INSTR fuse blows when I start the engine

Easiest way to rule my experience out... Disconnect the aftermarket replacement ignition switch, replace the blown fuse, and pull the lights on. If everythings good except the column mounted shift indicator, there's your sign.
At that point you would use a test lamp to determine which wire in the cars harness connector is hot only when lights on. That's the one that the orange wire connects to.
Good luck
That's an excellent idea. I usually get over to the folks place once a week at the end of the week to work on it. I will post an update complete all the necessary steps and resolve the problem. Thank you.