Segment:
Compact Sports Coupe/Sedan
Competitors:
Datsun 240Z, Toyota Celica, Ford Capri, Triumph TR6, Alfa Romeo GTV.
Powertrain Distinctiveness:
Unique rotary engine offering a smooth, high-revving power delivery, differentiating it from piston-engined competitors.
Mechanic Level:
Suitable for both DIY enthusiasts with basic mechanical knowledge and professional mechanics seeking detailed factory procedures.
Value:
Provides authoritative, factory-level repair and maintenance information for preserving and restoring the classic RX-2.
Engine:
Rotary (12A) engine service, maintenance, overhaul, troubleshooting, lubrication, cooling, ignition, fuel delivery, emissions control.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission service, repair, clutch, driveline components.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system diagnosis, repair, front disc and rear drum brake service, parking brake.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component inspection, service, alignment specifications, shock absorbers, springs.
Steering:
Steering gear service, linkage inspection, power steering system (if equipped).
Electrical:
Complete electrical system diagnosis, wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, accessories.
Body:
Body panel repair, doors, windows, glass, interior trim, weatherstripping, body mounting.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (if factory equipped) service and repair.
Maintenance:
Routine scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, ignition timing adjustment, carburetor adjustment, cooling system flushing.
Repair:
Component replacement, engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, brake caliper/wheel cylinder service, suspension arm replacement, steering rack repair.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, mechanical problems.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine clearances, alignment settings, fluid capacities, electrical system values.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers from basic tune-ups to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Detailed diagnostic procedures are included.
Quality:
High-resolution PDF with clear, legible text and sharp diagrams.
Printability:
Full Printable (allows for printing of individual pages or the entire manual).
Binding:
Digital (PDF) - no physical binding.
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Zoom Functionality:
Yes (allows zooming in and out for detailed examination of diagrams and text).
Engine Type:
Mazda 12A Rotary (Wankel)
Engine Configuration:
Two-rotor, naturally aspirated
Displacement:
1146 cc (actual displacement of the 12A)
Horsepower Est:
Approx. 120-135 hp (depending on specific model year and market emissions controls)
Torque Est:
Approx. 115-125 lb-ft (depending on specific model year and market emissions controls)
Carburetion:
Typically twin-choke downdraft carburetors (e.g., Hitachi, Mikuni depending on year/market).
Spark Plugs:
Specific NGK or Champion part numbers detailed in manual, requiring specific heat ranges for rotary engines.
Apex Seals:
Critical component requiring specific material and clearance specifications for engine longevity.
Lubrication:
Separate oil injection system for apex seals and side seals (often referred to as 'pre-mix' in essence, but automated).
Type:
4-speed manual transmission
Type:
3-speed automatic transmission (TorqueFlite based, licensed from Chrysler)
Clutch:
Single dry plate clutch, hydraulic actuation.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (specific manufacturer recommendations in manual).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III/Mercon equivalent (originally Type A Suffix A or Dexron II).
Crash Test Data:
Limited official crash test data available for this era, but constructed with a monocoque chassis and basic safety features for its time.
Braking System:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes (standard).
Seat Belts:
Lap belts standard, shoulder belts often optional or integrated with specific seat designs.
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (refer to manual for exact intervals, depending on driving conditions).
Ignition Timing Adjustment:
Recommended at regular service intervals, or if engine performance issues arise.
Carburetor Adjustment:
As needed, or at specified service intervals, especially for emissions compliance and optimal performance.
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH or equivalent, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity and additive requirements for rotary engines).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mazda specification coolant recommended.
Apex Seal Wear:
Premature apex seal wear if engine is not properly maintained, overheated, or if low-quality oil is used. Can lead to loss of compression.
Carburetor Issues:
Common issues include float bowl adjustment, jet clogging, and vacuum leaks affecting fuel mixture and idle quality.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines inherently consume some oil due to their design (lubrication of seals). Excessive consumption indicates potential seal or housing wear.
Cooling System:
Rotary engines generate heat differently than piston engines. Overheating can be detrimental. Regular coolant flushes and thermostat checks are crucial.
Ignition System:
Distributor cap, rotor, and spark plug wires can degrade over time, affecting ignition performance. Rotor-specific spark plugs are required.
Founding:
Mazda Motor Corporation, founded in 1920 in Japan, initially producing cork products before moving into automotive manufacturing.
Introduction:
The RX-2 (codenamed S102A/S124A) was introduced in 1970 (Japan as Capella Rotary) and globally in 1971 as a more upscale, sporty offering than the smaller RX-3, bridging the gap between the Familia Rotary and the larger RX-4.
Facelift Updates:
Minor styling updates and trim revisions occurred throughout its production run to maintain market competitiveness.
Production Years:
1971-1974 (globally)
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
