BA steering columns

[Renzo]

Hi. I'm new here so be nice.
Is there any remote chance that Ford changed the dimensions of the upper shaft length on the steering column between 2002-2005. I am trying to replace my column on 2005 model. The steering wheel seems to press on to far when the nut is tightened preventing indicator lever from resetting to neutral. The mechanic says the replacement from the wreckers is slightly shorter than mine, using his vernier caliper. (top shaft)
I have no idea what model/year the replacement from the wreckers came from.
Cheers

[GTLEGEND]

There is only one column for BA-BF 2002-2010 unless it is column shift of which there are a couple of different variances. I am wondering if the one from the wreckers you have has collapsed a bit from being in an accident?

Part number of the floor shift steering column is BA3C529AK1T as is around $2000 from Ford.

[Renzo]

Originally Posted by GTLEGEND

There is only one column for BA-BF 2002-2010 unless it is column shift of which there are a couple of different variances. I am wondering if the one from the wreckers you have has collapsed a bit from being in an accident?

Part number of the floor shift steering column is BA3C529AK1T as is around $2000 from Ford.

Thanks for your reply. I am leaning toward the damaged unit hypothesis.
My next option due to lack of supply of wrecked units in my area, will be a separate starter button whilst the ignition switch is still working.

[aussiblue]

Part number of the floor shift steering column is BA3C529AK1T as is around $2000 from Ford.

..and [apparently} improved over the original per https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/23279830...MAAOSwRhVgUm0X

This upgraded steering column was designed to prevent issues relating to keys snapping back to start when starting the car.

[Citroënbender]

Yes, looks like the BF3 column, with replaceable ignition switch.