Steering column confusion

[timh2703]

My next step on my 56 chevy stepside is to purchase a steering column, and most of the steering column manufacturers suggest to install the seat first to get the correct measurement. I don't have a seat yet so is there anyone who has done this who has the correct length for a tilt column for a 56 chevy truck? I've contacted two different manufacturers and each one told me a different column length confusing me more. Also with the different brands on the market is there one better than another? Thanks for the help