Steering Column Repair: Combination Switch replacement, torx bolts, black bezel

Question
I have a 1997 Chevy S10 pick up without cruise control and I am trying to replace the combination switch the top cover will not come off because of the ignition do I need to remove the entire steering wheel/how do I get the top cover off?

Answer

10 pin llock removal Hi Bob:
The top cover on many GM vehicle is a bear to get off, unless you know what you are looking for.  The most critical thing is not to break the red 4-way flasher button on the top of the column...however in your case, since you are already changing that switch it doesn't matter.
There are 2 ways to get the cover off.  The first way is to force it off after you have removed both 8mm inverted torx bolts holding the cover in place.  
The second and best way is to remove the airbag and steering wheel to release that ridge that goes under the wheel.  Once the wheel is off and the bolts are out, the only thing left is the lock cylinder.  You can force the cover over the lock cylinder and gently break off the ridge behind it, or you can release the lock cylinder, remove it and the the cover falls off.  To release the lock cylinder is where the 'bear' part comes in.
I'll enclose a picture for you, but the release pin is a small 1/8 hole in the top of the housing about 3" in from the black bezel.  You will not be able to access it easily because the cover is blocking it.  You will need a long right angle probe to reach in and depress the pin.  However, you must rotate the lock to the 'start' position in order for the pin to be in position to be released.  The lock will be very hard to turn as the cover will be rubbing it and you won't have much room to both see and do what you need to do under the cover.  You will also need to disconnect the battery so you do not repeatedly engage the starter while trying to hit this pin.  Once the pin is pressed properly, the lock will come out about 1/2 inch.  Then release the lock to the 'run' position and slide it straight out.