The Simpson CCQ66SDS2.5-R CCQ Column Cap is built to deliver strong, reliable column-to-beam connections in wood construction, specifically engineered for a nominal 6x beam and a nominal 6x post. The cap's extended seat provides additional bearing surface area beyond each side of the column, helping to distribute the load from the beam and reinforce the overall connection. Instead of traditional through bolts, this cap relies on Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws - included with purchase - for faster installation and attachment to a greater net section area of the column. Constructed from 7-gauge steel with certified welds and a Simpson Strong-Tie gray paint finish, the CCQ66SDS2.5-R is well suited for demanding applications involving seismic or high-wind conditions.

Key Features

• Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws included - eliminates a separate fastener purchase and ensures the connection achieves rated load values right out of the box
• Lower-profile SDS screw fastening vs. standard through bolts - keeps the finished connection cleaner and less obtrusive without sacrificing holding strength
• Extended seat with additional bearing surface area - distributes beam load across the post more effectively, reducing stress concentration at the connection point
• Increased uplift load ratings for seismic and wind applications - gives builders confidence when working in high-wind or earthquake zones where elevated uplift forces are a design concern
• Certified welds throughout - provides verifiable strength and consistency that engineers and inspectors can rely on for structural connections
• 7-gauge steel construction - delivers the material thickness needed for heavy timber framing applications where load demands are significant
• Diamond holes for temporary fastening - allows the cap to be held in position during layout and alignment before final fasteners are driven, simplifying the installation process
• Simpson Strong-Tie gray paint finish - provides a consistent, finished appearance suitable for exposed post-and-beam applications

Why This Product

• A complete connection solution in one package - the CCQ66SDS2.5-R comes with the Strong-Drive SDS screws needed for installation, so the correct fasteners are always on hand and rated load performance is not compromised by field substitutions
• Engineered for both everyday builds and high-demand structural conditions - with uplift loads increased specifically for earthquake and wind loading, this column cap handles the full range of wood construction scenarios from standard framing to code-critical seismic and wind zones
• Extended bearing surface reduces the risk of connection failure - the seat design actively spreads the beam load beyond the column edges, adding a margin of structural support that a standard bracket without extended bearing would not provide
• Faster installation without sacrificing net section strength - SDS screw attachment engages more of the column's cross-section than a typical bolt pattern, meaning the connection goes together quickly while maintaining the structural integrity that heavy timber framing demands

Specifications

• Model Number: CCQ66SDS2.5-R
• Nominal Beam Width: 6x
• Nominal Post Size: 6x
• Member Size: 6x Beam, 6x Post
• Width 1: 5-1/2 in.
• Width 2: 5-1/2 in.
• Length 1: 11 in.
• Height 1: 7 in.
• Beam Width: 5-1/4 in. or 5-1/2 in.
• Steel Gauge: 7-Gauge
• Coating / Finish: Simpson Strong-Tie Gray Paint
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• Wood construction column-to-beam connections requiring strong, load-bearing performance
• Connections in high-wind and seismic zones where increased uplift load capacity is required
• Projects where a lower-profile fastener is preferred over traditional through-bolt configurations
• Applications where extended bearing surface area is needed to distribute beam loads across the post

What's Included

This column cap includes (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 values - use only the provided SDS screws for rated performance.

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

Options

• Contact us for Configurable Options and Special orders

Frequently Asked Questions

What size beam and post is the CCQ66SDS2.5-R designed for?

This column cap is designed for a nominal 6x beam and a nominal 6x post, making it suitable for heavy timber framing applications that require a strong column-beam connection.

What fasteners are required, and are they included?

This column cap installs with 30 Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws measuring 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. (Model: SDS25212). These screws are included with the cap, so no separate fastener purchase is necessary.

Why use SDS screws instead of standard through bolts?

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

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

Yes. The CCQ66SDS2.5-R features increased uplift load capacity specifically to address earthquake and wind loading requirements. Combined with certified welds and 7-gauge steel construction, it is well suited for applications where seismic or high-wind forces are a concern.