Late model steering column swap

[74sqrbdy]

I have a 1974 c10 with a non tilt column. Does anyone know what it takes to put in a later model tilt column that has the headlight dimmer switch in the turn signal. I was wondering if the ignition switch plug and other plugs were the same. I dont need to use the dimmer switch on the column because I can still use the floor mounted one. I have been looking for a nice early tilt column at my salvage yards but they are always trashed. I found a nice later model one today but not sure what it takes to make it work. Thanks everyone.

[INSIDIOUS '86]

I'm curious as well as I may do this to mine. Being a Manuel you alredy have enough to do anyway with hands and feet haha
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[wraprail]

The 74 is a 1"x48 spline while the later column is 1"DD? You may be able to use the steering shaft from the later column but then it won't fit your early steering box

[motornut]

Originally Posted by 74sqrbdy

I have a 1974 c10 with a non tilt column. Does anyone know what it takes to put in a later model tilt column that has the headlight dimmer switch in the turn signal. I was wondering if the ignition switch plug and other plugs were the same. I dont need to use the dimmer switch on the column because I can still use the floor mounted one. I have been looking for a nice early tilt column at my salvage yards but they are always trashed. I found a nice later model one today but not sure what it takes to make it work. Thanks everyone.

don't know about the 74, but IIRC I pulled the (dimmer)wires outa the plastic plug should slide in the needed plug

[1774btcrew]

I would sell the later model column and buy the correct one. They both go for the same price right around $150. The later columns look big and bulky in the earlier trucks. I have rebuilt a lot of these columns and the earlier ones are also easier to work on as they have less parts. I also like the the early columns have the metal upper collars

[74sqrbdy]

Thanks for the replies....I agree 1774btcrew, I too like the slimness of the early column, and the plug and play part of it is nice. I will just have keep looking for a decent one.

[1774btcrew]

Originally Posted by 74sqrbdy

Thanks for the replies....I agree 1774btcrew, I too like the slimness of the early column, and the plug and play part of it is nice. I will just have keep looking for a decent one.

You are in California. It will be easy. There are a ton of those trucks there at the yards. The only tilts that are hard to find are floor shift ones. Get in contact with me if you want and I can suggest a couple good U Pull Its there.
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[Ziegelsteinfaust]

Try pick a part in Ontario off of Milliken.

I got mine from there, and I usually see a early tilt every time I go.

[74sqrbdy]

Thanks 1774btcrew. I have two pick-a-parts and a Ecology near me and I have probably made 10 to 15 trips to them in the past 6 months. The early tilts always seem to have bad bearings or the gear shifters have been forced so they could take it out of gear without a key. I also found one that the steering wheel lock had been forced so they could steer without a key. I think your right....I just have to keep looking.

[1774btcrew]

Originally Posted by 74sqrbdy

Thanks 1774btcrew. I have two pick-a-parts and a Ecology near me and I have probably made 10 to 15 trips to them in the past 6 months. The early tilts always seem to have bad bearings or the gear shifters have been forced so they could take it out of gear without a key. I also found one that the steering wheel lock had been forced so they could steer without a key. I think your right....I just have to keep looking.

Send me a pm. I have a suggestion for you
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