Question for the mid-year Corvette people?

Curious what would cause this deterioration (pitting / blistering) of the metal console around the shifter on a low mile pampered Survivor.

It seems moisture may have entered through the rubber boot area?

I love this Excellent Unrestored ‘66 Vette, just curious.

Thanks.

My dad had a couple of these back in the early seventies, they were a fast car and a lot of fun to drive.