Pipe repair coupling tool and method of use

A pipe repair tool for use with a coupler of the type having a first end, a second end, and a cylindrical sleeve between said first and second ends, said first and second ends of said coupler respectively having first and second outwardly projecting flanges, said repair tool comprising:

• a. a cylindrical cuff having a first open end, a second open end and a length between said first and second open ends, said first open end defining a circular leading edge of said cuff and said second open end defining a circular trailing edge of said cuff;
• b. said cuff including first and second semi-cylindrical half cuffs having lengths corresponding to said length of said cuff and first and second ends corresponding to said first and second open ends of said cuff, each of said first and second ends of said half cuffs having a semi-circular cross-section corresponding to said leading edge and said trailing edge;
• c. each of said first and second half cuffs having first and second lengthwise edges, said half cuffs connected by a hinge at their respective first lengthwise edges and releasably fastened together by a latch at their respective second lengthwise edges such that said cuff is configured to closely enclose at least a portion of said sleeve of said coupler when said half cuffs are fastened together;
• d. said half cuff each having a semi-cylindrical outer surface;
• e. said first half cuff having at least one outwardly projecting ear on said outer surface comprising a first leading ear located near to said leading edge and spaced apart from said first and second lengthwise edges, said first leading ear having a force-receiving pry surface facing said trailing edge of said first half cuff such that force applied to said pry surface in the direction of said leading edge is capable of urging said leading edge of said cuff against said first flange of said coupler when said cuff is fastened around said sleeve of said coupler.