Clamp coupling and method of fastening the same

A method of fastening a clamp coupling, wherein the clamp coupling includes a plurality of clamp segments including respective grooves each having a U or V sectional shape, the plural clamp segments being connected in a ring shape with the groove facing inward of the ring shape, the clamp segments being configured to hold a plurality of objects to be connected in the grooves and connect the objects;

• and a connecting section having a first connecting section and a second connecting section for connecting the clamp segments, wherein the first connecting section is configured to serve as a hinge that permits the clamp segments to be opened from and closed to the ring shape, wherein the second connecting section is configured to connect the plural clamp segments and to permit adjustment of a circumferential length of the plural clamp segments having the ring shape, wherein the second connecting section includes a fastening section and a contact section disposed outward of the ring shape from the fastening section, wherein the contact section connects the clamp segments at one ends thereof in direct or indirect contact with each other and includes a changing means to change a spaced distance between the one ends of the clamp segments, and wherein the fastening section includes an externally threaded body inserted through the one ends and an internally threaded body screwed with the externally threaded body for holding the one ends and fastening the clamp segments thereby to reduce the spaced distance between the one ends of the clamp segments and connect the objects held in the grooves, the method comprising:
• holding the shim as the changing means in the contact section between the one ends of the clamp segments in a case that adjustment is made so that the circumferential length of the plural clamp segments connected in the ring shape is increased;
• and
• removing the shim from the contact section so that the one ends of the clamp segments are brought into direct contact with each other in a case that adjustment is made so that the circumferential length of the clamp segments is shortened.