I just bought a 1980 CJ-7 and it would start without the key so I figured I could replace the key cylinder and fix that problem. Well the new key cylinder will not turn back enough to unlock/release the key. That's when I figured out that the steering column is probably not the original one. There is no key release mechanism on my column. I just thought you could push in on the key to turn it back to lock and release the key but what I've read and seen is that the original column had a release that you pushed down on allowing the key to be locked and released. So, how do I know what column I have? I'm guessing there's alot of ones that will work but is there any way to tell what I may have? Mine is a tilt and the hazard flasher is the kind you push in the button and pull out the outer ring to cancel. And mine does not have the key release that you would normally push with your finger. But other than that it looks the same.
Any ideas?  

it should be a gm (chevy)

a cell phone pic will tell....