OK, let's see what help we can provide:
I imagine in VW, both switches are plug and play (true), all the documents I have read, tell you to just unplug the switches from the wiring harness plug (true - the ignition connector is inside of the steering column), (not in this CMC). So how do remove these, that are wired thru the housing. There is no access to the connection terminals. Pulling hard would only complicate matters (also true).
You must first remove the steering wheel to gain access to the directional switch and, once that is removed, the ignition switch. Sounds like something is loose inside of the housing and did some damage when you were turning the steering wheel around to get access to the front wheel. Often, the steering wheel lock pin gets snapped off and floats around in there and causes damage - don't know if that's your case, just noting it.
Once the steering wheel is removed (to do that you'll need a steering wheel puller), you remove a circlip and plastic bushing from inside the steering column and the directional lever/switch should lift out to the extent of the attached wires (you may be able to move it more by gaining more slack in the wire group under the dash). Check for burn marks, loose connections or any obvious damage.
Once the directional switch is up and out of the way, you'll be able to see the switch/connector on the back side of the ignition switch as well as the ignition lock retainer plate. On your '73 you should be able to pry the ignition switch/connector apart from the lock with a small screw driver without messing with the lock. If you need to remove the actual lock, there should be a small (1/8") hole on the side of the cylinder housing, about mid-way on the housing tube and about 10 o'clock when looking at the key end of the cylinder. Push a piece of wire into the hole, insert the key and turn the key and cylinder clockwise 90 degrees and the cylinder should come right out.
BTW, the turn signal indicator light is driven off of the turn signal relay, but THAT is driven from the turn signal switch. Sounds like something has happened to that switch (not the ignition switch) so I would look there first.
this started, when I was turning the front wheels to look for Macphersons struts, (ignition off, key in my pocket [Bad - Very Bad]), and sparks flew out the ignition key housing. The only damage, thus far is the left turn flashing indicator,located on the tach face, doesn't work in either left turn mode or emerg. mode ( physical lights operate though).
Well, no......If you quickly turned the steering wheel with the key out but the steering wheel lock wasn't engaged when you started turning, then you've probably broken off the locking pin inside of the column and THAT has done some damage to the turn signal switch.