I had 2 different guys look up the gasket kit for me at a local parts store for a 2006 H3 3.5L no miscommunication there. They gave me a Mahle VS50462 kit but it does not fit, even though when I search this part number online I do see it listed as working for my truck.

The 2 notches do not line up, I definitely have it the right side into the cover and it's not reversed. Are there 2 different configurations for the straight 5 cylinder engine? And why does this kit come with grommets? I can't see where they would be used.


Thanks!

 

Only one version of the 3.5L and that is the correct part number. Flip the Gasket over and move it around.

 

I've flipped it around a dozen times and moved it into every possible position, basically spent as hour trying to figure it out.

With the notch towards the cab in position it fits perfectly until I get to the front passenger side, that notch is about 2" off and the rest of the contours do not fit. It's as if it's meant for a valve cover that was slightly different towards the front. I'll try again tonight but now starting to think the wrong gasket was put in the packaging.

Also, the grommets in the kit are not rubber and seem way too large for the screws that hold the valve cover in place. I'm a little confused by those, I'll have to take a photo.

 

Original engine? Post a pic of your valve cover.

 

I did not think that the engine could have been swapped by the previous owner, but I checked some photos and videos and it does seem it's identical to a standard 3.5L I5.

Tried again last night but this gasket just does not fit, the only explanation I can come up with is the wrong part was put in the VS50462 packaging. Old gasket going back in, not ideal but I can't wait for another one to get shipped.

Thanks for confirming my part number was right and thanks for the ideas.

 

Perhaps you were onto something about what is in the package might not match the part #?

Take it back with the cover just in case the auto parts people need to see it for themselves. Then order a GM 12591633 from (Rock Auto for a $1 more) them....

 

That's a 3.7L

 

Here's the 3.5L cover, note the extra bolt on the front & different coils used:

 

Damn, that would explain it. I've always thought it was a 3.5L, even searched the VIN and it came back as 3.5L

I read and assumed all 2006s that were not the Alpha had the 3.5L.

 

Someone swapped the original engine.