Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and professional technicians seeking authoritative repair information for the 1977 Mazda RX-2.
Manual Type Comparison:
Distinguishes itself from generic repair guides by offering model-specific, factory-authorized procedures and specifications.
User Experience:
Easy-to-use PDF format with searchable content and the ability to print only necessary pages.
Repair Philosophy:
Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, saving time and reliance on external mechanics.
Engine And Drivetrain:
Rotary engine (12A), lubrication, cooling, fuel, emissions, ignition, starting, charging, manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, propeller shaft, driveshaft, differential, axles, suspension.
Chassis And Body:
Brakes (hydraulic, parking), steering (column, power steering), wheels, tires, body exterior, interior, doors, hood, glass, mirrors, seats, instrument panel, climate control (air conditioning).
Electrical And Diagnostics:
Complete wiring schematics, electrical components, meters, audio/visual systems, horn, wipers/washers, door locks, supplementary restraint systems (seat belts), cruise control, engine immobilizer (if applicable to model year).
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical systems, component removal and installation, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance schedules, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, tune-up procedures, component adjustments.
Depth Of Information:
Factory-level technical detail, including detailed diagrams, illustrations, torque specifications, clearance measurements, and diagnostic troubleshooting trees.
Compatibility:
All Versions of Windows and Mac
Printability:
Yes, all pages are printable.
Image Enhancement:
Ability to blow up images for enlarged copies.
Digital Binding:
Single PDF document, eliminating the need to flip through multiple physical books.
Digital Storage:
Digitally stored, protecting original pages from wear and tear. Printable pages allow for workshop-friendly copies.
Engine Type:
Rotary Engine (Wankel)
Engine Designation:
Mazda 12A
Engine Layout:
Front-mounted, rotary
Displacement:
1146 cc (equivalent to approximately 2.9L piston displacement)
Horsepower Net:
Approximately 110-120 hp (varies slightly by market and emissions equipment)
Torque Net:
Approximately 115-125 lb-ft (varies slightly by market and emissions equipment)
Fuel Delivery:
Two-barrel downdraft carburetor (e.g., Hitachi or Mikuni)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Oil Type:
API SE or SF service category oil, SAE 20W-50 recommended for most climates. Specific rotary-specific oil additives may be mentioned.
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 5.3 US quarts (5.0 liters) with filter change.
Ignition System:
Distributorless twin-spark ignition system with two leading and two trailing spark plugs per rotor housing.
Transmission Type:
4-speed manual transmission
Transmission Type:
3-speed automatic transmission (likely a Mazda "Jatco" derivative)
Clutch Type:
Dry, single-plate, diaphragm spring clutch
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
Body Styles:
2-door Coupe, 4-door Sedan
Wheelbase:
Approximately 98.4 inches (2500 mm)
Length:
Approximately 171.1 inches (4345 mm)
Width:
Approximately 65.4 inches (1660 mm)
Height:
Approximately 52.4 inches (1330 mm) for Coupe, 54.3 inches (1380 mm) for Sedan
Curb Weight:
Approximately 2300-2500 lbs (1043-1134 kg) depending on body style and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 3200-3400 lbs (1450-1542 kg).
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4 x 110 mm
Tire Size Standard:
Typically 175/70SR13 or 185/70SR13
Crash Test Data:
As a 1977 vehicle, standardized crash test ratings (like NHTSA's star system) were not prevalent or are not readily available in a comparable format.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Power assist likely standard on most models.
Steering System:
Recirculating ball steering, with power steering as an option.
Seat Belts:
Lap and shoulder belts for front occupants, lap belts for rear occupants (standard as per US regulations of the era).
Windshield:
Laminated safety glass
Side Glass:
Tempered safety glass
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM radio, possibly with an 8-track player or cassette adapter compatibility. Manual will cover removal, installation, and troubleshooting.
Cruise Control:
Cruise control system was available as an option, and the manual will cover its operation, adjustment, and repair.
Early Electronics:
The manual covers the electrical system, including early forms of multiplex communication if present, and detailed wiring schematics for all accessories.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles (5,000 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Check and service every 6,000-12,000 miles (10,000-20,000 km). Rotary spark plugs have shorter life due to combustion characteristics.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 6,000 miles (10,000 km), replace as needed. Higher frequency in dusty environments.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or specific power steering fluid as specified.
Apex Seal Wear:
Common to all early rotary engines, apex seals can wear over time, leading to loss of compression, rough running, and increased oil consumption. The manual will detail compression testing and rebuilding procedures.
Carburetor Tuning:
Carburetors require periodic adjustment and cleaning to maintain optimal performance and fuel economy due to their complexity.
Thermal Reactor Emissions System:
Many 1977 models were equipped with thermal reactors for emissions control. These can be prone to failure or clogging, impacting performance and requiring specific service attention.
Leading And Trailing Spark Plugs:
Correct identification and replacement of the four spark plugs per rotor are critical for proper ignition and performance. The manual will detail their specific placement.
