The Simpson ECCQ5-8SDS2.5 End Column Cap is a heavy-duty structural connector from Simpson engineered for end-of-beam column-to-beam connections in wood construction. Sized for a 5-1/8 in. beam width and compatible with 8x post ends, this end column cap features an extended seat that projects beyond the side of the column to increase bearing surface area, helping distribute loads from the beam while delivering solid support at the connection point. Complete with Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws and built from 3-gauge steel with a Simpson Strong-Tie Gray paint finish, it is well-suited for structural applications subject to earthquake or high wind loading where enhanced uplift resistance is required.

Key Features

• Extended seat bearing surface - projects beyond the column side to increase load distribution from the beam, improving structural performance at the connection point.
• 3-gauge steel construction - provides the material strength and rigidity needed to handle demanding structural loads in end-of-beam wood framing applications.
• Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws included - fastener-ready right out of the box, with the specified screw type required to achieve rated load values at both the beam and post connections.
• Certified weld strength and increased uplift load capacity - makes this column cap a code-compliant choice for connections subject to seismic or high-wind conditions where uplift resistance is critical.
• Compatible with 5-1/8 in. engineered or dimensional lumber beams on 8x post ends - purpose-built sizing eliminates guesswork and ensures a proper fit for common heavy timber framing configurations.
• Made in the United States - produced domestically to consistent quality standards, supporting confidence in material sourcing and fabrication.

Why This Product

• Everything needed for installation is included - the column cap ships with all required Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws for both the beam and post connections, so no separate fastener sourcing is required to complete the installation.
• Engineered specifically for end-of-beam applications - unlike general-purpose post caps, the ECCQ5-8SDS2.5 is purpose-designed for end-of-beam column-to-beam connections, making it the correct connector for this specific structural condition rather than an adapted substitute.
• Suitable for high-demand structural environments - approved for applications subject to earthquake or high wind loading where enhanced uplift resistance is required, giving builders and engineers confidence in using it for code-sensitive projects.
• Precise fit for a common heavy timber pairing - the 5-1/8 in. beam width and 8x post end sizing match widely used engineered lumber dimensions, reducing layout complications and supporting cleaner, faster framing at the connection.

Specifications

• Model Number: ECCQ5-8SDS2.5
• Beam Width: 5-1/8 in.
• Width 2: 7-1/2 in.
• Width 1: 5-1/4 in.
• Width W1: 5-1/4 in.
• Width W2: 7-1/2 in.
• Length (L): 8-1/2 in.
• Height (H): 7 in.
• Material: 3-Gauge Steel
• Finish: Simpson Strong-Tie Gray Paint
• Fastener Size Included: 1/4" x 2-1/2" Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector Screws
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• End-of-beam column-to-beam connections in wood construction
• Structural connections requiring certified weld strength and increased uplift load capacity
• Applications subject to earthquake or high wind loading where enhanced uplift resistance is required
• 8x post end connections with 5-1/8" engineered or dimensional lumber beams

What's Included

• 1 x ECCQ5-8SDS2.5 End Column Cap
• 14 x 1/4" x 2-1/2" Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector Screws (Beam)
• 14 x 1/4" x 2-1/2" Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector Screws (Post)

Installation

Fasten with 1/4" x 2 1/2" Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws, which are provided with the column cap. (Lag screws will not achieve the same load.)

Options

• Contact us for Configurable Options and Special orders

Frequently Asked Questions

What beam width and post size is the ECCQ5-8SDS2.5 designed for?

The ECCQ5-8SDS2.5 is designed for a 5-1/8 in. beam width and is compatible with 8x post ends, making it suitable for end-of-beam wood construction applications where those dimensions are required.

What fasteners are included with this column cap, and why are they preferred over standard bolts?

This column cap comes supplied with Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws. These screws attach to a greater net section area of the column compared to standard bolt attachment, and their low-profile design eliminates the need for standard through bolts, reducing the overall connector profile and simplifying installation.

How does the extended seat on this column cap benefit the connection?

The extended seat reaches beyond the side of the column to increase the bearing surface area, helping to effectively distribute loads from the beam while providing additional support at the connection point beyond the side of the column.

Is this column cap engineered to handle earthquake and wind loading demands?

Yes, the ECCQ5-8SDS2.5 features increased uplift load values that are specifically engineered to address earthquake and wind loading demands, providing added structural confidence in applications where these forces are a concern.