Simpson ABU66Z 6x6 Post Base - Zmax Finish

Poorly engineered

The ABU66Z appears to be rugged and well manufactured, however it has one design flaw that forced me to give a 1 star rating. This product is made to be used with a 5/8 bolt per the manufacturer, but if you use a 5/8 wedge anchor from hilti like I did you will be forced to modify the post base to make it work. Simpson provides a cap that sits over the bolt and holds the post 1inch above the ground. The problem is the 5/8 wedge anchor needs at least 1.25 inches from concrete to top of anchor. When I installed the anchor I pushed it down as far as I could while still being able to put the nut on and the anchor still raised up above the 1 inch mark. I was forced to drill a hole in the simpson plate so the plate could go over the wedge anchor. Not sure why simpson chose a 1 inch gap, a 1.5 inch gap would work for most situations. Since purchasing I have seen other reviews of people who had the same experience. In my opinion this design was not well thought out

handy

Easily adjustable over a limited range. Sturdy, well suited to purpose.