Steering Column Repair: 81/82 Chevy Trucks column interchange, turn signal switch, chevy trucks

Question
QUESTION: I have a 82 K10 parts truck no tilt/cruise for a 4 speed floor shift AND a 81 K20 tilt/no cruise for an automatic.  I thinking of putting the 4 speed in the 81 for a multitude of reasons (tranny problems, etc.) and to do that I need to pull the column to transfer the pedal assembly.  My question is simple - will the columns interchange and how much effort is it to get rid of the cruise switches on the turn signal of the column of the 82 if I use the 81 turn signal lever?  Lastly - It seems you have a great deal of experience with these columns - Are there any parts that should be replaced after so long (i.e. parts that dry rot/cloth couplers/ etc.?)  Thanks for your help.

ANSWER: Hi Chris:
(Boy you guys have some old trucks out there).  Let me try and remember...
I am quite sure the columns will interchange for those years.  I show 1978 through 1983 all interchange.  Regarding the tilt / no-tilt difference, no problem, you lose the tilt by installing this column.  That portion cannot be swapped over between the column.  They are completely different columns in that regard.
Regarding the turn signal lever and cruise issue.  I think the levers are screwed into the turn signal switch.  The newer ones simply pull out from the column, but not the older ones.  Is the wiper switch on those trucks in the dash?  The wire attached to the turn signal arm is only for cruise so you can simply snip it, or just use the lever and arm with the cruise in it and let the wire hang free under the dash (no harm).
Let me know if I addressed all your questions.  It takes me back pretty far, but I'm pretty sure you;re covered ok with the swap

Good Luck
Doug

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Doug,
Thanks for your help, I really appreciate it. The wiper switch is on the dash (boy do you have a good memory.)

I do have one more question.  Before I swap the columns, are there any parts for these early 80's Chevy Trucks that I should inspect/suspect for age-related problems or parts that were most likely to wear more quickly?  If I don't look for the obvious problems I'm certain to put the 82 column in the 81 truck and end-up pulling it out shortly afterward due to a problem I didn't notice.  There were no noticeable problems with the column when I parked the Truck several years ago. Thanks for the supplying this service, you really are a great help.  Thanks again-

Answer
Chris:
the only part that has a high failure rate is the ignition lock cylinder.  But it's easier to change it once the column is installed rather than balancing the column on you lap while trying to remove the plates and switches.
Other than that, you should be fine.