The Simpson CJT4ZL is a 12-gauge ZMAX galvanized concealed joist tie designed to create clean, hidden structural connections between joists and beams, headers, or posts in timber framing applications. Part of Simpson's concealed connector system alongside the CPTZ and CBTZ, this connector supports three installation methods - with no routing of the header/post or beam, a routed header/post, or a routed beam - giving builders genuine flexibility on the job site. The CJT4ZL is supplied as a complete installation package, including long pins and all required SDS screws, and is engineered specifically for use with 5-1/8 in. glulam beams, 6x sawn lumber, or greater widths. Its ZMAX galvanized finish provides enhanced corrosion resistance suited for exterior and treated-wood structural applications.

Key Features

• Three installation methods supported - install with no routing, a routed header/post, or a routed beam, so the connector adapts to your specific framing condition without requiring a single fixed approach.
• Long pins (1/2 in. x 4 3/4 in. length) - sized specifically for 5-1/8 in. glulam beams, 6x sawn lumber, or greater widths, ensuring a secure fit in the timber dimensions most commonly used in heavy framing.
• 12-gauge steel construction - provides the structural strength and rigidity required for load-bearing concealed joist connections in timber framing systems.
• ZMAX galvanized coating - delivers extra corrosion resistance beyond standard galvanization, making this connector a reliable choice for exterior applications and installations involving treated lumber.
• All dowels and SDS screws included - arrives as a complete fastener kit so there are no missing hardware surprises on the job; a hex-head driver is all that is needed to complete installation.
• Center the dowel in the beam - proper centering distributes load correctly and reduces the risk of splitting, particularly important when working with glulam or composite lumber such as PSL, LSL, and LVL.
• Approved for glulam, PSL, LSL, LVL, and well-dried sawn lumber - broad material compatibility makes this connector useful across a range of engineered and traditional lumber types in one connector specification.

Why This Product

• Concealed connection keeps the finished look clean - because the connector is hidden within the joint, structural hardware stays out of sight, which matters in exposed timber framing where aesthetics and strength both count.
• Part of a matched concealed connector system - the CJT4ZL works alongside the CPTZ and CBTZ within Simpson's concealed connector family, allowing consistent hardware and installation logic across post, beam, and joist connections on the same project.
• ZMAX protection for demanding environments - the enhanced galvanized coating is specifically suited for exterior structural use and treated-wood applications where standard coatings may not hold up over time.
• Ships complete and ready to install - with long pins and all required SDS screws included, there is no need to source separate fasteners; the connector arrives ready to go directly into glulam, composite lumber, or well-dried sawn lumber.

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)
• Height 1: 7 in.
• Height 2: 5-15/16 in.
• 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.