Positioning:
The Mazda RX-7 (SA22C) was positioned as a lightweight, affordable sports car with a unique rotary engine, targeting enthusiasts seeking performance and distinctive engineering.
Competitors:
Primarily competed with Datsun (Nissan) Z-cars, Toyota Celica Supra, and lower-spec Porsche 924s in its segment.
Unique Selling Points:
Rotary engine (Wankel), rear-wheel drive, balanced chassis, distinctive styling, affordable sports car performance.
Value:
This manual provides dealership-level diagnostic and repair information, essential for maintaining the unique Wankel rotary engine and complex systems of the early RX-7.
Primary Coverage:
Complete Service and Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Diagnostics, Maintenance, Troubleshooting
Estimated Page Count:
High (indicative of a comprehensive dealership manual)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM)
Delivery Method:
Digital Download (.rar/.zip)
Viewing Requirements:
Zip decompression software (e.g., WinZip, WinRAR, 7-Zip) and PDF reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader)
Powertrain:
Engine Mechanical, Lubrication, Cooling, Control, Fuel, Exhaust, Accelerator Control, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Propeller Shaft, Rear Final Drive
Chassis:
Front Axle, Rear Axle, Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Brake System, Parking Brake System, Brake Control System, Steering Control System
Electrical:
Starting & Charging, Lighting, Driver Information, Wiper/Washer/Horn, Power Supply/Ground/Circuit Elements
Body Interior:
Body, Lock & Security, Glasses/Window/Mirrors, Exterior & Interior Trim, Instrument Panel, Seats, Air Conditioning (Automatic)
Advanced Systems:
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Body Control System, LAN System, Audio Visual/Navigation/Telephone System, Auto Cruise Control System
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom analysis, diagnostic procedures for all systems
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for components and systems, including removal, installation, and adjustments
Special Procedures:
Rotary engine specific procedures, fuel injection system servicing, suspension alignment
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete component overhauls, suitable for dealership technicians.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Rotary (Wankel)
Rotor Displacement:
1146 cc (573 cc x 2 rotors)
Equivalent Reciprocating Displacement:
~2.0 Liters (common comparison for enthusiasts)
Horsepower:
Approximately 100-135 hp (depending on specific market and emissions controls)
Torque:
Approximately 110-125 lb-ft
Fuel Delivery:
Carbureted (e.g., Hitachi, Nikki) for most models
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Cooling System Type:
Liquid-cooled
Lubrication System Type:
Wet sump, with separate oil injection system for apex seals (oil metering pump)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 95.0 inches (2413 mm)
Length:
Approx. 162.8 inches (4135 mm)
Width:
Approx. 65.0 inches (1651 mm)
Height:
Approx. 50.8 inches (1290 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2,200 - 2,400 lbs (1000 - 1090 kg)
Weight Distribution:
Favorable front-to-rear ratio due to compact rotary engine placement.
Crash Test Results:
Limited available data for this era; generally considered structurally sound for its time.
Braking System:
Front Disc, Rear Drum (standard); Optional Front & Rear Disc on some higher trims.
Steering System:
Recirculating ball, optional power steering.
Seat Belts:
Standard 3-point seat belts
Srs:
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) - Airbags were not standard or widely available in this generation.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio, possibly with cassette player. Speakers typically in doors and rear deck.
Cruise Control:
Available on some models, listed as 'Auto Cruise Control System' in manual coverage.
Lan System:
Mentioned in coverage, likely refers to an early form of vehicle data networking.
Instrument Panel:
Comprehensive gauges including tachometer, speedometer, oil pressure, water temperature, and voltage meter.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 3 months (refer to manual for exact specifications and oil type).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Intervals vary; rotary-specific spark plugs required. Manual provides details.
Timing Belt Or Chain:
N/A (Rotary engines do not have traditional timing belts or chains; they utilize a unique rotor and eccentric shaft design).
Engine Oil Type:
Specific rotary engine oil (e.g., SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40) or high-quality conventional oil. Crucially, requires oil injection for apex seals.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze/coolant (e.g., Mazda's recommended mixture of 50% coolant and 50% distilled water).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Rotary Engine Apex Seals:
Wear of apex seals is a common issue if oil metering is inadequate or engine is abused. Proper lubrication and maintenance are critical.
Carburetor Issues:
Carburetors can become worn or misadjusted over time, affecting fuel delivery and engine performance.
Cooling System Overheating:
Due to the compact nature and heat output of the rotary engine, maintaining the cooling system is paramount to prevent overheating.
Ignition Timing:
Refer to manual for specific degrees BTDC based on engine conditions and RPM.
Idle Speed:
Refer to manual for specific RPM range for both manual and automatic transmissions.
Mazda Rotary Legacy:
Mazda's pioneering development and successful implementation of the Wankel rotary engine, starting with the Cosmo Sport.
Rx-7 Lineage:
The first generation (SA22C) established the RX-7 as Mazda's flagship sports car, paving the way for subsequent generations (FC and FD) with continuous rotary engine refinement.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Sales Impact:
Successful in establishing Mazda's reputation for sports cars and rotary performance globally.
Sports Car Accolades:
The first-generation RX-7 was generally well-received for its handling, performance, and unique rotary engine, contributing to Mazda's growing enthusiast following.
Industry Reviews:
Praised by automotive press for its driving dynamics and affordable sports car appeal.
Emissions Compliance:
Compliance with regional emissions standards of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Manual details specific procedures for emissions control.
