Actuator Rod Concern

[Spline64]

Hey all,

Have a 1991 S15 Jimmy with the extremely common loose tilt steering wheel issue. Found a bunch of articles on how to fix and have since tightened the 4 reverse torx bolts with thread locker so I never have to do this again...I hope.

My issue is putting it back together. I noticed that the actuator rod can move back like six inches from the normal position close to the steering column and can also turn. Is this normal or did I just create more work for myself and broke the actual ignition switch?
Also if I didn't damage it, I can't figure out how the heck it actually gets pushed down. Any guidance on this would be appreciated.

Going to take some pictures tonight and post them to clarify things when I get home (at lunch currently)

Thanks,
Pat