The Simpson HWSC Head-of-Wall Slide-Clip Connector is engineered to simplify the panelization of 3-5/8 in. printed studs from systems such as FrameCAD, Arkitech, Howick, and Pinnacle. Rather than relying on slotted track - which is difficult to panelize - this clip works with typical printed track at head-of-wall conditions, streamlining the construction process. A cone-shaped funnel built into the clip guides the track dimple into precise alignment, holding the connection securely while screws are driven into each flange. The stud then slides into position and is locked with the included #14 shoulder screws driven through the center of the fastener slots. An optional #10 screw can temporarily lock the deflection gap during panel transport and installation, then is removed once installation is complete. The HWSC has been assembly-tested to provide optimal strength and performance.

Key Features

• Cone-shaped dimple alignment guide - automatically guides the track dimple into the correct position and holds it there while screws are installed, reducing the chance of misalignment and speeding up the fastening process.
• Edge stiffener rolled into the web and flange - adds structural strength to the clip and makes it easier to drive screws accurately into the clip flange during installation, saving time and effort on the job.
• Replaces slotted track with typical printed track - eliminates a component that is notoriously difficult to panelize, allowing fabricators to work with standard printed track and improve production efficiency.
• Allows up to 1 in. of vertical movement - accommodates deflection at the head-of-wall condition, protecting the framing assembly from structural stress caused by building movement or load.
• Optional temporary locking screw - a single #10 screw can lock the deflection gap in place during panel construction and transport, then is removed after installation, giving installers added control without compromising the final assembly.
• Made from 54-mil (16-gauge) steel with G90 zinc galvanized finish - delivers the thickness and corrosion resistance needed for demanding light-gauge steel framing applications.
• Includes connectors and shouldered screws - the kit comes complete with connectors and XLSH78B1414 #14 shouldered screws, so the correct fasteners are on hand and ready to use without a separate purchase.

Why This Product

• Purpose-built for printed stud panelization - the HWSC is specifically designed to work with printed studs from leading panelization systems, replacing slotted track and removing one of the most common friction points in offsite and modular wall panel production.
• Self-aligning clip design reduces installation errors - the unique cone-shaped dimple and edge-stiffened flanges work together to guide components into place and support accurate screw placement, helping crews work faster with fewer mistakes.
• Built-in deflection capability protects the structure - with up to 1 in. of vertical movement allowance and a temporary locking option for transport, this connector handles both the demands of the job site and the realities of panel prefabrication in a single solution.
• Assembly-tested construction from Simpson - the connector has been assembly-tested to deliver optimal strength and performance, giving structural engineers and installers confidence in the connection at the head-of-wall condition.

Specifications

• Manufacturer Part Number (MPN): HWSC362-KT
• Brand: Simpson Strong-Tie
• Connector Series: HWSC Head-of-Wall Slide-Clip
• Width: 3-7/16 in.
• Designed For Stud Size: 3-5/8 in. printed studs
• Steel Thickness: 54 mil
• Gauge: 16
• Coating / Finish: Zinc Galvanized, G90
• Vertical Movement Allowance: Up to 1 in.
• Packaging Quantity: 50 connectors per package
• Country of Origin: United States

Frequently Asked Questions

What stud size and panelization systems is the HWSC362-KT designed for?

The HWSC362-KT is designed specifically for 3-5/8 in. printed studs and is compatible with panelization systems including FrameCAD, Arkitech, Howick, and Pinnacle. It replaces slotted track - which is difficult to panelize - with typical printed track at head-of-wall conditions.

How much vertical movement does the HWSC head-of-wall slide-clip allow?

The HWSC allows up to 1 in. of movement up and down, accommodating deflection at the head-of-wall condition. During panel construction, an optional #10 screw can be used to temporarily lock the deflection gap in place; that screw is then removed after installation is complete.

What fasteners are included, and how is the clip installed?

Each kit includes 50 connectors and 110 XLSH78B1414 #14 shouldered screws. Installation requires one #10-16 screw into each track flange to each flange of the clip, and two of the included XLSH78B1414 #14 shoulder screws driven through the center of the slot at the No-Equal logo position on the clip.

What material and corrosion protection does the HWSC362-KT have?

The HWSC362-KT is made from 54-mil (16-gauge) steel with a Zinc Galvanized G90 finish for corrosion resistance. An edge stiffener has been rolled into the web and flange of the clip for added strength and to ease fastening of screws into the clip flange during installation.