To try and answer them all

1. If your talking about the coupling on the end of the steering shaft to manual box...Yes remove the steel retainer and pull the retainer and seal back, there is also a small pin in the cast coupling that should be pryed back as well. This release the pin assembly and allow you to pull the coupling off. there are 2 pin blocks and a spring like retainer in the coupling. Sorry dont no the proper terms.

2. As far as I know, there is no replacement for the upper bearing. someone else may be able to chime in on that as there may be replacements out there. I had a few columns and used the best one I had.

3. Both of these guys should carry any parts out there for your column. I'm sure there are others
http://www.amhightechauto.com/ http://www.megapartsusa.com/

4. Yes there is a procedure for checking the turn signal switch and ignition switch. I believe they are in the Factory Service Manual which would help greatly in what you are doing. If I can find it I can post it later tonight.

5. I don't know the paint code but it is the same as the suede finish on your dash if that helps.

Sorry I'm not of more help, but the FSM would be a great help to you for this. I'm sure others will chime in

Scott