The Simpson 5.50 in End Column Cap L-Shaped for GFCMU and Concrete Piers is a heavy-gauge connector engineered specifically for building corner positions in raised pier foundations and heavy-beam applications. Built by Simpson, this L-shaped end column cap seats heavy beams securely on concrete or CMU columns, delivering the uplift and lateral resistance needed for high-wind performance at critical corner connections. The kit arrives complete with MSTQM straps and Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws, so installers have everything required for a structurally sound corner column cap connection.

Key Features

• L-shaped corner-specific geometry - designed exclusively for building corners, ensuring precise alignment and full bearing at raised pier foundation corner connections where a standard cap would not fit or perform correctly.
• Compatible with GFCMU masonry columns and concrete piers - fits the most common column types used in raised pier and heavy-beam construction, reducing the need for custom fabrication or field modification.
• 7-gauge steel construction - provides the structural mass required to transfer heavy beam loads and resist the uplift and lateral forces generated during high-wind events without deformation.
• Simpson Strong-Tie Gray Paint finish - delivers a protective coating that helps guard the steel connector against corrosion during and after installation in foundation environments.
• Configured for Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws - the included 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. SDS screws are specifically matched to the connector's round holes to achieve high uplift design values that lag screws cannot replicate.
• Complete kit format including MSTQM straps - all components needed to connect the end column cap to wall framing arrive together, reducing the risk of mismatched hardware and simplifying procurement for pier foundation projects.
• Flush pier-edge installation capability - the connector is sized for flush installation to the edge of the pier, keeping the column cap from projecting beyond the foundation footprint at corner positions.
• Standard CMU cell spacing compatibility - works with typical concrete masonry unit cell layouts, so no special column preparation is required for most GFCMU pier applications.

Why This Product

• Purpose-built for the most demanding corner connection in pier foundation systems - rather than adapting a general-purpose cap, this connector is engineered from the ground up for corner column positions on raised piers, meaning load paths are optimized for exactly the geometry and forces present at building corners.
• High-wind uplift and lateral resistance in a single connector - the combination of heavy 7-gauge steel, certified welds, and SDS screw configuration means one connector addresses both uplift and lateral demands, simplifying the structural solution for wind-exposed pier foundations.
• Kit includes every connection component needed - the MSTQM straps and Strong-Drive SDS screws are included with the end column cap, so builders and contractors receive a matched, tested assembly rather than sourcing individual components separately and risking incompatible hardware.
• Made in the United States to Simpson quality standards - domestic production supports consistent quality control on a structural connector where dimensional accuracy and material consistency directly affect load performance at corner pier connections.

Specifications

• Model Number: ECCLQM5.50-KT
• Main Channel Width (W1): 5-1/2 in.
• Side Stirrup Width (W3 and W4): 5-1/2 in.
• Main Channel Length (L1): 11-1/2 in.
• Side Stirrup Length (L2): 7-3/4 in.
• Material: 7-Gauge Steel
• Finish: Simpson Strong-Tie Gray Paint
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• Raised pier foundations requiring corner column cap connections
• Applications where heavy beams rest on concrete or concrete block (CMU) columns
• High-wind resistance applications requiring certified uplift and lateral load performance
• Building corner connections using GFCMU masonry columns or concrete piers
• Foundations requiring flush installation to the edge of the pier
• Structural connections requiring standard CMU cell spacing compatibility

What's Included

• ECCLQM5.50 L-shaped end column cap
• MSTQM straps (for connection from ECCLQM to wall framing)
• 1/4" x 2-1/2" Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws (configured for high uplift design values)

Installation Notes

• Install 1/4" x 2-1/2" Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws (provided) in all round holes. Note: Lag screws will not achieve the same load.
• Minimum (4) #7 vertical rebar (total for pier) is required.
• Intended for installation at building corners only.

Options

• Contact us for Configurable Options and Special orders
• Available in widths up to nominal 7-1/8" width.
• For variable widths on side stirrups, specify W3 (3 1/4" to 7 1/8") and add an "X" to the end of the core model name. Example: ECCLQM5.50GX-KT, W3 = 3 5/8".

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the ECCLQM5.50-KT intended to be used in a structure?

This L-shaped end column cap is specifically designed for use at building corners in raised pier foundation systems. It is engineered to seat heavy beams on concrete or concrete block columns, making it well suited for heavy-beam applications where high uplift and lateral resistance are required.

What is included in the ECCLQM5.50-KT kit?

The kit includes the ECCLQM5.50 L-shaped column cap, MSTQM straps for making the connection from the ECCLQM to the wall framing, and screws. Everything needed for a complete, ready-to-install solution is provided in the kit.

What type of columns is this connector compatible with?

The ECCLQM5.50-KT is designed to work with concrete or concrete block columns. The SSTBs are spaced to fit standard CMU cells, ensuring compatibility with common masonry construction, and the SSTB offset allows flush installation to the edge of the pier.

What material and finish is the ECCLQM5.50-KT made from?

The connector is constructed from 7-gauge steel for heavy-duty performance and is finished with Simpson Strong-Tie Gray paint for durability. It also features certified welds to ensure strength and loading integrity at critical corner connections.