08-08-2012 Inner Circle

Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members - 08-08-2012

REPORT FROM THE 2012 BUICK PERFORMANCE GROUP NATIONALS -

As we noted last week, we attended the 2012 Buick Performance Group Nationals held at the National Trail Raceway in Hebron, Ohio.

Pete Hoffman and I went this year. We also stopped to see Pete Serio the first night for dinner. Pete Serio, as many of you may recall, is better known in Turbo Buick circles as “The Window Rattle Guy.”

I was surprised to see so many of the older Buicks in attendance at this event.

They did have 8 real GNXs present, besides a few unique ones. There was a 1986 Grand National that was done up to resemble a GNX as the prototype and product development. Also another GNX that we will cover next week.

One of the highlights of the event was a presentation by Andrew Filippone Jr., who has been working four years on his Buick Grand National documentary. He showed a 20-minute excerpt from the movie. The movie is scheduled to be available on DVD December 11, 2012, which marks the 25th Anniversary exactly to the day that the very last Grand National came down the assembly line - December 11, 1987. Of course, I'm sure Andrew did not plan it to work out that way when he began his project four years ago. We will be selling his DVD when it becomes available in time for Christmas! I did see bits and pieces of his film and it's quite good and we're looking forward to seeing the whole movie.

The event highlighted Boats of All Buick models and years as well as Buick station wagons of all years. Here is just a sampling:

PHOTO 1 - The top left photo shows a bright red Buick convertible at the event.

The top right photo shows one of the very rare Buick station wagons. The lower left photos shows the unique roof line of this same station wagon. The lower right photo shows the powerful V8 under the hood. You have to really admire anyone that restores any of the big cars from the 1970s, as they must really enjoy the hunt for any of the unique parts they need.

PHOTO 2 - This top photos show a Buick fastback, probably a 1950 vintage. At a quick glance it appears no one wanted to park their car anywhere near this one! The bottom photos show portions of the interior. The seats and console appear to be out of a 1994-1995 Impala (I am guessing on this.) A very solid example with that aged patina exterior look.

I saw very few independent swap meet vendors at this event. However, most of the major vendors were there. One swap meet vendor did have two Turbo Regals for sale. Both would require a major commitment of time and money to restore.

PHOTO 3 - The top left photo shows a 1987 Grand National with badly faded paint and rust issues that was for sale. The top right photo shows a close up of the driver's seat. The sale sign did say it had a good running drivetrain in it.

The bottom left photo shows a complete astroroof assembly that was for sale. Once you see the entire assembly out of the car, you quickly realize just how much weight it adds to the car. You can see the one rear drain hose still attached to it.

The bottom right photo shows a portion of the back end of the other Turbo Regal car that this same vendor had for sale. The rear bumper filler panels are long gone. This vendor also had a large array of parts available spread out on the ground.

PHOTO 4 - This top left photo shows the license tag "GNX NO1." I believe this is the original 1986 Grand National that ASC converted as the prototype GNX test car using a 1986 Grand National.

The top right photo shows the Electronic Touch Climate Control in this same car, which was offered in 1986, and not in 1987

The bottom left photo shows the Grand National trim plate above the glove box that had not yet received the GNX insert.

The bottom right photo shows the heater box and you can see the "TURBO 68" code on the Harrison Heater box label, which identifies with the Electronic Touch Climate Control option. Although you probably can’t read it, the emissions label says "1986" on it as well. This Grand National still had the black interior pull straps. So, in other words, all the unique features still indicate it was a 1986 Grand National.

So, in quick review, what you have here is a very rare GNX based on its history. While one may be urged to make it 100% into a GNX, its real value lies with the fact it was the one that all the other GNX’s eventually were based on.


MORE TO COME NEXT WEEK COVERING THIS EVENT



1969 HURST/OLDS MIRRORS UPDATE -

Since last week's Turbo Regal Inner Circle was sent out, we heard from several readers providing me with more information on these unique 1969 Hurst/Olds exterior mirrors. Turns out that the original ones were made in England.

Hurst also used them that same year on the Hurst/Scrambler, which was the AMC hot car that Hurst modified. One of my sources has even informed me that two different reproductions of this mirror exist. Although they were neat looking, it was difficult to see out of them because of their size. It’s good to see we have such a smart group of readers that can help me fill in the missing pieces of our articles.



IN STOCK FOR IMMEDIATE DELIVERY -
PYPES EXHAUST SYSTEMS and CATALYTIC CONVERTER TEST PIPES

We have in stock for immediate delivery - #6996 1986-1987 Turbo Regal -
PYPES PERFORMANCE (Non-Polished Stainless Steel) Dual Exhaust System.

Here is a link to this system on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/406/PYPES+PERFORMANCE+DUAL+EXHAUST+SYSTEM+%28Non-Polished+Stainless+Steel%29+%236996.html


We also have in stock for immediate delivery - #7422 - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Catalytic Converter Test Pipe & 4-Bolt Flange Gasket.

Here is a link to this test pipe on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/43977/CATALYTIC+CONVERTER+TEST+PIPE+%26+4-BOLT+FLANGE+GASKET+%237422.html




WE HAVE ANOTHER GNX DASH AVAILABLE -

This dash is just like the GNX. It has all new Stewart Warner gauges with sending units as needed. It includes a new upper speedometer cable, directions with a copy of the original AS blueprints, a good used original gauge bezel, new applique, most important a pre-cut stock dash bezel. In other words, this is a complete kit ready to install. You do not have to cut any part of your dash, you simply remove your dash and drop this one in. All the gauges are all pre-fit properly.

The only item you will have to buy to complete it is the proper plug-and-play harness, which is available from World of Motorworks. You have to specify if you have an analog dash or a digital dash when you order the harness.

The price for this complete GNX-style dash is $1,995 plus shipping.



URGENT REQUEST - WE NEED STOCK TURBO CORES -

Currently we have an urgent need for 1986-1987 Turbo Regal stock turbo cores. They must have the exhaust housing. We will allow $75 Letter of Credit for any cores you send in.

It's important you contact our office first, so we know to expect it - 215-766-1611 x 0

By providing cores, you are helping other owners restore their cars.



NEW PARTS & NEW LINKS -

We now carry the Reproduction GM-style Front and Rear Bumper Filler Panels. Here's our complete description.

1984-1987 Buick Regal (2-Door Models) -
Reproduction GM-STYLE FRONT & REAR BUMPER FILLER PANELS

Over time, these front and rear filler panels deteriorate or crack.

The front body bumper fillers are the flexible parts located between the front bumper and the front portion of the car on either side of the grille opening. Over the years, original front body bumper filler extensions can crack and crumble due to heat and age. They can also lose their shape and droop. The original GM version had 2 pieces; a left and a right.

The rear body bumper fillers are the flexible parts located between the body and the rear bumper, across the back of the car. Over the years, original rear body bumper filler extensions can crack and crumble due to heat and age. They can also lose their shape and droop. The original GM version had 2 pieces; a left and a right.

The factory original GM front and rear body bumper fillers are no longer available.

We can finally offer a quality set of reproduction front and rear fillers which closely copy the original chemical makeup used originally by GM. These look and feel are just like the original GM units, but with a better chemical composition.

The new molds for this project were built off the last GM production runs of the original filler panels. These new panels do not have the pock marks in the fillers and are ready to scuff and paint. These look and feel like the GM originals.

The same size steel is used behind the fillers and, instead of bare metal that rusts quickly, these are black EDP coated to resist corrosion. Since the material is a TPO compound, a qualified body shop will need to use an adhesion promoter.

Fillers have been tested for fitted, and the fit is comparable to panels on an original 6,000-mile Grand National.

By purchasing these OE-quality fillers, the amount of expense in the preparation, fit, and paint work is greatly reduced over the various aftermarket bumper fillers. Most of the other aftermarket filler panels require sanding to fill pot marks and some body lines have to be sanded for a sharper quality look.

In order to give customers a choice, we are offering these and the ABS plastic filler panels. We realize not everyone will be building/restoring a high-end show car, which would require these new OE-style reproduction bumper fillers.

NOTE - If you are interested in the ABS plastic filler panels, see Part #7152 for the ABS plastic front bumper fillers and #7067 for the ABS plastic rear bumper fillers.

NOTE - Manufacturer’s warranty only applies if these filler panels are properly prepped and installed by a qualified auto body shop using an adhesion promoter.

These are excellent replacement items for any exterior restoration.

7438 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Reproduction GM-style FRONT Bumper Filler Panels (2) $159.95 / pair

7439 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Reproduction GM-style REAR Bumper Filler Panels (2) $559.95 / pair

7440 - 1984-1987 Buick Regal (All Models) -
Reproduction GM-style FRONT & REAR Bumper Filler Panels (4) Set
$649.95 / set (Save $69.95 on a set of 4 panels)

Here is a link to these Filler Panels on our website -
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=7440&submit_button=



1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal -
Reproduction TIMING CHAIN COVER with New Timing Tab

NOTE - This timing chain cover will fit all Buick small V6 engines (198, 215, 225, 231, 300, 350, and 400 engines,) not just the 1984-1987 Turbo Regals.

Over time, an original timing chain cover can become worn or leak. If you are rebuilding your motor, it is the perfect time to go with a brand new timing chain cover.

This is made by TA Performance and comes complete with a new installed neoprene seal. For added strength, this seal is secured by three screws. Final machining to BETTER-than-Original-Equipment (OE) standards is done at TA Performance. As a result, this cover is of a higher quality than the original timing chain cover.

Each timing chain cover comes with a new timing tab. Some original timing chain covers to not have a removable timing tab.

NOTE - We recommend this cover be installed by a qualified mechanic.

7437 - 1984-1987 Buick Turbo Regal - Reproduction Timing Chain Cover with New Timing Tab - $229.95

Here is a link to this Timing Chain Cover on our website:
http://www.kirbanperformance.com/product/43996/Reproduction+TIMING%E2%80%88CHAIN%E2%80%88COVER+with+New+Timing+Tab+%237437.html



REPRODUCTION GNX SUSPENSION - NOW AVAILABLE -

Pete Hoffman has a limited number of the reproduction GNX Suspension Systems available. These are the Richard Clark systems that he has had made locally.

They are nearly exact to the originals, down to the welds and material used. They come with complete detailed instructions.

Limited availability!
Call or email Pete 215-778-1036
[email protected]



ALWAYS IN A BUYING POSITION WORKS -

Got any turbo 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 PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE - We have heard from a couple people that have viewed the photos on the website. Because these have to 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].



2012 CALENDAR OF EVENTS -


2012 EAST COAST BUICK REGIONALS and FAST EVENT -
SEPTEMBER 21st and 22nd, 2012 - Friday & Saturday
Cecil County Dragway, Maryland
Event is open to all models of Buicks

Featuring the 2nd Annual MAGNA (Mid-Atlantic Grand National Association) All Buick-powered judged Car Show! All Buick's! All years! All makes!

Goodie bags for the first 50 Buicks in the show. Door prizes all day and 50/50 to win some cash. The ONLY ALL-Buick car show on the east coast!

For more information, contact Doug Dougherty - 302-653-2201 or John Csordas - 914-447-6068 or email questions to - [email protected] or [email protected]
Visit their website - http://tristategsclub.com



2012 GS NATIONALS -
OCTOBER 17-20, 2012 - Wednesday - Saturday
Beach Bend Raceway, Bowling Green, Kentucky

Racing is FREE on Wednesday, October 17th. The correct dates are October 17-20, 2012. Because of the reschedule, they have negotiated FREE racing on Wednesday, October 17th. This includes "everyone" who comes thru the gate and pays the usual nominal entrance fee. There is NO usual additional charge to race your Buick powered cars on Wednesday.

The BCA (Buick Club of America) will be joining the GSCA event. This combination will make for a well-rounded event featuring all kinds of Buicks. This is one fall event you do not want to miss!



EBAY LISTINGS -

If you would like to see any of the 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



IN CLOSING -

Not often one wishes summer to end, but I for one hope Fall brings some nice cool temperatures. With temperatures hovering near 95 and above almost every day, it makes being outside quite difficult, even for the gold fish we have in our outside pond!

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