Questions and Answers for Simpson Strong-Tie #9 x 1-1/2 in. 1/4-Hex Drive, Strong-Drive SD Connector Screw (100-Pack)

A:  Hello Chris, my name is Colin with Simpson Strong-Tie. Our #9 and #10 Strong Drive Connector Screws have been tested with many (but not all) joist hangers, hurricane ties, straps, and post bases to provide published allowable load values comparable to the original specified nails. For more information on the connectors and if SD screws are compatible review pages 348-351 in the Wood Construction Connectors Catalog C-C-2021. This list is continually updated so for a comprehensive list enter <https://www.strongtie.com/products/fastening-systems/technical-notes/sd-connector-screw-approved-connectors> in your web browser. If you need more information or have additional questions, please contact the Simpson Strong-Tie Customer Service team at 800-999-5099. We look forward to hearing from you.

A:  Yes! I was able to use my electric drill gun for these. 

A:  You can, but a impact driver is more appropriate.

A:  Yes, you absolutely can use a drill/driver. However, you want to be certain to adjust the clutch setting to reduce damaging the head of the fastener. Also, remember to be aware that when using just a drill to drive screws, the battery life may seem shorter than when simply drilling holes. An impact driver utilizes an anvil and hammer in the "head" to repeatedly "tap" fasteners as they are rotating. Unless you are using a hammer drill, a drill/driver relies solely upon the rotation of the threads to provide penetration. If you can easily pre-drill pilot holes for your fasteners, which most don't do because it drags things out longer, you should get more battery life. If you have a fastener that seems to get stuck using the drill, try a light tap with a hammer on the head to help the fastener penetrate through whatever may be blocking or binding it.

A:  Hi Kata, this is McKenzie from Simpson Strong-Tie thank you for your message. We want to make sure we address your question on the SD screws and which drill to use. Please contact the Simpson Strong-Tie Customer Service team at 800-999-5099 so we can better address your question. We look forward to hearing from you.

A:  yes

A:  Personally I use an impact drill, it is more effective and requires less effort; but you can also use a normal electric drill.

A:  Hello Handyman, this is Stacy with Simpson Strong-Tie. The SD screw is made with a mechanically galvanized coating that meets ASTM B695 Class 55, is recommended for use with certain preservative-treated woods and recognized as an alternate to hot-dip galvanized in ESR-3046; it is compliant with the 2012 International Residential Code®. The Strong-Drive SD Connector screw is specifically designed to replace nails in certain Simpson Strong-Tie connectors and is the only screw approved for that application. If you have any questions please call us at (800) 999-5099. We look forward to hearing from you.

A:  Yes they do. Best way to hangers, nailing sucks!

A:  Pilot holes are NOT required. to screw in the joist hangers using the simpson screws.

A:  These are the recommended type of screw for your application. Make sure you check the LU site for the correct length of screw based on the size of the hanger and joist you plan. Sometimes the screw on the joist side is shorter than the screw that you attach the hanger to the beam/ledger. Bit they go in like butter. I used an impact driver, don't over do it, because the torque may snap the head of the screw. I did my whole deck with screws, not a single nail, and it is an absolute rock. https://www.strongtie.com/facemounthangersssl_solidsawnlumberconnector/lu_hanger/p/lu

A:  Hello Matt, this is Stacy with Simpson Strong-Tie. We recommend using SD #9 x 1 1/2" screws for the LU hanger. Using SD screws you do not need pilot holes but in some cases if you are attaching these to really old lumber then it would be a good idea to use pilot holes. If you have any other questions please call us at (800) 999-5099. We look forward to speaking with you.

A:  Hello David, this is Colin from Simpson Strong-Tie. The single-fastener load values achieved by our Strong-Drive SD Connector Screws SD9 and SD10, exceed those of typical 0.148" x 3" (10d) or 0.162" x 3½" (16d) nails, respectively. Designed to replace nails in certain products, the load-rated SD and SD SS screws have been tested and approved for use in many popular Simpson Strong-Tie® connectors. For more information go to our homepage strongtie.com, enter the letters SD in the Search Strongtie.com field, click on the SD screw illustration and refer to the allowable shear and withdrawal load tables and the listing of Connectors Approved for Use with the Strong-Drive SD Connector screw. If you need more information or have additional questions, please contact the Simpson Strong-Tie Customer Service team at 800-999-5099. We look forward to hearing from you.

A:  Hello Hedgehodge, this is McKenzie with Simpson Strong-Tie. Which connector are you installing them with? I would confirm that the connector you are using is compatible with the corresponding SD Connector Screw first. If approved, the correct SD connector screw should not be so tight that it creates metal shavings.

A:  Hello Jeepn4lyfe, this is Stacy with Simpson Strong-Tie. We only make the SD screw in 316 stainless steel. They are not discontinued and could be something that only needs to be ordered. Model number is SD9212SS. If you have any questions please call us at (800) 999-5099. We look forward to hearing from you.

A:  ​Hi Adam, thank you for your message. We want to make sure we address your question regarding the use of Strong-Drive® SD CONNECTOR Screw with the ABA Adjustable Post Base and the LPC Light Post Cap. The ABA can use the SD Connector Screws but you will need to use #10 x 1-1/2", the LPC can use the #9 x 1-1/2" SD Connector Screws you were asking about. If you need more information or have additional questions, please contact the Simpson Strong-Tie Customer Service team at 800-999-5099. We look forward to hearing from you. -Stacy

A:  I am sure you can use these 1 1/2" hex head screws, however.... since you would be going into 4 x4 post why not use 2" or 2 1/2" screws at a slight angle so that they don't collide? Depending on the pressure on the 4 x 4s, a longer screw might just make it more secure.

A:  These screws are designed to be used with Simpson structural brackets. I suppose you could use them but there are less expensive options. 

A:  Hello, this is McKenzie with Simpson Strong-Tie. The Strong-Drive SD Connector Screw was created as a nail replacement screw. The testing we have is mostly for our Strong-Tie connectors, but it is possible this could work for your application.

A:  To my knowledge I see no reason why the fasteners in question Strong-Tie #9 x 1-1/2 in. 1/4-Hex Drive, Strong-Drive SD Connector Screw (100-Pack). would not work with the htp37z tie plates as long as you use at least two plates per joining point and at least 4 screws on each end of the plate and with a screw length no shorter the 1in the 1-1/2 in length should be good I would also add a good steel washer something with a bite 

A:  Hello MIkeD, This is Colin from Simpson Strong-Tie. Yes, you can use the SD9112 (#9 x 1-1/2") screws in place of the specified 0.148"x1-1/2" (N10d) nails. You will achieve the same published tension load values listed on page 269 of the 2021-2023 Wood Construction Connectors Catalog. See also page 22 for the 1:1 replacement fastener factor for Straight Straps. If you have any questions please feel free to contact Customer Service at 800/999-5099.

A:  Yes, this is what Simpson recommends and they work well.