The Simpson Strong-Tie ECCQ3-4HDG-SDS is an ECCQ Series Hot-Dip Galvanized End Column Cap engineered to deliver a high-capacity connection for column-beam combinations in end-of-beam wood construction applications. Designed for a 3-1/8 in. beam width paired with a 4x post, this end column cap features a seat that provides additional bearing surface area extending beyond the side of the column, helping to distribute loads from the beam and support the connection. Manufactured from 7-gauge steel with a hot-dip galvanized (HDG) finish, it offers superior corrosion resistance for exterior and treated-wood applications. Simpson Strong-Tie connectors are engineered, tested, and manufactured to the highest quality standards - the trusted choice of engineers and contractors for projects that must meet demanding building codes.

Key Features

• Strong-Drive SDS Screws Included: Uses Simpson Strong-Tie Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws to provide faster installation and a greater net section area of the column compared to standard bolt attachments.
• Low-Profile Installation: SDS screws provide a lower profile compared to standard through bolts, resulting in a cleaner, more structurally efficient connection.
• Hot-Dip Galvanized (HDG) Coating: Offers extra corrosion resistance, making this column cap well suited for exterior environments and treated-wood applications.
• 7-Gauge Steel Construction: Fabricated from heavy 7-gauge steel for robust strength and load-carrying capacity.
• Extended Bearing Surface: The seat of the column cap provides additional bearing area beyond the side of the column to help distribute beam loads effectively.
• Diamond Holes: Diamond-shaped holes allow for temporary fastening during positioning and installation.
• Certified Welds: Certified welds provide confidence in structural strength and load performance.
• Increased Uplift Loads: Uplift load values have been increased to address earthquake and wind loading requirements.

Specifications

• Model Number: ECCQ3-4HDG-SDS
• Beam Width: 3-1/8 in.
• Post Size: 4x
• Dimension W1: 3-1/4 in.
• Dimension W2: 3-5/8 in.
• Dimension L: 8-1/2 in.
• Dimension H: 7 in.
• Material: 7-Gauge Steel
• Finish / Coating: Hot-Dip Galvanized (HDG)
• SDS Screws Included (Beam): 14 qty - 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector Screws
• SDS Screws Included (Post): 14 qty - 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector Screws
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• End-of-beam column-to-beam connections in wood construction
• Exterior structural applications requiring corrosion-resistant hardware
• Connections involving pressure-treated or chemically treated lumber
• Structures requiring compliance with building codes for earthquake or wind loading

What's Included

• 1 x Simpson Strong-Tie ECCQ3-4HDG-SDS End Column Cap
• 28 x 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector Screws (14 for beam, 14 for post)

Installation

Fasten with the included

Options

• Contact us for Configurable Options and Special orders

Frequently Asked Questions

What beam and post sizes is the ECCQ3-4HDG-SDS designed for?

This end column cap is designed for use with a 3-1/8 in. wide beam and a 4x post, providing a high-capacity connection for that specific column-beam combination.

What fasteners are used to install this column cap, and are they included?

The ECCQ3-4HDG-SDS installs using 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Simpson Strong-Tie Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws, which are included with the product. These screws allow for faster installation and provide a greater net section area of the column compared to standard through bolts, while also delivering a lower-profile connection.

Why is the hot-dip galvanized (HDG) finish significant for this connector?

The hot-dip galvanized coating offers extra corrosion resistance compared to standard finishes, making this column cap well suited for exterior applications and use with treated wood, where exposure to moisture or corrosive preservatives could degrade lesser coatings over time.

What material and gauge of steel is this column cap made from?

The ECCQ3-4HDG-SDS is fabricated from 7-gauge steel, which provides robust strength and load-carrying capacity for demanding structural column-beam connections.