If you have transmission fluid leaking out of the side of the trans at the selector shaft, this is the culprit. You remove the shift lever with the ball attached. You will find it easier to remove...

This circlip secures the shift rod selector shaft.  It lives on the opposite side of the transmission case from the shift lever. Fits 1983.5-91 2wd & 4wd Vanagons with manual transmissions...

Rear selector shaft. Fits 2wd gas Vanagons from mid-1983-1991 The last of the genuine VW selector shafts! Ref ID: 251711155M Shop by Diagram Hover over the icon and click to get the detail.  

Brand new aftermarket Syncro rear selector shaft. Ref ID: 251711155AB