Author Topic: Auto to 5 speed swap - what to do w/the auto steering column  (Read 1076 times)

Offline jc74868

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Auto to 5 speed swap - what to do w/the auto steering column
« on: March 24, 2021, 01:08:08 PM »
I'm considering doing a 5 speed swap in my 78 C10 1/2 ton. It's a column shift automatic. I've got my donor brake/pedal setup, but haven't started anything yet other than research. One thing that I haven't really seen addressed is the steering column.  Is it best to swap out the steering column from a truck that came w/floor shift, or is there some neat trick you can do w/your current column? Of course, you don't want the old shifter sticking out there, but is there something I can do keep the current steering column that's not too much of a hassle?

I was kinda thinking about just chopping all but the smallest part off of the old shifter. That way I could unlock/lock the wheel and not have to swap out the whole column. Might look a little funny, but would still be useable, yes?
« Last Edit: March 24, 2021, 01:11:28 PM by jc74868 »
1978 Silverado SWB 383/700R4/3.73

Offline zieg85

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    • 73-87 GM squarebody extended cab and conversions up to 91 R/V series
Re: Auto to 5 speed swap - what to do w/the auto steering column
« Reply #1 on: March 24, 2021, 01:53:34 PM »
Swapping the column is best to do.  That way it is correct and has the safety feature that you depress to turn the key back to remove it.  I have sawed the nub off of the removed shifter on a 72 tilt column and filled it in.  Took me more time with the body work than swapping the column out.
Carl 
1985 C20 Scottsdale 7.4L 4 speed 3.21
1986 C10 under construction
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Offline chevn-up

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Re: Auto to 5 speed swap - what to do w/the auto steering column
« Reply #2 on: March 24, 2021, 07:27:46 PM »
Yea, keep the old column. Be sure to leave it in "park" so the neutral safety switch allows the truck to start. Also the back-up lights need to be rewired to the new shifter.