The Simpson CJT4ZL (CJTZ) is a 12-gauge ZMAX galvanized concealed joist tie engineered to create strong, hidden connections between headers, posts, and beams in demanding structural applications. Designed for flexibility, this connector supports three distinct installation methods - with no routing of the header/post or beam, a routed header/post, or a routed beam - making it a versatile solution within Simpson Strong-Tie's concealed connector system, which also includes the CPTZ and CBTZ. The CJT4ZL variant is supplied with long pins (1/2 in. x 4-3/4 in.) specifically sized for use with 5-1/8 in. glulam beams, 6x sawn lumber, or greater widths, along with all required SDS screws. Its ZMAX galvanized finish delivers superior corrosion resistance, making it well suited for exterior and treated-wood environments.

Key Features

• Concealed connector design - Three installation options: no routing, routed header/post, or routed beam
• Long dowel configuration - 1/2 in. x 4-3/4 in. long pin for use with 5-1/8 in. glulam beams, 6x sawn lumber, or greater widths
• Center dowel placement in beam - Proper centering maximizes beam width utilization with the dowel system
• 12-gauge steel construction - Heavy-duty gauge for reliable structural performance
• ZMAX galvanized coating - Offers extra corrosion resistance beyond standard galvanization, ideal for exterior and treated-wood applications
• Compatible lumber types - Approved for use in glulam, composite lumber (PSL, LSL, and LVL), or well-dried lumber only
• Important installation note - Dowels aligned across the grain may cause splitting if the wood shrinks excessively; proper lumber selection is critical
• Made in the United States

Specifications

• Manufacturer Part Number (MPN): CJT4ZL
• Series: CJTZ
• Material Gauge: 12-gauge steel
• Coating / Finish: ZMAX Galvanized
• Pin Type: Long Pin
• Pin Dimensions: 1/2 in. diameter x 4-3/4 in. length
• Compatible Beam Width: 5-1/8 in. glulam beam, 6x sawn lumber, or greater widths
• Fasteners Included: Yes - all dowels and SDS screws included
• Driver Required: Hex-head driver (for included screws)
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• Concealed joist-to-beam or joist-to-header connections in timber framing
• Installations into glulam beams
• Installations into composite lumber including PSL, LSL, and LVL
• Installations into well-dried sawn lumber (6x or greater widths)
• Exterior structural applications requiring enhanced corrosion resistance
• Treated-wood applications where ZMAX-level corrosion protection is required

What's Included

The Simpson CJT4ZL ships as a complete installation package. Included in the box:

• Long pins - 4-3/4 in. length x 1/2 in. diameter (quantity: 4)
• Required SDS screws - all fasteners needed for installation

Note: Screws require a hex-head driver for installation, not included.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of lumber is the CJT4ZL approved for use with?

The CJT4ZL is approved for installation in glulam, composite lumber (PSL, LSL, and LVL), or well-dried sawn 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 size beam is the long pin on the CJT4ZL designed for?

The CJT4ZL includes long pins measuring 1/2 in. x 4-3/4 in., which are specifically sized for use with 5-1/8 in. glulam beams, 6x sawn lumber, or greater widths.

Does the CJT4ZL come with all the hardware needed for installation?

Yes, the CJT4ZL is supplied with all dowels and screws required for installation. The included screws require a hex-head driver for installation.

Why is the ZMAX coating significant for this connector?

The ZMAX galvanized coating offers extra corrosion resistance beyond standard galvanization, making the CJT4ZL well suited for exterior applications and use with treated wood where exposure to moisture or corrosive preservatives is a concern.