If you are experiencing problems changing gears, it is possible your Shift Rod Bushing is worn and aged and is causing the main gear rod to drop.
This Front Shift Rod Bushing is a great replacement that will get your Volkswagen shifting smoothly when there's loads of play in your shifter mechanism.
This bushing fits in front of the gear shift lever.
Learn more from the following Mid America Motorworks Knowledge Library article:
VW 1950-1979 Air Cooled How to Replace the Shift Rod Bushing