Yup, rubber boots are available. I replaced mine a few months ago.
Pick you favorite online dealer and go to town.
As for how long the bushings will last without the boots...depends on how clean you keep them I guess.

-Ben

> Date: Wed, 30 Jul 2008 18:41:33 -0400
> From: whoule@ECSCONTROLS.COM
> Subject: Re: Do Shift linkage bushes wear ...
> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> 
> While we're on the subject, how bad are they going to wear if the two
> rubber boots have completly worn away? Are replacement boots available?
> I've been told no.
> 
> Thanks,
> Walter
> 85 Vanagon 1.9

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