🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-7

Year:

1988

Chassis Code:

FC3S (for Turbo II), FC3C (for Convertible)

Generation Name:

Second Generation (FC)

Engine Code Non Turbo:

FC3C (Rotary, naturally aspirated), FE3S (Rotary, turbocharged)

Engine Code Turbo:

FE3S

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional repair shops

Value Proposition:

Comprehensive, factory-equivalent repair information at a fraction of the cost of dealership services.

Competitor Manuals:

Haynes, Chilton (often less detailed than factory manuals)

Navigation:

Fully indexed main menu for easy and quick navigation

Accessibility:

Printable pages for on-site use in various locations (home, office, repair shop).

Delivery:

Instant download eliminates shipping costs and wait times.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Market:

Global (indicated by multiple languages)

Specific Regions Covered:

North America, Europe, Japan (implied by language options)

Total Pages:

1188

Type:

Complete Service / Workshop Manual

Usage Context:

Dealership and workshop use

Available Languages:

English, French, German, Italian, Spanish

Digital Format:

PDF

Platform Compatibility:

Windows, Mac

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine (general), Lubrication System, Cooling System, Fuel Emission Control Systems (Non-Turbo & Turbo), Engine Electrical System

Drivetrain Systems:

Clutch, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Propeller Shaft, Front & Rear Axles

Chassis Systems:

Steering System (Manual & Power), Braking System, Wheels & Tires, Suspension

Body And Electrical:

Body, Body Electrical System

Maintenance Procedures:

Pre-delivery inspection, routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides, component testing, diagnostic trouble codes (likely implied)

Repair Procedures:

Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake service, suspension component replacement, body panel repair

Installation Procedures:

Component installation and adjustment (implied for special tools and parts)

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complex repairs and diagnostics

Visuals:

Extensive use of pictures and diagrams for clarity

Data Availability:

Technical Data section included

Specialized Information:

Special Tools section for unique Mazda service equipment

Electrical Diagrams:

Wiring Diagrams included for electrical system troubleshooting

📊 Manual Specifications

Document Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text within the PDF (standard for professional manuals)

Printability:

All pages are printable

Diagram Resolution:

High quality (implied by 'Tons of pictures and diagrams')

Delivery Method:

Instant Download (Digital)

Physical Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Physical Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Rotary (Wankel)

Displacement Non Turbo:

1.3 L (2x 654cc rotors, total displacement often quoted as 2.6L equivalent)

Displacement Turbo:

1.3 L (2x 654cc rotors, Turbo II)

Horsepower Non Turbo Approx:

146 hp @ 6500 rpm (1988 model)

Torque Non Turbo Approx:

135 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (1988 model)

Horsepower Turbo Approx:

200 hp @ 6500 rpm (Turbo II, 1988 model)

Torque Turbo Approx:

192 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (Turbo II, 1988 model)

Fuel Delivery Non Turbo:

Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Delivery Turbo:

Fuel Injection (EFI) with Turbocharging

Recommended Fuel:

Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating will be specified in manual, likely 91+ for Turbo)

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

5-speed manual

Automatic Transmission:

4-speed automatic

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated, single dry plate

Rear Axle Type:

Independent rear suspension with limited-slip differential (LSD) often standard on Turbo models

📐 Dimensions

Length Approx:

4390 mm (172.8 inches)

Width Approx:

1690 mm (66.5 inches)

Height Approx:

1295 mm (51.0 inches)

Wheelbase Approx:

2500 mm (98.4 inches)

Curb Weight Approx Non Turbo:

1260 kg (2778 lbs)

Curb Weight Approx Turbo:

1355 kg (2987 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

NHTSA/IIHS ratings for 1988 models would need to be consulted; generally not as comprehensive as modern standards.

Braking System:

Disc brakes front and rear, ABS likely optional or standard on higher trims/Turbo models.

Steering System:

Power assisted rack and pinion steering

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia reel seatbelts

Body Structure:

Reinforced chassis for occupant protection

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/Cassette stereo system, potentially with equalizer. Speaker configurations would be detailed in the electrical section.

ABS Availability:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an option on some models, particularly Turbo variants.

Connectivity Features:

None (1988 model year predates modern infotainment and connectivity features).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Refer to manual for specific interval (typically 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions). Rotary engines have unique oil consumption requirements.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Refer to manual for specific interval; often requires specific rotary spark plugs.

Timing Belt Replacement:

N/A (Rotary engines do not have timing belts; they use timing chains or gears).

Engine Oil Type Non Turbo:

Refer to manual for specific API service classification and viscosity grade (e.g., 10W-30 or 20W-50, depending on climate). Rotary engines typically consume oil as part of their design.

Engine Oil Type Turbo:

Refer to manual for specific API service classification and viscosity grade. Higher quality oil often recommended due to turbocharging.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., Mazda FL22 or equivalent spec).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity grade specified in manual (e.g., 75W-90).

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Rotary Engine Apex Seals:

Wear of apex seals is a known, albeit often long-term, concern for rotary engines, impacting compression and performance. This manual would detail diagnostic procedures.

Oil Consumption:

Rotary engines inherently consume oil for lubrication of apex seals and rotor housing. This is normal but requires regular monitoring. The manual will likely detail the expected consumption rate.

Turbo Maintenance:

Turbocharger requires specific maintenance, including pre-lubrication and cool-down periods. The manual will cover this. Intercooler maintenance is also relevant for Turbo II models.

Cooling System Issues:

Rotary engines can be sensitive to cooling system integrity. Overheating can lead to significant damage. Manual will detail flushing and component checks.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Rotary History:

Mazda is renowned for its pioneering and continued development of the Wankel rotary engine, dating back to the Cosmo.

Rx7 Generations:

First Gen (SA/FB, 1978-1985), Second Gen (FC, 1985-1992), Third Gen (FD, 1992-2002).

Fc Updates:

The 1988 model falls within the mid-cycle of the FC generation, with major updates occurring for the 1989 model year (facelift).

Production Years:

1985-1992 (for FC generation)

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Ten Best:

The FC RX-7 was named to Car and Driver's Ten Best list for 1987 and 1988.

Motor Trend Car Of The Year:

Not a winner for this year, but consistently a competitor in its segment.