Engine:
Rotary (12A) engine – disassembly, assembly, maintenance, troubleshooting, seals, apex seals, rotor housing inspection, lubrication systems.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (likely Hitachi or Mikuni twin-choke), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank, fuel filter, emission controls (if applicable for specific market).
Ignition System:
Distributor, ignition coils, spark plugs, ignition timing, points (if applicable), electronic ignition (later models).
Transmission:
Manual transmission (4-speed and 5-speed options) – removal, installation, gear shifting mechanisms, clutch system, overhaul procedures.
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive, driveshaft, universal joints, differential – maintenance, repair, fluid specifications.
Suspension:
Front independent suspension (MacPherson strut), rear leaf spring suspension (or possibly live axle with links depending on specific variant) – component replacement, alignment specifications, bushings, shocks, springs.
Steering:
Manual steering system – steering box, tie rods, steering column, lubrication, adjustments.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes – caliper overhaul, brake pad/shoe replacement, master cylinder, brake lines, bleeding procedures, parking brake system.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator/generator, starter motor, lighting system, instrumentation, fuses, relays, diagnostic procedures.
Cooling System:
Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, coolant specifications, hoses, flush and fill procedures.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, pipes, muffler, catalytic converter (if equipped), gaskets, hangers.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, doors, hood, trunk lid, interior trim, glass, frame specifications, rust repair considerations.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance checks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks, lubrication points, belt tensioning.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common engine, electrical, and mechanical issues, symptom-based fault finding.
Repair And Overhaul:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly of all major vehicle systems.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for critical fasteners across all vehicle systems.
Alignment And Adjustments:
Wheel alignment specifications, ignition timing adjustments, carburetor adjustments, clutch pedal free play.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Tracing electrical faults, testing components, using wiring diagrams.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive. Designed for professional technicians but accessible to experienced DIY enthusiasts with basic mechanical and electrical knowledge.
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel) Engine
Displacement Cc:
1146 cc (rotor displacement)
Rotor Design:
Two-rotor, naturally aspirated
Horsepower Hp Approx:
100-110 hp (depending on market and specific tuning)
Torque Lb-Ft Approx:
105-115 lb-ft (depending on market and specific tuning)
Carburetor Type:
Twin-choke downdraft carburetor (e.g., Hitachi DCAS, Mikuni Solex)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (recommendation may vary based on market and specific engine tuning for leaded vs. unleaded).
Oil Type Recommendation:
High-quality API SF or SG rated conventional mineral oil, viscosity typically 10W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for exact specifications).
Oil Capacity Liters Approx:
Approximately 4.5 - 5.0 liters (including filter) for 12A engine.
Maintenance Considerations
Apex Seal Life:
Critical component requiring proper lubrication and avoidance of over-revving or hard detonation for longevity.
Carbon Buildup:
Tendency for carbon buildup in exhaust ports and rotor housings; requires periodic de-carbonizing procedures.
Oil Change Interval Km Miles:
Typically 5,000 km (3,000 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect at every oil change, replace as needed or every 15,000-20,000 km (9,000-12,000 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Inspect and gap at 10,000 km (6,000 miles), replace around 20,000-30,000 km (12,000-18,000 miles) depending on type.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze/coolant. Mixture ratio 50/50 with distilled water. Refer to manual for specific freeze protection level.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check manual for exact specification and compatibility).
Oil Consumption:
Normal for rotary engines to consume some oil; manual will specify the acceptable rate and means to ensure proper lubrication (e.g., oil injection system).
Starting Difficulties:
Can be exacerbated by cold weather or flooded conditions; manual will detail starting procedures and potential causes.
Apex Seal Wear:
Major cause of compression loss; requires periodic compression testing and potential engine rebuild.
Chassis Corrosion:
Common for vehicles of this age; rust in wheel arches, sills, and floor pans.
