The Simpson CCQ74SDS2.5 Column Cap is a heavy-duty structural connector engineered to create strong, reliable column-beam connections in wood construction. Designed for a 6-3/4 in. beam and nominal 4x post, this Simpson Strong-Tie connector features an extended bearing seat that projects beyond each side of the column, distributing load from the beam across a greater surface area for a more stable, secure connection. Built from 3-gauge steel with certified welds and a Simpson Strong-Tie gray paint finish, the CCQ74SDS2.5 generally eliminates the need for additional brackets or braces - and it ships complete with Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws ready for fast installation.

Key Features

• Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws included - fasten to a greater net section area of the column than standard bolt attachments, maximizing connection strength without extra hardware purchases
• Lower-profile SDS screw fastening - keeps the finished connection cleaner and less obtrusive compared to traditional through-bolt installations
• Extended bearing seat beyond each side of the column - distributes beam loads across a larger surface area, improving load transfer and overall connection stability
• Certified welds - provide verified strength and load confidence so structural integrity meets expectations on every installation
• Increased uplift load ratings - engineered to handle the elevated demands of earthquake and wind loading applications
• Diamond holes for temporary fastening - allow the cap to be held securely in position during alignment before final installation, reducing the chance of errors
• 3-gauge steel construction with Simpson Strong-Tie gray paint finish - delivers substantial structural strength while the factory-applied coating provides a finished, professional appearance

Why This Product

• A complete, ready-to-install connection solution - the CCQ74SDS2.5 ships with the Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws needed for installation, so there is no need to source fasteners separately or worry about compatibility
• Engineered specifically for demanding structural applications - with uplift loads increased for earthquake and wind loading, this column cap is well-suited for projects where code-compliant performance under lateral and uplift forces is a priority
• Reduces the need for additional hardware - the extended bearing seat and robust 3-gauge steel construction are designed to generally eliminate the need for supplemental brackets or braces, simplifying the structural connection
• Faster, cleaner installation compared to through-bolt methods - SDS screw attachment means less prep work, a lower profile on the finished connection, and engagement with a greater net section area of the post than a standard bolt attachment would provide

Specifications

• Model Number: CCQ74SDS2.5
• Member Size: 6-3/4 in. beam, 4x post
• Beam Width: 6-3/4 in.
• Width 1: 6-7/8 in.
• Width 2: 3-5/8 in.
• Length 1: 11 in.
• Height 1: 7 in.
• Material Gauge: 3-gauge steel
• Finish / Coating: Simpson Strong-Tie Gray Paint
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• Column-to-beam connections in wood construction
• Structural connections requiring increased uplift resistance for earthquake or wind loading
• Projects requiring load distribution from beam to column via an extended bearing seat
• Applications where a lower-profile fastener is preferred over standard through bolts

What's Included

This column cap ships complete with (30) 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws (Model: SDS25212). Note: Lag screws will not achieve the same load as the included SDS screws.

Installation

Install with the included (30) 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws (Model: SDS25212). The SDS screws engage a greater net section area of the column than standard bolt attachments. Lag screws will not achieve the same load.

Related Products

• CCOQ - Column cap only (no straps), available for field-welding to pipe or other columns. Dimensions are the same as the CCQ.
• ECCOQ - End Column Cap, Legs Omitted, Quick-Install

Options

• Contact us for Configurable Options and Special orders

Frequently Asked Questions

What beam and post sizes is the CCQ74SDS2.5 designed to fit?

The CCQ74SDS2.5 is sized specifically for a 6-3/4 in. beam and a nominal 4x post, making it suitable for heavy timber and engineered lumber applications that match those dimensions.

What fasteners are included, and do I need to purchase them separately?

The CCQ74SDS2.5 comes complete with 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws (Model: SDS25212). A total of 30 screws are included, so no additional fastener purchase is necessary for installation.

Why use SDS screws instead of standard through bolts for this column cap?

The Strong-Drive SDS screws provide a lower profile than standard through bolts for a cleaner, more professional installation. They also attach to a greater net section area of the column than a bolt attachment normally allows, which can result in a stronger connection overall.

Is this column cap suitable for use in high-wind or seismic conditions?

Yes. The CCQ74SDS2.5 features increased uplift load capacity specifically to address earthquake and wind loading demands. It is also constructed from 3-gauge steel with certified welds, providing confidence in strength and loading performance under demanding conditions.