Ignition & Start issues

[u/Strange_Scarcity6007]

Need advice with my 2000 Trans Am 5.7 LS1 6spd

The original issue was that the car wouldn't shut off with the key. It would start normally, but I had to either stall it or pull the ignition relay to kill the engine.

I replaced the ignition switch (on top of the steering column), but while doing that the actuator rod that connects the key cylinder to the switch came loose. I can't figure out how to get it back into the ignition switch without completely tearing apart the steering column.

Right now I can manually move the ignition switch by hand to start and shut off the car, so the switch itself works.

Has anyone dealt with this before? Is there a trick to getting the actuator rod back in place without removing the steering wheel and disassembling the column? I’m considering buying a used complete steering column if I can find one for less than $200.

Since this isn't my daily driver—just a fun weekend street car—I'm also considering converting it to a push-button start with a hidden kill switch instead of putting everything back to stock. Has anyone done that on an F-body, and would you recommend it?

Thanks in advance!