Starts & shuts off immediately

Sounds like your VATSS system is engaged. You say that you changed steering columns, did you switch the lock cylinder so you still use the original key? You have to have the same chip as the original to the car or your anti theft system will engage.

Usually with idle issues, it can be a leak of some kind, fuel--egr--vacuum leak, something like that. Also, check and clean your idle air system.
How long since a tune-up? Any applicable trouble codes? You should be able to check some codes yourself, your obd1. To check codes, use a jumper wire at your data link connector along lower edge of dash, turn key just till the dash lights come on, no further. The mil on the dash starts flashing, you count the flashes to get the codes. Your looking for two digit codes.

change oil, oil filter ,spark plugs, wires, gas filter and air filter
this is the least you need to do when you buy a used car
than check for fuel pressure

you have some wires touching somewhere in the engine compartment.

no idea wthout a look under the bonnet check for a spark when it will not start and then post the answer

1998 Chevrolet Cavalier

i know industry jargon can be confusing, but lets try this. if it turns over but won't start, it could be your ''ignition module'' that sits on top of the vave cover on the motor or it might be the fuel pump or filter. make sure when you crank the engine that the key is all the way turned or it may not always make a proper contact to activate the ignition module. iv'e seen this before & had to change the ignition switch & all worked ok after that. i would need to know engine lt size to give you more details on the matter. please get back to me.

Sounds like bad battery cables and/or ignition switch. I would clean battery cables thoroughly with wire brush especially the bottom end since they're exposed to road grime, etc... Also check to make sure you put small wires on solenoid on correctly. I've seen people get them reversed because they're looking at them upside down when attaching from under car. More than likely it's those small wires on solenoid.

is your car overheating???the fan isnt suppose to run when started(unless engine is hot), it may turn on then shut off. See if it runs when the vehicle gets hot and the A/C is on. Those engines with fans that move all the the time are belt driven. This is why they spin continually.

When it dies does the security light flash?