Positioning:
The Mazda RX-7 FD represents the pinnacle of rotary-powered sports cars from its era, targeting enthusiasts seeking high performance, unique engineering, and exceptional handling.
Competitors:
Competed against iconic sports cars such as the Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (Mk IV), Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4, Porsche 968, and Chevrolet Corvette (C4/C5).
Distinguishing Features:
Lightweight chassis, near 50/50 weight distribution, sophisticated multi-link suspension, twin-sequential turbocharging (13B-REW engine), distinctive 'Spirit R' and Type RS variants, iconic styling.
Value:
Essential resource for owners and independent mechanics to maintain, diagnose, and repair the complex rotary engine and advanced systems of the RX-7 FD.
Applicable Years:
1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002
Engine Coverage:
13B-REW (Twin-Rotary Turbocharged)
Market Coverage:
Primarily Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) and North American specifications, with adaptations for other global markets where applicable.
Estimated Pages:
Likely over 1000 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era).
Type:
Workshop Service Manual
Language:
English (likely based on typical export manual translations, though original may be Japanese).
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (rotary specific), lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, emission control, exhaust, twin-turbo system, transmission (manual and automatic variants), differential, driveshafts.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear independent), steering system (power steering), braking system (ABS, front and rear brakes), wheels and tires.
Body And Interior:
Body construction, exterior trim, doors, windows, roof, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, airbags, seat belts.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, gauges, audio system, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), engine control module (ECM) and sensor diagnostics, ABS control module.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, spark plug replacement, ignition timing checks.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for engine and related systems, symptom-based troubleshooting, diagnostic connector locations.
Repair:
Engine rebuild procedures (apex seals, rotor housing, rotor replacement), turbocharger overhaul, transmission repair, suspension component replacement, brake caliper overhaul, electrical component repair, body panel repair.
Adjustment And Calibration:
Throttle position sensor calibration, idle speed adjustment, clutch adjustment, suspension alignment specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from routine maintenance to complete engine and drivetrain overhauls. Detailed diagnostic procedures and component specifications are expected.
Searchability:
Searchable text (assuming OCR was applied to original scanned documents).
Quality:
High-resolution scans of original factory service manuals, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.
Type:
N/A (Digital PDF download)
Type:
N/A (Digital PDF download)
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel), Twin-Rotor, Naturally Aspirated (initially) transitioning to Twin-Sequential Turbocharged
Displacement:
1308 cc (equivalent to ~2.6L in piston displacement terms)
Horsepower:
Approx. 255 hp (early models) to 280 hp (later JDM/export models), with higher outputs in special editions like Type R/Spirit R.
Torque:
Approx. 217 lb-ft (early models) to 231 lb-ft (later models).
System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), sequential twin-turbocharging with intercooler.
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher)
Apex Seal Life:
Crucial maintenance consideration; premature wear can lead to loss of compression. Manual details inspection and replacement procedures.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines naturally consume a small amount of oil for lubrication. Manual specifies oil levels and consumption checks.
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (R154 derived for some JDM versions, or Mazda's own M5OD-R1 variants)
Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Manual Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios vary by model year and market, but are geared towards sporty performance. Manual will detail these.
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated, single-plate dry clutch.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Typically API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity often 75W-90. Specific Mazda part numbers or equivalents in manual.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron-III or equivalent. Manual will specify exact type and capacity.
Length:
Approx. 4295-4315 mm (depending on specific model and bumper design)
Height:
Approx. 1230-1250 mm
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2425 mm
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1250-1350 kg (depending on trim and equipment)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approximately 1575 kg (manual will have exact figure)
Cargo Volume:
Limited due to sports car design; primary space is behind seats, with a small trunk.
NHTSA Front Crash:
Not extensively tested by modern standards; expected to be good for its era.
ABS:
Standard on most models, providing anti-lock braking.
Traction Control:
Available on some later models, especially in JDM market (TCS).
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags became standard during the production run. Manual details airbag system operation and replacement.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners on early models.
Audio System:
Factory radio with CD player or cassette deck, often with premium speaker systems (e.g., Bose on some trims). Manual covers removal, installation, and wiring.
ABS System:
Bosch or similar ABS system. Manual details sensor locations, module operation, and troubleshooting.
Diagnostic Port:
OBD-I or early OBD-II port depending on market and year. Manual details connector pinouts and diagnostic protocols.
Oil Change:
Recommended every 5,000-7,500 km or 3-6 months, using high-quality synthetic oil.
Spark Plugs:
Specific interval varies by plug type (standard or platinum). Manual will detail recommended replacement periods and types.
Timing Belt Equivalent:
Rotary engines do not have timing belts; they utilize a timing chain or direct gear drive for the rotors. Manual covers inspection and adjustment if applicable.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5-5.0 liters (including filter), specific to 13B-REW engine. Manual specifies exact capacity and API/ACEA rating.
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.0-7.5 liters. Manual specifies type (e.g., Mazda FL22 or equivalent) and mixture ratio.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4. Manual will specify exact type and bleeding procedure.
Compression Loss:
Common issue related to apex seal wear and rotor housing scoring. Manual provides diagnostic procedures (compression test) and rebuild information.
Sequential Turbo Failure:
Potential failure of the secondary turbocharger actuator or plumbing. Manual covers diagnosis and repair.
Oil Injector Failure:
Failure of the pre-mix oil injection system can lead to accelerated wear. Manual details system checks.
Cooling System Overheating:
Due to the compact nature and heat from the rotary, cooling system integrity is vital. Manual details radiator, fan, and pump checks.
Oil Filter Example:
Mazda genuine part number B6Y1-14-302 or equivalent. Manual will list relevant part numbers.
Air Filter Example:
Mazda genuine part number N3H1-13-215 or equivalent. Manual will list relevant part numbers.
Rotary Legacy:
Mazda's long and storied history with the rotary engine, dating back to the Cosmo and RX-7 SA/FB/FC generations.
Fd Development:
Designed by Chief Engineer Toshihiko Hirai, the FD was a radical departure from the FC, emphasizing lightweight construction, advanced aerodynamics, and the refined 13B-REW twin-sequential turbo engine.
Production Years:
1992-2002 (model years)
Manufacturing Location:
Hiroshima, Japan
Total Units Produced:
Approximately 69,000 units worldwide.
Car And Driver 10Best:
Named to Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times (1993-1995), highlighting its performance and handling prowess.
Motor Trend Import Car Of The Year:
Runner-up for Motor Trend Import Car of the Year in 1993.
Iconic Status:
Widely regarded as one of the greatest sports cars of the 1990s and a modern automotive icon.
Manual Authenticity:
Based on genuine Mazda factory service documentation, ensuring accuracy and completeness for professionals.
