🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-7

Generation:

First Generation (SA/FB)

Model Years Covered:

1979-1980

Chassis Code:

SA/FB

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

A vital resource for owners of the iconic first-generation Mazda RX-7, particularly those seeking to maintain or repair their vehicles themselves, especially given the unique nature of the rotary engine.

Competitive Analysis:

Positions itself as a cost-effective alternative to expensive dealership repairs and potentially hard-to-find original shop manuals. Offers a single, comprehensive source, eliminating the need for multiple paper manuals.

Key Features:

Detailed pictures, comprehensive coverage of all vehicle systems, emphasis on rotary engine expertise, potential for significant cost savings on repairs, instant download/access.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Complete vehicle repair, including engine (rotary), chassis, body, electrical systems, transmission, brakes, suspension, interior, and exterior components.

Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (exact count not specified, but implies extensive documentation).

Manual Type:

Comprehensive Repair Manual / Factory Shop Manual.

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (CD/Downloadable), printable pages.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Rotary engine mechanical, engine control system, fuel system (carbureted initially, potentially early fuel injection), cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, emission control systems, ignition system, drive belts, engine mounting.

Transmission Systems:

Manual transaxle system, automatic transaxle system (if applicable to model years), transmission controls, torque converter clutch, transmission fluid specifications.

Chassis And Suspension:

Front suspension system, rear suspension system, steering system, wheel and tire system, front wheel alignment, rear wheel alignment, chassis components.

Braking And Wheels:

Brake system, front brake, rear brake, brake fluid specifications, brake booster, parking brake system, wheel hub specifications, tire specifications.

Electrical Systems:

Wiring diagrams, charging system (generator assembly), starting system (starter assembly, starter switch), ignition system, lighting system (headlamps, tail lamps, interior lamps), wiper and washer system, power window control system, power door lock control system, audio and visual system, instrument panel, combination meter, horn, seat belt warning system.

Body And Interior:

Body repair, hood, doors (front, rear), glass (windshield, quarter, back door), sunroof system, seats, interior trim, roof headlining, bumper components, exterior moldings, license plate lamp, side turn signal lamp.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting of common issues, diagnosis of rotary engine specific problems, identification of part locations and access methods, information for major component rebuilds (engine, transmission).

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, lubrication points, filter replacement, basic tune-up procedures.

Repair Procedures:

Detailed information on accessing and repairing or replacing virtually all vehicle components and systems, including major overhauls.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance and troubleshooting to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Strong emphasis on understanding and working with the rotary engine.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Digital (likely PDF or similar), allowing for selective printing of pages.

Print Quality Potential:

Dependent on original source and digital conversion, but designed for clarity of technical diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital format).

Paper Type Potential:

Designed for printing, suggesting standard paper for home or professional printing.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Rotary (Wankel) Engine

Engine Displacement Rotary:

Typically 1.1L (654cc x 2 rotors) for early models, denoted as '12A' engine series.

Engine Code Common:

12A

Horsepower Approx:

Approximately 100-110 hp (SA/FB models).

Torque Approx:

Approximately 105-115 lb-ft.

Fuel System Type:

Primarily Carbureted (e.g., Hitachi or Mikuni twin-choke carburetors), with potential for early fuel injection systems on later 1980 models or specific markets.

Cooling System Type:

Pressurized liquid cooling system with radiator and fan.

Engine Oil Type Recommendation:

API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended. Specific rotary oil additives may be mentioned for apex seal lubrication.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.5 - 5.0 US quarts (4.3 - 4.7 liters) with filter change.

Spark Plugs:

Specific NGK spark plugs recommended for rotary engines, often multi-ground electrode types.

Timing Belt Chain:

Rotary engines do not use timing belts or chains; they utilize internal eccentric shafts and rotor timing.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

4-speed Manual Transaxle

Optional Transmission Type:

3-speed Automatic Transaxle

Manual Transaxle Fluid Type:

GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil recommended.

Automatic Transaxle Fluid Type:

Dexron III or equivalent (check specific manual for exact specification).

Clutch Type:

Dry single plate diaphragm spring clutch.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 159.8 inches (4059 mm)

Width:

Approximately 65.2 inches (1656 mm)

Height:

Approximately 50.0 inches (1270 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 86.6 inches (2200 mm)

Curb Weight Approx:

Approximately 2300-2450 lbs (1043-1111 kg), depending on transmission and options.

Cargo Capacity:

Rear hatchback provides versatile cargo space; specific volume not readily available but designed for a sporty coupe.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings Era:

Safety standards and ratings were less rigorous than today. Emphasis on passive safety features of the era.

Active Safety Features:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or front/rear discs on some higher trims/later models), hydraulic power steering.

Passive Safety Features:

Collapsible steering column, reinforced body structure, seat belts (three-point front, lap rear), impact-absorbing bumpers.

Airbag Systems:

Airbags were not standard or available in this model year range.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player (optional), potentially upgraded audio systems for the era. Manual covers 'Audio & Visual System'.

Driver Assistance Features:

No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) typical of modern vehicles. Focus on mechanical and basic electronic controls.

Connectivity Features:

None.

Instrument Panel Features:

Includes tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature gauge, oil pressure/warning light, voltmeter, and indicator lights for various systems. Covered under 'Combination Meter' and 'Instrument Panel'.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Frequent oil changes are crucial for rotary engines.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Refer to manual for specific intervals, often around 15,000-20,000 miles, depending on plug type and driving conditions.

Coolant Flush:

Every 24,000-30,000 miles (40,000-50,000 km) or 2 years.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Manual: Every 30,000-50,000 miles (50,000-80,000 km). Automatic: Every 30,000 miles (50,000 km).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

If equipped with power steering, typically ATF Dexron II/III or specific power steering fluid.

Rotary Engine Apex Seals:

Wear of apex seals is a primary concern, leading to loss of compression, poor starting, and engine misfires. Requires careful engine maintenance and proper warm-up/cool-down procedures.

Carburetor Issues:

Carburetors can be prone to wear, clogging, and tuning issues, requiring regular cleaning and adjustment. Mention of Hitachi or Mikuni carburetors in manual implies specific knowledge of these units.

Cooling System Overheating:

Rotary engines run hotter and are sensitive to cooling system issues. Radiator, water pump, and thermostat functionality are critical.

Ignition System Reliability:

Older ignition components (coils, distributors, spark plug wires) can degrade over time, impacting performance and fuel economy.

Chassis Rust:

Common for vehicles of this age, particularly in areas exposed to salt and moisture. Body repair section is crucial.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mazda has a long history of automotive innovation, with the RX-7 being a flagship model that solidified their reputation for performance and unique engineering, particularly with the rotary engine.

Model Evolution Rx7:

The first generation RX-7 (SA/FB) was introduced in 1978 (as a 1979 model in North America). It was designed as a lightweight, affordable sports coupe with a focus on handling and driver engagement. It was a commercial success and a spiritual successor to the Cosmo Sport.

Production Location:

Japan

Production Years Generation:

1978-1985 (SA/FB chassis).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Recognition:

The first-generation RX-7 was widely praised by automotive journalists for its handling, styling, and innovative rotary engine, leading to numerous positive reviews and comparisons against more established sports cars.

Rotary Engine Recognition:

Mazda's rotary engine technology, pioneered in the RX-7, received accolades for its smooth operation and unique engineering, despite its maintenance complexities.