Stuck key
 

I am in desperate need of advice in fixing my 1997 4x4 Blazer LT with some minor issues. My key is stuck and I can remove it by taking the button underneath the steering wheel off and sticking a thin nail up there until I hear a click and it comes right out. The problem is I have to do it each time. Any ideas on what part needs to be replaced? Grateful for any suggestions.

I would start with the ignition lock cylinder. I had to replace on in my '73 once. It's only like $15 for the part, but then your doors will be keyed differently than your ignition. I want to say there are kits you can buy that re-keys the locks the same, too, but they're more expensive. I've heard that a locksmith can re-key the new ignition cylinder to match the old one, but don't quote me on that.

Replace the electronic portion of the ignition switch not the cylinder, this is a very common issue with the 97 I would know I have a 97 blazer and a 97 Jimmy

console or column shift in any event it sounds like the micro switch for the shift interlock

I would agree. I had the switch come unplugged before. Just plugged it back in and it was done.
Could be broke wire also, bad connection, corroded.

Stuck Key
 

Thanks to all for the great advice. It's fixed. I took the column off and the button I pushed to release the key I pushed it in and fixed it so it wouldn't come back out. So far so good, everything seems to work OK. Again thanks for all the help, I'll need plenty going forward with some of the things I want to fix and restore.