Getting the used column is the best. The "pins" are easily broken they were broken on my car when I took the column out, I just replaced them with nylon screws from the local hardware store- I don't want a steel shaft going through my chest is case of a accident. If you have some fabrication skills cutting and extending the shaft could be done safely and cleanly, for less that an adapter costs. Since your budget is tight some classes in Adult Ed could be well worth the time and expense