Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, restoration enthusiasts, professional repair shops
Value Proposition:
Enables users to maintain, service, diagnose, and repair their own vehicles efficiently and correctly.
Delivery Method:
Instant Download (no shipping costs or waiting time)
Key Rivals:
Competed against other sporty compact cars of the era, often distinguished by its unique rotary powertrain.
Powertrain:
Gearbox & Clutch, Crankshaft/Transmission/Balancer, Engine Lubrication and Cooling, Ignition System, Transmission System, Alternator/Starter Clutch, Engine Fuel System, Crankcase/Piston/Cylinder, Engine Combustion System, Fuel injection system
Chassis And Suspension:
Wheels & Tyres, Braking System, Suspension, Rear Wheel System, Front Wheel and Steering System, Chassis, Frame/Body Panels/Exhaust System
Electrical:
Electric Starter, Electrical System, Wiring Diagrams, Lights/Meters/Switches, Battery/Charging System
Body And Interior:
Body & Fixtures, Frame/Body Panels/Exhaust System, Fenders and Exhaust Pipe, Lights/Meters/Switches
Cooling System Components:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, heater core. Detailed testing and replacement procedures.
Fuel System Components:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, carburetor/fuel injection system, filters. Comprehensive service information.
Maintenance:
Periodic checks & Adjustments, Maintenance
Repair:
All repair procedures covered, Engine Removal and Installation, Troubleshooting
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting section provides guidance for diagnosing common problems.
Engine Rebuild:
Covers cylinder head removal/installation, piston and cylinder work, and full engine assembly/disassembly.
Detail Level:
Step-by-step instructions, highly detailed exploded pictures & diagrams, comprehensive repair procedures, dealer/mechanic level detail
Specifications Section:
Includes dedicated sections for Technical Information & Specifications and general Specifications.
Diagnostic Tools:
Implicitly covers diagnostic procedures that would utilize basic hand tools, multimeters, and possibly a timing light. No advanced scan tool information.
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel)
Engine Description:
The manual covers the unique rotary engine technology characteristic of the Mazda RX-2 and RX-3, including specifics on apex seals, rotor housings, and the lubrication systems crucial for these engines.
Engine Displacement Cc:
Typically 110 cu in (1.8L) for the 12A rotary engine variants used in these models.
Engine Code:
12A (Rotary)
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 110-130 hp (depending on specific engine variant and market)
Torque Range:
Approx. 115-130 lb-ft (depending on specific engine variant and market)
Fuel Delivery:
Carbureted (with potential for early fuel injection systems on later models, as indicated by manual coverage)
Carburetor Type:
Likely Hitachi or Mikuni downdraft carburetors, manual will detail adjustment and overhaul.
Transmission Type:
Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
Automatic Transmission (likely available on some models/trims)
Gearbox Coverage:
Detailed procedures for gearbox and clutch overhaul, adjustment, and troubleshooting.
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate clutch, manual covers adjustment and replacement procedures.
Body Styles:
Coupe, Sedan, Station Wagon (specific to RX-2 and RX-3 models)
Wheelbase Range:
Approx. 98.4 - 101.6 inches (2500 - 2580 mm) depending on specific model and year.
Wheel Pattern:
4x110 mm bolt pattern (common for Mazda of this era)
Tire Size Typical:
165SR13 or 185/70R13 (refer to manual for specific recommendations)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 2200-2500 lbs (1000-1135 kg) depending on body style and configuration
Crash Safety:
Vehicles from this era generally lacked modern safety ratings. Manual focuses on mechanical safety aspects like braking and steering integrity.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (typical for the era). Manual provides detailed service procedures.
Body Structure:
Reinforced chassis and body panels designed for occupant protection within the standards of the early 1970s.
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio, likely with optional cassette player. Manual covers head unit removal and wiring.
Availability:
No electronic driver assistance systems available in vehicles of this period. Focus is on mechanical systems.
Features:
No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB. Manual details wiring for basic electrical accessories.
Oil Change:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (refer to manual for specific rotary oil recommendations)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual for specific interval for rotary spark plugs (often dual plugs per rotor)
Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 12-24 months or 24,000-48,000 miles, consult manual for specific interval.
Engine Oil:
Specific rotary engine oil required (e.g., SAE 20W-50 or 10W-30, consult manual for exact specification and oil injection system requirements).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (typically 50/50 mix with distilled water), consult manual for specific type and capacity.
Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90), manual will specify exact type and capacity.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, consult manual for exact specification and bleed procedures.
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5 gear oil, consult manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 80W-90) and capacity.
Rotary Engine Wear:
Apex seal wear and housing scoring are common concerns for rotary engines of this era. Manual provides diagnostic and repair procedures.
Cooling System:
Overheating can be an issue due to radiator design and potential for coolant leaks. Manual covers radiator and cooling system component service.
Ignition System:
Proper ignition timing and spark plug condition are critical for rotary performance. Manual details ignition system testing and adjustment.
Carburetor Issues:
Carburetor adjustments, rebuilding, and jetting can be required due to age and wear. Manual provides comprehensive carburetor service.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses, switches, and connections can lead to intermittent electrical issues. Detailed wiring diagrams in the manual are invaluable.
Rust And Corrosion:
As with most vehicles of this vintage, rust in common areas (wheel arches, sills, floors) can be an issue. Manual covers body panel repair procedures.
