Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 12-06-2017 -
BREAKING DOWN THE BODY NUMBER PLATE -
The Body Number Plate is sometimes also called the Body Trim Plate. This is the metal plate located under the hood by the driver’s side close to the driver’s side wiper arm. It is secured by 2 small screws and is slightly larger than a typical business card. Usually it is painted black, making it difficult to read any of the codes.
Like all the other GM identification decals, stickers, etc., GM changed it up every few years in size and location. All the 1984-1987 Turbo Regal plates are the same format and located in the same location.
Although it does not contain the VIN number, it does contain several important codes that can tell you more about your car. The main thing is, if your door decals are gone or not readable, this is the critical plate that we can figure out the month and year that the Turbo Regal was produced.
The first 4 letters and numbers on the top line is the code for the year and then the month of production. That is the critical code you need to determine the month and year your car was built. For the GM cars in the 1980s, the first letter stands for the year.
The next 2 digits stand for the month and the remaining single letter code stands for the week of the month. No month has over 5 weeks.
The next group of 5 numbers and letters gives you the car division, body type and body style. The stand alone letter (which for our cars is a P) stands for Pontiac, the assembly plant. While many may think it should be F for Flint, the fact is, the final assembly point for the Turbo Regals was Pontiac, Michigan.
After the letter P, the remaining group of 6 numbers is the unit number, which I believe deals with production number. It is not part of the actual 17-digit VIN number.
Some of the other markings on this Body Number Plate explain the seat option, roof option, and paint type. The popular code you would see for the seat option would be for bucket seats, which is the code AR9. The paint code should read Lacquer. The codes in the Body Service Manual refer to the top 3 lines of codes. Keep in mind, you could have differences in the number of lines of copy of codes on the Body Number Plate. In other words, GM was not very consistent with their code system based on what I have seen.
PHOTO 1 - The photo to the left shows the cover of 1987 General Motors Body Service Manual. GM did one of these Body Service Manuals for each year. This book covers Buick, Oldsmobile, and Pontiac. The one small paragraph on page 3 in this book shows the illustration of the Body Number Plate and the breakdown of the various codes on each line of the Body Number Plate. I am not sure if this information is anywhere else. The photo to the right shows the particular paragraph that contains the information on the Body Number Plate.
Even within the G-body years, the early G-body cars had a slightly different Body Number Plate.
PHOTO 2 - The Body Number Plate to the left shows a typical 1978 Body Number Plate. I removed this one from a 1978 Malibu. I have sanded the raised information to make the codes and wording more visible. The Body Number Plate in the photo to the right is one from a 1985 Regal. Note the code for the seats is AM6, which means 55/45 split seats. This is the format that you would see on any 1984-1987 Turbo Regal. This shows a code D84, which translates into the car receiving the Designer Series Accent paint scheme.
PROVEN METHOD TO CANCEL OUT ANY ANNOYING EXHAUST DRONE NOISE –
This tip has come from a good customer of ours, Mike out of Rhode Island. He says for anyone that has converted to a dual exhaust system, some systems can produce an annoying drone around 2,000 rpms. What Mike did on his dual exhaust system was to weld a 28-inch pipe to each tailpipe and capped them at the opposite end. They are not connected to each other.
Mike did this himself, but says any muffler shop should be able to perform this modification.
He explains what happens is the sound waves hitting each other cancels out the drone noise.
This is what many car manufacturers do regarding the air cleaners you see on vehicles today. Many of them have a sealed smaller closed box attached to the factory air box, which basically does the same thing.
I know for a fact that Pontiac did this with the 1968 GTO. I have seen it in the books where they had what appeared to be a tail that came off one tailpipe and it was pinched closed at the one end. I believe that might have been for the very same issue. If you need more info on this method, email Mike personally. His email is - [email protected]
PHOTO 3 - Here are two photos Mike sent me of this modification. Note his car has the GNX suspension. The photo may not be very clear to see the overall modification.
2 GREAT NON-CAR RELATED BOOKS - MAKES FOR GREAT CHRISTMAS GIFTS -
Either of these two books are excellent gifts to give or to receive. Both are hardbound books. One is titled, “In Such Good Company” by Carol Burnett. A very timely book as she had a 2-hour special on this past Sunday night. Her show was on for 11 years and had an impressive number of guest stars, many of which have passed away. At 280 pages, it is a very entertaining book with a lot of information on the background on the some of the guests that were on her hit TV show. I think I read the entire book in just a few days time. This is a very easy read.
The other book I recently acquired is titled, “Hank & Jim”. Hank is Henry Fonda and Jim is Jimmie Stewart. They had a long-time friendship. They were actually roommates as stage actors in New York when they started. Between the two of them, they made a lot of memorable movies. Fonda was a ladies’ man and married 5 times. Jimmie was married to the same woman for 45 years. Both served in World War II. This book is just over 300 pages. I have only recently started to read it. I have long admired their work in movies. These are two of the great male actors from the golden era of movies.
Both books were under $30 and are printed in the U.S.A. A great gift idea for that TV or movie buff.
PHOTO 4 - We show both of the books we recommend.
WE NEED YOUR IMPUT -
I am curious if any of our readers have successfully installed a different GM shifter knob to the factory 1984-1987 Turbo Regal floor shift chrome stick. Email me personally if you have and what GM vehicle did it come out of. My email is [email protected]
A COOL COINCIDENCE HAPPENED TO ME THIS PAST SATURDAY -
This past Saturday I made the 60-mile trip to a You Pull It Yard I had not visited since the early Spring. They had two rows where they have put new arrivals. In these two rows of cars I spotted a 1985 or 1986 Monte Carlo. I went over to the Monte Carlo and two guys where working on removing the exhaust manifolds and various brackets off the engine. As a courtesy, I asked if they were going to be taking anything out of the interior. They said no. Among the parts I was looking for was the brake pedal.
The steering column was still in this car, which means it’s a lot tougher for me to get the brake pedal out of the car. It would have been easier for me to remove the brake pedal probably 20 years earlier!
So, I offered the one guy $10 if he would remove the brake pedal. I told him I had the proper tools and a flashlight to make it easier. The younger one quickly agreed. In further conversation I asked him what vehicle they were working on. He said the other guy is his Dad and they were doing a resto-mod on an old pickup truck.
I then asked what kind of truck and he said a 1948 Studebaker. What are the chances? I had restored a 1947 Studebaker pickup over 45 years ago and had owned a 1-½ ton 1947 Studebaker ramp truck as well. In talking to his father, he could not believe that I had one of these unusual trucks years ago and all the info I knew about them.
Meantime his kid is almost one hour into removing the brake pedal. I reminded him that if he fails, I pay nothing. However, if he succeeds (since he is taking so long) I would give him $15. A short while later he emerged from under the dash holding the prized brake pedal. It was worth the $15 to me!
I did find one more pedal in the same yard. That car had the steering column already out of it, which makes it a lot easier for me to remove the brake pedal. That pedal is what makes our vacuum brake kits a complete kit when switching from the powermaster format to the vacuum format.
ANNUAL CHRISTMAS SPECIALS -
Here is a link to these specials on our website.
Please note it’s best to order early to be assured the item(s) will be shipped to you in time and that we have ample stock. These Christmas Special, must be ordered by phone as they can’t be ordered thru the website, 215-766-1611X0
611 AUTO SALES -
If you’re local near you might be interested in a nice 90,000 mile PT Cruiser I just detailed for them. They got it priced around $2495. It’s a clean non-smoker vehicle.
One I just added to their mix is a 2007 Pontiac G6. It’s a 4-door sedan non-smoker, one owner, with 168,000 miles on it. It is in very nice overall condition, smooth quiet running drivetrain, well optioned and even has heated seats. It is priced at $2,999.95. Remember, mention my name and price is less!
UPDATE ON COLLECTOR SELLING HIS COLLECTION DUE TO HEALTH ISSUES -
Both of the cars below the price has been dropped by $1,000.
One car is a 1978 Corvette coupe. It has the L82 engine and one repaint. This is a real nice 4-speed. The car has 4 brand new factory wheels and has 52,000 original miles. The price on the Corvette is $11,900. This is the new lower price.
He also has a 1994 Trans Am 25th Anniversary Firebird for sale. This car is all original with all the papers and documents and has 34,000 original miles. The price is $15,900. This is the new lower price. It is the version that is white with the blue stripe and all white interior and wheels.
I heard both cars run while I was there. He has all the records on both cars and what has been done on them over the years that he has owned them. Both of these cars have always garaged.
While neither car is extremely valuable, both are priced to enjoy and hit the car show circuit Because of their low production, they should maintain their value.
If any of these cars interest you, email me direct - [email protected]
GOOD NEWS - WE ARE ACCEPTING CLASSIFIED ADS -
Good news - We now accept Classified Ads in our weekly Inner Circle emails. Over the years several customers have asked about placing an ad in our weekly Inner Circle.
Here are the options and the costs.
Ads can be from any individual or company. It needs to be automotive related, meaning it does not need be specifically Turbo Regal related. It can be for something for sale or something wanted.
Maximum number of words is 125 words, which is about 7 to 9 lines of copy. No photos. You can list a website. We recommend you state your name, phone number or email, a price, and your location in your ad.
The cost for 2 consecutive weeks is $25. The cost for 4 consecutive weeks is $40. You save $10 with the 4-week plan. No changes can be made to your existing running ad. You can only run one ad at any given time. We will have a code system at the end of your ad, so we will know what week number your ad is to run - 2 or 4 weeks.
It can be an ad for something for sale or an ad for something you are looking for.
We have never missed a single week since we started the Inner Circle email format in 2009. It’s something I enjoy doing and I just always seem to have enough material to write about.
Our weekly Inner Circle reaches over 3,200 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.
THIS WEEK’S CLASSIFIED ADS -
Here is the link to buy the new 2018 Grand National/GNX calendar. The price is $20 each. If you buy 3 you get the 4th one free!
The website is http://buick-grand-national-webstarts.com
If the link does not work, you can email Duane directly at - [email protected]
Remember, when you buy 3 of the new 2018 Grand National/GNX calendars you will get 1 free! Week 1 of 4.
FOR SALE - 1971 Nova SS 43k original mi 4 speed m20 …. 3.55 posi rear all original untouched car 2 owners since new never ever driven in the rain…90% original paint that shines great never left outside never undercoated…factory radio delete and factory no power steering the car was found thru a church member just an incredible story…. ALL orig paperwork window sticker protect plate sales order and so much more…. one of those cars that only comes around once in a while… when car was found 7 years ago it was sitting for 10 years at mothers house recent work just done in the last 7 years new gas tank fuel lines new tires new radio under dash complete MAJOR tune up new exhaust all new belts and hoses have originals orig carb was just restored drives like a dream NEVER EVER ABUSED OR DRIVEN HARD CALL to discuss... this car would win any survivor class event 26500.00 firm STEALS IT GREGG DAVIDIAN 732 406 6285 car is in Jackson, New Jersey OR CAN DELIVER TO KIRBANS Week 2 of 4.
WANTED TO BUY: For a 1987 Buick Turbo Regal. NOS left and right exhaust manifolds, NOS transmission throttle valve/detent cable, NOS throttle/accelerator cable, NOS dipstick, NOS transmission dipstick, NOS left and right rear bumper fillers, NOS left and right black side markers lights, NOS left and right black metal parking light bezels, NOS left and rite black metal door edge guards, NOS black metal hood molding. Prefer parts to be in original GM factory sealed packaging or GM factory box with original GM part number tag and GM dealer tag. Serious buyer. Please e-mail clear pictures and description of part or call and leave message. All calls wil be returned. Jason Maxfield, Niagara Falls, NY 14303. Telephone 416-399-7265 email [email protected] Thank You! Week 1 of 4.
FOR SALE – 1987 Buick Turbo-T with WO2 black out option. Car is a hardtop. Car has a burgundy interior and exterior. One family owned since new. Garaged and covered since new. Car has 90,600 original miles. The car has been repainted once the correct burgundy color. No bodywork ever no accidents and no rust ever. Interior is unblemished and all original. Car comes with several extras. Car has all new weatherstripping, door seals, and trunk seal. Never raced and factory stock with only alcohol cooling added, dual exhaust, and a performance chip. Car has a new A/C system. New vacuum brakes (original powermaster goes with the car as well). Original owner’s manual, window sticker, and build sheet. $24,900 negotiable. Car is located in Georgia. For more details and photos email Pamela at [email protected] or call 229-221-8634. Week 1 of 4.
FOR SALE – GNX 270 with 31,000 miles on it. All the records, GNX jacket and GNX book are with the car. This is one you can drive and enjoy for just 70 grand. Email me [email protected] and we will forward your info to the seller. GNX is located about 75 miles from us.
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 -
If you are storing your car for its winter nap, be sure to keep a battery maintainer on the battery and make sure the fuel tank is filled with fuel.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
NEED - Stock original AC Delco 1986-1987 Turbo Regal mass air flow sensor cores. Units can’t be cracked or broken. Currently we will issue a Letter of Credit for $40 for each acceptable core.
NEED - Powermaster brake units. The must be complete. We will issue you a Letter of Credit for $125 for each acceptable core. Currently we will also buy them outright.
NEED - 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering wheels. They must not be bent or rusted. We will issue a $75 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
NEED - TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $150 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number.
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 -
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
REPRODUCTION 8-HOLE MOLDED
UNDER HOOD INSULATOR LINER PAD (NO WORDING)
Over time, an original under hood (insulator liner) pad can deteriorate or rodents may have eaten holes in the material.
GM has not had the factory 9-hole molded hood pad available for several years. GM later made an 8-hole molded hood pad which eliminated the center back hole.
This hood pad is an exact reproduction of that GM 8-hole molded hood pad. A new mold was made from a brand new GM hood pad.
This molded hood pad does not have the wording on it, otherwise it is exact to the 8-hole style pad.
Whenever an original 9-hole hood pad with the wording is advertised on ebay, it brings big money.
NOTE - From time to time on the internet you can find someone that has the pattern or decal for the exact wording, if you want it to look original.
Because they are oversized to ship, we have a flat shipping charge as shown. This item is shipped direct from the manufacturer to you. NOTE - We have a flat shipping rate, since the box is oversized.
*NOTE - Price includes the shipping and handling UPS Ground Shipping to 48 U.S. continental states.
Another excellent restoration item.
7770 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction 8-Hole Molded Under Hood Insulator Liner Pad (No Wording) - $229.95 Plus $75 UPS shipping to basic 48 states - TOTAL $304.95
Here is a link to this Hood Pad 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. 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 -
The M&M’s Christmas contest will be one of the biggest we have ever done. Watch for it coming very soon.
BREAKING DOWN THE BODY NUMBER PLATE -
The Body Number Plate is sometimes also called the Body Trim Plate. This is the metal plate located under the hood by the driver’s side close to the driver’s side wiper arm. It is secured by 2 small screws and is slightly larger than a typical business card. Usually it is painted black, making it difficult to read any of the codes.
Like all the other GM identification decals, stickers, etc., GM changed it up every few years in size and location. All the 1984-1987 Turbo Regal plates are the same format and located in the same location.
Although it does not contain the VIN number, it does contain several important codes that can tell you more about your car. The main thing is, if your door decals are gone or not readable, this is the critical plate that we can figure out the month and year that the Turbo Regal was produced.
The first 4 letters and numbers on the top line is the code for the year and then the month of production. That is the critical code you need to determine the month and year your car was built. For the GM cars in the 1980s, the first letter stands for the year.
The next 2 digits stand for the month and the remaining single letter code stands for the week of the month. No month has over 5 weeks.
The next group of 5 numbers and letters gives you the car division, body type and body style. The stand alone letter (which for our cars is a P) stands for Pontiac, the assembly plant. While many may think it should be F for Flint, the fact is, the final assembly point for the Turbo Regals was Pontiac, Michigan.
After the letter P, the remaining group of 6 numbers is the unit number, which I believe deals with production number. It is not part of the actual 17-digit VIN number.
Some of the other markings on this Body Number Plate explain the seat option, roof option, and paint type. The popular code you would see for the seat option would be for bucket seats, which is the code AR9. The paint code should read Lacquer. The codes in the Body Service Manual refer to the top 3 lines of codes. Keep in mind, you could have differences in the number of lines of copy of codes on the Body Number Plate. In other words, GM was not very consistent with their code system based on what I have seen.
PHOTO 1 - The photo to the left shows the cover of 1987 General Motors Body Service Manual. GM did one of these Body Service Manuals for each year. This book covers Buick, Oldsmobile, and Pontiac. The one small paragraph on page 3 in this book shows the illustration of the Body Number Plate and the breakdown of the various codes on each line of the Body Number Plate. I am not sure if this information is anywhere else. The photo to the right shows the particular paragraph that contains the information on the Body Number Plate.
Even within the G-body years, the early G-body cars had a slightly different Body Number Plate.
PHOTO 2 - The Body Number Plate to the left shows a typical 1978 Body Number Plate. I removed this one from a 1978 Malibu. I have sanded the raised information to make the codes and wording more visible. The Body Number Plate in the photo to the right is one from a 1985 Regal. Note the code for the seats is AM6, which means 55/45 split seats. This is the format that you would see on any 1984-1987 Turbo Regal. This shows a code D84, which translates into the car receiving the Designer Series Accent paint scheme.
PROVEN METHOD TO CANCEL OUT ANY ANNOYING EXHAUST DRONE NOISE –
This tip has come from a good customer of ours, Mike out of Rhode Island. He says for anyone that has converted to a dual exhaust system, some systems can produce an annoying drone around 2,000 rpms. What Mike did on his dual exhaust system was to weld a 28-inch pipe to each tailpipe and capped them at the opposite end. They are not connected to each other.
Mike did this himself, but says any muffler shop should be able to perform this modification.
He explains what happens is the sound waves hitting each other cancels out the drone noise.
This is what many car manufacturers do regarding the air cleaners you see on vehicles today. Many of them have a sealed smaller closed box attached to the factory air box, which basically does the same thing.
I know for a fact that Pontiac did this with the 1968 GTO. I have seen it in the books where they had what appeared to be a tail that came off one tailpipe and it was pinched closed at the one end. I believe that might have been for the very same issue. If you need more info on this method, email Mike personally. His email is - [email protected]
PHOTO 3 - Here are two photos Mike sent me of this modification. Note his car has the GNX suspension. The photo may not be very clear to see the overall modification.
2 GREAT NON-CAR RELATED BOOKS - MAKES FOR GREAT CHRISTMAS GIFTS -
Either of these two books are excellent gifts to give or to receive. Both are hardbound books. One is titled, “In Such Good Company” by Carol Burnett. A very timely book as she had a 2-hour special on this past Sunday night. Her show was on for 11 years and had an impressive number of guest stars, many of which have passed away. At 280 pages, it is a very entertaining book with a lot of information on the background on the some of the guests that were on her hit TV show. I think I read the entire book in just a few days time. This is a very easy read.
The other book I recently acquired is titled, “Hank & Jim”. Hank is Henry Fonda and Jim is Jimmie Stewart. They had a long-time friendship. They were actually roommates as stage actors in New York when they started. Between the two of them, they made a lot of memorable movies. Fonda was a ladies’ man and married 5 times. Jimmie was married to the same woman for 45 years. Both served in World War II. This book is just over 300 pages. I have only recently started to read it. I have long admired their work in movies. These are two of the great male actors from the golden era of movies.
Both books were under $30 and are printed in the U.S.A. A great gift idea for that TV or movie buff.
PHOTO 4 - We show both of the books we recommend.
WE NEED YOUR IMPUT -
I am curious if any of our readers have successfully installed a different GM shifter knob to the factory 1984-1987 Turbo Regal floor shift chrome stick. Email me personally if you have and what GM vehicle did it come out of. My email is [email protected]
A COOL COINCIDENCE HAPPENED TO ME THIS PAST SATURDAY -
This past Saturday I made the 60-mile trip to a You Pull It Yard I had not visited since the early Spring. They had two rows where they have put new arrivals. In these two rows of cars I spotted a 1985 or 1986 Monte Carlo. I went over to the Monte Carlo and two guys where working on removing the exhaust manifolds and various brackets off the engine. As a courtesy, I asked if they were going to be taking anything out of the interior. They said no. Among the parts I was looking for was the brake pedal.
The steering column was still in this car, which means it’s a lot tougher for me to get the brake pedal out of the car. It would have been easier for me to remove the brake pedal probably 20 years earlier!
So, I offered the one guy $10 if he would remove the brake pedal. I told him I had the proper tools and a flashlight to make it easier. The younger one quickly agreed. In further conversation I asked him what vehicle they were working on. He said the other guy is his Dad and they were doing a resto-mod on an old pickup truck.
I then asked what kind of truck and he said a 1948 Studebaker. What are the chances? I had restored a 1947 Studebaker pickup over 45 years ago and had owned a 1-½ ton 1947 Studebaker ramp truck as well. In talking to his father, he could not believe that I had one of these unusual trucks years ago and all the info I knew about them.
Meantime his kid is almost one hour into removing the brake pedal. I reminded him that if he fails, I pay nothing. However, if he succeeds (since he is taking so long) I would give him $15. A short while later he emerged from under the dash holding the prized brake pedal. It was worth the $15 to me!
I did find one more pedal in the same yard. That car had the steering column already out of it, which makes it a lot easier for me to remove the brake pedal. That pedal is what makes our vacuum brake kits a complete kit when switching from the powermaster format to the vacuum format.
ANNUAL CHRISTMAS SPECIALS -
Here is a link to these specials on our website.
Please note it’s best to order early to be assured the item(s) will be shipped to you in time and that we have ample stock. These Christmas Special, must be ordered by phone as they can’t be ordered thru the website, 215-766-1611X0
611 AUTO SALES -
If you’re local near you might be interested in a nice 90,000 mile PT Cruiser I just detailed for them. They got it priced around $2495. It’s a clean non-smoker vehicle.
One I just added to their mix is a 2007 Pontiac G6. It’s a 4-door sedan non-smoker, one owner, with 168,000 miles on it. It is in very nice overall condition, smooth quiet running drivetrain, well optioned and even has heated seats. It is priced at $2,999.95. Remember, mention my name and price is less!
UPDATE ON COLLECTOR SELLING HIS COLLECTION DUE TO HEALTH ISSUES -
Both of the cars below the price has been dropped by $1,000.
One car is a 1978 Corvette coupe. It has the L82 engine and one repaint. This is a real nice 4-speed. The car has 4 brand new factory wheels and has 52,000 original miles. The price on the Corvette is $11,900. This is the new lower price.
He also has a 1994 Trans Am 25th Anniversary Firebird for sale. This car is all original with all the papers and documents and has 34,000 original miles. The price is $15,900. This is the new lower price. It is the version that is white with the blue stripe and all white interior and wheels.
I heard both cars run while I was there. He has all the records on both cars and what has been done on them over the years that he has owned them. Both of these cars have always garaged.
While neither car is extremely valuable, both are priced to enjoy and hit the car show circuit Because of their low production, they should maintain their value.
If any of these cars interest you, email me direct - [email protected]
GOOD NEWS - WE ARE ACCEPTING CLASSIFIED ADS -
Good news - We now accept Classified Ads in our weekly Inner Circle emails. Over the years several customers have asked about placing an ad in our weekly Inner Circle.
Here are the options and the costs.
Ads can be from any individual or company. It needs to be automotive related, meaning it does not need be specifically Turbo Regal related. It can be for something for sale or something wanted.
Maximum number of words is 125 words, which is about 7 to 9 lines of copy. No photos. You can list a website. We recommend you state your name, phone number or email, a price, and your location in your ad.
The cost for 2 consecutive weeks is $25. The cost for 4 consecutive weeks is $40. You save $10 with the 4-week plan. No changes can be made to your existing running ad. You can only run one ad at any given time. We will have a code system at the end of your ad, so we will know what week number your ad is to run - 2 or 4 weeks.
It can be an ad for something for sale or an ad for something you are looking for.
We have never missed a single week since we started the Inner Circle email format in 2009. It’s something I enjoy doing and I just always seem to have enough material to write about.
Our weekly Inner Circle reaches over 3,200 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.
THIS WEEK’S CLASSIFIED ADS -
Here is the link to buy the new 2018 Grand National/GNX calendar. The price is $20 each. If you buy 3 you get the 4th one free!
The website is http://buick-grand-national-webstarts.com
If the link does not work, you can email Duane directly at - [email protected]
Remember, when you buy 3 of the new 2018 Grand National/GNX calendars you will get 1 free! Week 1 of 4.
FOR SALE - 1971 Nova SS 43k original mi 4 speed m20 …. 3.55 posi rear all original untouched car 2 owners since new never ever driven in the rain…90% original paint that shines great never left outside never undercoated…factory radio delete and factory no power steering the car was found thru a church member just an incredible story…. ALL orig paperwork window sticker protect plate sales order and so much more…. one of those cars that only comes around once in a while… when car was found 7 years ago it was sitting for 10 years at mothers house recent work just done in the last 7 years new gas tank fuel lines new tires new radio under dash complete MAJOR tune up new exhaust all new belts and hoses have originals orig carb was just restored drives like a dream NEVER EVER ABUSED OR DRIVEN HARD CALL to discuss... this car would win any survivor class event 26500.00 firm STEALS IT GREGG DAVIDIAN 732 406 6285 car is in Jackson, New Jersey OR CAN DELIVER TO KIRBANS Week 2 of 4.
WANTED TO BUY: For a 1987 Buick Turbo Regal. NOS left and right exhaust manifolds, NOS transmission throttle valve/detent cable, NOS throttle/accelerator cable, NOS dipstick, NOS transmission dipstick, NOS left and right rear bumper fillers, NOS left and right black side markers lights, NOS left and right black metal parking light bezels, NOS left and rite black metal door edge guards, NOS black metal hood molding. Prefer parts to be in original GM factory sealed packaging or GM factory box with original GM part number tag and GM dealer tag. Serious buyer. Please e-mail clear pictures and description of part or call and leave message. All calls wil be returned. Jason Maxfield, Niagara Falls, NY 14303. Telephone 416-399-7265 email [email protected] Thank You! Week 1 of 4.
FOR SALE – 1987 Buick Turbo-T with WO2 black out option. Car is a hardtop. Car has a burgundy interior and exterior. One family owned since new. Garaged and covered since new. Car has 90,600 original miles. The car has been repainted once the correct burgundy color. No bodywork ever no accidents and no rust ever. Interior is unblemished and all original. Car comes with several extras. Car has all new weatherstripping, door seals, and trunk seal. Never raced and factory stock with only alcohol cooling added, dual exhaust, and a performance chip. Car has a new A/C system. New vacuum brakes (original powermaster goes with the car as well). Original owner’s manual, window sticker, and build sheet. $24,900 negotiable. Car is located in Georgia. For more details and photos email Pamela at [email protected] or call 229-221-8634. Week 1 of 4.
FOR SALE – GNX 270 with 31,000 miles on it. All the records, GNX jacket and GNX book are with the car. This is one you can drive and enjoy for just 70 grand. Email me [email protected] and we will forward your info to the seller. GNX is located about 75 miles from us.
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 -
If you are storing your car for its winter nap, be sure to keep a battery maintainer on the battery and make sure the fuel tank is filled with fuel.
CORES NEEDED -
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
NEED - Stock original AC Delco 1986-1987 Turbo Regal mass air flow sensor cores. Units can’t be cracked or broken. Currently we will issue a Letter of Credit for $40 for each acceptable core.
NEED - Powermaster brake units. The must be complete. We will issue you a Letter of Credit for $125 for each acceptable core. Currently we will also buy them outright.
NEED - 1986-1987 Turbo Regal steering wheels. They must not be bent or rusted. We will issue a $75 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
NEED - TURBO CORES must be the 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo. They must be complete. We will issue you a $150 Letter of Credit for each acceptable core.
If you ship to us, the post office is the cheapest method. Pack the item(s) with a note with your name, address and phone number.
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 -
1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
REPRODUCTION 8-HOLE MOLDED
UNDER HOOD INSULATOR LINER PAD (NO WORDING)
Over time, an original under hood (insulator liner) pad can deteriorate or rodents may have eaten holes in the material.
GM has not had the factory 9-hole molded hood pad available for several years. GM later made an 8-hole molded hood pad which eliminated the center back hole.
This hood pad is an exact reproduction of that GM 8-hole molded hood pad. A new mold was made from a brand new GM hood pad.
This molded hood pad does not have the wording on it, otherwise it is exact to the 8-hole style pad.
Whenever an original 9-hole hood pad with the wording is advertised on ebay, it brings big money.
NOTE - From time to time on the internet you can find someone that has the pattern or decal for the exact wording, if you want it to look original.
Because they are oversized to ship, we have a flat shipping charge as shown. This item is shipped direct from the manufacturer to you. NOTE - We have a flat shipping rate, since the box is oversized.
*NOTE - Price includes the shipping and handling UPS Ground Shipping to 48 U.S. continental states.
Another excellent restoration item.
7770 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction 8-Hole Molded Under Hood Insulator Liner Pad (No Wording) - $229.95 Plus $75 UPS shipping to basic 48 states - TOTAL $304.95
Here is a link to this Hood Pad 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. 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 -
The M&M’s Christmas contest will be one of the biggest we have ever done. Watch for it coming very soon.