I purchased them from Rimmers for a ZT 260 and they confirmed they were correct when I said it was sitting too low and they even checked the spec and part numbers. No there is no protection but that is how they came. They fitted perfectly but just a bit soft for an Estate car. The ones I had made had no protection but it does not seem to affect the way they work. I suppose some plastic tubing could be slipped over the spring if wanted.

Steve