🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-7

Generation:

FC (Second Generation)

Chassis Code:

FC3S (Coupe), FC3C (Convertible)

Engine Code:

13B (Rotary)

👋 Introduction

Positioning Of Rx7 Fc:

The FC RX-7 represented Mazda's second generation of its iconic rotary-powered sports car, positioned as a premium grand tourer with sporty handling and a unique engine configuration.

Competitors:

Competed with vehicles like the Toyota Supra, Nissan 300ZX, Porsche 944, and Chevrolet Camaro/Pontiac Firebird.

Unique Selling Points:

Lightweight chassis, balanced weight distribution, advanced independent suspension, optional turbocharging, and the distinctive sound and power delivery of the rotary engine.

Value Proposition:

This manual is indispensable for owners and technicians seeking to maintain, diagnose, and repair the 1989-1992 Mazda RX-7. It provides the same authoritative information found in dealership service bays, ensuring accurate and efficient work.

📋 Manual Details

Years Covered:

1989, 1990, 1991, 1992

Models Covered:

All models (Coupe, Convertible)

Repair Scope:

A-Z (All repairs)

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 1500-2500 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals, actual may vary)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF), potentially available in print

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine System:

Rotary engine theory, maintenance, troubleshooting, overhaul, apex seals, rotor housing, oil injection, cooling system, lubrication system

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system (EFI), fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, emissions control systems (SAS, EGR)

Ignition System:

Ignition timing, coil packs, spark plugs, ignition control module (DIC)

Transmission Manual:

5-speed manual transmission (Type R, Type S), clutch system, gearbox overhaul, torque specifications, fluid types

Transmission Automatic:

4-speed automatic transmission (optional), torque converter, planetary gears, hydraulic control, fluid types

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive system, driveshaft, differential, axle shafts, limited-slip differential (LSD) specifications

Suspension:

Front and rear independent suspension (struts, control arms), anti-roll bars, bushings, coil springs, shock absorbers, alignment specifications

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, lubrication

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) operation and troubleshooting, brake fluid specifications, caliper and rotor service

Electrical System:

12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter motor, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams for all circuits

Lighting System:

Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, bulb types, wiring

HVAC System:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant types, service procedures

Body And Interior:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seats, glass, convertible top operation (if applicable)

Chassis And Frame:

Chassis construction, frame inspection, rust prevention and repair

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, fluid checks and top-ups, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and adjustment

Engine Repair:

Engine removal and installation, rebuilding procedures for the 13B rotary engine, compression testing, apex seal replacement

Transmission Repair:

Clutch replacement, transmission overhaul, gear inspection, synchronizer replacement

Brake System Repair:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper servicing, bleeding the brake system, ABS component testing

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Shock absorber and strut replacement, bushing replacement, wheel bearing service, power steering pump and rack replacement

Electrical Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting electrical faults using wiring diagrams, component testing, common electrical issues

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures, common fault codes, symptom-based troubleshooting guides

Emissions Control Service:

Service and adjustment of EGR, SAS, and other emissions components

Body Repair:

Panel alignment, dent repair, rust mitigation, seal replacement

Depth:

Comprehensive (suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers)

Detail Level:

Includes detailed diagrams, torque specifications, diagnostic charts, and step-by-step repair instructions.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Details:

Searchable PDF with high-resolution images and diagrams. Printable pages.

Print Quality If Available:

Professionally printed with durable binding and clear illustrations.

Binding Type If Available:

Perfect bound or spiral bound for lay-flat usability in a workshop environment.

Paper Type If Available:

Heavy-duty paper stock to withstand workshop conditions.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Rotary (Wankel)

Engine Code:

13B

Displacement:

1.3 L (80 cu in) - Rotary displacement is often quoted differently; this refers to the equivalent reciprocating engine displacement.

Aspirated Variant:

Naturally Aspirated

Turbocharged Variant:

Turbocharged (Turbo II models)

Horsepower Na:

160-170 hp @ 7000 rpm (approximate, varies by market and year)

Torque Na:

145-150 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (approximate)

Horsepower Turbo:

200-210 hp @ 6500 rpm (approximate)

Torque Turbo:

195-200 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (approximate)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Premium recommended)

Oil Type Recommendation:

API SG/SH or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (consult manual for exact viscosity and temperature ranges)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors (typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water)

Rotary Specific Systems:

Thermal Reactor (early models, phased out for catalytic converters), Secondary Air Injection (SAS), Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR), Air Pump

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Manual Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios vary by model and year (e.g., Type R, Type S); detailed ratios are available in the manual.

Manual Fluid Type:

API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity typically 75W-90 or 80W-90 (verify with manual)

Automatic Fluid Type:

Dexron III or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF) (verify with manual)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated, single-plate dry clutch

Differential:

Open differential standard; Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) available on performance models (Turbo II, GT-X).

Lsd Fluid Type:

API GL-5 gear oil with limited-slip additive, or specific LSD oil (verify with manual)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 4315-4330 mm (169.9-170.5 in) depending on model and bumper type.

Width:

Approximately 1690-1700 mm (66.5-66.9 in)

Height:

Approximately 1295-1305 mm (51.0-51.4 in)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2500 mm (98.4 in)

Front Track:

Approximately 1440 mm (56.7 in)

Rear Track:

Approximately 1440 mm (56.7 in)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1250-1450 kg (2755-3197 lbs) depending on trim and equipment.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Specific GVWR figures available in manual.

Towing Capacity:

Not designed for towing.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x114.3 mm (4.5 in)

Wheel Offset:

Varies by wheel size and trim, typically +35 to +45 mm.

Seating Capacity:

2+2 seating (front two seats are full-size, rear are small occasional seats)

Cargo Volume:

Limited trunk space behind rear seats; convertible models have further cargo limitations.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited official NHTSA/IIHS ratings available for this specific generation and era of vehicle; information typically found within the manual or owner recollections.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on higher trims or as an option.

Limited Slip Differential:

Available on Turbo II and GT-X models for improved traction.

Seat Belts:

Three-point inertia-reel seat belts in the front; lap belts for rear occupants.

Headrests:

Adjustable front headrests.

Driver Airbag:

Not standard on all models or markets; check specific vehicle.

Passenger Airbag:

Rarely equipped on this generation.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player on later models. Speakers typically located in doors and rear deck.

Climate Control:

Manual climate control with rotary dials for temperature, fan speed, and air direction. Air conditioning system.

ABS System:

Anti-lock Braking System was an advanced feature for its time, offering improved braking control.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models, typically operated via steering column stalk.

Original Connectivity:

No modern connectivity features such as Bluetooth, USB, or smartphone integration. Analog gauges and controls.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for specific severe vs. normal driving conditions and rotary engine considerations).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 20,000-30,000 miles, but highly dependent on spark plug type and engine health. Rotary engines are particularly sensitive to plug condition.

Timing Belt Or Chain:

Rotary engines do not have traditional timing belts or chains; they utilize a unique rotor and eccentric shaft system. However, ancillary drive belts (alternator, power steering, AC) require inspection and replacement as needed.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (verify with manual).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Manual: Every 30,000-50,000 miles. Automatic: Every 30,000-50,000 miles (verify with manual).

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles to maintain optimal performance and prevent corrosion.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 5.3 US quarts (5.0 liters) with filter change for the 13B engine (verify with manual).

Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 1.6 US quarts (1.5 liters) (verify with manual).

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 3.5 US quarts (3.3 liters) for a fluid change, higher for a full rebuild (verify with manual).

Differential Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 1.0-1.3 US quarts (0.9-1.2 liters) for the rear differential (verify with manual).

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF (Dexron III or equivalent) is often specified for power steering systems on these vehicles (verify with manual).

Rotary Engine Apex Seals:

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

Oil Consumption:

Rotary engines naturally consume oil as part of their lubrication system. The oil metering pump injects oil into the combustion chamber. Excessive consumption can indicate seal wear.

Cooling System Overheating:

Due to the compact nature and heat output of the rotary engine, the cooling system is critical. Issues with the radiator, thermostat, water pump, or fan can lead to overheating.

Sidel Seal Wear:

Similar to apex seals, side seals can also wear, contributing to compression loss.

Catalytic Converter Clogging:

Older vehicles, especially those with rotary engines, can be prone to catalytic converter issues, particularly if oil is being burned.

Fuel Injector Clogging:

Can affect fuel delivery and performance.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Rotary Legacy:

Mazda's long-standing commitment to the rotary engine, starting with the Cosmo and continuing through multiple generations of the RX-7, established its unique place in automotive history.

Fc Generation Introduction:

The FC RX-7 (second generation) was introduced for the 1986 model year, replacing the SA/FB RX-7 and evolving the design with a more aerodynamic and sophisticated profile.

Fc Facelift:

The FC received a significant facelift for the 1989 model year, which included updated bumpers, revised suspension tuning, a new interior dashboard design, and the introduction of the Turbo II with a more powerful engine and improved cooling.

Convertible Variant:

A convertible model (FC3C) was introduced in 1987, offering open-top motoring with a power-operated soft top.

Production Years:

1986-1992

Manufacturing Location:

Hiroshima, Japan

Key Facelift Year:

1989 (This manual specifically covers post-facelift models).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Ten Best:

The FC RX-7 was named to Car and Driver's Ten Best list multiple times during its production run, recognized for its performance and handling.

Motor Trend Car Of The Year:

While not a winner, it was often considered a strong contender in its class for performance automotive awards.

Handling Reputation:

Universally praised for its exceptional handling dynamics, chassis balance, and responsive steering, contributing to its enduring enthusiast appeal.