The Simpson ECCQ98SDS2.5 8-3/4 in. Beam 8x Post End Column Cap is a heavy-duty connector engineered for end-of-beam column-to-beam connections in wood construction, including heavy timber and post-frame applications where high uplift resistance and structural integrity are critical. Built by Simpson from 3-gauge steel with a Simpson Strong-Tie Gray paint finish, this end column cap arrives pre-packaged with Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector Screws for both the beam and post connections, so installation can begin immediately without sourcing additional hardware. Its extended seat design distributes beam loads more effectively over the bearing surface, making it a dependable choice for structural post-to-beam connections subject to earthquake or wind loading requirements.

Key Features

• Extended Bearing Seat - The seat extends beyond the side of the column to provide additional bearing surface area, helping to distribute beam loads more evenly and strengthen the overall structural connection at end-of-beam positions.
• 3-Gauge Steel Construction - Heavy-duty 3-gauge steel delivers the material strength needed for demanding structural applications, including heavy timber framing and post-frame construction where load capacity and durability are non-negotiable.
• Simpson Strong-Tie Gray Paint Finish - A factory-applied protective coating helps guard the connector against corrosion during handling and installation, keeping the hardware ready for use in structural assemblies.
• SDS Screws Included for Both Beam and Post - Comes pre-packaged with 1/4" x 2-1/2" Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector Screws for both the beam and post sides, enabling a complete, high-performance connection right out of the box with no extra fastener purchases required.
• SDS Screw Attachment at Greater Net Section Area - The SDS screws attach to a greater net section area of the column compared to a standard bolt attachment, which supports higher uplift load values and makes this cap suitable for projects with earthquake or wind loading requirements.
• Diamond Holes for Positioning - Integrated diamond holes allow for temporary fastening during positioning before final installation, simplifying alignment and reducing the risk of errors during assembly.
• Lower-Profile Hardware - Compared to traditional through-bolt installations, this column cap offers a lower-profile connection, making it a practical choice for projects where finished appearance or tight framing tolerances matter.

Why This Product

• All-in-One Connection Kit - With SDS screws included for both the beam and post sides of the connection, this end column cap eliminates the need to source separate fasteners, saving time on the job site and ensuring the correct hardware is always paired with the connector.
• Built for High-Load and Code-Sensitive Applications - Approved for applications with earthquake or wind loading requirements where increased uplift load values are necessary, this connector is a reliable choice when structural performance and code compliance are priorities.
• Engineered for End-of-Beam Situations - Unlike general-purpose post caps, this connector is specifically designed for end-of-beam column-to-beam connections, giving builders a purpose-built solution for a detail that standard hardware often handles less effectively.
• Streamlined Installation with Reduced Complexity - The combination of included SDS fasteners, diamond positioning holes, and a lower-profile design compared to through-bolt methods means faster setup, fewer components to manage, and a cleaner finished connection on heavy timber and post-frame projects.

Specifications

• Model Number: ECCQ98SDS2.5
• Beam Width: 8-3/4 in.
• Width 2: 7-1/2 in.
• Width 1: 8-7/8 in.
• Height: 7 in.
• Length: 8-1/2 in.
• Dimension W1: 8-7/8 in.
• Dimension W2: 7-1/2 in.
• Dimension L: 8-1/2 in.
• Dimension H: 7 in.
• Material: 3 Gauge Steel
• Finish: Simpson Strong-Tie Gray Paint
• SDS Screws Included - Beam: 14 qty - 1/4" x 2-1/2" SDS Screws
• SDS Screws Included - Post: 14 qty - 1/4" x 2-1/2" SDS Screws
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• End-of-beam column-to-beam connection in wood construction
• Structural post-to-beam connections requiring high uplift resistance
• Applications with earthquake or wind loading requirements where increased uplift load values are necessary
• Heavy timber and post-frame construction projects requiring certified weld strength
• Projects requiring a lower-profile hardware connection compared to traditional through-bolt installations

What's Included

• 1x Simpson Strong-Tie ECCQ98SDS2.5 End Column Cap
• 14x 1/4" x 2-1/2" Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector Screws (Beam)
• 14x 1/4" x 2-1/2" Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector Screws (Post)

Installation Notes

Fasten with the included 1/4" x 2-1/2" Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector Screws. The SDS screws are provided with the column cap and are designed to attach to a greater net section area of the column than a standard bolt attachment. Use diamond holes for temporary fastening during positioning prior to final installation.

Options

• Contact us for Configurable Options and Special orders

Frequently Asked Questions

What hardware is included with the ECCQ98SDS2.5, and do I need to purchase additional fasteners?

The ECCQ98SDS2.5 comes pre-packaged with 1/4" x 2-1/2" Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector Screws, so no additional hardware is required for installation right out of the box.

What is the advantage of using SDS screws instead of standard through-bolts for this column cap?

Strong-Drive SDS screws attach to a greater net section area of the column than standard bolt attachment and provide a lower profile than standard through-bolts, resulting in a cleaner, less obtrusive installation.

What post and beam size is the ECCQ98SDS2.5 designed for?

The ECCQ98SDS2.5 is designed for use with an 8x post and an 8-3/4" beam, making it suitable for end-of-beam column-to-beam connection applications in wood construction.

What material and finish is this column cap made from?

The ECCQ98SDS2.5 is fabricated from heavy-duty 3-gauge steel and features a durable Simpson Strong-Tie Gray paint finish. It is manufactured in the United States.