[Vwdiesel] Shifter boot?

[Joe]

In my quest to get my old rustbucket of an 82 n/a Rabbit 2 door to pass
inspection, I've spent a great deal of time under it.  I've discovered the
boot normally surrounding the shifter mechanism is now simply dangling off
of the main shiter control arm.  How critical is this boot, especially in an
environment such as southern Pennsylvania?  Because mine is so ripped I
doubt if I can get it back on to stay.

Joe