Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 10-24-2018 –
Here is a link to this Inner Circle and photos on our website.
VINTAGE GM LICENSED GRAND NATIONAL T-SHIRT AND GM VEHICLE DETAIL KIT –
Christina, who works for us, told me her sister’s boyfriend heads up the parts department at the nearby Buick-Cadillac-GMC dealership. In the GM gift shop, he has had some Grand National T-shirts that have been there for several years as well as some of the GM bagged detail kits.
He says the Buick items just don’t sell. The Cadillac gift items based on the V-series models do sell quite well for him.
I stopped there the other day and bought the 4 Grand National T-shirts and the 4 brand new GM detail kits. You can tell the T-shirts are vintage since they are slightly yellow.
PHOTO 1 – We show the white Grand National T-Shirt and the GM logo detail kit. The detail kit contains finish enhancer, (2) glass cleaner, and wash/wax concentrate. The cloth bag has the GM logo on the front with the words Vehicle Care. On the back side of the black cloth bag it has the GM logo and the word Goodwrench.
The T-shirt has an embroidered tri-shield logo on the inside neck tag. Both would make for nice display items in the trunk of your show car. The T-shirts are probably quite rare. See the Rare Parts section for prices. We have 2 large and 2 extra large T-shirts.
BRAND NEW TOYOTA FIRST AID KIT AND EMERGENCY KIT BAG –
I recently came across one of the Toyota’s First Aid kits and Emergency kits. Both are in mint condition never used. It’s something you hope you never need, but if you do it’s worth having them in the trunk of your car or your spouse’s car.
The emergency kit has pliers, jumper cables, flash light, gloves, rain gear, tire gauge, hose clamp, tape, and a compass. The first aid kit has virtually everything you need for small injuries. See Rare Parts section for price of these. Both are in mint condition.
PHOTO 2 – We show both the Toyota First Aid kit and the Toyota Emergency kit, bag next to contents. Both kits are in the original black bags with the Toyota logo on them. Neither has ever been used.
POWERMASTER GASKET TO THE FIREWALL –
One of the popular gaskets we sell is the one between the various brake units and the firewall. Each of the various optional brake systems we sell gets this gasket as part of the kit. If you buy a rebuilt powermaster brake unit, we highly recommend you also replace this gasket at the same time.
It’s also a great time to repaint your powermaster bracket that secures the powermaster unit to the firewall. This gasket is part number #7610 and sells for $6.
PHOTO 3 – We show the factory powermaster bracket and an original 30-year-old gasket and the new reproduction gasket. It may be hard to see but the original gasket is less than half as thick after 30 years of being compressed.
UNUSUAL ORIGINAL 1986 GRAND NATIONAL DEALER AD INSERT –
This is probably the most unusual 1986 Buick Regal advertisement insert from what I believe came out of a 1986 Buick Dealer Album. I say that because it has the 3-ring binder holes along the one edge.
Unusual because, as you can see in the photo, ½ of the advertisement is right side up and the other half is upside down. The last tag line in both copies says, “Regal can turn your world around.”
I like the other statement in the ad copy under the Grand National. It says, in part, comes with just about everything except excess chrome. Blackout trim just about everywhere.
PHOTO 4 – Here is the most unusual original ad page from the 1986 Buick Dealer Album. The way the holes are punched for the actual three-ring binder, the Grand National was upside down which would catch your attention!
COMING SOON OUR ANNUAL CHRISTMAS SPECIALS –
Currently we are working on putting together our annual group of Christmas Specials. Hopefully these will be featured in next week’s Inner Circle. Many of the items that we will feature will be related to each other and are popular sellers.
TURBO ENGINE DESCRIPTION MANUAL UPDATE –
In last week’s Inner Circle, we showed 4 pages from the 1987 Turbo Regal Engine Description Manual. I had gotten these sheets years ago from a source at Buick who helped me with information for my book. I just went through all my files and I found about 50 different pages from this 1987 Turbo Engine description Manual.
I have had several requests for copies so I am getting a few copies made this week. If this interests you, email me direct - [email protected] I only plan to run these once. Again, it will be about 50-52 pages in numerical numbered order.
One thing it does show you is the original part numbers for the attaching hardware and brackets etc.
IT WAS A REMARKABLE THREE DAYS –
It was a remarkable three days for the people that reside in New York City a recent Friday. Saturday and Sunday there was zero reports of any shootings - the first such moment ever since statistics began more than a quarter century ago. That would be a great goal for the city of Chicago to “shoot” for!
UPDATE ON 1984 MONTE CARLO SS - FOR SALE –
This 1984 Monte Carlo SS is still available for sale. Currently we do have several inquiries on this car. See the 10-17-18 Inner Circle for initial photos.
I figured this week I would post 4 photos of this extremely original mint 100% stock 1984 Monte Carlo SS hardtop. This car is one of the finest examples I have seen in recent years and shows that the original owner took extreme measures to keep the car as close to new as possible.
According to Old Cars Report Price Guide May/June 2018, this car falls between a high #2 or low #1 condition. Price range is $11,200 - $16,000. This car is priced right at $11,500.
It is absolutely all original. The car has been garaged since new. Owner passed away. Car is white with a mint blue interior. Even rides on Eagle GT tires! Carpets still glisten in the sunlight. No cracks in the dash, no wear issues are evident. The exterior has no rust, no dents, and no scrapes. This car is actually nicer than my personal 1987 white Turbo T that I sold earlier this year. The car from any angle – inside – outside - underside - would pass for 20,000 miles. Mileage is 70,000.
In other words, the car is Kirban-quality inside and out. This is a car that is classic looking that you can drive and not lose money on as you enjoy it. I have many photos. My email is - [email protected]
Car has a price tag of just $11,500. Paint appears to me to be 100% original and the doors shut perfect. It has door VIN labels and trunk ID label. Wheels are mint. Exhaust is 100% original. The condition is simply outstanding. I tried to look for flaws and it has none. The car is located about 20 minutes from our shop.
You would be very hard pressed to find a better example at this price. To compete on a show level, all it needs is 2 hours of attention detailing the engine compartment, 4 of our valve stem caps, our trunk carpet - that’s all it needs. Car even has the original correct GM floor mats in it! It's Kirban quality.
UPDATE ON HO SCALE TURBO REGAL SLOT CAR –
I contacted Auto World the company that made them initially. According to the person I talked to they did one run of them. Part of the run they made black which would be correct for a Grand National and part of the run the slot car was done in white. They used to same packaging for both so that is why the white one I got says Grand National. It saved the company a few bucks! They ran 1500 of them about 2 years ago and currently have no plans to make another run. I am unsure if they ran 1500 total or 1500 of each of the two colors. Either way it was not a large production run.
The source I got the two white ones from at Fall Carlisle thinks they can locate me more of the white ones and possibly some of the black ones. Already several of my readers have indicated they would be a buyer if I do locate any of them. Once in a while you can spot one on ebay. However, I urge caution because in some cases it is not in the original packaging and may just be the body shell.
On a side note, one of our customers, John Follweiler, as a kid got to meet the man who started Auto World Oscar Koveleski. Company was originally started in Scranton, Pennsylvania. If you want one, email me direct [email protected] I expect to know something later this week.
OTHER TURBO CARS –
Back when we were buying and selling Turbo Regals, we also had very good luck selling various fox body Mustangs, the late 1980s 3 series, and 5 series BMWs, which we had a fondness for. (My wife and I had several over the years).
Another niche market we discovered quite by accident. I am referring to the Saab Turbo cars of the same vintage late 1980s. I remember going to look at a 1989-1990 BMW 3 series that this small time used car dealer had in a warehouse nearby.
Upon looking at the BMW 3 series. I was not a buyer as the car was not quite as nice as advertised. I happen to mention to the seller I dealt heavily in Turbo Regals. He then said he may have a car I would be interested in that was also turbo powered, only it was a Saab.
I had zero knowledge of Saabs, plus being I was dealing with a used car sales guy, I was leery of gambling on a turbo car that I had zero knowledge about. He opened up the warehouse door and there sat a mint black Saab hatchback, black with tan leather interior. It was a SPG model, which he explained made it somewhat special. It was a manual 5-speed.
The car was absolutely mint. Even the leather still smelled new and still had the leather tag on the driver’s seat. The exterior black finish would put every Grand National to shame. I could not believe this car with high miles was this clean. He explained to me an executive had owned it and not only was it garaged every night, but he garaged the car at work every day.
Car was virtually show quality. I was very impressed. I found the ignition key set up very unusual since it was console mounted between the bucket seats and not on the dash. Being a turbo car, I knew to look it over for any oil leaks. The car had none.
I figured I would take the plunge so I bought the black SPG Turbo Saab. I can’t remember the exact month and year, but I put it in my monthly Grand News for sale. I had a call from a guy whose friend was a customer of ours. This guy was a Saab enthusiast. Obviously, he knew far more than I did about Saabs. I did tell him I knew what a nice original car looks like though!
If I recall, he lived in New York or in the New England area where these cars are quite popular.
I knew I had a nice example, just lacked knowledge on its features. He was leery even though his friend spoke very highly of me. He said he would spend the money to have an expert come to my house to check out the car from top to bottom. I think this service cost him around $150. Since it was no cost to me, I said he is welcome to have someone come and do the evaluation.
The “expert” came and took about one hour of going over the entire car and doing a test drive. He then said to me he was not able to tell me his findings, but he made an exception. He said the only thing he detected that was wrong with the car was the cassette player did not function. He was very impressed with the car.
The Saab got a good report and I had a buyer! That experience lead me to buy another turbo Saab few years later that I actually sold to a Saab Jaguar dealership as they had a customer wanting a specific turbo Saab. Probably the only time I sold a car to a dealership and made a profit.
True story…
IT’S FAR TOUGHER TODAY TO BUY A USED TURBO REGAL THAN 15-20 YEARS AGO –
It is far tougher today to buy a good used Turbo Regal than it was 15-20 years ago when I was buying and selling them. Today many of the nice ones are in the hands of dealers that cater to the collector market. In many cases, their knowledge of the cars is quite slim. Their knowledge of the history may also be quite vague. It’s always wise to spend the extra money and go see the car in person before making the actual purchase.
Unfortunately, many of the Turbo Regals today have been modified, which can be a nightmare for you the buyer to figure out what was done by the previous owner. Or, in other cases, the car may have been modified and returned to stock, but missing certain important parts.
Age to the interiors is another concern as the interiors do not hold up well over 30 years if the car was not garaged. Besides all the little nagging problems such as oil leaks, drooping headliner, windows that rattle, busted driver’s seat, or missing SPID trunk ID label you have to contend with, the car could have real major issues. Rust is one major issue.
If you’re not careful, the factory 8.5 rear may have been changed out to the smaller 7.5 rear out of a Monte Carlo for some reason. If I was buying and selling these cars today, it would require a lot more of my time to check them out. When I was buying and selling them, it usually was a quick 45-minute inspection and short test drive. Plus, I would never do it at night in the dark, like I did with many of them back in the day. Buying one today you would be smart to check the engine block number and transmission number, especially if it appears the engine and transmission had been removed and replaced.
Of course, the exception to too many of the possible issues that can arise, is to buy a one-owner, low-mileage example from the original owner. You may a pay a premium for such a purchase, but the end result is you are getting a car that keeps appreciating in value as time goes by, plus lacks many of the unpleasant surprises.
SPEAKING OF A QUICK INSPECTION AND TEST DRIVE –
It reminded me of when I purchased the very first GNX with 175,000 miles on it. The car was in northern Virginia, not far from Washington D.C. The seller lived in one of those huge neighborhoods where almost all the streets and houses looked the same.
I was very excited so when I took his GNX for a test drive I had left my cell phone in my truck. Since this was the very first time I was buying a GNX, I wanted to make sure everything worked properly, including the gauges. I wanted to make sure the transmission shifted crisp as well.
As I test drove the GNX around I made the mistake of not paying attention to the neighborhood and lost track of the street he lived on. I ended up getting lost for almost one hour trying to locate his street and my truck and trailer. The seller was not concerned as I apologized for taking so long. The first GNX I bought also the cheapest! It was 100% stock and ran perfectly even the power antenna worked! Car had 100% original paint.
The Lexus dealer did not want his GNX as a trade-in. Ironic isn’t it, since Molly did the Lexus logo for Toyota and GNX clothing line and the GNX book cover for Buick. Molly got $20 grand for the Lexus logo back in 1989. I think had he gotten 10 cents for each Lexus he would have made out better!
True story.
1966 GTO ACRYLIC PICTURE FOR SALE -
We also have on a piece of acrylic a picture of a 1966 GTO. I bought this several years ago at Carlisle. It measures approximately 15” by 20”. It is based on the box cover of the 1966 GTO slot car. That slot car has a value today of about $500 if you got one unbuilt in the original box. (I have one in my private collection). Either item makes for a nice unique gift.
See Photo 2 in 10-3-2018 Inner Circle. Contact our office if you would like to order – 215-766-1611 x 0. This is a NEW LOWER PRICE $29.95 and $12 shipping.
REMEMBER THE VIDEO PROFILE THAT WAS DONE LAST YEAR? –
Steve, the producer of that video, is now producing an automotive radio show in the Philadelphia market and is currently looking for sponsorship. Sponsors will receive commercial air time during the program as well as web and video presence. Because it’s the inaugural season of the show, rates are low compared to standard radio rates.
Business owners, particularly those in the Philadelphia region who are looking for a new way to advertise, should contact Steve at - [email protected] and check out the website at -www.carsmartradio.com
They are slated to begin broadcasting at 11am for one hour on 610ESPN radio. That Saturday slot will be the time slot for at least until May, with a few preemptions for football and basketball (Villanova).
The radio station kept the rates the same for Steve even though we’re now going to the larger radio station. This is very exciting!
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.
CLASSIFIED AD –
AD – 1967 GS BUICK PARTS FOR SALE –
Some NOS, some used and reproduction pieces. Grille center molding, NOS pair of 5958827 Left and right signal lamp lenses, NOS cigar lighter, Pair of good used signal lenses, Rechrome outside door handles, trunk letters, tail lamp bezels, quarter and trunk moldings. First and second design 2-piece wheel opening moldings, NOS and used antenna bezels. NOS 40927 AC fuel pump, correct distributor and Q-jet carb with tag, NOS side view mirrors and more! Call or email [email protected] or 941-845-4446. 3 of 4
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.
My 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]
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 –
Here is a word of advice. Whenever you make one change on your engine, be sure to restart your car before moving on to another change or upgrade.
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 –
GM Licensed - “GNX - AD from ASC” and
“1987 GRAND NATIONAL with Hub Caps Background” MUGS
Our GM licensed supplier has taken the two popular Turbo Regal banners and put that same design on a high-quality white 11-ounce ceramic coffee mug.
These GM licensed mugs make an excellent gift for any Buick enthusiast or mechanic. Ideal to for any garage, workshop, office or to display at a car show.
The GNX AD from ASC mug has the artwork repeated on both sides of the mug.
The Grand National layout wraps around the mug.
Another excellent Buick enthusiast gift idea.
7839 - GM Licensed - “GNX - AD from ASC” Mug - $12.95
7840 - GM Licensed - “1987 Grand National with Hub Caps Background” Mug - $12.95
Here is a link to these mugs on our website.
1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Reproduction METAL RADIO BRACKETS (2) SET
We now offer an excellent reproduction of the unique brackets Buick used to secure the radio in any 1984-1987, Regal including the Turbo models.
The metal bracket is the same for both sides but mounts differently on each side of the GM radio.
This is a critical part you need to install any factory correct 1984-1987 GM radio. It also fits many of the later GM radios that have the same frame and size, including some of the early factory GM CD players.
Another excellent replacement for any interior restoration.
7838 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Reproduction Metal Radio Brackets (2) Set - $25
Here is a link to these brackets 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 –
Those of you that are attending the GS Nationals this week in Bowling Green, Kentucky, we hope you have a safe an uneventful trip.
Those of you that are driving your Turbo Regal and have a powermaster brake system, our hope is you never see the brake light come on that would indicate you have a brake failure.
Here is a link to this Inner Circle and photos on our website.
VINTAGE GM LICENSED GRAND NATIONAL T-SHIRT AND GM VEHICLE DETAIL KIT –
Christina, who works for us, told me her sister’s boyfriend heads up the parts department at the nearby Buick-Cadillac-GMC dealership. In the GM gift shop, he has had some Grand National T-shirts that have been there for several years as well as some of the GM bagged detail kits.
He says the Buick items just don’t sell. The Cadillac gift items based on the V-series models do sell quite well for him.
I stopped there the other day and bought the 4 Grand National T-shirts and the 4 brand new GM detail kits. You can tell the T-shirts are vintage since they are slightly yellow.
PHOTO 1 – We show the white Grand National T-Shirt and the GM logo detail kit. The detail kit contains finish enhancer, (2) glass cleaner, and wash/wax concentrate. The cloth bag has the GM logo on the front with the words Vehicle Care. On the back side of the black cloth bag it has the GM logo and the word Goodwrench.
The T-shirt has an embroidered tri-shield logo on the inside neck tag. Both would make for nice display items in the trunk of your show car. The T-shirts are probably quite rare. See the Rare Parts section for prices. We have 2 large and 2 extra large T-shirts.
BRAND NEW TOYOTA FIRST AID KIT AND EMERGENCY KIT BAG –
I recently came across one of the Toyota’s First Aid kits and Emergency kits. Both are in mint condition never used. It’s something you hope you never need, but if you do it’s worth having them in the trunk of your car or your spouse’s car.
The emergency kit has pliers, jumper cables, flash light, gloves, rain gear, tire gauge, hose clamp, tape, and a compass. The first aid kit has virtually everything you need for small injuries. See Rare Parts section for price of these. Both are in mint condition.
PHOTO 2 – We show both the Toyota First Aid kit and the Toyota Emergency kit, bag next to contents. Both kits are in the original black bags with the Toyota logo on them. Neither has ever been used.
POWERMASTER GASKET TO THE FIREWALL –
One of the popular gaskets we sell is the one between the various brake units and the firewall. Each of the various optional brake systems we sell gets this gasket as part of the kit. If you buy a rebuilt powermaster brake unit, we highly recommend you also replace this gasket at the same time.
It’s also a great time to repaint your powermaster bracket that secures the powermaster unit to the firewall. This gasket is part number #7610 and sells for $6.
PHOTO 3 – We show the factory powermaster bracket and an original 30-year-old gasket and the new reproduction gasket. It may be hard to see but the original gasket is less than half as thick after 30 years of being compressed.
UNUSUAL ORIGINAL 1986 GRAND NATIONAL DEALER AD INSERT –
This is probably the most unusual 1986 Buick Regal advertisement insert from what I believe came out of a 1986 Buick Dealer Album. I say that because it has the 3-ring binder holes along the one edge.
Unusual because, as you can see in the photo, ½ of the advertisement is right side up and the other half is upside down. The last tag line in both copies says, “Regal can turn your world around.”
I like the other statement in the ad copy under the Grand National. It says, in part, comes with just about everything except excess chrome. Blackout trim just about everywhere.
PHOTO 4 – Here is the most unusual original ad page from the 1986 Buick Dealer Album. The way the holes are punched for the actual three-ring binder, the Grand National was upside down which would catch your attention!
COMING SOON OUR ANNUAL CHRISTMAS SPECIALS –
Currently we are working on putting together our annual group of Christmas Specials. Hopefully these will be featured in next week’s Inner Circle. Many of the items that we will feature will be related to each other and are popular sellers.
TURBO ENGINE DESCRIPTION MANUAL UPDATE –
In last week’s Inner Circle, we showed 4 pages from the 1987 Turbo Regal Engine Description Manual. I had gotten these sheets years ago from a source at Buick who helped me with information for my book. I just went through all my files and I found about 50 different pages from this 1987 Turbo Engine description Manual.
I have had several requests for copies so I am getting a few copies made this week. If this interests you, email me direct - [email protected] I only plan to run these once. Again, it will be about 50-52 pages in numerical numbered order.
One thing it does show you is the original part numbers for the attaching hardware and brackets etc.
IT WAS A REMARKABLE THREE DAYS –
It was a remarkable three days for the people that reside in New York City a recent Friday. Saturday and Sunday there was zero reports of any shootings - the first such moment ever since statistics began more than a quarter century ago. That would be a great goal for the city of Chicago to “shoot” for!
UPDATE ON 1984 MONTE CARLO SS - FOR SALE –
This 1984 Monte Carlo SS is still available for sale. Currently we do have several inquiries on this car. See the 10-17-18 Inner Circle for initial photos.
I figured this week I would post 4 photos of this extremely original mint 100% stock 1984 Monte Carlo SS hardtop. This car is one of the finest examples I have seen in recent years and shows that the original owner took extreme measures to keep the car as close to new as possible.
According to Old Cars Report Price Guide May/June 2018, this car falls between a high #2 or low #1 condition. Price range is $11,200 - $16,000. This car is priced right at $11,500.
It is absolutely all original. The car has been garaged since new. Owner passed away. Car is white with a mint blue interior. Even rides on Eagle GT tires! Carpets still glisten in the sunlight. No cracks in the dash, no wear issues are evident. The exterior has no rust, no dents, and no scrapes. This car is actually nicer than my personal 1987 white Turbo T that I sold earlier this year. The car from any angle – inside – outside - underside - would pass for 20,000 miles. Mileage is 70,000.
In other words, the car is Kirban-quality inside and out. This is a car that is classic looking that you can drive and not lose money on as you enjoy it. I have many photos. My email is - [email protected]
Car has a price tag of just $11,500. Paint appears to me to be 100% original and the doors shut perfect. It has door VIN labels and trunk ID label. Wheels are mint. Exhaust is 100% original. The condition is simply outstanding. I tried to look for flaws and it has none. The car is located about 20 minutes from our shop.
You would be very hard pressed to find a better example at this price. To compete on a show level, all it needs is 2 hours of attention detailing the engine compartment, 4 of our valve stem caps, our trunk carpet - that’s all it needs. Car even has the original correct GM floor mats in it! It's Kirban quality.
UPDATE ON HO SCALE TURBO REGAL SLOT CAR –
I contacted Auto World the company that made them initially. According to the person I talked to they did one run of them. Part of the run they made black which would be correct for a Grand National and part of the run the slot car was done in white. They used to same packaging for both so that is why the white one I got says Grand National. It saved the company a few bucks! They ran 1500 of them about 2 years ago and currently have no plans to make another run. I am unsure if they ran 1500 total or 1500 of each of the two colors. Either way it was not a large production run.
The source I got the two white ones from at Fall Carlisle thinks they can locate me more of the white ones and possibly some of the black ones. Already several of my readers have indicated they would be a buyer if I do locate any of them. Once in a while you can spot one on ebay. However, I urge caution because in some cases it is not in the original packaging and may just be the body shell.
On a side note, one of our customers, John Follweiler, as a kid got to meet the man who started Auto World Oscar Koveleski. Company was originally started in Scranton, Pennsylvania. If you want one, email me direct [email protected] I expect to know something later this week.
OTHER TURBO CARS –
Back when we were buying and selling Turbo Regals, we also had very good luck selling various fox body Mustangs, the late 1980s 3 series, and 5 series BMWs, which we had a fondness for. (My wife and I had several over the years).
Another niche market we discovered quite by accident. I am referring to the Saab Turbo cars of the same vintage late 1980s. I remember going to look at a 1989-1990 BMW 3 series that this small time used car dealer had in a warehouse nearby.
Upon looking at the BMW 3 series. I was not a buyer as the car was not quite as nice as advertised. I happen to mention to the seller I dealt heavily in Turbo Regals. He then said he may have a car I would be interested in that was also turbo powered, only it was a Saab.
I had zero knowledge of Saabs, plus being I was dealing with a used car sales guy, I was leery of gambling on a turbo car that I had zero knowledge about. He opened up the warehouse door and there sat a mint black Saab hatchback, black with tan leather interior. It was a SPG model, which he explained made it somewhat special. It was a manual 5-speed.
The car was absolutely mint. Even the leather still smelled new and still had the leather tag on the driver’s seat. The exterior black finish would put every Grand National to shame. I could not believe this car with high miles was this clean. He explained to me an executive had owned it and not only was it garaged every night, but he garaged the car at work every day.
Car was virtually show quality. I was very impressed. I found the ignition key set up very unusual since it was console mounted between the bucket seats and not on the dash. Being a turbo car, I knew to look it over for any oil leaks. The car had none.
I figured I would take the plunge so I bought the black SPG Turbo Saab. I can’t remember the exact month and year, but I put it in my monthly Grand News for sale. I had a call from a guy whose friend was a customer of ours. This guy was a Saab enthusiast. Obviously, he knew far more than I did about Saabs. I did tell him I knew what a nice original car looks like though!
If I recall, he lived in New York or in the New England area where these cars are quite popular.
I knew I had a nice example, just lacked knowledge on its features. He was leery even though his friend spoke very highly of me. He said he would spend the money to have an expert come to my house to check out the car from top to bottom. I think this service cost him around $150. Since it was no cost to me, I said he is welcome to have someone come and do the evaluation.
The “expert” came and took about one hour of going over the entire car and doing a test drive. He then said to me he was not able to tell me his findings, but he made an exception. He said the only thing he detected that was wrong with the car was the cassette player did not function. He was very impressed with the car.
The Saab got a good report and I had a buyer! That experience lead me to buy another turbo Saab few years later that I actually sold to a Saab Jaguar dealership as they had a customer wanting a specific turbo Saab. Probably the only time I sold a car to a dealership and made a profit.
True story…
IT’S FAR TOUGHER TODAY TO BUY A USED TURBO REGAL THAN 15-20 YEARS AGO –
It is far tougher today to buy a good used Turbo Regal than it was 15-20 years ago when I was buying and selling them. Today many of the nice ones are in the hands of dealers that cater to the collector market. In many cases, their knowledge of the cars is quite slim. Their knowledge of the history may also be quite vague. It’s always wise to spend the extra money and go see the car in person before making the actual purchase.
Unfortunately, many of the Turbo Regals today have been modified, which can be a nightmare for you the buyer to figure out what was done by the previous owner. Or, in other cases, the car may have been modified and returned to stock, but missing certain important parts.
Age to the interiors is another concern as the interiors do not hold up well over 30 years if the car was not garaged. Besides all the little nagging problems such as oil leaks, drooping headliner, windows that rattle, busted driver’s seat, or missing SPID trunk ID label you have to contend with, the car could have real major issues. Rust is one major issue.
If you’re not careful, the factory 8.5 rear may have been changed out to the smaller 7.5 rear out of a Monte Carlo for some reason. If I was buying and selling these cars today, it would require a lot more of my time to check them out. When I was buying and selling them, it usually was a quick 45-minute inspection and short test drive. Plus, I would never do it at night in the dark, like I did with many of them back in the day. Buying one today you would be smart to check the engine block number and transmission number, especially if it appears the engine and transmission had been removed and replaced.
Of course, the exception to too many of the possible issues that can arise, is to buy a one-owner, low-mileage example from the original owner. You may a pay a premium for such a purchase, but the end result is you are getting a car that keeps appreciating in value as time goes by, plus lacks many of the unpleasant surprises.
SPEAKING OF A QUICK INSPECTION AND TEST DRIVE –
It reminded me of when I purchased the very first GNX with 175,000 miles on it. The car was in northern Virginia, not far from Washington D.C. The seller lived in one of those huge neighborhoods where almost all the streets and houses looked the same.
I was very excited so when I took his GNX for a test drive I had left my cell phone in my truck. Since this was the very first time I was buying a GNX, I wanted to make sure everything worked properly, including the gauges. I wanted to make sure the transmission shifted crisp as well.
As I test drove the GNX around I made the mistake of not paying attention to the neighborhood and lost track of the street he lived on. I ended up getting lost for almost one hour trying to locate his street and my truck and trailer. The seller was not concerned as I apologized for taking so long. The first GNX I bought also the cheapest! It was 100% stock and ran perfectly even the power antenna worked! Car had 100% original paint.
The Lexus dealer did not want his GNX as a trade-in. Ironic isn’t it, since Molly did the Lexus logo for Toyota and GNX clothing line and the GNX book cover for Buick. Molly got $20 grand for the Lexus logo back in 1989. I think had he gotten 10 cents for each Lexus he would have made out better!
True story.
1966 GTO ACRYLIC PICTURE FOR SALE -
We also have on a piece of acrylic a picture of a 1966 GTO. I bought this several years ago at Carlisle. It measures approximately 15” by 20”. It is based on the box cover of the 1966 GTO slot car. That slot car has a value today of about $500 if you got one unbuilt in the original box. (I have one in my private collection). Either item makes for a nice unique gift.
See Photo 2 in 10-3-2018 Inner Circle. Contact our office if you would like to order – 215-766-1611 x 0. This is a NEW LOWER PRICE $29.95 and $12 shipping.
REMEMBER THE VIDEO PROFILE THAT WAS DONE LAST YEAR? –
Steve, the producer of that video, is now producing an automotive radio show in the Philadelphia market and is currently looking for sponsorship. Sponsors will receive commercial air time during the program as well as web and video presence. Because it’s the inaugural season of the show, rates are low compared to standard radio rates.
Business owners, particularly those in the Philadelphia region who are looking for a new way to advertise, should contact Steve at - [email protected] and check out the website at -www.carsmartradio.com
They are slated to begin broadcasting at 11am for one hour on 610ESPN radio. That Saturday slot will be the time slot for at least until May, with a few preemptions for football and basketball (Villanova).
The radio station kept the rates the same for Steve even though we’re now going to the larger radio station. This is very exciting!
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.
CLASSIFIED AD –
AD – 1967 GS BUICK PARTS FOR SALE –
Some NOS, some used and reproduction pieces. Grille center molding, NOS pair of 5958827 Left and right signal lamp lenses, NOS cigar lighter, Pair of good used signal lenses, Rechrome outside door handles, trunk letters, tail lamp bezels, quarter and trunk moldings. First and second design 2-piece wheel opening moldings, NOS and used antenna bezels. NOS 40927 AC fuel pump, correct distributor and Q-jet carb with tag, NOS side view mirrors and more! Call or email [email protected] or 941-845-4446. 3 of 4
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.
My 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]
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 –
Here is a word of advice. Whenever you make one change on your engine, be sure to restart your car before moving on to another change or upgrade.
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 –
GM Licensed - “GNX - AD from ASC” and
“1987 GRAND NATIONAL with Hub Caps Background” MUGS
Our GM licensed supplier has taken the two popular Turbo Regal banners and put that same design on a high-quality white 11-ounce ceramic coffee mug.
These GM licensed mugs make an excellent gift for any Buick enthusiast or mechanic. Ideal to for any garage, workshop, office or to display at a car show.
The GNX AD from ASC mug has the artwork repeated on both sides of the mug.
The Grand National layout wraps around the mug.
Another excellent Buick enthusiast gift idea.
7839 - GM Licensed - “GNX - AD from ASC” Mug - $12.95
7840 - GM Licensed - “1987 Grand National with Hub Caps Background” Mug - $12.95
Here is a link to these mugs on our website.
1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Reproduction METAL RADIO BRACKETS (2) SET
We now offer an excellent reproduction of the unique brackets Buick used to secure the radio in any 1984-1987, Regal including the Turbo models.
The metal bracket is the same for both sides but mounts differently on each side of the GM radio.
This is a critical part you need to install any factory correct 1984-1987 GM radio. It also fits many of the later GM radios that have the same frame and size, including some of the early factory GM CD players.
Another excellent replacement for any interior restoration.
7838 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Reproduction Metal Radio Brackets (2) Set - $25
Here is a link to these brackets 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 –
Those of you that are attending the GS Nationals this week in Bowling Green, Kentucky, we hope you have a safe an uneventful trip.
Those of you that are driving your Turbo Regal and have a powermaster brake system, our hope is you never see the brake light come on that would indicate you have a brake failure.