The Simpson CCQ66-SDS2.5HDG is a hot-dip galvanized column cap built for high-capacity column-to-beam connections in wood construction. Designed for nominal 6x beams and 6x posts, this Simpson connector features an extended seat that provides additional bearing surface area beyond each side of the column, helping distribute beam loads efficiently across the connection point. Instead of standard through bolts, the CCQ uses Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws for faster installation and attachment to a greater net section area of the column - generally eliminating the need for additional brackets or braces. Fabricated from 7-gauge steel with certified welds and a hot-dip galvanized finish, this column cap is built to perform in exterior environments and treated-lumber applications where corrosion resistance is critical.

Key Features

• Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws provide a lower profile than standard through bolts - results in a cleaner, less obtrusive connection without sacrificing load capacity
• Certified welds throughout - gives builders and inspectors confidence in the structural integrity and load-rated performance of every connection
• Increased uplift load ratings for earthquake and wind loading - makes this cap a reliable choice for structures in seismic or high-wind zones where uplift forces are a primary design concern
• Extended seat bearing surface beyond each side of the column - distributes beam loads more broadly across the connection, reducing point stress and reinforcing the joint
• Diamond holes for temporary fastening - allows contractors to hold the cap in position during layout and alignment before final fastening, speeding up the installation process
• Hot-dip galvanized (HDG) coating - delivers superior corrosion resistance for exterior structural applications and connections involving pressure-treated lumber, where standard coatings may be inadequate
• 7-gauge steel construction - provides the heavy-duty thickness needed for demanding structural column-to-beam connections in wood framing
• Includes 30 Strong-Drive SDS screws (Model: SDS25212) - arrives complete and ready to install, so there is no need to source compatible fasteners separately

Why This Product

• A complete, ready-to-install connection solution - the CCQ66-SDS2.5HDG ships with all required Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws included, so structural post-and-beam connections can begin immediately without hunting down compatible hardware
• Engineered for demanding load conditions - certified welds combined with increased uplift load ratings make this column cap a strong fit for projects in high-wind or seismic regions where connection performance under lateral and uplift forces is non-negotiable
• Built to last in corrosive environments - the hot-dip galvanized finish provides a level of corrosion protection specifically suited to exterior decks, pergolas, and other outdoor structures where contact with treated lumber or moisture exposure is expected over the life of the installation
• Faster installation without compromising connection quality - the SDS screw fastening system attaches to a greater net section area of the column than bolt connections typically allow, while the lower-profile fastener and diamond positioning holes help crews work more efficiently from layout through final fastening

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Simpson Strong-Tie
• Model Number (MPN): CCQ66-SDS2.5HDG
• Nominal Beam Width: 6x
• Beam Width: 5-1/4 in. or 5-1/2 in.
• Width 1: 5-1/2 in.
• Width 2: 5-1/2 in.
• Length 1: 11 in.
• Height 1: 7 in.
• Nominal Post Size: 6x
• Steel Gauge: 7-gauge
• Coating / Finish: Hot-Dip Galvanized (HDG)
• Compatible Fasteners: 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector Screws (included)
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• Column-to-beam connections in wood construction using 6x posts and 6x beams
• Exterior structural applications requiring corrosion-resistant hardware
• Connections involving treated lumber where hot-dip galvanization is recommended
• Structures in seismic or high-wind zones requiring increased uplift load capacity
• Projects where a lower-profile fastener connection is preferred over standard through bolts

What's Included

The CCQ66-SDS2.5HDG column cap includes (30) 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws (Model: SDS25212) for complete, ready-to-install convenience right out of the box.

Note: Lag screws will not achieve the same load as the included Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws.

Options

• Contact us for Configurable Options and Special orders
• The CCOQ and ECCOQ column cap only (no straps) may be ordered for field-welding to pipe or other columns. Dimensions are the same as the CCQ and ECCQ.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size beam and post is the CCQ66-SDS2.5HDG 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 where both the beam and post share the same nominal width.

Does the CCQ66-SDS2.5HDG come with the necessary fasteners included?

Yes, the CCQ66-SDS2.5HDG includes 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws (Model: SDS25212). Installation requires 30 of these screws, all of which are included with the column cap.

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

The Strong-Drive SDS screws provide a lower profile than standard through bolts and attach to a greater net section area of the column than a bolt attachment normally entails, resulting in a stronger, cleaner connection that generally eliminates the need for additional brackets or braces.

Is the CCQ66-SDS2.5HDG suitable for exterior or treated-wood applications?

Yes. This column cap features a hot-dip galvanized (HDG) finish, which offers extra corrosion resistance specifically suited for exterior and treated-wood applications. It is constructed from 7-gauge steel with certified welds for confidence in strength and loading.