Simpson Strong-Tie CPT66Z CPTZ™ ZMAX® Galvanized Concealed Post Base for 6x6

I used 4 of these post anchors to build a raw Cedar log arbor on a trex composite deck. I knew they would require a high level of carpentry skill to use, specifically on natural logs. The fabrication of all parts was very solid and the instructions were clear enough to use in an irregular way. Getting the three anchor rod holes properly aligned was the biggest challenge, and did require further adjustments of log height and wallowing out of 1 hole in each log. The rods and plate were incredibly strong, able to withstand excessive mallet pounding to align and sink rods. Once all rods were set through the timbers, the logs stood majestically in place.The clean look of the black cap below a standing timber creates an elegant shadow line and accent, plus I also know the log will not wick moisture or sway in high winds. This is a very nicely designed product.The one requirement not called out by the manufacturer (which I thought through before starting) is that this hardware needs longer than regular drill bits (7-12") to make good bolt and rod holes in the deck and lumber. Those long bits also came in handy for aligning the plate as a template for rod hole drilling, and for targeting the three rods through the lumber once set upright.This is a great product from a well established manufacturer. I highly recommend it to anyone building a structure atop an existing deck.

I really like the appearance and structural integrity of these post bases. I used a total of (12) of these constructing porch posts on my new home several years ago. I used both the 8x8 version and the 6x6 version (but mostly the former). The hole pattern is the same for both.Cutting the 6-1/2 inch deep slots is the trickiest part, and I bit the bullet and used a large Makita 5402NA saw to cut them, using a specially made guide which I screwed to the bottom of the post. If I didn't have access to the big saw, I'd recommend using the largest saw you can get and build a guide to screw to the post bottom - then use a hand saw to extend the cut the full 6-1/2 inches.For drilling the holes, I used a fixture that I had built as a drill guide. I invested in this since I was using big, expensive 8x8 posts and I wanted accurate holes. It has three drill guides welded to a plate that match the hole pattern in the bracket. That worked perfectly. I just clamped it to the bottom of the post and drilled three holes. Pins lined up perfect each time. If you don't have a jig, just take your time drilling the holes straight following the manufacturer's instructions.

Function as they should. Just wish they didn't cost so much.

They worked good with no bolts showing, and a nice finished edge especially being around our pool where we are barefoot a lot. I filled in the holes where you drive in the pins with wood filler before staining to give it a nice natural wood look. Was a little tough to cut the slot and get the pins to line up exactly. Other than that they work great very secure. A template for the hole layout would have been nice. But will definitely use on the next project.

Terrific if you dont want to see your connectors.Easy to use if you follow directions

Easy to install

After the delayed delivery… item came out of the box, the box came partially open and or broken and the most important parts to hold the column in place (3 pins) I only got one.

It took us 2 tries using 4 boards to get it right. Couldn't find a good video to help in how to prepare the boards. The 5" kerf cut was hard to do because in not finding a saw that would cut that deep. We tried a 16" circular saw but it was to big and heavy to do a precision cut.