I converted from a column shift to an after market floor shift (automatic th400). When I removed the handle from the column I heard something move inside the column, just for jokes I tried to put the handle back in and of course it would not go. Now when I put the key in the ignition and try to turn it to the run position it locks until I rotate the portion of the column where the handle came out of, should I be worried about this is any way? The instructions that came with the shifter mentioned something about the steering possibly locking while driving so I'm kind of concerned. Thanks!

I drove my chevelle with a column like yours for a while until I bought a floorshift style column. I never had it lockup on me. I believe it should not lockup until you turn the key back to the off position, the knob that locks the column is pulled down when you turn the key to the on position. As for the section of the column rotating they just may prevent you from turning the key all the way to the off position and you won't be able to remove the key until you turn the collar back. That still happens on a floor shift column also. I am no expert but these are my experiences.

Even on some floor shift columns there is linkage which turns part of the coulmn to lock and unlock the tumbler. The only problem with what you have is that you will have to mess with the column to get key out.

Now thats a pretty slick idea to have linkage turn the column for me. If I didn't have 20 other things to fix I'd probably pursue that idea. Maybe someday!