There are several detailed articles on the internet that show how to tear down and fix the GM tilt column. Just take a look and get familiar with the process.
The basic design of the tilt wheel did not change much over the years, so you may not need to determine the exact year of what was used. However, the column electrical connectors did change, especially when they started adding cruise control, and a wiper switch on the stalk.
Most of the parts you need are common and should be in stock at most GM dealers. Even the common box stores (Autozone, etc.) will carry those type of parts for a GM tilt wheel. I think you will have to tear it apart and then try to match your parts with what is available at the store.
Some suggested tools/techniques:
- You will need a steering wheel puller (free rental from most box stores)
- You will need a GM steering wheel lock plate compressor (simple tool; I made one from some scrap metal)
- Threading the wiring for the turn signal switch up and down the column takes some experimentation. All the connections are made with a wide, flat connector near the bottom of the column.
- I would recommend a further tear down to replace the rack and rod that connects to the ignition switch. Its a cheap pot metal part ($12?), but when it fails it prevents the ignition switch from starting the truck. As part of this tear down you also want to lock-tite the bolts that hold the tilt mechanism to the column, since they often loosen up over time.
Bruce