The Simpson CJT6ZS CJTZ 12-Gauge ZMAX Galvanized Concealed Joist Tie with Short Pins by Simpson is a hidden structural connector engineered to create clean, strong connections between a header, post, or beam without exposed hardware. The CJTZ can be installed three ways: with no routing of header/post or beam, with a routed header/post, or with a routed beam - giving builders flexibility across a range of framing conditions. Part of a concealed connector system that also includes the CPTZ and CBTZ, this tie is built for use in glulam, composite lumber (PSL, LSL, and LVL), and well dried sawn lumber, and is supplied complete with all dowels and screws needed for installation.

Key Features

• Three installation methods - no routing, routed header/post, or routed beam - allows the connector to adapt to different framing layouts without requiring extra components.
• Center dowel in beam - keeps the connection properly aligned during installation, supporting accurate load transfer at the joint.
• Short dowel (1/2 in. x 2-3/4 in.) sized for specific engineered lumber - designed for use with 3-1/8 in. glulam beams, 4x sawn lumber, or 3-1/2 in.-wide PSL, so the fastener fits the material without modification.
• Made from 12-gauge steel - provides structural strength while keeping the profile compact enough for concealed applications.
• ZMAX galvanization - delivers extra corrosion resistance compared to standard G90 coatings, making this connector well suited for exterior framing and pressure-treated wood environments.
• Install only in glulam, composite lumber (PSL, LSL, and LVL), or well dried lumber - limits application to stable materials, reducing the risk of splitting caused by dowels aligned across the grain in wood that may shrink excessively.
• All dowels and screws supplied with the connector - everything required for a complete installation is included, with no need to source separate fasteners; screws require a hex-head driver.

Why This Product

• Concealed connection with no exposed hardware - the CJTZ hides the structural connector inside the joint, producing a cleaner finished appearance in visible timber framing and architectural beam applications.
• Built for exterior and treated-wood use - the ZMAX coating provides enhanced corrosion protection that standard galvanized connectors do not offer, making this tie a reliable choice where moisture or chemical exposure is a factor.
• Part of a matched concealed connector system - the CJTZ works alongside the CPTZ and CBTZ, so builders can carry a consistent concealed-hardware approach across posts, beams, and joists on the same project.
• Complete, ready-to-install package - because all required short pins and SDS screws are included, there is no need to cross-reference separate fastener schedules, reducing the chance of using incorrect hardware in the field.

Specifications

• Manufacturer Part Number (MPN): CJT6ZS
• Brand: Simpson Strong-Tie
• Series: CJTZ
• Coating: ZMAX
• Finish: ZMAX
• Gauge: 12
• Pin Length: 2-3/4 in.
• Pin Diameter: 1/2 in.
• Height 1: 10 in.
• Height 2: 8-15/16 in.
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• Glulam beams (3-1/8 in. width)
• Composite lumber including PSL (3-1/2 in. wide), LSL, and LVL
• 4x sawn lumber (well dried)
• Exterior applications requiring enhanced corrosion resistance
• Treated-wood applications

What's Included

• Short pins - 2-3/4 in. length x 1/2 in. diameter
• All required SDS screws (hex-head driver required for installation)
• All dowels and screws required for installation are supplied with the connector

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of lumber can the CJT6ZS CJTZ Concealed Joist Tie be used with?

The CJT6ZS is approved for use in glulam, composite lumber (PSL, LSL, and LVL), or well dried lumber. It should not be installed in green or excessively wet lumber, as dowels aligned across the grain may cause splitting if the wood shrinks excessively.

What are the dimensions of the short pins included with the CJT6ZS?

The included short pins measure 1/2 in. in diameter and 2-3/4 in. in length. These short pin dimensions make the CJT6ZS specifically suited for use with 3-1/8 in. glulam beams, 4x sawn lumber, or 3-1/2 in.-wide PSL.

What fasteners are needed to install the CJT6ZS, and are they included?

The CJT6ZS is supplied with all dowels and screws required for installation. The included screws are Strong-Drive SDS Heavy Duty Connector Screws and require a hex-head driver for installation - no additional fasteners need to be purchased separately.

Why does the CJT6ZS feature a ZMAX coating instead of standard galvanization?

The ZMAX galvanization provides extra corrosion resistance compared to standard galvanized products. This makes the CJT6ZS suitable for exterior applications and use with treated wood, where elevated moisture and chemical exposure can degrade standard galvanized coatings over time.

Note: Product dimensions and/or screw or bolt holes may differ from picture. Please see item description for specifications.