The Simpson End Column Cap for 6X Beam and 8X Post is a heavy-duty structural connector engineered for end-of-beam column-to-beam connections in wood construction. Built by Simpson, this end column cap features a seat that extends beyond one side of the column, providing an additional bearing surface that effectively distributes load from the beam to the post at end-of-beam positions. With certified welds, 7-gauge steel construction, and a Simpson gray paint finish, this connector is built to handle demanding structural applications where reliable load transfer and code compliance are non-negotiable.

Key Features

• 7-gauge steel construction - delivers the structural mass needed for heavy-load column-to-beam connections, giving builders confidence in long-term performance at critical connection points.
• Certified welds - each weld is verified for strength and loading integrity, reducing uncertainty during inspections and ensuring consistent performance under real-world forces.
• Extended seat design beyond one side of the column - creates an additional bearing surface that distributes beam load more effectively at end-of-beam positions, improving stability where a centered cap cannot be used.
• Increased uplift load capacity - engineered to resist seismic and wind uplift forces, making this connector appropriate for projects in earthquake-prone or high-wind regions where code demands heightened performance.
• NDS code-compliant bolt spacing - supports proper fastener layout for wood framing projects, simplifying the inspection and approval process on permitted structural work.
• Simpson gray paint finish - provides a corrosion-resistant surface coating suited to the conditions typical of structural framing environments.

Why This Product

• Purpose-built for end-of-beam applications - the offset seat geometry solves a specific structural challenge that standard column caps cannot address, making this connector the correct choice when the beam terminates at the post rather than passing over it.
• Engineered for seismic and wind uplift resistance - increased uplift load ratings mean this end column cap meets the stricter demands placed on structural connections in regions subject to earthquake or high-wind loading, supporting code-compliant builds without requiring additional hardware.
• Precision-matched sizing for 6X beam and 8X post lumber - the connector is dimensioned specifically for these lumber sizes, eliminating fit uncertainty and helping ensure a clean, secure installation without modification.
• Made in the United States with certified welds and heavy-gauge steel - the combination of domestic production standards, verified weld quality, and 7-gauge steel construction gives contractors and project owners a connector they can specify with confidence on structural wood framing jobs.

Specifications

• Model Number: ECC68
• Description: 6X Beam, 8X Post End Column Cap
• Material: 7 gauge steel
• Finish: Simpson Strong-Tie gray paint
• Fasteners Required - Beam: 5/8" Machine Bolts (2)
• Fasteners Required - Post: 5/8" Machine Bolts (2)
• Length: 9-1/2 in.
• Width 1: 5-1/2 in.
• Width 2: 7-1/2 in.
• Height 1: 6-1/2 in.
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• End-of-beam column-to-beam connections in wood construction
• Structural connections requiring load distribution from beam to post
• Applications requiring increased uplift resistance for seismic (earthquake) loading
• Applications requiring increased uplift resistance for wind loading
• Wood framing projects where NDS code-compliant bolt spacing is required

What's Included

• 1x Simpson Strong-Tie ECC68 End Column Cap
• Note: 5/8" machine bolts (beam and post) are required for installation and are not included.

Options

• Contact us for Configurable Options and Special orders
• Straps may be rotated 90 deg. (see SPECS)
• For special, custom or rough-cut lumber sizes, provide dimensions. An optional W2 dimension may be specified. (The W2 dimension on straps rotated 90 deg. is limited by the W1 dimension.)

Frequently Asked Questions

What beam and post sizes is the ECC68 designed to work with?

The ECC68 is designed specifically for use with a 6X beam and an 8X post, making it suitable for end-of-beam column-to-beam connections in wood construction applications where those lumber dimensions are used.

What fasteners are required to install the ECC68?

Installation requires 5/8" machine bolts - two for the beam connection and two for the post connection. The connector also features diamond holes to allow for temporary fastening during the installation process.

What is the ECC68 made of, and how is it finished?

The ECC68 is constructed from heavy-duty 7-gauge steel and finished with Simpson Strong-Tie gray paint, providing durability suited to demanding structural applications.

What makes the ECC68 different from a standard column cap?

The ECC68 features an extended seat design that reaches beyond one side of the column, providing an additional bearing surface area for superior load distribution at the connection point. It also incorporates certified welds and increased uplift load capacity engineered to meet earthquake and wind loading demands, along with bolt spacing that meets NDS code requirements.