Steering Column Repair: Steering Column repair, steering column repair, tilt column

Question
1985 GMC C-10 auto, tilt column, column does not lock and switch will not turn to ignition mode. It does turn to accessories. No warning signs of failure. I have removed switch and it does rotate effortlessly. Any guideance on problem and repair would be appreciated.

Answer

lock housing with rack Hi Owen:
The only common part that I have seen to cause both of those scenarios is the preload spring breaking and jamming the rack gears in the tilt housing.  I am attaching a picture of what I am talking about and we do sell the part as well as have instructional video if you want to tackle the job yourself.
You can visit our website at www.stolenandrecovered.com to see everything we offer.
Good luck