ignition switch problem

This is a great forum, I have so far fixed two problems on my 97 blazer with your help. Honest I 'm greatfull.
New problem: hard starting, I have new plugs new distributor, (220000 kms and still the original fuel pump so doubted it first) Today I went around trouble-shooting with a calm head. Put in the key turned it around into the first knotch no dashboard lights on display. Surely this has to be the ignition switch.
Now how do I go about replacing this is it a big deal. I know there is a air bag in the area. Also if I am stuck on the road can I somehow bypass this ignition switch and drive home.
Thanks in advance this forum is better than Haynes as it is interactive.

Javed

Did you ever get help with your question? If not, I had the same situation with my 97 Blazer and I replaced the ignition switch to fix it. It's not to difficult to do.

Remove the lower dashboard, remove the two nuts that hold the steering column up, & remove the plastic shell around the switch area. I had to buy a special tool to actually remove the switch -- it was basically an inverted "star" socket.

The wires from the switch run along the steering column down to the firewall, where the wire casing is bolted into place.

The switch was about $80 at Bumper to Bumper.

Hope that helps.