Greetings Turbo Regal Inner Circle Members 12-18-2019 –
HOLIDAY SCHEDULE –
There will be no weekly Inner Circle over the next 2 weeks. The Inner Circle will resume Wednesday, January 8th at 3 pm eastern time as usual.
Our company will be closed the week between Christmas and New Year’s.
We will still receive incoming deliveries as usual.
NOTE - Some website orders may be filled during that week, depending on Christina’s plans. Email questions and phone calls will not be answered during the week between Christmas and New Year’s.
CHRISTMAS CARTOONS BY FRED BOATMAN –
Several years ago, we had Fred Boatman do a series of about 30 Turbo Regal cartoons for us. We gave him the idea for each cartoon and he put his talent of drawing to work. During the 1960s and 1970s Fred’s did cartoons for Peterson Publications. His work has appeared in Hot Rod and Car Craft, just to name a few.
I found my stash of his artwork he did for us and we just put scans of them in a spiral bound booklet. See the Rare Parts section for price. The booklet has over 30 different Turbo Regal cartoons in it.
PHOTO 1 – Shows both Christmas theme cartoons he did for us. One is #18 and the other is #30. All the cartoons he did for us were entitled, “Adventures of Tommy Turbo.”
CHRISTMAS CONTEST –
This contest is open to everyone except those connected to the Turbo Regal business. You MUST be an Inner Circle member to be eligible.
We recently wrote about the first project all 3 generations of Kirbans are working on. I came up with the idea and Darrell and Devyn did the sketch, blueprint, and figured out how to make it work. We already gave the drawings to the machine shop to get the samples made. Once approved, production will follow. There will be two versions of this unique part. The buyer will be able to install each version 4 different ways. I expect to have actual samples very shortly.
HERE ARE THE CLUES -
See Photo 2 below that shows the sketch of one version with an actual portion of the part that will be part of the item we are getting made. This part will fit a very wide variety of cars and trucks, not just the Turbo Regals. To my knowledge and research, I have not seen anything like this part that we have in the works.
You get one single guess. It must be submitted to my email [email protected]. The correct answer requires 2 answers. You need to tell me what this part does. Also, where does it go on the car or truck? The first correct response that has BOTH answers correct will be the winner.
The winner will receive an actual part once it’s produced. You get one shot and it must include not only your guess as to the purpose, but also where it goes.
The answers and winner will be announced in the January 8, 2020 Inner Circle. Good luck players.
PHOTO 2 – We show the actual rough sketch with one actual part that will be part of the project. Remember, to be a winner, you need to tell me its purpose and where it goes on the car or truck. Let the games begin.
GNX DASH PLATE –
When the GNX came out in 1987 a requirement to order any specific GNX replacement parts was that you had to provide certain serial numbers and, I believe, also the actual car number. This was besides the high cost associated with the unique GNX parts.
I remember back then I was in contact with a person that worked at ASC and at night he would hand paint the actual GNX dash plates on his kitchen table. I bought several of them years ago. Matter of fact, I have 001, 002, and 003 as pictured below.
Over the years, almost everything to make a GNX clone has been made available by various suppliers. We offer the ASC door jamb label for example. The toughest part to get is probably the GNX turbo and the GNX jacket. The turbo is probably the biggest cost in a GNX conversion.
The various reproduction GNX dash plates are very close to looking like the original. The one major difference is that the original was hand painted and the font appears to be raised (you can feel the letters and number if you rub your finger over it.) The various reproductions are printed and are perfectly smooth to the touch. See the Rare Parts section for price.
PHOTO 3 – We show three different GNX dash plates from of my private collection. One of the three shown is an original factory GNX dash plate #003. On the dash plate #501 you can see the font size is definitely smaller than what is on GNX dash plate #003. The red is a different shade as well. On the #469 dash plate the font style is very close to the original and the font for the lettering is slightly different. These slight differences would probably not be very detectable to the naked eye unless you had all 3 versions in front of you at the same time.
ORIGINIAL TURBO BUICK LITERATURE FROM THE EARLY 1980s –
In Photo 4 we show 3 very rare original Buick Turbo booklets. Two of them feature the very early Turbo V6 on the cover. This is prior to when they added intercooler to the format. The small white brochure is 6-pages and describes how the new Turbo V6 out performs against the bigger non- turbo engines.
The larger brochure features the same V6 turbo engine but goes into a little more detail and how it is now featured in the Regal body and the Riviera both in the T-Type model. This brochure is 8 pages in length.
Last, but not least, is the Buick Motorsports booklet. It’s 8 pages in length. It talks about the involvement with Indy and Nascar as well as the NHRA.
PHOTO 4 – The first photo shows the small brochure with the early turbo V6 engine on the cover. The middle photo has basically the same engine photo has more details inside. The brochure on the far right covers Buicks involvement with Indy and Nascar. See the Rare Parts section for price.
OUR PERSONAL TURBO REGAL 1:18 SCALE GMP DIECAST COLLECTION –
I have probably between 12 and 15 of the GMP Turbo Regal diecast cars. Virtually every color T-Type and Turbo-T, including Tweaked, as well as various Grand Nationals and GNXs.
I will be putting them on ebay soon. If you have a specific one you are interested in, email me [email protected]
I also have probably another 15 or so of the 1:24 or 1:25 scale diecast Turbo Regals that I will also be putting on ebay shortly.
IMPORTANT SHIPPING ADDRESS NOTICE –
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT OUR ADDRESS -
If you are returning any cores or products, it is important that you send them to the correct address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
529 HAYCOCK RUN ROAD
KINTNERSVILLE, PA 18930
We just discovered that Fed Ex will not forward any packages that are sent to the PO Box or to our old address in Plumsteadville. Instead they deliver the packages to the old address and leave them outside. They refuse to forward and say that we should notify the shipper. In most cases, we have no idea when we are getting packages shipped back to us.
If you have any cores that are being sent back to us, be sure to use the correct address, especially if you use Fed Ex. Otherwise, we may not receive your package or it may be sent back to you.
HERE IS A GREAT IDEA –
I think most of my readers would agree that over the years they have made a massive amount of different Turbo Regals, including Grand Nationals, in plastic and diecast. If you attempted to collect one of each in diecast and plastic in every scale and every color, that total of different Turbo Regals models would be somewhere north of 75 variations.
There is a company called Makerhaus.biz. They are a German company that makes 1:3 scale model engines. The block is transparent as are the valve covers which show a moving valve train. Red LED lights signify the firing on the plugs. They even create the engine sounds using three double AA batteries. The downside is you must have the patience to assemble it.
The quality appears to be top notch. Here is a YouTube link showing the kit and a person that is showing all the parts.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9fGuVO9Ospg
They make BMW engine and Porsche. Recently they did their first American engine - the Mustang 289. The price seems reasonable at $185.95. Granted, the Mustang would achieve more sales than a Turbo Buick engine but knowing German quality, I would be willing to pay a few more bucks to have one done identical to the turbo 3.8 SFI engine. That would really be slick. They could even make it drip an oil-like substance to be realistic!
EBAY SALES –
We have been placing some of our special items on ebay. We post under two company names - Kirban Performance for new parts. Kirban Enterprises for used and rare items. If you search for sellers – kirbanperformance – kirbanenterprises (Do not put a space between kirban and second word.) Or bookmark the links below. Be sure to check it out.
Here is a link to the Kirban Performance ebay listings –
https://www.ebay.com/sch/kirbanperformance/m.html?item=333406745159&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2562
Here is a link to the Kirban Enterprises ebay listings –
https://www.ebay.com/sch/kirbanenterprises/m.html?item=264511012420&ssPageName=STRK%3AMESELX%3AIT&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2562
IMPORTANT NOTE ON RARE PARTS FOR SALE –
In order for our Inner Circle members to have an equal opportunity on the Rare Parts, no emails regarding orders on rare parts will be honored prior to 3 pm Wednesday. This way Inner Circle members get the opportunity first to purchase any of the rare items that may be pictured in the main body of the Inner Circle which may go on our website earlier in the day each week. Inner Circle members get to see the Rare Parts listing and see the prices first.
1986-1987 BUICK TURBO REGAL DATA BOOKLET & 1987 PRICE DIRECTORY –
NOTE - See Rare Parts section we still have a few copies of both booklets available.
Few years ago, we did a small run of these popular booklets - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal Data Booklet and 1987 Price Directory. I recently came across a few more copies of both booklets. The 1987 Price Directory is pocket size and runs 66 pages. It lists every 1987 Buick model with every option, the price of that option, and most important the order code for that option.
It is that order code that appears on your SPID label (also referred to as the trunk ID label.) Those codes appear on several lines depending on the number of options, and are in alphabetical order.
This little handy pocket-size booklet is great to have and to keep in your glove box as you can quickly decode any option found on a 1987 Turbo Regal. This copy is identical to the original.
The other booklet I found was the 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal Data Booklet. This runs 55 pages, is 8½ by 11, and is spiral bound.
It covers both Drivability and Emissions in detail, explaining various codes such issues as rough, unstable, or incorrect idle. The booklet also has a section on turbos including the specs to tighten all the various parts to the turbo. It also covers the exhaust manifolds, intake, and intercooler. Again, all original factory critical information at your fingertips with this booklet.
This Data booklet and the pocket size 1987 Price Directory are listed in the Rare Parts section for sale. The best deal to save shipping costs is to buy both, as shipping is virtually the same.
This breaks down every option possible.
WELL-OPTIONED LOW-MILEAGE 1987 GRAND NATIONAL - FOR SALE –
This Grand National is still available. This extremely well-optioned, low-mileage 1987 Grand National that is for sale. The owner wants me to sell it for him. He has had it 6 years. The miles on this Grand National is a mere 48,200. Options include factory moonroof, power windows, power locks, tilt, cruise, delay wipers, concert sound, power trunk, digital dash, power seat, working power antenna, and posi rear. The Grand National is located in Maryland.
It has a beautiful repaint done prior to his owning it. He had paint correction done and ceramic coating this past Spring. The car really shines, probably 100%, better than original. Everything functions 100%, even the original AC.
Additional features include embroidered floor mats, few chrome goodies under the hood, Kirban adjustable fuel regulator, hot wire kit, 60lb injectors, adjustable wastegate, TT chip, new bumper fillers, new fuel tank, and has dual a-pillar gauges and console gauge package. He checked the car with a magnet and shows no putty or filler anywhere. It has the factory chip guard along bottom of the car.
According to the owner Mike, the Grand National has had 4 previous owners. The car shows no accidents or any indication that mileage is not accurate.
The price is $26,900. This Grand National is priced to sell. You would be hard pressed to find a better example of a well-optioned 1987 Grand National that would measure up to the quality of this one at this price. A factory moon roof with a power seat option is extremely rare. This car next Spring would easily bring several grand more than it is priced at this fall.
This car is show quality from any angle. For more information and photos, email me direct [email protected]
Pass the word along to your friends who may be looking for a great-looking well-optioned Grand National.
1987 GRAND NATIONAL WITH T-TOPS FOR SALE –
Located in Virginia, this1987 Grand National has had the same owner for 22 years. He has been a long-time customer of ours. He had his Grand National at the Kirban Reunion and Birthday Bash in 2007. The trunk ID label has been autographed by Molly. Richard Clark has rebuilt the transmission. It has 76,000 original miles on it and has been garage kept. The motor internally is all stock except for new valve springs and timing chain. It has the rear seat brace kit, HR rear suspension, 3” down pipe, 60lb injectors with turbo tweak chip, vacuum brakes, and it also has the Jason Cramer front mount intercooler. Owner is Tom Jones. The price tag is $27,900. For more info and pictures, email Tom direct - [email protected]
CORES NEEDED - URGENT REQUEST –
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
POWERMASTER BRAKE UNITS. Currently, due to issues getting brake bowls we are not accepting any additional powermaster cores until I get word Cardone has brake bowls again.
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. This is the only item 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
529 HAYCOCK RUN ROAD
KINTNERSVILLE, PA 18930
CARSMARTS RADIO IS ON THE AIR AND ON THE WEB! –
Turbo V6 enthusiast Steve Saffier (who produced “Dennis Kirban” story on YouTube) is producer and host of CarSmarts Radio which is in its third season! The show is heard in eastern PA on 610 ESPN Radio every Saturday from 11 am – 12 noon and on WOND 1400 in southern New Jersey, Sundays from 10am – 11am. You can also listen to the live stream at that time - download the podcast on http://www.610 espn.com (Live and Local)
Past guests have included me (Dennis Kirban) Brock Yates Jr, Steve Magnante, as well as car photographers, car museum staff, tech students, car clubs, and much more. Tune up and Tune in! More info at http://www.carsmartsradio.com
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 –
Remember, there is NO weekly Inner Circle for the next two weeks. It will resume Wednesda, January 8th at the normal 3 pm eastern time direct to your inbox if you are a member.
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.
WANTED TO BUY –
WANTED TO BUY: NOS Buick parts for the 1986 and 1987 Buick Turbo Regals. Have you sold your Buick Turbo Regal and have NOS parts left or have a collection of NOS parts you are interested in selling? Some of the items I am looking for are NOS powermaster brake parts, NOS blackout trim, NOS engine parts, NOS sensors, NOS interior parts. I travel to purchase and am a CASH buyer. References can be supplied upon request. No part to big or small. Please call or e-mail and leave message. All calls and e-mails will be returned. Jason Maxfield 416-399-7265 or [email protected] Niagara Falls, NY 14304. Thank you and Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! 3 of 4.
NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE BUICK RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the Buick 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. To subscribe simply email – [email protected] - to get our free weekly Inner Circle email.
The Buick 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]
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 –
This new part may not yet be on our website. Our supplier who had them made has them in stock and will drop ship direct for us. Display stands are available in powder-coated glossy silver or powder-coated matte black finish.
To order now in time for, call Christina at 215-766-1611 during normal work hours. Refer to the part number listed below for either the powder-coated glossy silver display stand or the powder-coated matte black display stand.
This new car display stand solves the issue of having a display sign for your show car or truck being blown over by the wind or having someone trip over it if it’s leaning against your show vehicle. This stays secure by either of the front tires. The area you put your actual information on has 3 different positons so it can face in 3 different directions.
SPECIFICATIONS - This plate is angled at the perfect height for easy reading. It is made in steel. Each part is then powder coated. The display stand is comprised of 3 parts and no tools are needed to assemble. Each end of the stand locks into the base and the top display plate. Once assembled, its overall height is 45 inches high. It weighs 12 lbs. The pole length 41 inches. The pole angles out from the fender. The top plate that the information goes on is an 8-inch square surface. The base plate secured by either front tire is 10-½ inches by 18 inches.
#7878 - Car Show Steel Display Stand – Powered-Coated Gloss Silver - $169.95 plus $18 shipping*
#7879 - Car Show Steel Display Stand – Powered-Coated Matte - $169.95 plus $18 shipping*
*Shipping rate noted above is for the 48 states only.
PA residents add 6% sales tax.
MAGIC GUARD®
MAGIC GUARD® is a new patented multi-use product that protects wheels, prevents rust and repels rain. It is used as a wheel sealant that works on all wheels (chrome, mag, aluminum, etc.) by providing a hydrophobic barrier that decreases brake dust contamination and decreases wheel cleaning time by up to 50% post-application,
Another use for Magic Guard® is to protect plated and coated metals from rust and corrosion,
Because of Magic Guard’s hydrophobic nature, customers also apply it to their window glass to enhance visibility due to its superior water beading.
WHEEL SEALANT - Protect chrome, aluminum and all other wheels from brake dust, road grime, saltwater and more.
RUST PREVENTION - Protects all bare, coated and plated metal from mother nature with its durable barrier.
RAIN REPELLENT - Enhances visibility with superior water beading technology, and prevents water spots.
These two products - Magic Guard® #8002 and Rust Prevention Magic® #8003 - were created and patented by Dave Walden, who is the founder of ECS Automotive Concepts. He is also a three-time Mopar Nationals OE Gold and Best of Show winner (2005, 2008 & 2010). A rare accomplishment and Dave did it with 3 different Mopars!
Dave invented these two products out of necessity because what was available for protecting metals was not effective, and his hard work began to flash rust soon after completion.
When applied to bare metal it creates a durable barrier and prevents rust.
Comes in an easy-to-use 4-ounce container, complete with soft application cloth and easy-to-follow directions.
*NOTE - Price includes the USPS shipping and handling in the U.S.
NOTE - Because of a problem with the website, we note the final cost of this product which INCLUDES a predetermined shipping rate. The “FREE SHIPPING” box that shows on this page is there in error
8002 - MAGIC GUARD®, 4 oz jar - $14.99 + $5 shipping = $19.99
Here is the link to Magic Guard® on our website.
RUST PREVENTION MAGIC®
Rust Prevention Magic® is a patented and lab certified rust/corrosion prevention product. RPM provides a near impenetrable barrier on bare metals such as alloys, aluminum, copper, iron, brass, cast iron, stainless steel and many other metals to protect them from the harmful effects of acids, corrosion, moisture, salt water, rust and more!
US Patented Product, winner of the Top New Product Award at SEMA show, 100% Lab Certified by Dale Institute LLC, featured on My Classic Car with Dennis Gage, and over 25 articles in various automotive publications.
Comes in an easy-to-use 4-ounce container, complete with brush and easy-to-follow directions. There is no better way to maintain a 100% correct automotive restoration project.
These two products - Magic Guard® #8002 and Rust Prevention Magic® #8003 - were created and patented by Dave Walden, who is the founder of ECS Automotive Concepts. He is also a three-time Mopar Nationals OE Gold and Best of Show winner (2005, 2008 & 2010). A rare accomplishment and Dave did it with 3 different Mopars!
Dave invented these two products out of necessity because what was available for protecting metals was not effective, and his hard work began to flash rust soon after completion
*NOTE - Price includes the USPS shipping and handling in the U.S.
NOTE - Because of a problem with the website, we note the final cost of this product which INCLUDES a predetermined shipping rate. The “FREE SHIPPING” box that shows on this page is there in error
8003 - RUST PREVENTION MAGIC®, 4 oz jar - $19.99 + $5 shipping = $24.99
Here is a link to this Rust Prevention Magic® 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] - and 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 –
Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and good health in 2020.
My Dad always would tell us, “Your Health is Your Wealth.” That quote rings so true.
Be sure to try our contest. Remember, the answer requires two answers!
Watch for a new contest coming in the January 8, 2020 Inner Circle to start out the New Year!
HOLIDAY SCHEDULE –
There will be no weekly Inner Circle over the next 2 weeks. The Inner Circle will resume Wednesday, January 8th at 3 pm eastern time as usual.
Our company will be closed the week between Christmas and New Year’s.
We will still receive incoming deliveries as usual.
NOTE - Some website orders may be filled during that week, depending on Christina’s plans. Email questions and phone calls will not be answered during the week between Christmas and New Year’s.
CHRISTMAS CARTOONS BY FRED BOATMAN –
Several years ago, we had Fred Boatman do a series of about 30 Turbo Regal cartoons for us. We gave him the idea for each cartoon and he put his talent of drawing to work. During the 1960s and 1970s Fred’s did cartoons for Peterson Publications. His work has appeared in Hot Rod and Car Craft, just to name a few.
I found my stash of his artwork he did for us and we just put scans of them in a spiral bound booklet. See the Rare Parts section for price. The booklet has over 30 different Turbo Regal cartoons in it.
PHOTO 1 – Shows both Christmas theme cartoons he did for us. One is #18 and the other is #30. All the cartoons he did for us were entitled, “Adventures of Tommy Turbo.”
CHRISTMAS CONTEST –
This contest is open to everyone except those connected to the Turbo Regal business. You MUST be an Inner Circle member to be eligible.
We recently wrote about the first project all 3 generations of Kirbans are working on. I came up with the idea and Darrell and Devyn did the sketch, blueprint, and figured out how to make it work. We already gave the drawings to the machine shop to get the samples made. Once approved, production will follow. There will be two versions of this unique part. The buyer will be able to install each version 4 different ways. I expect to have actual samples very shortly.
HERE ARE THE CLUES -
See Photo 2 below that shows the sketch of one version with an actual portion of the part that will be part of the item we are getting made. This part will fit a very wide variety of cars and trucks, not just the Turbo Regals. To my knowledge and research, I have not seen anything like this part that we have in the works.
You get one single guess. It must be submitted to my email [email protected]. The correct answer requires 2 answers. You need to tell me what this part does. Also, where does it go on the car or truck? The first correct response that has BOTH answers correct will be the winner.
The winner will receive an actual part once it’s produced. You get one shot and it must include not only your guess as to the purpose, but also where it goes.
The answers and winner will be announced in the January 8, 2020 Inner Circle. Good luck players.
PHOTO 2 – We show the actual rough sketch with one actual part that will be part of the project. Remember, to be a winner, you need to tell me its purpose and where it goes on the car or truck. Let the games begin.
GNX DASH PLATE –
When the GNX came out in 1987 a requirement to order any specific GNX replacement parts was that you had to provide certain serial numbers and, I believe, also the actual car number. This was besides the high cost associated with the unique GNX parts.
I remember back then I was in contact with a person that worked at ASC and at night he would hand paint the actual GNX dash plates on his kitchen table. I bought several of them years ago. Matter of fact, I have 001, 002, and 003 as pictured below.
Over the years, almost everything to make a GNX clone has been made available by various suppliers. We offer the ASC door jamb label for example. The toughest part to get is probably the GNX turbo and the GNX jacket. The turbo is probably the biggest cost in a GNX conversion.
The various reproduction GNX dash plates are very close to looking like the original. The one major difference is that the original was hand painted and the font appears to be raised (you can feel the letters and number if you rub your finger over it.) The various reproductions are printed and are perfectly smooth to the touch. See the Rare Parts section for price.
PHOTO 3 – We show three different GNX dash plates from of my private collection. One of the three shown is an original factory GNX dash plate #003. On the dash plate #501 you can see the font size is definitely smaller than what is on GNX dash plate #003. The red is a different shade as well. On the #469 dash plate the font style is very close to the original and the font for the lettering is slightly different. These slight differences would probably not be very detectable to the naked eye unless you had all 3 versions in front of you at the same time.
ORIGINIAL TURBO BUICK LITERATURE FROM THE EARLY 1980s –
In Photo 4 we show 3 very rare original Buick Turbo booklets. Two of them feature the very early Turbo V6 on the cover. This is prior to when they added intercooler to the format. The small white brochure is 6-pages and describes how the new Turbo V6 out performs against the bigger non- turbo engines.
The larger brochure features the same V6 turbo engine but goes into a little more detail and how it is now featured in the Regal body and the Riviera both in the T-Type model. This brochure is 8 pages in length.
Last, but not least, is the Buick Motorsports booklet. It’s 8 pages in length. It talks about the involvement with Indy and Nascar as well as the NHRA.
PHOTO 4 – The first photo shows the small brochure with the early turbo V6 engine on the cover. The middle photo has basically the same engine photo has more details inside. The brochure on the far right covers Buicks involvement with Indy and Nascar. See the Rare Parts section for price.
OUR PERSONAL TURBO REGAL 1:18 SCALE GMP DIECAST COLLECTION –
I have probably between 12 and 15 of the GMP Turbo Regal diecast cars. Virtually every color T-Type and Turbo-T, including Tweaked, as well as various Grand Nationals and GNXs.
I will be putting them on ebay soon. If you have a specific one you are interested in, email me [email protected]
I also have probably another 15 or so of the 1:24 or 1:25 scale diecast Turbo Regals that I will also be putting on ebay shortly.
IMPORTANT SHIPPING ADDRESS NOTICE –
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT OUR ADDRESS -
If you are returning any cores or products, it is important that you send them to the correct address -
KIRBAN PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
529 HAYCOCK RUN ROAD
KINTNERSVILLE, PA 18930
We just discovered that Fed Ex will not forward any packages that are sent to the PO Box or to our old address in Plumsteadville. Instead they deliver the packages to the old address and leave them outside. They refuse to forward and say that we should notify the shipper. In most cases, we have no idea when we are getting packages shipped back to us.
If you have any cores that are being sent back to us, be sure to use the correct address, especially if you use Fed Ex. Otherwise, we may not receive your package or it may be sent back to you.
HERE IS A GREAT IDEA –
I think most of my readers would agree that over the years they have made a massive amount of different Turbo Regals, including Grand Nationals, in plastic and diecast. If you attempted to collect one of each in diecast and plastic in every scale and every color, that total of different Turbo Regals models would be somewhere north of 75 variations.
There is a company called Makerhaus.biz. They are a German company that makes 1:3 scale model engines. The block is transparent as are the valve covers which show a moving valve train. Red LED lights signify the firing on the plugs. They even create the engine sounds using three double AA batteries. The downside is you must have the patience to assemble it.
The quality appears to be top notch. Here is a YouTube link showing the kit and a person that is showing all the parts.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9fGuVO9Ospg
They make BMW engine and Porsche. Recently they did their first American engine - the Mustang 289. The price seems reasonable at $185.95. Granted, the Mustang would achieve more sales than a Turbo Buick engine but knowing German quality, I would be willing to pay a few more bucks to have one done identical to the turbo 3.8 SFI engine. That would really be slick. They could even make it drip an oil-like substance to be realistic!
EBAY SALES –
We have been placing some of our special items on ebay. We post under two company names - Kirban Performance for new parts. Kirban Enterprises for used and rare items. If you search for sellers – kirbanperformance – kirbanenterprises (Do not put a space between kirban and second word.) Or bookmark the links below. Be sure to check it out.
Here is a link to the Kirban Performance ebay listings –
https://www.ebay.com/sch/kirbanperformance/m.html?item=333406745159&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2562
Here is a link to the Kirban Enterprises ebay listings –
https://www.ebay.com/sch/kirbanenterprises/m.html?item=264511012420&ssPageName=STRK%3AMESELX%3AIT&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2562
IMPORTANT NOTE ON RARE PARTS FOR SALE –
In order for our Inner Circle members to have an equal opportunity on the Rare Parts, no emails regarding orders on rare parts will be honored prior to 3 pm Wednesday. This way Inner Circle members get the opportunity first to purchase any of the rare items that may be pictured in the main body of the Inner Circle which may go on our website earlier in the day each week. Inner Circle members get to see the Rare Parts listing and see the prices first.
1986-1987 BUICK TURBO REGAL DATA BOOKLET & 1987 PRICE DIRECTORY –
NOTE - See Rare Parts section we still have a few copies of both booklets available.
Few years ago, we did a small run of these popular booklets - 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal Data Booklet and 1987 Price Directory. I recently came across a few more copies of both booklets. The 1987 Price Directory is pocket size and runs 66 pages. It lists every 1987 Buick model with every option, the price of that option, and most important the order code for that option.
It is that order code that appears on your SPID label (also referred to as the trunk ID label.) Those codes appear on several lines depending on the number of options, and are in alphabetical order.
This little handy pocket-size booklet is great to have and to keep in your glove box as you can quickly decode any option found on a 1987 Turbo Regal. This copy is identical to the original.
The other booklet I found was the 1986-1987 Buick Turbo Regal Data Booklet. This runs 55 pages, is 8½ by 11, and is spiral bound.
It covers both Drivability and Emissions in detail, explaining various codes such issues as rough, unstable, or incorrect idle. The booklet also has a section on turbos including the specs to tighten all the various parts to the turbo. It also covers the exhaust manifolds, intake, and intercooler. Again, all original factory critical information at your fingertips with this booklet.
This Data booklet and the pocket size 1987 Price Directory are listed in the Rare Parts section for sale. The best deal to save shipping costs is to buy both, as shipping is virtually the same.
This breaks down every option possible.
WELL-OPTIONED LOW-MILEAGE 1987 GRAND NATIONAL - FOR SALE –
This Grand National is still available. This extremely well-optioned, low-mileage 1987 Grand National that is for sale. The owner wants me to sell it for him. He has had it 6 years. The miles on this Grand National is a mere 48,200. Options include factory moonroof, power windows, power locks, tilt, cruise, delay wipers, concert sound, power trunk, digital dash, power seat, working power antenna, and posi rear. The Grand National is located in Maryland.
It has a beautiful repaint done prior to his owning it. He had paint correction done and ceramic coating this past Spring. The car really shines, probably 100%, better than original. Everything functions 100%, even the original AC.
Additional features include embroidered floor mats, few chrome goodies under the hood, Kirban adjustable fuel regulator, hot wire kit, 60lb injectors, adjustable wastegate, TT chip, new bumper fillers, new fuel tank, and has dual a-pillar gauges and console gauge package. He checked the car with a magnet and shows no putty or filler anywhere. It has the factory chip guard along bottom of the car.
According to the owner Mike, the Grand National has had 4 previous owners. The car shows no accidents or any indication that mileage is not accurate.
The price is $26,900. This Grand National is priced to sell. You would be hard pressed to find a better example of a well-optioned 1987 Grand National that would measure up to the quality of this one at this price. A factory moon roof with a power seat option is extremely rare. This car next Spring would easily bring several grand more than it is priced at this fall.
This car is show quality from any angle. For more information and photos, email me direct [email protected]
Pass the word along to your friends who may be looking for a great-looking well-optioned Grand National.
1987 GRAND NATIONAL WITH T-TOPS FOR SALE –
Located in Virginia, this1987 Grand National has had the same owner for 22 years. He has been a long-time customer of ours. He had his Grand National at the Kirban Reunion and Birthday Bash in 2007. The trunk ID label has been autographed by Molly. Richard Clark has rebuilt the transmission. It has 76,000 original miles on it and has been garage kept. The motor internally is all stock except for new valve springs and timing chain. It has the rear seat brace kit, HR rear suspension, 3” down pipe, 60lb injectors with turbo tweak chip, vacuum brakes, and it also has the Jason Cramer front mount intercooler. Owner is Tom Jones. The price tag is $27,900. For more info and pictures, email Tom direct - [email protected]
CORES NEEDED - URGENT REQUEST –
Here is the information on our credits for cores.
POWERMASTER BRAKE UNITS. Currently, due to issues getting brake bowls we are not accepting any additional powermaster cores until I get word Cardone has brake bowls again.
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. This is the only item 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
529 HAYCOCK RUN ROAD
KINTNERSVILLE, PA 18930
CARSMARTS RADIO IS ON THE AIR AND ON THE WEB! –
Turbo V6 enthusiast Steve Saffier (who produced “Dennis Kirban” story on YouTube) is producer and host of CarSmarts Radio which is in its third season! The show is heard in eastern PA on 610 ESPN Radio every Saturday from 11 am – 12 noon and on WOND 1400 in southern New Jersey, Sundays from 10am – 11am. You can also listen to the live stream at that time - download the podcast on http://www.610 espn.com (Live and Local)
Past guests have included me (Dennis Kirban) Brock Yates Jr, Steve Magnante, as well as car photographers, car museum staff, tech students, car clubs, and much more. Tune up and Tune in! More info at http://www.carsmartsradio.com
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 –
Remember, there is NO weekly Inner Circle for the next two weeks. It will resume Wednesda, January 8th at the normal 3 pm eastern time direct to your inbox if you are a member.
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.
WANTED TO BUY –
WANTED TO BUY: NOS Buick parts for the 1986 and 1987 Buick Turbo Regals. Have you sold your Buick Turbo Regal and have NOS parts left or have a collection of NOS parts you are interested in selling? Some of the items I am looking for are NOS powermaster brake parts, NOS blackout trim, NOS engine parts, NOS sensors, NOS interior parts. I travel to purchase and am a CASH buyer. References can be supplied upon request. No part to big or small. Please call or e-mail and leave message. All calls and e-mails will be returned. Jason Maxfield 416-399-7265 or [email protected] Niagara Falls, NY 14304. Thank you and Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! 3 of 4.
NOTE - IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO SEE THE BUICK RARE PARTS SECTION -
If you are not able to see the Buick 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. To subscribe simply email – [email protected] - to get our free weekly Inner Circle email.
The Buick 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]
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 –
This new part may not yet be on our website. Our supplier who had them made has them in stock and will drop ship direct for us. Display stands are available in powder-coated glossy silver or powder-coated matte black finish.
To order now in time for, call Christina at 215-766-1611 during normal work hours. Refer to the part number listed below for either the powder-coated glossy silver display stand or the powder-coated matte black display stand.
This new car display stand solves the issue of having a display sign for your show car or truck being blown over by the wind or having someone trip over it if it’s leaning against your show vehicle. This stays secure by either of the front tires. The area you put your actual information on has 3 different positons so it can face in 3 different directions.
SPECIFICATIONS - This plate is angled at the perfect height for easy reading. It is made in steel. Each part is then powder coated. The display stand is comprised of 3 parts and no tools are needed to assemble. Each end of the stand locks into the base and the top display plate. Once assembled, its overall height is 45 inches high. It weighs 12 lbs. The pole length 41 inches. The pole angles out from the fender. The top plate that the information goes on is an 8-inch square surface. The base plate secured by either front tire is 10-½ inches by 18 inches.
#7878 - Car Show Steel Display Stand – Powered-Coated Gloss Silver - $169.95 plus $18 shipping*
#7879 - Car Show Steel Display Stand – Powered-Coated Matte - $169.95 plus $18 shipping*
*Shipping rate noted above is for the 48 states only.
PA residents add 6% sales tax.
MAGIC GUARD®
MAGIC GUARD® is a new patented multi-use product that protects wheels, prevents rust and repels rain. It is used as a wheel sealant that works on all wheels (chrome, mag, aluminum, etc.) by providing a hydrophobic barrier that decreases brake dust contamination and decreases wheel cleaning time by up to 50% post-application,
Another use for Magic Guard® is to protect plated and coated metals from rust and corrosion,
Because of Magic Guard’s hydrophobic nature, customers also apply it to their window glass to enhance visibility due to its superior water beading.
WHEEL SEALANT - Protect chrome, aluminum and all other wheels from brake dust, road grime, saltwater and more.
RUST PREVENTION - Protects all bare, coated and plated metal from mother nature with its durable barrier.
RAIN REPELLENT - Enhances visibility with superior water beading technology, and prevents water spots.
These two products - Magic Guard® #8002 and Rust Prevention Magic® #8003 - were created and patented by Dave Walden, who is the founder of ECS Automotive Concepts. He is also a three-time Mopar Nationals OE Gold and Best of Show winner (2005, 2008 & 2010). A rare accomplishment and Dave did it with 3 different Mopars!
Dave invented these two products out of necessity because what was available for protecting metals was not effective, and his hard work began to flash rust soon after completion.
When applied to bare metal it creates a durable barrier and prevents rust.
Comes in an easy-to-use 4-ounce container, complete with soft application cloth and easy-to-follow directions.
*NOTE - Price includes the USPS shipping and handling in the U.S.
NOTE - Because of a problem with the website, we note the final cost of this product which INCLUDES a predetermined shipping rate. The “FREE SHIPPING” box that shows on this page is there in error
8002 - MAGIC GUARD®, 4 oz jar - $14.99 + $5 shipping = $19.99
Here is the link to Magic Guard® on our website.
RUST PREVENTION MAGIC®
Rust Prevention Magic® is a patented and lab certified rust/corrosion prevention product. RPM provides a near impenetrable barrier on bare metals such as alloys, aluminum, copper, iron, brass, cast iron, stainless steel and many other metals to protect them from the harmful effects of acids, corrosion, moisture, salt water, rust and more!
US Patented Product, winner of the Top New Product Award at SEMA show, 100% Lab Certified by Dale Institute LLC, featured on My Classic Car with Dennis Gage, and over 25 articles in various automotive publications.
Comes in an easy-to-use 4-ounce container, complete with brush and easy-to-follow directions. There is no better way to maintain a 100% correct automotive restoration project.
These two products - Magic Guard® #8002 and Rust Prevention Magic® #8003 - were created and patented by Dave Walden, who is the founder of ECS Automotive Concepts. He is also a three-time Mopar Nationals OE Gold and Best of Show winner (2005, 2008 & 2010). A rare accomplishment and Dave did it with 3 different Mopars!
Dave invented these two products out of necessity because what was available for protecting metals was not effective, and his hard work began to flash rust soon after completion
*NOTE - Price includes the USPS shipping and handling in the U.S.
NOTE - Because of a problem with the website, we note the final cost of this product which INCLUDES a predetermined shipping rate. The “FREE SHIPPING” box that shows on this page is there in error
8003 - RUST PREVENTION MAGIC®, 4 oz jar - $19.99 + $5 shipping = $24.99
Here is a link to this Rust Prevention Magic® 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] - and 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 –
Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and good health in 2020.
My Dad always would tell us, “Your Health is Your Wealth.” That quote rings so true.
Be sure to try our contest. Remember, the answer requires two answers!
Watch for a new contest coming in the January 8, 2020 Inner Circle to start out the New Year!