Abstract: The coupling together of the ends of two sections of pipes is accomplished using a pair of externally mating flanges, a plurality of nut and bolt assemblies, and a split, u-shaped positioning ring which surrounds the mating flanges. The flanges each surround the peripheral surface adjacent to a collar at the ends of the pipe sections, and have a plurality of spaced radial notches around their perimeter. The positioning ring has pairs of inwardly protruding tabs spaced about its circumference to align with the radial notches of the two flanges. Each pair of tabs has an orifice holding the loosely preassembled nut and bolt assemblies which are all slid into their corresponding notches in the flanges at once when the clamping ring is placed over the flanges. Subsequent tightening of the nut and bolt assemblies press the mating flanges together against a seal placed therebetween to prevent leakage from the coupling.