86 SE w/V6...auto...but the steering column is solid (no tilt wheel). Chelsie wants to change it over to tilt and we have a spare column that came out of a 5 speed car. Are all columns teh same or are there differences between the autos and manuals?

Autos and manuals are different, ignition switch is specific to trans type. Also, tilt and non-tilt switches do not interchange at all. You can put a manual trans tilt column in the auto by installing an auto ignition switch, but you'll still have to use the key release lever to get the key out. It's possible to remove the lever function, but requires deep disassembly of column. https://www.fiero.nl/forum/Forum2/HTML/088020.html Depending on your skill level, may be easier to obtain auto tilt column.

Just to clarify, I believe when Jazz says "switch", he is reffering to the actual ignition switch that is mounted lower in the column - not the key / tumbler. I spent a few hours yesterday searching for a key/tumbler for a manual/tilt. I thought for sure there were different key/tumblers but apparently not -they are all the same other than you can get a black one or a chrome one.

I have an auto tilt that is solid in my shed. I don't have any use for it as both my cars are standard.
I have the key so it would probably be plug and play. I would be willing to trade.

Send me a pm if your interested

quote Originally posted by katatak: Just to clarify, I believe when Jazz says "switch", he is reffering to the actual ignition switch that is mounted lower in the column - not the key / tumbler. I spent a few hours yesterday searching for a key/tumbler for a manual/tilt. I thought for sure there were different key/tumblers but apparently not -they are all the same other than you can get a black one or a chrome one.

Yes, the lock cylinder is the same for all columns. It activates a pushrod that travels down to the ignition switch located above the driver's left knee/shin area.