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.
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.
