🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-7

Generation:

First Generation (FB)

Production Years Covered:

1980-1984

Chassis Code:

FB3S

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Mazda RX-7 (FB) was positioned as an affordable, sporty coupe, distinguishing itself with its unique rotary engine and balanced handling. It competed with cars like the Datsun Z-cars, Toyota Celica, and Ford Mustang.

Key Rivals:

Datsun 280ZX, Toyota Celica Supra, Porsche 924, Ford Capri, Chevrolet Camaro (lower trims)

Rotary Engine:

The hallmark feature, offering a compact size, smooth operation, and high-revving characteristics.

Handling:

Known for its excellent weight distribution and nimble handling, contributing to its sports car image.

Design:

Distinctive wedge-shaped styling that was aerodynamic and visually appealing for its era.

📋 Manual Details

Models Covered:

All RX-7 models within the 1980-1984 production range

Regions Covered:

Likely global markets, with a focus on North American specifications given typical manual distribution

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive, likely over 1000 pages based on 'Full & Complete' and 'Great Detail' description for a full service manual

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Rotary engine (12A) - Disassembly, assembly, lubrication, cooling, ignition, fuel injection, emission control

Transmission:

Manual and Automatic transmissions - Overhaul, operation, troubleshooting

Drivetrain:

Clutch, driveshaft, differential, axles - Inspection, repair, overhaul

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems (MacPherson struts, Watt's linkage) - Components, alignment, adjustment, repair

Brakes:

Front disc, rear drum (or optional rear disc) brakes - Hydraulic system, calipers, drums, parking brake, troubleshooting

Steering:

Rack and pinion steering - Components, adjustment, troubleshooting

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, ignition, instrumentation, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, pump, lines, injectors (EFI), carburetor (early models), fuel pressure testing

Emission Control:

Air injection, EGR, catalytic converter systems, troubleshooting

Body And Frame:

Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, chassis components, rust repair guidance

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning - Components, operation, service

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug changes, belt adjustments, fluid checks

Repair:

Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement, suspension component renewal, electrical component repair

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides

Diagnostics:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) where applicable, fuel injection system diagnostics, ignition system testing

Installation:

Component installation and removal procedures for major systems

Specifications And Tolerances:

Detailed torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and wear limits

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Type:

Digital PDF

Searchable Text:

Likely, depending on the quality of the PDF scan or creation.

Quality Description:

Optimized for digital viewing, potentially printable.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Rotary (Wankel)

Engine Code:

12A

Displacement:

1146 cc (two rotors, approx. 573 cc per rotor)

Bore X Stroke:

Rotor face width: 70 mm; Rotor radius: 105 mm (design parameters for rotary)

Horsepower 1980-1981:

125 hp @ 6500 rpm (U.S. Federal Emission Control)

Horsepower 1982-1983:

130 hp @ 6500 rpm (U.S. Federal Emission Control)

Horsepower 1984:

135 hp @ 6500 rpm (U.S. Federal Emission Control)

Torque 1980-1981:

119 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Torque 1982-1983:

123 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Torque 1984:

127 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Fuel Injection (Bosch L-Jetronic or similar, depending on year and market), earlier models might have had carburetors for some markets.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating specified in manual)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approx. 50 Liters (13.2 US gallons)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual

Type:

3-speed Automatic (TorqueFlite-based)

Clutch:

Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated

Final Drive Ratio:

Varies by model and transmission, typically around 4.10:1 for manual, 3.909:1 for automatic

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4206 mm (165.6 in)

Width:

Approx. 1661 mm (65.4 in)

Height:

Approx. 1260 mm (49.6 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2400 mm (94.5 in)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 150 mm (5.9 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1150-1250 kg (2535-2756 lbs), depending on trim and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Specific GVWR will be listed in manual, typically around 1500 kg

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited modern NHTSA/IIHS data available for this era; manual will detail passive safety features as designed at the time.

Braking System:

Front ventilated discs, rear drums (standard); Optional rear discs on some trims.

ABS:

Not typically available on this generation RX-7

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts, shoulder belt anchors

Body Structure:

Reinforced chassis and body structure for its time, including impact-absorbing zones.

Headrests:

Integrated front headrests

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM Radio, Cassette Player (optional, aftermarket options common).

Instrumentation:

Tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, oil pressure gauge, voltmeter.

Features:

Primarily focused on mechanical feedback and driver engagement; no electronic driver assistance systems like ABS or traction control.

Features:

N/A for the era. Focus is on mechanical connectivity and driver interaction.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 km (3,000-5,000 miles) or 6 months. Manual will specify exact interval based on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Specific intervals for apex seals and spark plugs will be detailed. Rotary spark plugs require specific types and replacement intervals. Often every 20,000-30,000 km.

Rotor Housing Apex Seal Wear:

While not a 'service' item in the traditional sense, monitoring compression is crucial. The manual will detail compression testing procedures.

Engine Oil:

API SG or higher, viscosity typically SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40. Rotary engines require specific oil types and additives for seal lubrication. Manual will specify Mazda-approved or equivalent.

Coolant:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity approx. 7-8 liters.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

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

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III/Mercon equivalent. Capacity approx. 3.5-4 liters.

Differential Fluid:

API GL-5 SAE 80W-90 hypoid gear oil. Capacity approx. 1.3 liters.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Apex Seal Wear:

Degradation of apex seals leading to loss of compression, rough idle, and starting issues. Requires engine rebuild.

Oil Consumption:

Rotary engines naturally consume oil for lubrication; excessive consumption can indicate seal wear.

Starting Issues:

Can be related to apex seals, ignition system (especially the leading/trailing plugs), or fuel system.

Rust:

Common for vehicles of this age, particularly in fender wells, rocker panels, and door bottoms.

Cooling System:

Potential for leaks or inefficient cooling if not maintained, crucial for rotary engines.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Rotary History:

Mazda's pioneering commitment to the Wankel rotary engine, starting with the Cosmo Sport and gaining global recognition with the RX series.

Rx-7 Fb Introduction:

Launched in 1978 (as the SA22C), the FB generation was the first RX-7. The 1980-1984 period covers the initial series, receiving updates and facelifts, notably the 1981 facelift which included revised styling, improved suspension, and optional fuel injection.

Major Updates 1981:

Revised front and rear styling, improved suspension geometry, optional fuel injection for higher performance models (GSL-SE in some markets).

Manufacturing Location:

Japan (Hiroshima Plant)

Production Volume Fb Era:

Significant global sales, contributing to Mazda's reputation as a sports car manufacturer.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its handling and unique rotary powertrain. Featured in numerous 'best sports car' lists of its time.

Sales Success:

Strong sales contributed to Mazda's brand image as a maker of exciting and innovative vehicles.