A repair clamp bolt retaining assembly having a band with first and second edges and a gap there between, first and second lug elements extending from the band on opposite sides of the gap, multiple bolts configured to extend transversely from bolt receiving openings in the first lug element to bolt receiving openings in the second lug element, and a bolt retainer on at least one of the multiple bolts on the inner side of the opening in the second lug element and configured such that the bolt retainer does not pass through the openings in the second lug element.