The Simpson Strong-Tie CC66 Column Cap is a structural connector made for joining a 6x beam to a 6x post in wood construction. This is a column cap designed for wood-to-wood post-to-beam connections. Model Number: CC66. If you are building a load-bearing connection where strength, bearing surface, and code-minded bolt spacing matter, this is the hardware that handles that job.

What separates the CC66 from a basic bracket is the seat design. The seat extends beyond each side of the column to create more bearing area under the beam, which helps spread load more effectively through the connection. For this specific model, Simpson lists an allowable uplift load of 5,545 lb and an allowable download of 30,250 lb for Douglas Fir/Southern Pine values in the published table. On a real project, that means this hardware is built for serious structural work, not light trim or decorative framing.

The Simpson Strong-Tie CC66 Column Cap is made from 7 gauge steel with a gray paint finish. The certified welds matter because this connector depends on the formed seat and welded assembly to carry load through the beam and post. In practical terms, you are getting a heavy steel connector designed for long-term structural use where fit, rigidity, and predictable performance count.

Installation details are straightforward but important. This model uses 5/8 in. machine bolts, with (4) bolts at the beam and (2) bolts at the post. Simpson also notes that bolt holes should be a minimum of 1/32 in. to a maximum of 1/16 in. larger than the bolt diameter, and that holes should be drilled from one side all the way through to maintain tolerance. That is the kind of detail that helps keep the connection working the way it was engineered to work.

Another useful jobsite feature is the inclusion of diamond holes for temporary fastening. Those are there to help you position the connector before final bolting, which is a small detail that saves time when you are trying to hold alignment on a post-to-beam connection. Simpson also calls out increased uplift loads for earthquake or wind loading, so this connector is clearly intended for structural framing situations where uplift resistance is a real design concern.

Size-wise, the CC66 is built around a 6x beam and 6x post. Published dimensions for this model include approximately 5-1/2 in. W1, 5-1/2 in. W2, 11 in. L, and 6-1/2 in. H1. If your project depends on matching beam and post sizes correctly, those dimensions are the first thing to verify before ordering, especially on rough-cut or nonstandard material where Simpson recommends providing actual dimensions for special sizing.

This hardware is best suited for builders, framing crews, general contractors, and serious DIY users working on structural wood construction. It makes the most sense when you need a true post cap for pergolas, pavilions, porch structures, timber-style framing, or other top-supported assemblies where a strong beam-to-post connection is the whole point. If you just need light-duty hardware, this is more connector than you need. If you need a properly engineered structural connection for a 6x beam and 6x post, this is exactly the kind of part you buy once and install right.

Simpson Strong-Tie CC66 Column Cap Means Business

The Simpson Strong-Tie CC66 Column Cap is the kind of structural connector you buy when the connection actually matters and you do not want to improvise your way through it.

• Who it's for: Builders, framers, and experienced DIY users making a real 6x beam-to-6x post structural connection.
• Why it stands out: The extended seat, certified welds, 7 gauge steel, and published structural load data make it a true engineered post cap, not just a heavy bracket.
• Worth knowing: This is a bolt-on connector that requires the specified 5/8 in. machine bolts and careful fit-up. Check your actual lumber dimensions before ordering, especially if the material is not standard surfaced stock.

• What is the CC66 designed to connect? It is designed to connect a 6x beam to a 6x post in wood construction.
• What size bolts does it use? The CC66 uses 5/8 in. machine bolts.
• How many bolts are required? Simpson lists (4) bolts at the beam and (2) bolts at the post for this model.
• What is the material thickness? The CC66 is made from 7 gauge steel.
• Does it help with uplift resistance? Yes. Simpson specifically notes increased uplift loads for earthquake or wind loading, and the published allowable uplift for CC66 is 5,545 lb.