I've also experienced same exact problems as the 2 guys here, dead gauge lights, engine shutting off while driving, play with ignition and car comes back to life, etc. No radio, no power windows, all the good stuff.

The problem was the ignition switch, located opposite of the key cylinder. I did the Bob cleaning method, used a flathead screwdriver and just scrapped off the burned contacts(believe me, you'll see them). As a final touch, I lightly coated the cleaned contacts with di-electric grease and it's been wonderful ever since.