How to Install a Sole Plate and Jack Bolts

Measure carefully and set one J bolt into the concrete form every 24 inches, extending high enough to fit through the sole plate of the wall. In most cases, the J bolts are fastened to the reinforcement grid with light wire, or otherwise propped in place. Double check the bolts with a level and adjust as needed. Have the concrete poured with the bolts in place and allow it to cure completely.

Measure the base of the wall and cut lumber for the sole plate of the wall. Position the board alongside the extended J bolts and mark the sole plate with the precise position of each bolt, in a line along the center of the board. Drill the holes carefully, using the drill on its fastest setting, allowing the bit to cut through with steady pressure to avoid breakout and splintering.

Drill a hole 1/32 inch larger in diameter than your J bolts in each marked location with a cordless drill. Fit the sole plate over the J bolts to check the fit. Remove the sole plate from the bolts and nail it to the bottom of the studs, using two 16 d nails in each stud.

Stand the wall upright, with the sole plate on its bottom edge. With help, lift the wall up enough to clear the tops of the J bolts and position the sole plate so it slides down over the J bolts. Fit a washer and nut onto each bolt and tighten it down with a socket wrench to secure the wall into place.