Steering column interchangability?, Can I change out my early column for later model. Options

[deemsriddle]

The steering column in my 1971 914 started out with problems starting. The starter would not engage every time but would always start eventually. Now the switch is hung up in the start position. I know that Ii need a new column, but wonder if the columns and interchangeable? The wiring should be doable, but are there any other considerations?

[mepstein]

Mine had issues. I found a replacement for the piece that was broken on the turn signal and sent my switch to “tweet” so the key would work properly. There was a little plate on the back of the switch that was broken and it needed cleaning and a new, non worn out key was made. I would repair what you have vs making a Frankenstein steering assembly. Later columns have the wiper on a stalk so adding a late into an early will never look right.