Well, it looks like I need to find a used column with the shifter assembly still attached. That will go nice with the used rear axle assembly I just discovered I will need.I can fix about anything when it comes to body work,but mechanics I have to ask a lot of questions.Not knowing a lot about rear axles, even I knew it was a bad sign when I took the housing plate off and nothing came out but chunks of rust. The ring & pinion gears have teeth broken,but the other gears looked ok. There is about 1/2 inch of rusty crud in the bottom of the housing so I think it is probably a waist of money to buy new ring & pinion gears. Next stop, SWAP MEET.

1957 Chevrolet 1/2-ton Stepside LB in the Gallery
My Photobucket shots

The person who has nothing for which he is willing to fight, nothing which is more important than his own personal safety, is a miserable creature and has no chance of being free unless made and kept so by the exertions of better men than himself." - John Stuart Mill (1806 - 1873)