Black particles collecting under shift lever

[jgrenuk]

2003 XLT, 58k miles...black rubbery particles are gathering in the little "cup" area where the shift lever comes out of the column. This is the first time google has failed me to turn up anything on a problem. Anyone here know about or have any experience with this?

I am having a little bit of "play" in the steering wheel.

Thoughts and suggestions are really appreciated. Thanks.

Joe

 

[TechGuru]

The rubber boot is so old the rubber is rotting and starting to deteriorate...