Compatiable years of steering columns?

[kevinr1970]

Originally Posted by James McClure

Be aware though that IF you get a colunm out of a later model you may wind up with one that had a 4 speed automatic in it and you don't want that because in 84 there were only 3 speeds available if memory serves. If you can only get a 4 speed one you will have to strip the upper half of both and change the detent plate where the shift handle tab fits into it. 2 or 4 WD will not make a difference. jim

My '82 K5 has the OD shift pattern although the orange finger is missing. That isn't to say someone didn't replace the cluster in my truck at some point; they jimmy rigged everything else?

BUT, I think OD started in '82.

I was under the impression that the shift "detents" were a function of the transmission not the column? If you put a OD column in a 3sp truck it will still shift just find but the orange finger/indicator will be off? And vice-versa?

[no1uno55]

the ignition switch is very easy to change out and less than 15 bucks with keys at most parts stores. and the rack selector also under 15 bucks is not that bad just take your time and fix yours.