1988 Mazda RX-7 (2nd gen) Service and Repair Manual

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🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mazda Model: RX-7 Year: 1988 Generation Generation Designation: 2nd Generation (FC) Codes Chassis Code: FC3S 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Class: Sports Car / Grand...

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Sku: 458828

Tags: 1988 Car Cars Mazda Misc RX-7 (2nd gen)

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Description

🏷️ Basic Information

Identification

Make:

Mazda

Model:

Year:

Generation

Generation Designation:

2nd Generation (FC)

Codes

Chassis Code:

👋 Introduction

Market Position

Vehicle Class:

Sports Car / Grand Tourer

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional technicians

Competitive Analysis

Key Competitors Era:

Nissan 300ZX (Z31), Toyota Supra (MkIII), Porsche 944, Chevrolet Camaro

Key Features

Rotary Engine:

Unique and high-revving Wankel rotary engine (13B), providing a distinctive driving experience.

Handling:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, independent suspension, and excellent handling characteristics, often featuring a near 50/50 weight distribution.

Design:

Distinctive pop-up headlights, aerodynamic styling, and a driver-focused cockpit.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas

Coverage Scope:

All Models and All Repairs A-Z

Page Count

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Manual Type

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM)

Language

Language:

English

Format

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered

Engine Management:

Detailed diagnostics, component testing, and repair procedures for the rotary engine, including fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, and lubrication.

Powertrain:

Comprehensive coverage of the rotary engine (13B) and its associated systems, including cooling, exhaust, and intake.

Transmission:

Repair, overhaul, and diagnostic procedures for both the 5-speed manual transmission and the 4-speed automatic transmission.

Drivetrain:

Service procedures for the rear-wheel-drive system, including driveshaft, differential, and axle repairs.

Suspension:

Detailed information on front and rear suspension components, including struts, springs, bushings, control arms, and steering linkage.

Brakes:

Front disc and rear disc brake system service, including hydraulic system components, parking brake, and ABS troubleshooting (if equipped).

Steering:

Power steering system diagnosis, repair, and component replacement, including steering rack and pump.

Electrical System:

Complete wiring diagrams, fuse/relay locations, troubleshooting procedures for all electrical components, lighting, instruments, and accessories.

Body And Interior:

Body panel alignment, door and window mechanisms, interior trim removal/installation, HVAC system service.

Emissions Control:

Detailed explanations and repair procedures for emissions-related components and systems.

Procedures Included

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement (rotary specific), fluid checks and changes, belt inspections and adjustments.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems, including symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Engine Repair:

Engine disassembly, inspection, component replacement (e.g., apex seals, oil seals, rotor housing), engine assembly, and tuning.

Transmission Rebuild:

Complete overhaul procedures for both manual and automatic transmissions, including torque converter service.

Brake Service:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, brake fluid bleeding, and ABS component diagnostics.

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Replacement of ball joints, tie rod ends, bushings, struts, and steering rack components.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Tracing electrical faults using wiring diagrams, testing sensors, actuators, and control modules.

Body Panel Replacement:

Guidance on removing and installing body panels, doors, hoods, and bumpers.

HVAC Repair:

Diagnosis and repair of air conditioning and heating systems, including refrigerant handling.

Technical Depth

Depth Level:

Comprehensive

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Advanced diagnostic procedures, including interpretation of error codes and component-specific testing.

Rebuild Procedures:

Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures, including critical clearances and torque specifications.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs, especially for the rotary engine.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format

Digital Format:

Print Quality

Image Resolution:

High resolution, suitable for printing

Binding Type

Binding:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Type

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital)

Searchability

Text Search:

Searchable text content

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine

Engine Type:

Rotary (Wankel)

Engine Code:

Displacement:

2x 654cc rotor chambers (approx. 1.3L total displacement)

Aspiration:

Naturally Aspirated (NA) and Turbocharged (GT, GXS-R trims)

Performance

Horsepower Na:

160-170 hp (approx.)

Horsepower Turbo:

200-210 hp (approx.)

Torque Na:

150 lb-ft (approx.)

Torque Turbo:

190-200 lb-ft (approx.)

Fuel System

Fuel Delivery:

Fuel Injection (Electronic Fuel Injection - EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Oil Type:

Rotary-specific or high-quality synthetic engine oil (refer to manual for specific API/ACEA classifications and viscosity grades)

🔧 Transmission

Standard

Type:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Optional

Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Features

Drive Layout:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulic Dry Single Plate Clutch

Automatic Features:

Electronically controlled with torque converter lock-up

📐 Dimensions

Exterior

Length:

Approx. 170.5 inches (4330 mm)

Width:

Approx. 69.1 inches (1755 mm)

Height:

Approx. 49.6 inches (1260 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 95.7 inches (2430 mm)

Weights

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2800-3100 lbs (1270-1406 kg) depending on trim and options

🛡️ Safety Features

Ratings

NHTSA Front Impact:

Not rated (era specific)

IIHS Side Impact:

Not rated (era specific)

Active Features

Available on higher trims (e.g., GT, GXS-R)

Traction Control:

Available on some turbo models

Passive Features

Seat Belts:

Three-point front seat belts

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag not standard on all models, may be present on later production or specific trims.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, often with upgraded speaker options.

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control system (depending on trim).

Driver Assistance

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Connectivity

Original Connectivity:

N/A (1988 technology era)

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (consult manual for specific recommendations based on driving conditions)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Rotary apex seals and plugs require specific attention; consult manual for interval (often tied to engine performance rather than mileage)

Timing Belt Belt Replacement:

Accessory belts (alternator, power steering, A/C) require inspection and potential replacement based on condition and mileage (no timing belt on rotary).

Fluid Specifications

Engine Oil Viscosity:

Refer to manual: typically 5W-30 or 10W-40 (check API service category)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-5 Gear Oil (viscosity grade as specified in manual, e.g., 75W-90)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron-III or equivalent ATF

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze/coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Known Issues

Rotary Apex Seals:

Wear on apex seals is a common concern, leading to loss of compression and performance. Regular maintenance and proper engine operation are crucial.

Oil Consumption:

Rotary engines naturally consume oil as part of their lubrication system. Monitoring oil levels is critical.

Cooling System Maintenance:

Overheating can be detrimental; diligent maintenance of the cooling system (radiator, hoses, thermostat) is essential.

Oil Injector System:

Issues with the automatic oil injection system can impact apex seal lubrication.

Exhaust Port Cleaning:

Carbon buildup in exhaust ports can affect performance and requires periodic cleaning.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage

Mazda Rotary Legacy:

Mazda's long-standing commitment to rotary engine technology, dating back to the Cosmo Sport.

Model Evolution

Rx-7 Lineage:

Successor to the SA/FB generation (1st gen RX-7), introducing a more modern and aerodynamic design.

Fc Generation Nickname:

Often referred to as the 'FC' generation.

Turbo Introduction:

The introduction of turbocharged variants significantly boosted performance and appeal.

Production

Production Years Fc:

1985-1992

Manufacturing Location:

Hiroshima, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions

Automotive Journal Awards:

Frequently praised by automotive publications for its handling and unique rotary powertrain, though specific awards for this model year may vary.

Ratings

Performance Reviews:

Consistently ranked as a top sports car in its class during its production run.