Diagram of 97 Pontiac firebird Neutral switch that

Usually there is the lock cylinder and ignition switch, two different components.
I'd imagine, removing the steering column is just nuts and bolts, plus wiring connectors.
Are you going to reuse steering column or replace it?
If new column, you may probably need a new lock cylinder, a new key usually comes with lock cylinder. Then I'd be concerned about your security system, where applicable. If vats security system there is info all over the internet bypassing the pellet in the key.

what is the question?

hope it helps I suspect that you have a starting problem usually there is 2 little wires Inside column steering connect to cyllinder key are cut
you can test it at the end of steering column 2 very little yellow wire ...put key in ignition cylinder and with ohm meter take resistor value if none wire is open circuit.

Chances are the shaft is the same size. Your air bag warning light will stay on tho.

no do not replace steering column, i have worked on countless models of this. if turn signal lever or switch is breaking often, then the work is not being done right. they are hard to do correctly. but most likely the turn signal switch or the wiper switch is binding. replace both. but them new and not used. used parts for this usually bind also.

Check to see where the kill switch is and press the switch. This may be located by the steering column. Then try to start the car.

disconnect the battery under the hood under the brake cylinder on steering shaft there is an 11/16 nut remove that slide the bolt out there should be a small linkage arm with a rod going to the transmission remove the clip that holds the rod to the small arm and pop out the rod it might be tough under the dash on floor unbolt the bolts 7/16 head around the black plate to the left of the gas pedal up under the dash where the column meets the dash there are 2 studs pointing down remove the nuts 9/16 head and slowly lower the column down just enough to reach in and remove the electrical plugs from the ignition switch turn signal plug and the bottom of column the neutral safety switch turn the column so the small arm clears the hole in floor and pull the column up towards you while tugging on it hope this helps

You'll need to lower the steering column. It is usually mounted on top of the steering column, with 2 screws, and a couple of plugs plugging into it. Usually down towards the firewall.

if the key turns fully as it suppose to the electrical ignition switch is at fault

Caution:On models with a Delco Loc 2 or Theftlock audio system be sure the lockout feature is turned off before proceeding

• Disable the airbag system
• Remove the tilt lever if equipped
• Remove the upper and lower steering column covers

Ignition Switch

• Remove the ignition switch retaining screws
• Detach the ignition switch from the steering column housing assembly and unplug the electrical connectors

Key Lock Cylinder

• Turn the key to the run postion
• Depress the lock button and remove the key lock cylinder