Positioning:
The Mazda RX-7 (FC generation) was positioned as a sporty, affordable rear-wheel-drive coupe and convertible, competing with cars like the Toyota Supra, Nissan 240SX, and Ford Mustang.
Key Differentiators:
The RX-7's primary differentiator was its unique rotary engine, offering a smooth power delivery and distinctive sound, coupled with excellent handling characteristics.
Manual Features:
This manual provides the same in-depth, vehicle-specific technical information that dealership technicians rely on, ensuring accuracy and completeness for all maintenance and repair tasks.
Engine:
Rotary (13B Wankel), including lubrication, cooling, fuel injection (EFI), ignition, starting, charging, emission control, and rotary specific maintenance.
Transmission:
Manual (5-speed) and Automatic transmissions, including removal, installation, disassembly, assembly, and diagnosis.
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, differential, rear axle assembly, and wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, including MacPherson struts, trailing arms, anti-roll bars, shock absorbers, and springs.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gearbox, linkage, and diagnosis.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) for applicable models.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, lighting system, instrument cluster, power accessories, diagnostic procedures for electrical faults, ECU (Engine Control Unit).
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system, body sealing, and collision repair guidelines.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments, fluid checks, and lubrication.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, fault code interpretation, electrical system troubleshooting flowcharts.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement, and body panel repair.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic strategies, testing procedures for sensors, actuators, and control modules.
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, timing settings, and component dimensions for precise repairs.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for dealership technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Format Details:
Print - Likely a bound volume, possibly a factory service manual (FSM) reproduction.
Print Quality:
High-quality reproductions of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.
Binding:
Likely perfect bound or saddle-stitched, designed for workshop use.
Paper Type:
Durable paper stock, intended to withstand repeated use in a workshop environment.
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel) Engine
Displacement:
1.3 L (1308 cc)
Rotor Housing Design:
Dual rotor
Horsepower Range:
145-200 hp (depending on model and turbocharging)
Torque Range:
150-200 lb-ft (depending on model and turbocharging)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (Electronic Fuel Injection - EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Oil Metering:
Separate oil metering system for apex seal lubrication, requiring specific oil injector feed.
Compression:
N/A (Rotary engines use compression ratio, typically around 9.7:1 or higher for naturally aspirated, and lower for turbocharged models)
Body Styles:
Coupe (Hardtop), Convertible
Wheelbase:
Approx. 95.7 inches (2430 mm)
Length:
Approx. 167.5 - 170.1 inches (4255 - 4320 mm)
Width:
Approx. 67.5 - 67.7 inches (1715 - 1720 mm)
Height:
Approx. 49.4 - 49.6 inches (1255 - 1260 mm)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 2700 - 3100 lbs (1225 - 1406 kg)
Crash Test Results:
Limited data available for this era, as independent crash testing was not as standardized. Refer to manual for specific structural repair data.
Braking:
Ventilated disc brakes front and rear, ABS optional on later models.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia reel seatbelts.
Construction:
Reinforced safety cage, collapsible steering column.
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional premium sound systems.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) became available as an option, particularly on higher trim levels and turbo models.
Exterior Features:
Power mirrors, optional power windows, cruise control.
ECU:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) manages fuel injection and ignition timing for optimal performance and emissions.
Oil Change:
Recommended every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, with specific attention to checking oil level due to rotary engine consumption.
Spark Plugs:
Typically requires replacement every 15,000-30,000 miles, often using specific long-life or two-piece plug designs.
Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 2 years or 30,000 miles.
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 recommended for most conditions. Specific rotary engine oils or additives may be advised.
Transmission Oil Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil recommended.
Transmission Oil Auto:
Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 recommended.
Coolant:
50/50 mix of ethylene glycol-based antifreeze and distilled water.
Apex Seals:
Wear of apex seals is a common concern, leading to loss of compression. Regular oil checks and proper operating temperature are crucial.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines naturally consume oil for lubrication; ensuring the metering pump is functioning and topping up oil regularly is essential.
Overheating:
Can be susceptible to overheating if the cooling system is not meticulously maintained due to high operating temperatures of the rotary engine.
Turbocharger Reliability:
Turbocharged models require diligent maintenance of oil and cooling systems to ensure turbocharger longevity.
Rotary Legacy:
Mazda has a long history with the Wankel rotary engine, dating back to the Cosmo in the late 1960s, and the RX-7 is its most iconic rotary-powered sports car.
Fc Generation:
The FC generation (1985-1992) succeeded the first-generation SA/FB RX-7. It featured a more modern design, independent rear suspension, and the introduction of turbocharging for increased performance.
Production Period:
1985-1992 (FC generation)
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
