Engine:
Rotary Engine (12A) - Theory of Operation, Disassembly, Assembly, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Lubrication, Cooling System
Fuel System:
Carburetion (Nikki or similar), Fuel Pump, Fuel Lines, Fuel Tank, Emission Control Systems (Air Injection, EGR)
Ignition System:
Distributor, Ignition Coils, Spark Plugs, Ignition Timing, Electronic Ignition Components
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, Rear Axle, Differential, Wheel Bearings
Suspension:
Front Suspension (MacPherson Struts), Rear Suspension (Multi-link), Shock Absorbers, Springs, Bushings, Alignment Specifications
Steering:
Steering Gear, Steering Column, Power Steering System (if equipped), Tie Rods, Ball Joints
Brakes:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes (typically), Brake Lines, Master Cylinder, Calipers, Wheel Cylinders, Parking Brake System, Brake Fluid Specifications
Electrical System:
Wiring Diagrams, Battery, Alternator, Starter Motor, Lighting System, Fuses, Relays, Gauges, Horn, Wiper System
Body And Chassis:
Body Panel Repair, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Glass, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Chassis Frame, Corrosion Protection
HVAC:
Heating System, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (if equipped), Refrigerant Type, Service Procedures
Manual Transmission:
Removal, Installation, Disassembly, Assembly, Fluid Specifications, Troubleshooting
Automatic Transmission:
If applicable for the model years covered - Removal, Installation, Troubleshooting, Fluid Specifications
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Fluid Top-offs, Belt Adjustments, Inspection Procedures
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for component removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, diagnostic parameters
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to major component overhauls and troubleshooting
Engine Type:
Mazda Rotary (Wankel) Engine
Rotor Displacement:
573 cc per rotor (total 1.15 liters equivalent)
Horsepower:
Approx. 100-110 hp (varies slightly by year and market)
Torque:
Approx. 105-115 lb-ft (varies slightly by year and market)
Carburetion:
Single or Twin Downdraft Carburetors (e.g., Nikki, Solex)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating appropriate for performance)
Oil Type:
Specific Rotary Engine Oil (e.g., API SG/SH or equivalent, consult manual for exact specs and viscosity)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze/coolant mixture (50/50)
Engine Oil Change:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, consult manual for specific interval and type of oil
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection
Spark Plugs Service:
Rotary engines require specific plugs, check manual for interval and type (e.g., platinum)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (consult manual)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 5.5-6.0 quarts (5.2-5.7 liters), consult manual
Apex Seals:
Wear and failure of apex seals is a common rotary engine issue; proper maintenance and break-in procedures are critical.
Carburetor Issues:
Tuning difficulties, diaphragm wear, clogging, especially with age.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines naturally consume a small amount of oil for lubrication, but excessive consumption can indicate seal wear.
Chassis Corrosion:
Common for vehicles of this age, especially in rust-prone climates.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses and components can lead to intermittent electrical faults.