Somehow, I don't know how, while attempting to work under the dash to replace my instrument lights (see previous post), my ignition switch has become frozen in the locked position.

Several years ago, when I replaced the turn signal switch, I recall having to loosen the bolts that secure the tube that encases the steering column in order to access the fasteners for that switch. I also recall adjusting things so that I no longer had to jiggle the key to get the steering wheel lock to disengage. I believe this involved removing the cap screw that indexes the circular part of the ignition switch assembly to the steering column so that the rod in the switch mechanism lined up properly. I certainly didn't undo anything while changing the bulbs, so I suspect this is just a strange and unfortunate coincidence.

But, try as I might, with those steering column shell bolts removed and with that indexing cap screw removed, I now can't seem to get things maneuvered so that the switch will operate. So, I have wonderful LED lighting in the speedo and tach, but I can't move the car. One step forward, two steps backward.

Before I continue this struggle can anyone with experience with aligning the ignition-steering column lock give me some advice on how to do this? I have a functional replacement ignition switch assembly, with key, in my parts inventory, but I can't find any information on the above-mentioned alignment nor on how I might go about replacing the whole ignition switch assembly if that's what will eventually be required,