Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members - 11-04-2009
BACKTRACKING SLIGHTLY ON THE HISTORY OF RADIOS - PART 3
As we mentioned earlier, for the most part, the hole or cavity for the radio was usually the same size for every model of GM cars and trucks with a few exceptions.
Going by personal experience, back in the early 1970s we bought a used 1963 split window Corvette coupe. Back then these Corvettes were "used cars," not yet collectible cars. If you are familiar with that body style, you may recall they took a vertical style radio that was fitted into the center console/dash.
As a point of interest, in 1963 GM made 21,513 Corvettes (coupes and convertibles.) A total of 11,368 received the AM radio and 9,178 received the "new" AM/FM. It was the first year for the AM/FM option in a Corvette.
So, a total of 20,544 opted for a radio option. I figure most buyers of a Corvette definitely bought a radio!
So, less than 1,000 of the 1963 Corvettes did not get a radio option. A 1963 Corvette with a radio delete option did not get a hole in the center dash, so there wasn't even a radio delete plate. There was no hole whatsoever in the dash! The reason I know this, is because when we bought ours in the early 1970s, it had no radio, there wasn't any hole in the dash for a radio, and it had no antenna!
Of course back then, I just thought it was weird. Also remember back then some buyers avoided the 1963 Corvette because of the split back window glass! I was smart enough to simply install a radio under the passenger seat, rather than figure out how to cut a hole in a perfect solid dash panel! True story.
Jumping ahead to the early 1980s, the short-lived Chevrolet Citation also took a vertical style radio. However, for the most part, GM used a horizontal style radio in most of its car and trucks during the 1970s and 1980s.
RADIO OPTIONS IN THE TURBO REGALS - Part Two
Like we mentioned earlier, by far the most rare radio would be the standard AM radio.
Photo 1 - Shows what appears to be two of the same AM radios from the mid 1980s.
The one on the top is identical to the one that was in the one of the 1987 Turbo-Ts we bought a dozen years ago. The one on the bottom in this photo is slightly different.
Above the two knobs on the left, the Delco logo includes the word "GM" in the actual raised logo. The AM radio on top in this photo does not have the GM wording in the raised logo! Otherwise, both radios are 100% identical.
These radios, as well as all the others that were an option, all had the black plastic turn knob with a silver brushed disc in the middle of the knob. The base bezel was always chrome with a tab on the edge. The exception would be the AM radio, which only had the tab on the off/on volume knob. The other chrome bezel did not have any tab. Some of you may have an outer knob where the silver brushed disc has come unglued and is no longer on your knob. I must confess, even as I write these articles on the various radios, I am also learning more about the various different radios.
Photo 2 - Shows two styles of radio brackets. During the 1980s, GM used many different styles of brackets depending on what car models the radio was used in.
All the brackets were designed to work off the same slots or mounting holes on the side of the radio housing. In most cases, the mounting points were two screws that were clipped on each side of the of the radio housing. In this particular photo it is the bottom set of brackets that are correct for all 1984-1987 Turbo Regals. Both brackets were identical for the left and right side. Two short threaded studs held them to the side of the radio. The top set of brackets is from a Buick Century in the mid 1980s. You can see how similar the brackets can be; yet these brackets would not line up to the holes in your dash of your 1984-1987 Turbo Regal.
Photo 3 - Shows the four basic plugs that should be in your 1984-1987 Turbo Regal. You have three main ones that appear to be the same shape. The colors of the plug ends would be blue/white/black. This is usually referred to as the 12-pin plug. Each plug has 4 connectors, however one plug only uses 3. I also show a slightly smaller 2-pin black plug in this photo, which is also needed for a stock radio.
Photo 4 - Shows the radio cavity hole where the stock 1984-1987 Turbo Regal radio would go. You see the three main plugs, blue/white/black, to the far left in the photo and the longer thin black plug to the bottom right in the photo. Nearby is also the antenna lead. The 4 red circles indicate the 4 mounting points that the factory radio bracket lines up to that would secure the radio to the dash. Once installed, the radio/heater bezel would snap around the radio and heater controls.
Watch for Part 4 on the various radios available in the Turbo Regals next week.
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION
Got any Turbo parts you are not using? Why not cash in for parts you need with a letter of credit or cash for the upcoming holidays? 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.
GM PARTS UPDATE
It appears that the GM supply of the factory 1986-1987 molded boost line kits are dwindling and may already have disappeared from GM's warehouses inventory. We currently have a decent supply of them.
This is a very critical part, for any 1986-1987 Turbo Regal since it is needed to control boost. They have 3 specifically formed hoses with a special size diameter T in between two of the molded hoses. These also have the entire GM wording on them. Over a period of time heat can cause the hoses to swell and crack. While they last we have them available for $44.95, Part #6644. Supplies are limited.
Click Here to see this GM Boost Line Kit product page on our web site.
NEW PARTS OF INTEREST TO THE HIGH-PERFORMANCE CAR OWNER
We are now carrying 5 license plate frames.
Click Here to see our license plate frames product pages on our web site.
We have carried a plain black metal license plate frame, Part #7089, for a long time.
Here is the information about the 4 new sturdy metal frames we also now offer.
1982, 1984-1987 Grand National and All Cars & Trucks -
CUSTOM QUOTES BLACK METAL LICENSE PLATE FRAMES
Here are several unique license plate frames of special interest to the high-performance car market.
These handsome metal black license plate frames measure 12-1/4" x 6-1/4", standard size to hold state license plates. Frames are made from zinc alloy, then powder coated black for lasting quality.
The lettering is silver grey and the wording areas are laser cut into the metal, giving an embossed impression. The frames only have two holes at the top to attach to the license bracket. There are small tabs on the back to hold your license plate in place at the base of the license plate frames.
An excellent finishing touch for any license plate.
7248 - 1982, 1984-1987 Grand National -
"GRAND NATIONAL - BAD TO THE BONE" Black Metal License Plate Frame - $28.95
7249 - All Cars & Trucks -
"WE BRAKE FOR MUSTANGS" Black Metal License Plate Frame - $28.95
7250 - All Cars & Trucks -
"WE BRAKE FOR CORVETTES" Black Metal License Plate Frame - $28.95
7251 - All Cars & Trucks -
"DON'T TRY IT - YOU WILL LOSE" Black Metal License Plate Frame - $28.95
BE SURE TO CHECK OUT OUR CHRISTMAS SPECIALS
We have a total of 22 different Christmas Specials available until December 18th, 2009. They can be found on our web site home page.
Click Here to see our CHRISTMAS SPECIALS pages on our web site.
IT WAS BOUND TO HAPPEN SOONER OR LATER
I just read that Walmart has figured out how to make one of the last sales in your lifetime... they are now marketing caskets! It was just a matter of time until they got into an area of products that was usually handled by funeral homes and cemeteries!
CALENDER OF EVENTS
2009-2010 UPCOMING BUICK RELATED EVENTS
NOTE - If you know of a GM or Buick Turbo event for this year, let us know and we can post it in our weekly Turbo Regal Inner Circle so our members are aware of the event.
The best way to stay informed with the show season is to check out the various Turbo Buick forums.
SOUTHERN BUICK SHOOTOUT 2009 - Reynolds, Georgia -
Friday & Saturday, NOVEMBER 6th & 7th, 2009 -
The Southern Buick Shootout 2009 event at the Silver Dollar Raceway is scheduled for November 6th and 7th, 2009. This event will be open to any and all BUICK, OLDS, and PONTIAC cars. The event will include a points race for the TSO and TSM categories, as well as other potential Buick categories.
The plan is to have heads-up / index pacing available for those racers that cannot run in TSM/TSO categories. They also plan to have Gamblers Racing for both Sportsman type cars (no delay boxes allowed) and Top Eliminator (delay Box). The will be Test-N-Tune all day both days. If you have questions, email - [email protected]
The Northeast Association of Syclone and Typhoon Enthusiasts (NASTE) has moved their annual meet this year from New Jersey to Hooters in Bensalem, Pennsylvania. The event is Sunday, November 8th, 1pm - 5pm All vehicles welcome, especially Turbo-V6's. Just come and hang out...no trophies, no fees, and no pressure. Rain date is Sunday, November 15, 1pm - 5pm.
2010 UPCOMING BUICK RELATED EVENTS
Looking ahead into next Spring 2010, the first Turbo Buick event of the season will be the first ever "turbobuick.com Nationals." The dates are March 15-20, 2010 in Burlington, NC area.
For more information on this March event, click on the thread - http://www.turbobuick.com/forums/national-racing-events-info/292319-2010-turbobuick-com-nationals.html - Or, you can email Clint Adkins at - [email protected]
"Light Your Fire" - 2010 Buick Performance Group Nationals - July 30 - August 1, 2010 at the National Trail Raceway in Hebron OH (near Columbus). They want to gather together the largest number of 1969-1974 factory Stage1 cars anyone has ever seen since the Buick muscle car days of Flint.
This is a special event that may never come to pass again, so don't miss the factory "Stage1 Convention" at the 2010 Buick Performance Group National Event. For more info, go to - http://www.buickperformancegroup.com/forums/showthread.php?t=8754
NOTE - If you know of a GM or Buick Turbo event, let us know and we can post it in our weekly Turbo Regal Inner Circle so our members are aware of the event.
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE CLOSE OUT PARTS
On the parts listed below, you must call our office to purchase them. These are close out items, items that have changed designs, or items that are no longer available.
We have the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal - GM Air Flow Duct (from turbo to MAF sensor), Part #6536 in stock for $61.95. Just a few left now.
EBAY LISTINGS
If you would like to see any Kirban Performance Products items listed on eBay, here is a link to our store and auctions -
http://stores.ebay.com/Kirban-Performance-Products-Inc_W0QQssPageNameZl2QQtZ km
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 not remember who requested the item.
RARE PARTS FROM US
Because of upcoming travel plans no rare parts will appear in this section this weeks Inner Circle.
IN CLOSING
This week, November 7th and 8th we will be in Ocala, Florida at Don Garlits' 22nd Annual Mopar event. We'll be one of his special guests as a vendor selling ZDDPlus™ and the ZPaste™. Richard Clark is planning to go to this event as well as Paul Castle. We hope you come by and say hello either Saturday or Sunday.
For more information, check out the website for the Mopar Florida club that puts on this Mopar event at Don Garlits Museum - www.floridamoparassociation.com
BACKTRACKING SLIGHTLY ON THE HISTORY OF RADIOS - PART 3
As we mentioned earlier, for the most part, the hole or cavity for the radio was usually the same size for every model of GM cars and trucks with a few exceptions.
Going by personal experience, back in the early 1970s we bought a used 1963 split window Corvette coupe. Back then these Corvettes were "used cars," not yet collectible cars. If you are familiar with that body style, you may recall they took a vertical style radio that was fitted into the center console/dash.
As a point of interest, in 1963 GM made 21,513 Corvettes (coupes and convertibles.) A total of 11,368 received the AM radio and 9,178 received the "new" AM/FM. It was the first year for the AM/FM option in a Corvette.
So, a total of 20,544 opted for a radio option. I figure most buyers of a Corvette definitely bought a radio!
So, less than 1,000 of the 1963 Corvettes did not get a radio option. A 1963 Corvette with a radio delete option did not get a hole in the center dash, so there wasn't even a radio delete plate. There was no hole whatsoever in the dash! The reason I know this, is because when we bought ours in the early 1970s, it had no radio, there wasn't any hole in the dash for a radio, and it had no antenna!
Of course back then, I just thought it was weird. Also remember back then some buyers avoided the 1963 Corvette because of the split back window glass! I was smart enough to simply install a radio under the passenger seat, rather than figure out how to cut a hole in a perfect solid dash panel! True story.
Jumping ahead to the early 1980s, the short-lived Chevrolet Citation also took a vertical style radio. However, for the most part, GM used a horizontal style radio in most of its car and trucks during the 1970s and 1980s.
RADIO OPTIONS IN THE TURBO REGALS - Part Two
Like we mentioned earlier, by far the most rare radio would be the standard AM radio.
Photo 1 - Shows what appears to be two of the same AM radios from the mid 1980s.
The one on the top is identical to the one that was in the one of the 1987 Turbo-Ts we bought a dozen years ago. The one on the bottom in this photo is slightly different.
Above the two knobs on the left, the Delco logo includes the word "GM" in the actual raised logo. The AM radio on top in this photo does not have the GM wording in the raised logo! Otherwise, both radios are 100% identical.
These radios, as well as all the others that were an option, all had the black plastic turn knob with a silver brushed disc in the middle of the knob. The base bezel was always chrome with a tab on the edge. The exception would be the AM radio, which only had the tab on the off/on volume knob. The other chrome bezel did not have any tab. Some of you may have an outer knob where the silver brushed disc has come unglued and is no longer on your knob. I must confess, even as I write these articles on the various radios, I am also learning more about the various different radios.
Photo 2 - Shows two styles of radio brackets. During the 1980s, GM used many different styles of brackets depending on what car models the radio was used in.
All the brackets were designed to work off the same slots or mounting holes on the side of the radio housing. In most cases, the mounting points were two screws that were clipped on each side of the of the radio housing. In this particular photo it is the bottom set of brackets that are correct for all 1984-1987 Turbo Regals. Both brackets were identical for the left and right side. Two short threaded studs held them to the side of the radio. The top set of brackets is from a Buick Century in the mid 1980s. You can see how similar the brackets can be; yet these brackets would not line up to the holes in your dash of your 1984-1987 Turbo Regal.
Photo 3 - Shows the four basic plugs that should be in your 1984-1987 Turbo Regal. You have three main ones that appear to be the same shape. The colors of the plug ends would be blue/white/black. This is usually referred to as the 12-pin plug. Each plug has 4 connectors, however one plug only uses 3. I also show a slightly smaller 2-pin black plug in this photo, which is also needed for a stock radio.
Photo 4 - Shows the radio cavity hole where the stock 1984-1987 Turbo Regal radio would go. You see the three main plugs, blue/white/black, to the far left in the photo and the longer thin black plug to the bottom right in the photo. Nearby is also the antenna lead. The 4 red circles indicate the 4 mounting points that the factory radio bracket lines up to that would secure the radio to the dash. Once installed, the radio/heater bezel would snap around the radio and heater controls.
Watch for Part 4 on the various radios available in the Turbo Regals next week.
ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION
Got any Turbo parts you are not using? Why not cash in for parts you need with a letter of credit or cash for the upcoming holidays? 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.
GM PARTS UPDATE
It appears that the GM supply of the factory 1986-1987 molded boost line kits are dwindling and may already have disappeared from GM's warehouses inventory. We currently have a decent supply of them.
This is a very critical part, for any 1986-1987 Turbo Regal since it is needed to control boost. They have 3 specifically formed hoses with a special size diameter T in between two of the molded hoses. These also have the entire GM wording on them. Over a period of time heat can cause the hoses to swell and crack. While they last we have them available for $44.95, Part #6644. Supplies are limited.
Click Here to see this GM Boost Line Kit product page on our web site.
NEW PARTS OF INTEREST TO THE HIGH-PERFORMANCE CAR OWNER
We are now carrying 5 license plate frames.
Click Here to see our license plate frames product pages on our web site.
We have carried a plain black metal license plate frame, Part #7089, for a long time.
Here is the information about the 4 new sturdy metal frames we also now offer.
1982, 1984-1987 Grand National and All Cars & Trucks -
CUSTOM QUOTES BLACK METAL LICENSE PLATE FRAMES
Here are several unique license plate frames of special interest to the high-performance car market.
These handsome metal black license plate frames measure 12-1/4" x 6-1/4", standard size to hold state license plates. Frames are made from zinc alloy, then powder coated black for lasting quality.
The lettering is silver grey and the wording areas are laser cut into the metal, giving an embossed impression. The frames only have two holes at the top to attach to the license bracket. There are small tabs on the back to hold your license plate in place at the base of the license plate frames.
An excellent finishing touch for any license plate.
7248 - 1982, 1984-1987 Grand National -
"GRAND NATIONAL - BAD TO THE BONE" Black Metal License Plate Frame - $28.95
7249 - All Cars & Trucks -
"WE BRAKE FOR MUSTANGS" Black Metal License Plate Frame - $28.95
7250 - All Cars & Trucks -
"WE BRAKE FOR CORVETTES" Black Metal License Plate Frame - $28.95
7251 - All Cars & Trucks -
"DON'T TRY IT - YOU WILL LOSE" Black Metal License Plate Frame - $28.95
BE SURE TO CHECK OUT OUR CHRISTMAS SPECIALS
We have a total of 22 different Christmas Specials available until December 18th, 2009. They can be found on our web site home page.
Click Here to see our CHRISTMAS SPECIALS pages on our web site.
IT WAS BOUND TO HAPPEN SOONER OR LATER
I just read that Walmart has figured out how to make one of the last sales in your lifetime... they are now marketing caskets! It was just a matter of time until they got into an area of products that was usually handled by funeral homes and cemeteries!
CALENDER OF EVENTS
2009-2010 UPCOMING BUICK RELATED EVENTS
NOTE - If you know of a GM or Buick Turbo event for this year, let us know and we can post it in our weekly Turbo Regal Inner Circle so our members are aware of the event.
The best way to stay informed with the show season is to check out the various Turbo Buick forums.
SOUTHERN BUICK SHOOTOUT 2009 - Reynolds, Georgia -
Friday & Saturday, NOVEMBER 6th & 7th, 2009 -
The Southern Buick Shootout 2009 event at the Silver Dollar Raceway is scheduled for November 6th and 7th, 2009. This event will be open to any and all BUICK, OLDS, and PONTIAC cars. The event will include a points race for the TSO and TSM categories, as well as other potential Buick categories.
The plan is to have heads-up / index pacing available for those racers that cannot run in TSM/TSO categories. They also plan to have Gamblers Racing for both Sportsman type cars (no delay boxes allowed) and Top Eliminator (delay Box). The will be Test-N-Tune all day both days. If you have questions, email - [email protected]
The Northeast Association of Syclone and Typhoon Enthusiasts (NASTE) has moved their annual meet this year from New Jersey to Hooters in Bensalem, Pennsylvania. The event is Sunday, November 8th, 1pm - 5pm All vehicles welcome, especially Turbo-V6's. Just come and hang out...no trophies, no fees, and no pressure. Rain date is Sunday, November 15, 1pm - 5pm.
2010 UPCOMING BUICK RELATED EVENTS
Looking ahead into next Spring 2010, the first Turbo Buick event of the season will be the first ever "turbobuick.com Nationals." The dates are March 15-20, 2010 in Burlington, NC area.
For more information on this March event, click on the thread - http://www.turbobuick.com/forums/national-racing-events-info/292319-2010-turbobuick-com-nationals.html - Or, you can email Clint Adkins at - [email protected]
"Light Your Fire" - 2010 Buick Performance Group Nationals - July 30 - August 1, 2010 at the National Trail Raceway in Hebron OH (near Columbus). They want to gather together the largest number of 1969-1974 factory Stage1 cars anyone has ever seen since the Buick muscle car days of Flint.
This is a special event that may never come to pass again, so don't miss the factory "Stage1 Convention" at the 2010 Buick Performance Group National Event. For more info, go to - http://www.buickperformancegroup.com/forums/showthread.php?t=8754
NOTE - If you know of a GM or Buick Turbo event, let us know and we can post it in our weekly Turbo Regal Inner Circle so our members are aware of the event.
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE CLOSE OUT PARTS
On the parts listed below, you must call our office to purchase them. These are close out items, items that have changed designs, or items that are no longer available.
We have the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal - GM Air Flow Duct (from turbo to MAF sensor), Part #6536 in stock for $61.95. Just a few left now.
EBAY LISTINGS
If you would like to see any Kirban Performance Products items listed on eBay, here is a link to our store and auctions -
http://stores.ebay.com/Kirban-Performance-Products-Inc_W0QQssPageNameZl2QQtZ km
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 not remember who requested the item.
RARE PARTS FROM US
Because of upcoming travel plans no rare parts will appear in this section this weeks Inner Circle.
IN CLOSING
This week, November 7th and 8th we will be in Ocala, Florida at Don Garlits' 22nd Annual Mopar event. We'll be one of his special guests as a vendor selling ZDDPlus™ and the ZPaste™. Richard Clark is planning to go to this event as well as Paul Castle. We hope you come by and say hello either Saturday or Sunday.
For more information, check out the website for the Mopar Florida club that puts on this Mopar event at Don Garlits Museum - www.floridamoparassociation.com