
This distinctive 1987 GRAND NATONAL design with an awesome hub caps background features a color photo from the actual 1987 Buick Dealer Album.
8602 - GM Licensed - “1987 GRAND NATIONAL” with Hub Caps Background - 4'W x 2'H Vinyl Banner - $42.95
GM Licensed - “WE4” with Racing Checkered Flags Background - 3'W x 2'H VINYL BANNER
This high-quality vinyl banner is GM licensed and measures approximately 3'W wide x 2H' tall. The banner has metal grommets on four corners.
This distinctive ultra-rare WE4 design features an extremely rare color original flyer that Buick produced.
8603 - GM Licensed - “WE4” with Racing Checkered Flags Background - 3'W x 2'H Vinyl Banner - $38.95
GM Licensed - “T-TYPE - A BOOST OF BUICK PERFORMANCE” 4'W x 2'H VINYL BANNER
This high-quality vinyl banner is GM licensed and measures approximately 4' wide x 2' high. The banner has metal grommets on four corners.
This distinctive T-TYPE design features the logo and the quote “A BOOST OF BUICK PERFORMANCE,” a tag line we came up with years ago for the Turbo Regals.
8604 - GM Licensed - “T-TYPE - A BOOST OF BUICK PERFORMANCE” 4'W x 2'H Vinyl Banner - $42.95
GM Licensed - “GNX - A HIGH-PERFORMANCE INVESTMENT FOR THE FORTUNATE 547” 2' x 4' VINYL BANNER -
This high-quality vinyl banner is GM licensed and measures approximately 2' tall x 4' wide. The banner has metal grommets on four corners.
This distinctive GNX design features the “GNX” logo in red and white and the quote “A HIGH-PERFORMANCE INVESTMENT FOR THE FORTUNATE 547” in white. The design is on 13 oz vinyl with nylon scrim (mesh) reinforced with hems and grommets.
It’s just one of several distinctive banners we offer.
These banners make an excellent gift for any Buick enthusiast or mechanic. Ideal to hang in any garage, workshop, office or to display at a car show.
8600 - GM Licensed - “GNX” A HIGH-PERFORMANCE INVESTMENT FOR THE FORTUNATE 547” 2' x 4' Vinyl Banner - $42.95
Here is a link to this new GNX banner 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 can’t begin to count the number of high-quality cars I saw between the two events in 95 degree weather this past weekend. It was a lot to take in.