So I was doing inventory on new parts and got to looking at the GEMO cables I have for both cars. I bought the cables at different times and different years. Neither has boot on the caliper end. Check yours if you have new ones. You may need to order boots.

Yep, noticed that a few weeks ago; not sure of brand but cables replaced a year or two ago but just noticed no boots recently. Guess the old ones just rotted off or something. Got boots; not expensive. A bit tricky to slip on, but wiggled them on.

I don't believe the cables ship with the caliper end boot on. You can't get the cable thru the trailing arm mounting bracket if it was. I bought an e-brake cable set from 914Rubber and the boots came in a separate plastic bag. Yours may have become separated, or just never got them. I think they are $5 ea.

Any of the cables wouldn't necessarily include the caliper boot, but the one on the cable should be there. I know they are on ours, but are a bitc* to put on after. Ask me I've had to when I put together in the wrong order, dooooogh

Boots on cable if you need em -
https://914rubber.com/parking-brake-front-sealing-sleeve-1-1

Boots at brake -
https://914rubber.com/parking-brake-rear-sealing-sleeve-1-1
All 3 cables boots installed

https://914rubber.com/parking-brake-cable-set-for-914