Chewvy van steering column for 1937 Buick Roadmaster?

I'm working to buy parts for my 1937 Buick Roadmaster that I want to resto-mod with a V8 & auto trans from a Buick Rainier. The '37 steereing column is 1.5" diameter just below the wheel.
I have read that 70's & 80's Chevy tilt steering columns work well to upgrade.
1) Can anyone tell me what years are best?
2) Will an auto columns with a D12 link up to an auto transmission with shift on the floor?
3) Can I mount the original '37 Buick steering wheel to a van steer column?
4) What else should I look for when selecting a column?
Thanks