Sorry not just an "opinion". I've worked on my share of these too.
Not at all trying to start "shut". Trying to help the guy like everyone else.
Did the op ever get that new ign switch?
I've dealt with ignition switch issues over the years too. .on those you can just plug the new switch in under the dash and work it in your hands and see if it does anything without pulling the column apart. This was before they put the switch further down the column and actuated by a rod. I'm guessing yours isn't a tilt column?