buy the best most expensive switch that NPD has...or ask them for the best...the cheapies can be bad out of the box.
I am actually in the process of restoring my steering column at the moment as well.
NPD's site is rather confusing for this piece since the expensive switch they have is $45 and the SD switch is $30, but the notes say the SD switch is the best and that its being reproduced by 4 different suppliers now. Both switches have the same 4 star review rating. I really wish that someone sold a switch that had a wiring connection that wasn't riveted at the cam...wanting to upgrade a couple of the wires that run there to 14 gauge and those connections make that a very difficult prospect. I have shelved the replacement of the switch until I figure out a workable solution(probably have to be very careful and strip and solder right at the connector to manage it)
On this topic...does anyone sell an upgraded upper shaft bearing? might as well take the opportunity to upgrade, I know they make a better bearing than what is in there(not that its a bad bearing by any means, just an opportunity for a bit smoother bearing)
