🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Models Covered:

RX2, RX3

Years Covered:

1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977

Chassis Codes:

RX2: AP12, RX3: AP13/AP17

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Essential resource for owners and mechanics of the iconic Mazda RX2 and RX3 rotary-powered vehicles, catering to the need for specialized maintenance and repair information.

Target Audience:

Owners of classic Mazda RX2 and RX3 vehicles seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, as well as professional mechanics specializing in rotary engines.

Competition:

Offers a direct alternative to OEM workshop manuals, providing similar detail and coverage at a more accessible price point for the vintage market.

Features:

Step-by-step instructions, hundreds of photos/illustrations, detailed substeps, notes/cautions/warnings, numbered instructions, wiring diagrams, troubleshooting guides.

Illustrations Detail:

Detailed illustrations and photographs are crucial for visualizing component placement and disassembly sequences, especially for the unique rotary engine.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Comprehensive service and repair for Mazda RX2 and RX3 models.

Page Count:

Estimated 500-800 pages (typical for this era's comprehensive manuals).

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (digital download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems:

Engine (Rotary), Fuel System (including FI diagnosis), Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Electrical System, Chassis components, Emission Control Systems, Bodywork (implied).

Chassis Systems:

Suspension (front: MacPherson struts, rear: leaf springs/live axle), steering (recirculating ball), braking system details.

Fuel System:

Detailed information on fuel pumps, fuel filters, fuel lines, and carburetor adjustments for optimal performance and emissions.

Ignition System:

Details on distributor, ignition coils, spark plugs, ignition timing adjustments, and troubleshooting ignition misfires.

Procedures:

Periodic maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnostics, engine repair and overhaul, fuel system servicing, cooling system repair, lubrication system maintenance, electrical system troubleshooting and repair, chassis component servicing, emission control adjustments.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting of starting system, charging system, lighting, ignition system, and accessories, supported by detailed wiring diagrams.

Engine Rebuilding:

Comprehensive instructions for engine disassembly, inspection, component replacement (e.g., seals, bearings), and reassembly.

Body Repair:

Implied coverage for basic bodywork repairs, panel alignment, and potentially glass replacement procedures.

Depth:

Detailed step-by-step instructions with extensive illustrations, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics. Includes diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.

Torque Specifications:

The manual will include critical torque specifications for engine components, chassis fasteners, and drivetrain elements.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on using basic diagnostic tools and techniques appropriate for the era, such as compression testing (specific to rotary engines), timing lights, and multimeters.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF, contained within a WinRAR ZIP archive (.zip)

Compatibility:

Compatible with all versions of Windows and Mac operating systems for viewing and printing.

Printability:

Printable pages, allowing users to print the entire manual or specific sections.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Rotary (Wankel) Engine

Rotary Variants:

Likely covers 10A (1146cc equivalent) and potentially early 12A (1146cc/1.1L, later 1308cc/1.3L) engines, depending on model year and specific application.

Rotary Design Advantages:

High power-to-weight ratio, smooth operation, compact size.

Horsepower Range:

RX2: Approximately 110-130 hp (SAE Gross), RX3: Approximately 110-125 hp (SAE Gross).

Torque Range:

RX2: Approximately 118-130 lb-ft (SAE Gross), RX3: Approximately 110-125 lb-ft (SAE Gross).

Fuel Delivery:

Carbureted (likely Hitachi/Mikuni twin downdraft carburetors) for most models, with potential for early Fuel Injection (FI) diagnosis sections as indicated.

Emission Control Systems:

Likely includes air injection systems and potentially early catalytic converters or exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) depending on market and year, with diagnostic procedures covered.

Apex Seal Life:

Manual will provide guidance on apex seal wear and replacement procedures, critical for rotary engine longevity.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Rx2:

4-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Rx3:

4-speed Manual Transmission, 5-speed Manual Transmission (later models/optional), 3-speed Automatic Transmission (optional).

Clutch System:

Hydraulic clutch actuation.

Transmission Fluid Spec:

Likely GL-4 gear oil (e.g., 75W-90 or 80W-90).

Clutch Adjustment:

Procedures for clutch pedal free play adjustment and clutch disc/pressure plate replacement.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

RX2: Coupe, Sedan. RX3: Coupe, Sedan, Station Wagon.

Wheelbase:

RX2: Approx. 98.4 inches (2499 mm). RX3: Approx. 97.6 inches (2480 mm).

Wheel Size:

Typically 13-inch or 14-inch steel wheels with hubcaps; optional alloy wheels.

Tire Size:

Commonly 175/70SR13 or 185/70SR13.

Bolt Pattern:

4x110mm

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2200-2500 lbs (1000-1135 kg), varying by body style and equipment.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Features Era:

Reflects 1970s safety standards; likely includes basic seat belts, padded dashboard, and dual-circuit braking system. No modern crash ratings available.

Braking System:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Dual-circuit hydraulic system.

Steering Column:

Collapsible steering column (standard for the era).

💡 Technology Features

Original Infotainment:

Basic AM/FM radio, often with an 8-track player option in some higher trims.

Driver Aids:

None by modern standards. Focus is on mechanical and electrical systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 6 months, with specific attention to rotary engine oil consumption.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Manual will specify interval, often around 12,000-20,000 miles (19,000-32,000 km), critical for rotary ignition performance.

Engine Oil Spec:

API SE or SF classification, viscosity typically 10W-30 or 20W-50. **Crucially, it will detail the oil metering system and appropriate oil.**

Coolant Spec:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Rotary Issues:

Apex seal wear, rotor housing wear, oil seal degradation, carbon buildup in combustion chambers, cooling system leaks (especially with the compact rotary design), carburetor tuning.

Cooling System Maintenance:

Emphasis on flushing and replacing coolant, checking hoses and thermostat, critical for preventing apex seal overheating.

Carburetor Rebuild:

The manual will detail the disassembly, cleaning, and rebuilding of the Hitachi/Mikuni carburetors.

📚 Vehicle History

Rotary Pioneering:

Mazda's early adoption and success with the Wankel rotary engine, establishing a unique performance niche.

Rx2 Evolution:

The RX2 (Capella Rotary) was Mazda's second rotary-powered production car, introduced in 1970, featuring a more upscale design and comfort than the R100.

Rx3 Evolution:

The RX3 (Savanna Rotary) was introduced in 1971 as a sportier, more compact offering than the RX2, becoming a significant platform for motorsport.

Rx3 Design Influence:

Drew styling cues from the larger RX2 but featured a more aggressive stance and was a popular choice for street and track use.

Production Period:

RX2: 1970-1978. RX3: 1971-1978.