I use large zip ties on my big ends too, 2 ties, closing at opposite ends. Nothing interesting has happened the last 2 years, even on the Cup car that has seen 170 mph.

the "big end" is connected to the flange that the bolts run through on the one i recently installed. i don't follow why you would need to fasten it at the "big end".

edit_ i stand corrected. the boot kit i got already had the metal type fastener on the big end. see pic below, it shows the metal strap affair.

http://www.pelicanparts.com/catalog/images/suspension_parts/5_1.4j.gif

As usual with these things there are always many parameters to keep in mind. The problem with the zip ties is the combination of load and heat. The nylon used for zip ties will get very soft above 60 C / 140 F. Especially cars with catalyst are critical. Just driving fast is no problem as the airflow will keep the boots and ties from heating up. However if you stop after a high speed run with a glowing exhaust, park the car for 15 min to allow the boots/ties to heat up, and then accelerate to high speed again, you can have a problem. If you wait for 1 hour so the ties can cool down again, nothing will happen. Earlier cars without catalyst or front engine cars are less critical but I still prefer a metal clamp. You can buy a metal clamp at an autoparts store for $3, so I don't think it is worth gambling.

But, stock from the factory, my 911s isn't equipped with them, correct?

Looking in the workshop manual, early cars should have two metal clamps (big and small end). On my car (73) I found only one clamp at the big end and it looked pretty original.

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1110585169.jpg

IMHO, one should not gamble with zip ties when a proper solution is under $10..

Note that different axles have different boots... It is even possible to have different boots on each side of the same car ( one factory and one aftermarket, slightly different )

Seems to me that if there is a molded groove on the small end of the rubber boot that is obviously for a clamp of some description, a clamp should be used for sure..

The big end should *always* have a metallic clamp ( no plastic ). You could of course use plastic zip ties *if* you particularly like cleaning cv joint grease off the underside of your car cuz they *will* let go at some point. Most likely at the worst possible point.