3.0 vs 3.2 head gasket

[Joe_SHO]

Why are 3.2 head gaskets scarce? If bore is the only difference, why can't a 3.0 gasket get stretched to 3.2 bore?

 

[zoomlater]

There is a metal ring that goes around the circumference of the bore (I know the OEM ones have them, not sure about the after market ones). Shosource has Cometic 3.2 gaskets. They might have OEM ones if you ask them. If you are looking for OEM, you can post a Want to Buy section.

Cometic Head Gasket 3.2L SHO (93-95)

Under Options choose either a single head gasket or a pair. You will need two of these gaskets if you plan to work on both heads. These are the only gaskets we have been able to find to fit the 3.2L SHO Motor. Tech Notes These gaskets were designed for the 93-95 3.2L V6 SHO engine. Gaskets will...

shosource.com

 

[luigisho]

Not sure of production numbers but the 3.0 was offered longer so maybe replacement gaskets were more available. Also, plenty of 3.2 mtx swaps were popular and used up more supply when they were probably at or near the end of parts availability in the supply chain.

 

[zoomlater]

Installed ARP studs and a Cometic gasket

Here are a few details on the lovely SHO source ARP head studs and cometic 3.2L gasket. To start, note that the gaskets are not symmetrical. If you place them upside down, you will port a cooling passage into an oil passage! Correct: Incorrect: The studs are pretty straightforward. You...

shoforum.com

 

[zoomlater]

here is a picture of OEM 3.2 gaskets