Product Description
Cummins 3283339 — Genuine Cylinder Head Gasket (+.020" Thick) for 5.9L 12-Valve
MPN: 3283339 | Also Known As: head gasket, thick/oversize gasket | Size: +.020" (0.50 mm) oversize
Genuine Cummins cylinder head gasket for 1989–1998 5.9L 12-valve (6BT) engines. This +.020" thickness gasket is commonly chosen after head/block resurfacing or when piston protrusion measurements require a thicker gasket to maintain correct quench and compression. 1 per engine.
Features & Benefits
- OE sealing performance for high cylinder pressures and daily-duty reliability.
- +.020" (0.50 mm) oversize for engines that need extra thickness after machining or to meet spec based on piston protrusion.
- Drop-in fit on 5.9L 12V (1989–1998) when the oversize is specified by measurement.
- Prevents coolant/oil cross-leakage and maintains stable compression.
- Genuine Cummins material stack and fire-ring construction for durability.
Verified Fitment (Automotive)
| Year Range | Engine | Chassis |
|---|---|---|
| 1989–1993 | 5.9L 12V (6BT) | Ram 2500/3500 |
| 1994–1998 | 5.9L 12V (6BT) | Ram 2500/3500 |
Industrial/Off-Highway: B5.9 / 6B series 12-valve applications—verify by ESN before ordering.
Compatibility Notes:
- This is a +.020" thick gasket. Choose thickness based on piston protrusion and service manual spec—do not substitute thickness without measurement.
- For 1998.5–2002 24-valve and 2003+ common-rail engines, use the correct ISB gasket part numbers.
- If head/block surfaces were machined, confirm RA/surface finish and fastener strategy (new TTY bolts or head studs) before install.
Specifications
- Type: Cylinder head gasket (fire-ring, multi-layer composite/steel as OE design)
- Thickness: +.020" (0.50 mm) oversize
- OE Part Number: 3283339
- Engine Family: Cummins B5.9 / 6BT (12-valve)
- Quantity Required: 1 per engine (sold individually)
Often Paired With
- Head fasteners: new OE head bolts or performance head studs (follow torque specs & sequence)
- Top-end gasket set: intake/exhaust manifold, valve cover, injector seal kits
- Coolant & oil: refresh after repair; bleed air and recheck levels after heat cycle
What’s In The Box
- (1) Genuine Cummins Cylinder Head Gasket (+.020") — 3283339
Installation Tips
- Measure piston protrusion and select gasket thickness accordingly (+.020" used only when specified).
- Verify head/block flatness and surface finish; clean threads and chase as needed.
- Use new bolts or quality studs; follow the OEM torque pattern, angles, and lube guidance.
- Recheck coolant/oil levels and inspect for leaks after initial heat cycle.
FAQ
WILL THIS FIT MY 1989–1998 5.9L 12-VALVE CUMMINS?
Yes—3283339 is a +.020" thick head gasket for 5.9L 12-valve (1989–1998). Select thickness by measurement, not guesswork.
WHAT DOES +.020" (0.50 MM) OVERSIZE MEAN?
It’s a thicker-than-standard gasket used when piston protrusion or machining requires more thickness to maintain proper quench/compression.
CAN I USE THIS ON A 24-VALVE OR COMMON-RAIL ENGINE?
No—this listing targets 12-valve engines. 24-valve (1998.5–2002) and common-rail (2003+) use different gaskets.
DO I NEED NEW HEAD BOLTS OR STUDS?
Yes—always replace torque-to-yield bolts or upgrade to studs. Follow the correct torque sequence and angles.
DOES THIS GASKET CHANGE COMPRESSION?
Thickness affects quench and effective compression height. Use +.020" only when required by protrusion measurement or post-machining service specs.
