Engine:
Rotary engine (12A) - lubrication, cooling, fuel system (carburetor/early injection), combustion system, teardown, assembly, timing, seals, apex seals, rotor housing inspection.
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmissions - removal, installation, internal inspection, clutch, driveshafts, differential.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes - hydraulic system, master cylinder, wheel cylinders, brake lines, calipers, pads, shoes, parking brake.
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, rear leaf springs - shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starter motor, ignition system (distributor, coil, spark plugs), lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams.
Body And Chassis:
Frame, body panels, fenders, doors, windows, glass, exhaust system, interior trim, seats, dashboard, exterior trim.
Steering:
Steering gearbox, steering column, tie rods, steering linkage.
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant specifications.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump, carburetor specifications (e.g., Hitachi, Mikuni) and tuning, early fuel injection (if applicable).
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments, lubrication points.
Engine Repair:
Engine removal and installation, complete engine overhaul, apex seal replacement, rotor housing machining, peripheral port/side port differences.
Transmission Repair:
Clutch disc and pressure plate replacement, transmission synchro ring inspection, gear selection mechanism repair.
Brake Repair:
Brake pad/shoe replacement, brake fluid flush and bleed, caliper/wheel cylinder rebuilding, parking brake adjustment.
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Strut replacement, ball joint inspection, bushing replacement, tie rod end replacement, steering gearbox adjustment.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting ignition system faults, diagnosing charging system issues, tracing wiring for lights and instruments.
Bodywork:
Panel alignment, door hinge adjustment, window regulator repair, rust prevention and repair guidance.
Troubleshooting:
Section dedicated to diagnosing common problems with step-by-step solutions for mechanical and electrical issues.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance and adjustments to complete engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and detailed electrical system diagnostics. Equivalent to factory workshop manuals used by professional mechanics.
âïž Engine Specifications
Engine Type:
Mazda 12A Rotary Engine (two-rotor).
Displacement:
1146 cc (69.9 cubic inches)
Horsepower:
Approximately 125-135 hp (SAE gross) depending on year and emissions controls.
Torque:
Approximately 137-150 lb-ft (SAE gross) depending on year and emissions controls.
Fuel Delivery:
Primarily two-barrel downdraft carburetors (e.g., Hitachi HDA, Mikuni Solex). Later models may have had early fuel injection systems, though less common in this manual's scope.
Rotor Design:
Renesis style with side exhaust ports and peripheral intake ports (early 12A variants).
Oil Type:
Rotary-specific 2-stroke oil (for separate oil injection) or high-quality mineral/synthetic engine oil for pre-mix or conventional lubrication systems. Specific grades like API SG or higher are often recommended.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles (5,000 km) or 6 months, with specific recommendations for rotary engine oil (often every 1,500 miles/2,500 km for specific oils/methods).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 15,000-20,000 miles (24,000-32,000 km). Specific spark plug part numbers (e.g., NGK) will be in the manual.
Timing Belt Check:
Rotary engines do not have timing belts; they use a chain or direct drive for the camshafts (in the case of the 12A, the eccentric shaft drives the rotors directly).
Coolant:
50/50 mixture of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water. Specific freezing point requirements noted.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Apex Seals:
Wear and failure of apex seals leading to loss of compression and power is a common concern for rotary engines. Proper maintenance and avoiding overheating are critical.
Carburetor Tuning:
Carburetors can require frequent adjustment due to wear, vacuum leaks, or environmental changes. The manual will detail specific tuning procedures.
Chassis Rust:
As with many cars of this era, rust can be a significant issue, particularly in the lower body panels, wheel wells, and structural components.
Cooling System Leaks:
Aging rubber hoses and radiator components can lead to coolant leaks, which are detrimental to rotary engine health.
Rotary Pioneering:
Mazda's commitment to the Wankel rotary engine, which began with the Cosmo Sport and continued with the R100, RX-2, and RX-3, establishing Mazda's unique performance identity.
Rx 2 Origins:
Introduced in 1970 as the Capella Rotary (Japan) and Savanna (export). The RX-2 name was used for export markets. Known for its sporty styling and rotary power.
Rx 3 Origins:
Introduced in 1971 as the Savanna (Japan). Positioned below the RX-2/Capella, offering a more compact and affordable rotary experience. Available in sedan, coupe, and wagon forms.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Key Markets:
Japan, Australia, North America, Europe.
