Auto transmission steering column

[dmjlambert]

I would like an auto transmission steering column for my 1963 C10, to replace my 3 on the column one. I would prefer an original GM one from a pickup truck and not really interested in aftermarket ones. I plan to put an LS engine and 4L60 transmission in it.

Do you folks have any advice on what to look for in a used steering column? Any years to avoid or can I shop anywhere from 1960 to 1972? I am mostly interested in non-tilt with neutral safety switch and backup lights switch, and stock(ish) appearance. I have manual steering, not sure yet if I'm going to power steering. I don't know what year turn signals became standard, but my 63 appears to have turn signal on the existing steering column, so I would like to get a steering column with turn signal lever.

I believe I am not interested in shifting into all the available lower gears of the auto transmission, I'm just going to use Park, R, N, D, extremely rare that I would use L as the 3rd gear and would not be using 2 and 1. If you folks think this is a huge mistake to just not worry about shifting into all gears and I must have an aftermarket column or some way to shift to lower gears, please let me know.

[SkinnyG]

I am using a 1968 C10 column in my '61. I had to adapt the column to fit the '61 mount, but it was easy.

Use the neutral safety switch and backup light switch in the 4L60E - it's way more reliable.

I fabricated my own shifter arm that worked out like this:

P = P
R = R
N = N
D = 4
2 = 3
1 = 2
? = 1

When I go to manual first, it's off the indicator. I have the detents in the column matching the detents in the transmission. 1st works, just not visible. _I_ know it's there, but I'm usually in OD or D.

[dmjlambert]

What parts did you have to fabricate?

[SkinnyG]

I welded a plate with four threaded holes inside the column tube that secures the column to the mount. I think the 60, and 61-62 columns are a bit unique.