Early to late steering column interchange?

[VirtualToaster]

I'm looking for a new column (need a bearing and want tilt wheel) and see that interchange is between 83-mid 85 and late 85 to 88. I want the earlier wheel and currently have the 4 bulb cluster, but genuinely do not know if there truly is any difference in mounting the column or wiring. I can always pick up a column with a wheel that looks like mine no issue, but if I can have my cake and eat it too, that'd be best.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

As far as actual meat and taters of the differences I don't know.

Earlier had the horn and cruise controls on the turn signal switch though, differences may be related to that. IIRC the switchover was for the 1985 model year. '86 got the big message center cluster which doesn't really directly effect the dash, I converted my truck to that style cluster with a tach.

 

[RobbieD]

Horn and cruise are the only differences that I'm aware of, too.

 

[VirtualToaster]

Interesting, well I can always lose the horn on the stalk if it's there to retain turning lol. I'll get a closer look when I pick up the old column.