TURN SIGNAL SWITCH

So my old switch was wore out but would still work, I had to hold the lever up or down, no auto cancel, brake and flashers, all lights ok.
So I got a replacement switch from Van's, and after installing it and trying the right signal, I couldn't see or hear the blinker, but the interior lights were going bright and dim, I looked out front, the signal lamps were not lighting and I returned to find the switch smoking inside the column. I unhooked the battery, checked the switch, it melted the plastic around the contact and now while I have brake and flasher lights I don't have either signal.
Do you guys think I just got a bad switch or do I have a short and if so how do I diagnose it? I don't want to buy a better switch only to burn it up.
Thanks for any help

Not to minimalize Dels post but, it worked before you changed the switch except you had to hold it in position right?
Need I say more?