Did you just set it to external only instead of both?
Using just compose/to, typing a . and searching the GAL, do the exchange addresses show up?
If not, back to the admin console. If your a NE customer you might a support request as well.
If so, do I understand your problem as:? Composing mail method shows proper GAL, but searching using the main toolbar does not. Need way to add contacts to a personal address book?
Again, if you just want to flip through all the GAL contacts:
Bug 5989 - making the GAL browsable - browse &
Bug 14531 - GAL via contacts folders
Make a flash/swf/annimation/vid (an easy program is
wink) of your method and write in your expected results at each step. Make one with different GAL settings in the admin console etc.
Your starting to interchange terms and I think that would help clarify.