Target Audience:
Enthusiast owners, independent mechanics, and DIYers seeking in-depth knowledge for maintaining and repairing the Mazda RX-7 FC generation.
Value Proposition:
Offers a cost-effective and comprehensive alternative to expensive OEM service manuals or piecemeal repair guides, emphasizing DIY capability and knowledge empowerment.
Unique Selling Points:
Focus on the rotary engine's complexities, detailed technical data, extensive component coverage, and potential to save significant repair costs by enabling owners to perform repairs themselves.
Primary Focus:
Mechanical, Electrical, Body, Chassis, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild
Estimated Pages:
Hundreds of Pages
Type:
Factory Repair/Technical Manual (Likely compiled from multiple OEM sources or a comprehensive third-party adaptation)
Format:
Digital (CD/Download), Printable
Engine:
Rotary (13B), Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System, Fuel System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Emission Control Systems, Exhaust System, Partial Engine Overhaul
Transmission:
Manual Transaxle System, Automatic Transaxle System, Transmission Overhaul, Transmission Control Cable, Transmission Valve Body, Torque Converter Clutch
Chassis And Suspension:
Chassis, Front Suspension System, Rear Suspension System, Front Wheel Alignment, Rear Wheel Alignment, Steering System, Brake System, Wheel and Tire System
Electrical And Lighting:
Electrical System, Wiring Diagrams, Ignition System, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting System, Combination Meter, Audio & Visual System, Power Window Control System, Power Mirror Control System, Power Door Lock Control System
Body And Interior:
Body Information, Body Repair, Hood, Doors, Roof, Glass, Interior Trim, Instrument Panel, Seats, Air Conditioning System, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) components
Maintenance And Repair:
Routine Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Component Removal and Installation, Engine Rebuilding, Transmission Rebuilding, Brake Servicing, Suspension Adjustments, Electrical Diagnostics
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, detailed diagnostic procedures, and component-level repairs.
File Type:
Likely PDF or similar digital format, optimized for printing individual pages.
Print Readability:
Designed to be printable; assumes users will print specific sections as needed, preserving the original quality of the digital source.
Binding:
N/A (Digital Format) - Original manual binding not applicable. Users print and bind as needed.
Paper Recommendation:
N/A (Digital Format) - User-dependent. Standard printer paper is suitable for workshop use.
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel)
Displacement:
1.3L (654cc x 2 rotors)
Horsepower Non Turbo:
145 hp @ 6500 rpm (Naturally Aspirated)
Horsepower Turbo:
182-200 hp @ 6500 rpm (Turbocharged/Intercooled)
Torque Non Turbo:
138 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (Naturally Aspirated)
Torque Turbo:
183-200 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (Turbocharged/Intercooled)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (Multi-point for Turbo models, some NA models may have earlier EFI or carburetors depending on market and specific year updates within the range).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as specified by Mazda, typically 91+ for optimal performance, especially turbo models)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 95.7 inches (2430 mm)
Length:
Approx. 168.1 - 170.1 inches (4270 - 4320 mm) depending on year/trim
Width:
Approx. 65.7 - 66.7 inches (1670 - 1695 mm)
Height:
Approx. 49.2 - 50.0 inches (1250 - 1270 mm)
Curb Weight Approx:
Approx. 2,750 - 3,100 lbs (1247 - 1406 kg) depending on trim and options
Crash Testing Era:
Pre-modern crash testing standards; no official NHTSA/IIHS ratings available from this era in the current format.
Anti Lock Brakes:
Available on higher trims and optional on some models, particularly Turbo II.
Seat Belts:
Three-point retractable front seat belts. Rear optional or lap belts.
Airbags:
Driver airbag became available late in the FC generation, but not standard across all models or years. This manual lists 'Air Bag Sensor' components, indicating their presence on some configurations.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette stereo systems, often with optional CD players in later models. Upgrades were common.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an option, providing improved stopping control.
None:
No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB. Communication systems were basic (e.g., power antenna control).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, using high-quality oil, especially crucial for rotary engines. Consult the manual for precise recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by plug type, but generally recommended every 15,000-30,000 miles for standard plugs. Rotary engines use specific twin-spark plugs.
Timing Belt Equivalent:
Rotary engines do not have timing belts; they use internal eccentric shafts and chains/gears for timing, requiring specific rebuild procedures.
Engine Oil Type And Capacity:
Refer to manual for specific grade (e.g., 10W-30 or 10W-40) and capacity (approx. 5-6 quarts for 13B). High-quality synthetic or semi-synthetic recommended.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (e.g., Mazda's FL22 or equivalent) with distilled water. Capacity approx. 8-9 quarts.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 as specified. Capacity approx. 1 quart.
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 recommended. Capacity approx. 2.0-2.5 quarts.
Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:
Dexron III/Mercon or equivalent. Capacity approx. 4-5 quarts.
Differential Fluid Type:
GL-5 gear oil, SAE 80W-90 or 90. Capacity approx. 1.5 quarts.
Rotary Engine Apex Seals:
Wear or failure of apex seals is a common issue, leading to loss of compression and poor running. Proper maintenance and avoiding redlining with low oil pressure are critical.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines inherently consume some oil as part of their lubrication system. Regular checks and top-ups are necessary. Excessive consumption indicates potential seal issues.
Turbocharger Issues:
Early turbo models can suffer from turbo seal wear, intercooler leaks, or boost control problems if not properly maintained.
Cooling System Reliability:
Overheating can be problematic due to the engine's heat output. Ensure cooling system is in excellent condition (radiator, hoses, thermostat, fan).
Mazda Rotary Legacy:
Builds upon the success of the original RX-7 (SA/FB) and Mazda's long history with rotary engines, starting with the Cosmo Sport.
Fc Generation Design:
Introduced in 1985, the FC (second generation) featured a more modern, aerodynamic design influenced by European sports cars. Available as a 2+2 Coupe and a Convertible.
Performance Enhancements:
The Turbo II (or Turbo GT in some markets) variant significantly boosted performance with a turbocharged and intercooled 13B engine, making it a true sports car contender.
Production Span Fc:
1985-1992
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Car And Driver Five Best:
The FC generation RX-7 was named to Car and Driver's Ten Best list for 1986, highlighting its performance and handling.
Car And Driver Review Highlights:
Praised for its balanced chassis, precise steering, and the unique character of the rotary engine.