Manual to automatic steering column?

[Mudflat]

Can you covert a manual to an automatic easily? I currently have a manual, 3 on the tree in the truck with a TH350 transmission. I have a complete donar automatic steering column I can use. Just wondering if you have to replace the complete steeing column?

[sweetk30]

if the trucks are the same vintage then just unbolt and swap the whole unit .

make sure your steering shaft end at the column is the same style . early was splined the rest are D-shaft style . then check wipers on dash or column .

otherwise bolt it in and go basicly.

my info for 73-87 square body .

[Captainfab]

What year of truck and what year of steering column?

[Mudflat]

The truck is a 69 and unsure year of automatic column. It came with truck. They appear to be identical at bolt up point. I was just wondering if you could swap a few parts and convert them without taking the hole thing out?

[68gmsee]

If you're trying to maintain the stock look, and if at all possible, the best solution is to look for a complete steering column of the same vintage truck.

Here's a writeup on the same subject: http://www.trucktrend.com/how-to/int...er-conversion/

This is a basic installation and doesn't cover the rest of the parts that you may need or the adjustments such as shift indicator, neutral/park switch and reverse lights.

[Captainfab]

Without knowing what year the columns is it is impossible to say. But assuming the column is a '69-'72, I would think it would be much easier to change the entire column rather than disassemble both columns and reassemble one inside the truck.

[Mudflat]

The info I am getting is swap the complete columns. Thanks.