I did a little more searching. The part is available from Nissan. Switch Ignition 48750-E7705 | Courtesy Parts Yes, it's more than the Rockauto parts, but I bet it's built better.
I also looked through the FSM. I forgot to look at the ST section. You have to remove the lower trim panel and the bottom of the clamshell on the steering column. Then you can pull the bolts that hold the steering column in place. That should let it droop down enough to get a small screwdriver around back.
I recommend pulling the negative cable on the battery before doing this.
Keep in mind that the FSM was for the dealers to maintain the cars. It took over 40 years for that part to fail. It wasn't something the dealers would encounter unless repairing damage on a stolen vehicle.
When I was working on an 82 280ZX turbo, the upper part of the clamshell was too much of a PITA to remove. While you can access the electrical connector without letting the steering wheel hang down, I'm doubting you can get a screwdriver back there. There are just two screws to remove to replace the module, but you might add some new cuss words to your vocabulary. If you pull the knee panel and the two bolts that I indicated, the steering column should sag down enough to access the back of the switch.
Here's pretty much what it looks like. I found the photo on ZCarDepot's website.
For the shear screws, I use a dremel or cold chisel to cut a groove in the head to remove it with a screw driver. I had to do that a few months back when the steering lock mechanism in my 73 was misbehaving. I actually had a replacement unit on hand for about 9 years.
Yes, the accessories turn off during starting. You want the battery to be focused on powering the starter since it is a large drain. If the charge on the battery is low, the accessories could keep the starter from having enough power. Are the accessories not coming back on when letting the key go from Start to ON?
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