an injection molding nozzle tip thermal insulator includes an apparatus for removably fastening the insulator to a nozzle tip having a receiving detent therein . the apparatus includes a fastening structure that engages the nozzle tip receiving detent and holds the insulator onto the nozzle tip . the fastening structure is movable between a first position where the insulator is fastened to the nozzle tip , and a second position where the insulator is removable from the nozzle tip . also included are a method of removably attaching the insulator to the nozzle tip , and assembly and removal tools for attaching and removing the insulator from the nozzle tip , respectively .