Is there a gasket here that needs replacing where the lever exits the binnacle? It looks pretty shot! Water is entering the binnacle somewhere as there is a little corrosion inside.
(https://i.imgur.com/bRQjLffl.jpg)
Hope you are all well!
No problem just put an " O "ring in it, my has lasted 10 years.
Odysseus
Bav 38
The part can be purchased:
https://www.svb-marine.fr/fr/bavaria-gearshift.html
Access as shown by Odysseus.
The external black cover is glued, beware damage when removing it.
The neoprene seal is also part of this kit:
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/372421367306?hash=item56b60b160a:g:ZHkAAOSwarFgKRSL
Mine does not have the "sponge rubber" type of gasket but is more of a pliable rubber washer. Seems to work fine.