Abstract: A protective sleeve includes a sleeve body and a cover, each having a generally semi-cylindrical cross-section. The cover includes a groove along its longitudinal edges for receiving a silicone chord sealing gasket. The sleeve body has a short cylindrical externally threaded section at one end for threaded connection within the recess of a connector ring. One end of the cover is disposed in the recess and the opposite end engages a stop carried by the sleeve body. The cover and sleeve body are latched with over-center latches to one another whereby an effective seal is formed between the cover and sleeve body. By opening or closing the latches and manipulating the cover relative to the sleeve body, the cover can be replaced rapidly should the sealing gasket become damaged.