Steering column and electrics

[mklovell]

I am the new owner of a 71 Ford LTD with original 429-4V (with DOVE heads). It only has 66k miles and was a southern car so the body is in relatively good shape.

Something I'm having trouble with though is the steering column. I thought I had short when I discovered that turning the ignition off allowed some of the accessories to run like the heater blower and of all odd things the right front turn signal marker. If I turn the key one notch in it shuts everything off but I have to leave the key in it.

Also, I have to lift up on the steering wheel to get the car to start and it is not a tilt steering column. the column mounted gear shifter also has a lot of play in it.

Any ideas? If I was to replace the whole column what other years and models will work?

Thanks for your help.