Target Audience:
RX-7 enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, restoration specialists, vintage car owners
Value Proposition:
Cost-effective alternative to expensive factory shop manuals, comprehensive digital access
Delivery Method:
Email delivery, instant access
Content Advantage:
Contains all information found in factory shop manual CD-ROMs
Usability:
Searchable PDF, easy navigation, ability to print specific sections
Engine:
Rotary engine (12A and 13B variations), lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery (carburetor systems)
Fuel System:
Carburetor diagnosis, adjustment, and overhaul (likely Hitachi, Mikuni, or Solex carburetors specific to the RX-7), fuel pump, fuel lines
Transmission:
Manual transmission (e.g., W55, J50S), clutch system, driveline
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, steering system, wheel alignment specifications
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or optional rear discs on later models), brake system hydraulics, parking brake
Electrical System:
Ignition system, starting and charging system, lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, coolant flow
Heating And Air Conditioning:
HVAC system components, refrigerant handling (where applicable), fan operation
Body:
Body panel repair, trim, glass, doors, seats, interior components
Emission Control Systems:
Emissions-related components, diagnosis, and adjustments (e.g., air injection, EGR)
Maintenance:
Routine lubrication, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-up procedures
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component overhaul and replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, common fault identification
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering rebuilds, adjustments, and component-level diagnostics
Engine Type:
Mazda Wankel Rotary
Engine Displacement:
1.1L (1146cc) for 12A, 1.3L (1308cc) for 13B
Engine Code 12A:
12A (RE01)
Engine Code 13B:
13B (RE02, RE03)
Horsepower 12A Early:
~100-105 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque 12A Early:
~105 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Horsepower 13B Late:
~115-135 hp @ 6500 rpm (depending on year and emissions)
Torque 13B Late:
~125-135 lb-ft @ 3500-4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Two-barrel Carburetor (e.g., Hitachi, Mikuni, Solex)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Ignition Type:
Distributor-based, single ignition coil (some later models may have CDI)
Body Styles:
2-door Coupe, 2+2 Coupe, 2-door Liftback/Hatchback
Curb Weight Approx:
2,300 - 2,700 lbs (1043 - 1225 kg), varies by body style and equipment
Crash Test Performance:
Limited official NHTSA/IIHS data for this era; general structural integrity considered good for its time but lacks modern safety features.
Active Safety Features:
Standard Disc Brakes (front), optional Rear Disc Brakes (later models), Power-assisted brakes
Passive Safety Features:
Seat belts (3-point front, lap rear), padded dashboard and steering wheel, energy-absorbing steering column
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 15,000-20,000 miles (24,000-32,000 km) for standard plugs; specific rotary plugs may vary.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH rated, 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check specific manual for ambient temperature recommendations)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Apex Seals:
Wear or failure of apex seals is a common issue leading to compression loss and engine damage.
Carburetor Performance:
Carburetors can become clogged or require frequent adjustment due to age and fuel quality.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines naturally consume a small amount of oil as part of their lubrication system; excessive consumption indicates issues.
Cooling System Reliability:
Overheating can be an issue if the cooling system is not meticulously maintained, due to the concentrated heat of the rotary design.
Chassis Rust:
As with many cars of this era, rust can be a significant issue, particularly in the floor pans, wheel wells, and suspension mounting points.
Mazda Rotary Legacy:
The RX-7 cemented Mazda's reputation for innovation with its rotary engine technology, a departure from conventional piston engines.
Generation Evolution:
The SA22C (1978-1980) featured a distinct design. The FB update (1981-1985) brought significant styling revisions, improved suspension, and the introduction of the more powerful 13B engine in later iterations.
Production Period:
1978-1985 (First Generation)
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Automotive Press Accolades:
While specific awards for this generation are scarce, the RX-7 was widely praised for its sporty handling, unique rotary engine, and stylish design, establishing its icon status.
