Market Position:
Performance-oriented sports coupe renowned for its rotary engine technology.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against vehicles like the Toyota Supra, Nissan 300ZX, and Porsche 944, differentiating itself with its unique Wankel rotary engine and handling characteristics.
Key Features:
Rotary engine, lightweight chassis, rear-wheel drive, balanced handling, distinctive styling.
Systems Covered:
General Information, Engine, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Fuel and Emission Control System, Engine Electrical System, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Front & Rear Axle, Steering System, Braking System, Wheels & Tires, Suspension, Body, Body Electrical System, Heating & Air Conditioning Systems, Technical Data, Special Tools
Procedures Included:
Diagnosis, troubleshooting, repair, maintenance, component replacement, adjustments
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering detailed repair procedures, specifications, and diagrams for all major vehicle systems.
Engine Repair Procedures:
Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, assembly, component inspection, apex seal replacement, rotor housing machining, and tuning.
Fuel System Repair:
Fuel pump testing, injector diagnosis, fuel pressure regulation, emission control system troubleshooting (including O2 sensors, air pumps).
Electrical System Coverage:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting starter, alternator, ignition system (dual ignition is common on rotary engines), lighting, and accessory circuits.
Transmission Repair:
Manual transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, automatic transmission fluid changes and basic troubleshooting.
Suspension Repair:
Front and rear suspension component replacement (ball joints, control arms, bushings), shock absorber/strut replacement, wheel alignment procedures.
Braking System Repair:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, brake bleeding procedures, ABS system diagnosis and repair (if equipped).
Steering System Repair:
Power steering pump and rack inspection/replacement, steering linkage components, wheel alignment.
Body Repair:
Panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, window operation, rust prevention and repair guidance.
HVAC System Repair:
Air conditioning system servicing (refrigerant handling), heater core replacement, blower motor testing, control panel troubleshooting.
Technical Data Sections:
Specifications for engine timing, fuel pressure, ignition timing, valve clearances (if applicable, though rotary engines do not have conventional valves), torque specifications for fasteners.
Special Tools Coverage:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures, particularly those related to the rotary engine and drivetrain.
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel)
Displacement:
1.3 L (654 cc x 2 rotors)
Horsepower Range:
146 hp to 200 hp (depending on year and trim)
Torque Range:
130 lb-ft to 195 lb-ft (depending on year and trim)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (EFI)
Emission System:
Catalytic converter, EGR system, secondary air injection (depending on market and year)
Rotary Specific Maintenance:
Apex seal inspection/replacement, rotor housing care, oil metering system checks.
Engine Code:
13B (Naturally Aspirated, Turbocharged)
Engine Code:
13B (Naturally Aspirated, Turbocharged, Series 5 updates may begin in late 1989 models, though this manual seems to cover the bulk of the FC generation).
Turbocharger System:
Intercooled turbocharger system on 'Turbo II' models, requiring specific maintenance and diagnosis.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Rotary engines benefit from frequent oil changes.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Check and replace as per manual recommendations, often around 30,000 miles for standard plugs, platinum/iridium plugs may last longer. Rotary engines use two spark plugs per rotor.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended. Use a quality oil specifically formulated for rotary engines if possible due to higher operating temperatures and unique lubrication needs.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mazda's FL22 coolant or equivalent is recommended for later models but early models will have different specifications detailed in the manual.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Manual: API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil. Automatic: ATF Dexron II or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Dexron II ATF or equivalent.
Differential Fluid Type:
API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 gear oil.
Known Issues:
Apex seal wear, carbon build-up in exhaust ports, vacuum hose degradation, oil seal failures (especially on turbocharged models), cooling system maintenance critical for rotary engines.
Towing Capacity:
Not designed for towing.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 5.5 US quarts (5.2 liters) for 13B engine with filter change. Check manual for exact capacity.
Brand Heritage:
Mazda has a long history of rotary engine development, starting with the Cosmo.
Model Evolution:
The FC generation, produced from 1985-1992, represented a significant update from the SA22C/FB generation, featuring a more aerodynamic design and improved chassis dynamics, often referred to as the 'Savanna RX-7' in Japan. Turbocharged variants (GTU, GXL, GTi, Turbo II) offered enhanced performance.
Production Period:
1985-1992 (Second Generation)
Model Designation Japan:
Savanna RX-7
Model Designation International
Model Designation International:
RX-7
