Do I have to change out the steering column to repair the linkage to the automatic transmission?
yes they make all the parts you need to re-build that steering column with ,but you will have to remove it to get to all of it,id re-build the whole thing it only cost around 80 bucks to put everything new in it,and this will take care of it,you can go to this web site for parts they have all the parts you,ll need,its lmctrucks.com.type it in ,its a good site,good luck with it.