Replacement steering columns

[Michael D]

Ok here is the stupid question of the day regrading tilt steering columns.
First off the issues:
Just like the other post regarding the gear shift handle fitment, the feature on my column is worn, my tilt is worn and wobbly, the internal horn and turn signal wiring is worn, the turn signal cam assembly is cracked and needs to be replaced.
Ok you get the point.
I can buy just about everything and repair it but aside from the turn signal cam assembly and wiring I believe I’d have to pull the column to replace said wiring along with the rubber grommet at the gauge cluster where it mounts to the dash.
Even doing so I would still have the issues with the column length, a couple inches shorter would be nice albeit not needed.

My questions:
With so many different columns available, varying in price from $250-$1000 WHAT TILT COLUMNS ARE THE BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK AND WHICH SHOULD I AVOID?
Every reproduction seller, LMC, Classic, Holley, IDIDIT, Flaming River, etc. has them, heck even Amazon even sells them.
They’re all wired with neutral safety wiring, new turn signal cams etc. I’ve replaced just about everything on this K10 to keep it looking stock, so repro parts are ok by me. I just need a good steering column that isn’t sloppy and will last until I decide to build a K5.

[LS short box]

I didn't use a column shift but I've used Ididt tilt steering columns and have worked well on my hot rod projects.
Couple of pics.

[58 Special]

Rebuild your original. Relocate neutral safety switch. Shorten intermediate shaft and repin it no problems. Just my two bits.

[StingRay]

Van and RV columns are a dime a dozen. RV columns are generally like new on the shift lever and tilt mechanism. Use those parts as donors to renew yours. Can't beat a genuine GM column.

[dmjlambert]

I don't have a tilt steering column but I sent my non-tilt column to a fellow forum member to have him rebuild and shorten it and that was the best deal for me.

[1970cstblazer]

There are a few guys on the board that refurbish the orig. tilt columns, whether it be for floor shift or column shift auto.

Member Don D did my floor shift tilt for my 1970 Blazer and it is a work of art, and functions perfectly.

The aftermarket columns are typically cheaply constructed, and will cost you more in the long run.

[KMC3420]

@70shortfleet is another member who does excellent work restoring original GM columns.

Thread

[MikeB]

Back in the early 2000s, I bought a 55 Chevy car with an Ididit floor-shift column that had originally been installed in another car of some kind. I wanted to get it shortened, so I called Ididit. They charged me $50 to shorten it, and then they replaced virtually every internal part for no-charge. It came back looking brand new! They even paid for return shipping. Probably the best customer service I've ever experienced.

Later I installed a column shift version in a 66 Chevy pickup, and it worked perfectly. My only complaint was the stick-on gear indicator. Gotta be a better way, and maybe they've come up with something since then.

On another note, a few years ago I shortened my 69's non-tilt, auto trans column by a little over 1". Maybe it was just me, but it was a real PITA, and I couldn't go another inch. Wish I could remember why. The upside was that even 1" helped, and I replaced or refurbished several internal parts and got rid of at least 50% of the slop. It may be something to re-tackle in the future. Finished product below.