Abstract: A torsional vibration damper for use with a friction clutch incorporating torsional springs in a closed retainer housing. One end of each spring is driven by the retainer housing while the other end drives the output hub. The springs provide a resilient drive through a predetermined amount of relative angular movement between the retainer and the output hub after which movement the spring ends are in abutting relation so that a mechanical drive is present and overstressing of the springs is prevented. Preferably, the springs are used in pairs with each spring being less than a 360.degree. arc.