🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-7

Generation:

First Generation (SA/FB)

Model Year:

1980

Chassis Code:

SA22C

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Do-it-yourselfers and experienced mechanics looking for a comprehensive resource to repair, maintain, rebuild, refurbish, or restore their 1980 Mazda RX-7.

Value Proposition:

Provides factory-level repair and service information, enabling cost savings on maintenance and repairs, and is a cost-effective alternative to dealership services.

Diagnostic Tools:

Includes detailed diagnostic procedures, trouble codes, and computer diagnostic trouble tree charts, essential for understanding and resolving complex issues.

Visual Aids:

Features hundreds of detailed illustrations, exploded diagrams, drawings, and photos to clearly guide users through each service and repair procedure.

Accessibility:

Instant download format offers immediate access without shipping costs or waiting times, accessible on any computer.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine overhaul and rebuilding, brakes, sunroof, timing belt replacement, trouble codes, wiring diagrams, troubleshooting and diagnostics, computer diagnostic trouble tree charts, engine performance, front end and alignment procedures and specifications, suspension, transmission removal and installation, air conditioning service and capacities, transmission in-car servicing, computer diagnostic codes, firing orders, factory maintenance schedules and charts, serpentine belt routings with diagrams, timing belt service procedures, brake servicing procedures, driving concerns, complete torque specifications, U-joint and CV-joint service procedures, repair procedures, vacuum diagrams.

Page Count:

Not Specified (but described as 'COMPLETE' and covering 'every single detail')

Manual Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

File Size:

Not Specified, but typically ranges from tens to hundreds of MB for comprehensive service manuals.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Rotary (12A) engine overhaul, rebuilding, performance tuning, troubleshooting, diagnostics, firing orders, and specifications.

Transmission:

Removal, installation, in-car servicing, and detailed specifications for both manual and automatic transmissions.

Brakes:

Complete servicing procedures, specifications, and troubleshooting for the entire braking system.

Suspension Steering:

Front-end alignment procedures and specifications, suspension component service, and U-joint/CV-joint service.

Electrical Electronics:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble tree charts, computer diagnostic codes, and troubleshooting for electrical systems.

Cooling Heating Ac:

Air conditioning service procedures and capacity specifications.

Body Chassis:

Sunroof service procedures, and general repair information.

Maintenance:

Factory maintenance schedules and charts, routine service procedures, and driving concern analysis.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair procedures for virtually all components, based on complete disassembly of the machine.

Diagnostics:

Detailed troubleshooting and diagnostics for all systems, including computer diagnostic trouble trees and specific trouble codes.

Rebuilding:

In-depth engine overhaul and rebuilding instructions.

Torque Specifications:

Complete torque specifications are provided for all critical fasteners, ensuring proper assembly and preventing damage.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive coverage suitable for both do-it-yourself enthusiasts and experienced mechanics, including detailed illustrations, diagrams, and specifications.

Illustrations Diagrams:

Hundreds of detailed illustrations, exploded diagrams, drawings, and photos are included to guide the reader through each service and repair procedure.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

All versions of Windows & Mac

Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader

Printability:

Fully printable

Searchability:

Searchable text

Zoom Functionality:

Zoom in/out enabled

Binding Type:

Digital (PDF download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

Completeness Guarantee:

100% Complete and Intact, no missing/corrupt pages/sections

Bookmarking:

Bookmarked for easy navigation

Accuracy Assurance:

Guaranteed to be accurate and detailed, reflecting factory specifications.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Rotary (Wankel)

Engine Code:

12A

Displacement:

1146 cc (2 x 573 cc rotors)

Horsepower Approx:

100-105 hp (SA chassis variations)

Torque Approx:

108-113 lb-ft

Fuel Delivery:

Carbureted (typically a Nikki two-barrel carburetor)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher recommended)

Timing Belt Service:

The 1980 RX-7, being a rotary, does not have a timing belt. It utilizes a chain-driven oil pump and accessory belts. The manual covers 'Timing Belt Service Procedures' which may be a general section or a misstatement for rotary engines. However, it does cover 'Serpentine Belt Routings with Diagrams'.

Firing Order:

Provided in manual, crucial for rotary engine timing and operation.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed manual transmission

Optional Transmission:

3-speed automatic transmission

Transmission Service:

Covers in-car servicing, removal, and installation for both transmission types.

📐 Dimensions

Body Style:

2-door coupe (initially, later a liftback/hatchback was introduced)

Wheelbase:

95.2 inches

Length:

161.6 inches

Width:

65.2 inches

Height:

50.4 inches

Curb Weight Approx:

2400 - 2600 lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

No specific crash test ratings readily available for the 1980 model as standards were different. However, the unibody construction and basic safety features were typical for its era.

Braking System:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Manual provides detailed service procedures.

Seatbelts:

Standard 3-point seatbelts.

Steering Column:

Collapsible steering column.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio, often with an 8-track player or cassette tape deck as an option. Manual covers basic electrical schematics.

Driver Assistance Features:

None by modern standards. Features like power steering were often optional or standard depending on trim.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Refer to manual for specific intervals (typically every 3,000-5,000 miles for rotary engines).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Refer to manual for specific intervals; rotary engines have specific plug requirements.

Engine Oil Type:

API SF or SG classification, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (refer to manual for precise viscosity and API rating).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.5 US quarts (4.25 liters) with filter change.

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

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

Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:

Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water recommended).

Rotary Engine Apex Seals:

Apex seals are wear items in rotary engines and require careful maintenance and proper lubrication to ensure longevity. The manual covers rebuilding procedures essential for addressing this.

Carburetor Tuning:

Carburetors can require periodic adjustment and cleaning for optimal performance and emissions, especially in older vehicles. The manual's engine performance section is critical here.

Ignition System:

Specific ignition system components and their maintenance are covered, vital for the unique firing characteristics of the rotary engine.

Vacuum Leaks:

Rotary engines are sensitive to vacuum leaks. The manual's vacuum diagrams and troubleshooting sections are key to identifying and rectifying these issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Introduction:

Mazda is a Japanese automotive manufacturer founded in 1920, known for its innovative rotary engine technology.

Rx-7 Introduction:

The Mazda RX-7 was introduced globally in 1978 as a successor to the RX-3, aiming to offer a sporty, lightweight, and affordable coupe powered by Mazda's unique rotary engine.

First Generation:

The SA/FB generation (1978-1985) was designed by Chief Engineer Yutaka Fukui, featuring a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout and distinctive styling.

Production Years:

1978-1985 (First Generation)

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Recognition:

The first-generation RX-7 was critically acclaimed for its sporty handling, unique rotary engine, and affordability, and was frequently featured in automotive enthusiast media of the time.

Rotary Engine Recognition:

The rotary engine itself has a storied history in motorsport and automotive innovation, earning Mazda numerous accolades for its development.