When I had a look at my front suspension today, I noticed that there are two red rubbery foam type 'protectors' attached to the shock absorber on the inside of the spring. When I touched one of these 'protectors' it crumbled and it looks like they're all really corroded and worn out. What are these 'protector' thingys? Are they important?

Sounds like you're referring to the bump stops.. they look like donuts of a faded reddy orange color. They stop your dampers from bottoming out, and inevitably after years of getting slammed over and over they will deteriorate. If you replace your springs or dampers definately replace the bump stops at the same time to save yourself hassles later.

Mine require replacing, I'm surprised I/shop didn't pick it up when I put the new dampers and springs in about 6 months ago. It's a nightmare pulling my suspension apart :(

yep, that's what they are. Thanks for that. Hrm, now about replacements.....$$$?

Go to a parts place and ask for the Monroe strut saver kit i think it is called.