1970 steering wheel interlock removal

Been searching around this site and the web to find an answer, but no luck. I have a 70 Duster that came with manual steering and a 3 speed on the floor. I am upgrading to a 4 speed and keeping the manual steering gear. Is there a safe way to remove the interlock feature that was only on 70 models without replacing the column? I know if you turn the sleeve and leave it there, everything will work fine. The problem I have is if the collar happens to get moved, the wheel could lock up when driving.

IMG_20170126_075219423_HDR.jpg

IMG_20170126_075245075.jpg