98' Lesabre engine starts, but i have to find a super fine angle for the key to be at to start up, if you baby the key backwards, it stays running fine, but doesn't stay running after fully releasing the key to let it rest in the full on run position. Starting/turning over was initially harder to achieve... first thing i triwd was replacing key cylinder and it'* now easily repeatable, but still stuck at this won't stay in "Run" position issue. Got volunteered to help out a young single dad and kinda stumped

Sounds like the ignition switch is bad.

I can find plenty of resource material on cylinder replacement, but can't find much on the switch replacement, anyone have any material on switch replacement? Like pics/location/what im looking for?

If Cost vs Final Product value made a simple push button start a viable answer, are there specific wires to look for in this scenario? If VATS works with key to run position/no antitheft/all accessories work... for simply engaging the starter?

I don't think you need to take the whole thing apart like in that diagram. You should be able to get to it under the dash. The key here is: There'* a rod that moved the switch, and the rod is connected on the other end to the cylinder. From your description, you need the ignition to stay on and also need to activate the starter. I suggest you don't fiddle with jury-rigging anything, just diagnose and likely replace the ignition switch.

It could also be that the rod is out of adjustment, but that'* really really rare these days.

Ignition switch attempted, same results. Icompletely understand where you're coming from, I do. As a 19yo with a baby, with a need for a vehicle that he can drive to work, I'm not sure he values the esthetics as much as he would a car he can simply get into turn the key, and maybe press an extra button to make it happen though. Vats is good, got power in run, but Not trying to hunt down a steering column, or have him hunt for rides to work or walk to work any more days than necessary. Is the purple wire on the starter enable relay the one I need to find? And if so, any tips on how to get the dash pad cover off to get to it? From what I've seen it'* under the windshield/far edge of dash pad

Diagnostics attempted?

Adjustment attempted?

Replacement attempted?

Some other thing attempted?

I've diagnosed the dashpad as being in the way. ✅️Dash pad attachment has been adjusted to the "slightly less secured" form ✅️ No replacement of dash pad is being pursued ❌️ I've attempted to aquire more information on fastener locations/pry points of said dashpads to prevent aged plastic from cracking, but as of yet, to no avail ❌️

I wouldn't even try to get to the ignition switch from the top of the dash. Go through the bottom of the dash above the pedals.