Engine Mechanical:
Rotary engine (13B) overhaul, apex seals, rotor housing inspection, eccentric shaft, rotor assembly, timing chain/drive, seals, gaskets, mounts
Engine Performance:
Turbocharger system (if applicable for 1990, often Twin Turbo), intercooler, boost control, ignition timing, detonation control
Lubrication System:
Oil pump, oil cooler, oil filter, oil passages, oil pressure checks, oil type specifications
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant type, cooling fan operation, hoses, flush and refill procedures
Fuel And Emission Control:
Fuel injection system (MPI), fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel filter, catalytic converter, EGR system, vacuum hoses, emission control components, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system (distributor, coils, spark plugs), starter motor, alternator, battery, wiring diagrams, sensor testing (e.g., TPS, MAP, CAS), ECU diagnostics
Clutch:
Clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing, clutch master cylinder, clutch slave cylinder, hydraulic system bleeding, adjustment procedures
Manual Transmission:
Gearbox overhaul, gear ratios, transmission fluid type and capacity, clutch release mechanism, driveshaft, U-joints
Front Rear Axle:
Differential inspection and overhaul, axle shafts, bearings, seals, axle fluid specifications, Limited Slip Differential (LSD) specifics (if applicable)
Steering System:
Power steering pump, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, alignment specifications, fluid type and capacity
Braking System:
Brake discs, pads, calipers, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS system (if equipped), brake fluid type and capacity, bleeding procedures, parking brake
Wheels And Tires:
Tire pressure specifications, wheel torque specifications, lug nut pattern, tire size recommendations, wheel bearing inspection
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, control arms, bushings, ball joints, sway bars), shock absorber replacement, spring replacement, alignment specifications
Body:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, weatherstripping, interior trim, chassis repairs, rust prevention
Body Electrical:
Headlights, taillights, turn signals, interior lighting, power windows, power door locks, radio system, wiper system, wiring diagrams
HVAC Systems:
Air conditioning system servicing, refrigerant type, blower motor, heater core, evaporator, cabin air filter (if applicable), temperature control
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common problems, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation, electrical testing procedures, mechanical testing
Repair Rebuild:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, body panel repair, interior component repair
Installation Adjustment:
Component installation, calibration of sensors, alignment adjustments, clutch adjustment, brake bleeding
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
Detail Level:
Detailed step-by-step instructions with torque specifications, diagrams, and illustrations
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months (especially critical for rotary engines). Consult manual for exact intervals.
Spark Plugs:
Typically 30,000-60,000 miles, specific rotary plugs are required. Manual will specify.
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (typical, verify with manual).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mazda specifically recommended coolant is ideal.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (verify with manual)
Apex Seals:
Wear and failure of apex seals is a common concern with rotary engines if not maintained properly. Overheating or detonation can accelerate wear.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines naturally consume some oil for lubrication. Excessive consumption indicates potential seal wear.
Cooling System:
Potential for leaks and overheating due to aging components.
Vacuum Leaks:
Age-related degradation of vacuum hoses can lead to rough idling and performance issues.
