🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-7

Model Code:

SA22C (First Generation)

Production Years:

1978-1985 (Covered Range: 1980-1985)

Chassis Code Covered:

SA22C

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Affordable Sports Car

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY Mechanics, Restoration Shops

Key Competitors:

Datsun Z cars (280ZX), Toyota Celica Supra, Porsche 924, Chevrolet Camaro

Unique Selling Proposition:

Wankel Rotary Engine, Lightweight RWD platform, Distinctive Styling

Benefit To Owner:

Enables owners to perform all maintenance and repairs, diagnose issues accurately, and maintain their vehicle to factory specifications, saving on labor costs and ensuring longevity.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Years:

1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985

Region Of Origin For Specifications:

Likely North American and International Market Specifications (based on common manual distribution)

Estimated Page Count:

1000+ pages (typical for a complete workshop manual covering multiple years and configurations)

Manual Type:

Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Wankel Rotary Engine (12A, 13B variations), Apex Seals, Rotor Housing, Rotor, Eccentric Shaft, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Fuel System (Carbureted and early Fuel Injection), Emission Control Systems (Air Injection, EGR).

Engine Management:

Ignition System (Distributor, Coils, Spark Plugs), Carburetor Tuning and Overhaul (for carbureted models), Early Fuel Injection (EFI) system diagnostics and repair (for later models within the range).

Transmission Drivetrain:

Manual Transmissions (4-speed and 5-speed), Automatic Transmissions (where applicable), Clutch System, Driveshaft, Differential, Axles.

Suspension Steering:

Front Suspension (MacPherson Struts), Rear Suspension (Watt's Linkage, Live Axle), Steering System (Rack and Pinion), Power Steering System (if equipped).

Brakes:

Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes (early models), Rear Disc Brakes (later models), Brake System Hydraulic Components, Parking Brake System.

Electrical System:

Charging System (Alternator), Starting System (Starter Motor), Battery, Lighting System (Headlights, Taillights, Interior), Gauges and Instruments, Wiper System, Horn, Fuses and Relays, Wiring Diagrams.

Body Chassis:

Body Panel Removal and Installation, Door Mechanisms, Window Mechanisms, Hood and Trunk Latches, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Frame and Chassis components.

Heating Ventilation Ac:

HVAC System Operation, Components, and Repair (if equipped with AC).

Maintenance:

Routine Inspections, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Brake Pad Replacement, Belt Adjustments, Cooling System Flushes, Lubrication Points.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Flowcharts for Common Issues, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides, Specific Component Testing Procedures.

Repair Overhaul:

Engine Rebuild Procedures (Apex Seal Replacement, Rotor Housing Resurfacing), Transmission Overhaul, Clutch Replacement, Brake Caliper Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering Rack Rebuild.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring Harness Testing, Component Resistance Checks, Voltage Drop Testing, Use of Multimeter and Test Equipment.

Engine Rebuild Documentation:

Detailed procedures for apex seal replacement, rotor housing inspection, eccentric shaft checks, and full engine disassembly/reassembly.

Transmission Rebuild Documentation:

Step-by-step guides for manual and automatic transmission overhaul, including gear inspection, synchro ring replacement, and seal replacement.

Body And Trim Service:

Instructions for removing and installing body panels, doors, interior trim, and associated hardware for repair and refinishing.

Wiring Diagrams Detail:

Complete and detailed wiring schematics for all electrical systems, crucial for diagnosing electrical faults.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on specialized tools and techniques for rotary engine diagnostics, including compression testing (specific to rotary design).

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable (allows easy keyword lookup)

Image Resolution:

High-resolution scans of original factory manuals

Clarity:

Clear, legible diagrams and text

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Wankel Rotary

Engine Codes Covered:

12A, 13B (early versions, e.g., 13B with carburetion or early EFI)

Displacement Cc:

1146 cc (12A), 1308 cc (13B)

Horsepower Range:

Approx. 100-135 hp (depending on year and market)

Torque Range:

Approx. 110-130 lb-ft (depending on year and market)

Fuel Delivery:

Dual Carburetors (e.g., Hitachi, Nikki) or early Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) systems

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Oil Type Recommendation:

API SG/SH or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (specific viscosity may vary with temperature, consult manual)

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5.5 US quarts (5.2 L) with filter change (refer to manual for exact capacity)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (e.g., Mazda's recommended mix)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 US quarts (6.1 L) (refer to manual for exact capacity)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-Speed Manual

Transmission Type Optional:

3-Speed Automatic (less common in enthusiast models)

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios vary by model year and transmission type, detailed in the manual.

Transmission Fluid Type:

API GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90) - consult manual for precise specification.

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 1.5-2.0 US quarts (1.4-1.9 L) for manual transmission (refer to manual for exact capacity)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 163 inches (4140 mm)

Width:

Approx. 65.6 inches (1666 mm)

Height:

Approx. 49.2 inches (1250 mm) for Coupe, Approx. 49.4 inches (1255 mm) for Rotary-Coupe

Wheelbase:

Approx. 95.5 inches (2425 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2300-2600 lbs (1043-1179 kg) depending on trim and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Consult specific vehicle VIN and manual

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited official NHTSA/IIHS data available for this era; emphasis on driver control and passive safety features of the time.

Braking System:

Power-assisted disc front, drum rear (early), disc rear (later). Optional ABS on select models/markets towards end of production.

Steering System:

Rack and pinion, with optional power assist.

Seat Belts:

3-point front seat belts, optional shoulder belts.

Construction:

Unibody construction with front crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM Radio, Cassette Player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.

Gauges And Instruments:

Comprehensive analog gauges including tachometer, speedometer, oil pressure, voltage, and water temperature.

Antilock Braking System:

Optional ABS available on select models, particularly later in the production run.

Connectivity Features:

None typical for the era.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (recommended for rotary engines due to higher operating temperatures and specific lubrication needs).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Intervals vary based on plug type (e.g., 15,000-30,000 miles), consult manual for specific recommendations.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Dexron II or equivalent ATF (if equipped with power steering).

Apex Seals:

Wear or failure of apex seals is a common concern requiring engine rebuild. Proper warm-up and cool-down procedures are critical.

Carburetor Issues:

Carburetor wear, sticking choke, or vacuum leaks can affect performance and fuel economy.

Ignition System:

Degradation of distributor cap, rotor, or ignition wires can lead to misfires.

Cooling System Maintenance:

Due to the rotary engine's heat, consistent maintenance of the cooling system (radiator, hoses, thermostat) is paramount.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Rotary Introduction:

Mazda's pioneering and consistent use of the Wankel rotary engine, beginning with the Mazda Cosmo Sport 110S in 1967.

Rx-7 Generation 1:

First generation (SA22C) launched in 1978, known for its stylish coupe body, RWD layout, and rotary power. The model range covered by this manual represents the significant updates and refinements made during its production lifecycle.

Production Plant:

Mazda's Fuchu Plant, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan

Market Impact:

Established Mazda as a maker of desirable and performance-oriented sports cars, particularly appealing to enthusiasts for its unique engine technology.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

While not directly for the 1980-1985 models, the RX-7 platform in general received accolades for its driving dynamics and performance.

Sport Compact Car Magazine Reviews:

Frequently praised for its handling, unique engine, and affordability as a sports car.