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Introduction
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Market Position
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Positioning:
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The Mazda RX-2 and RX-3 were iconic rotary-powered sports compacts that challenged the automotive status quo of their era, offering unique performance and handling characteristics. This manual serves enthusiasts and mechanics looking to maintain or restore these classic vehicles.
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Competitive Analysis
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Competitors:
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Competed against compact sports cars and performance sedans from brands like Datsun (Nissan), Toyota, and various European manufacturers, often distinguished by its distinctive rotary engine.
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Key Features
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Engine Type:
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Rotary Wankel engine, a defining characteristic offering smooth operation and high RPM capability.
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Styling:
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Distinctive Japanese styling of the 1970s, available in coupe, sedan, and later wagon/pickup body styles (RX-3).
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Manual Coverage
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Systems Covered
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Engine:
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Rotary Engine (12A, 13B variants), engine overhaul, lubrication, cooling, fuel system (carburetor), ignition system, emission controls, engine mounting.
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Transmission:
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Manual Transmissions (4-speed, 5-speed), Automatic Transmissions (3-speed), clutch, driveshaft, differential, axle shafts.
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Brakes:
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Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake, brake fluid specifications.
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Suspension:
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Front Independent Suspension (MacPherson strut), Rear Leaf Spring Solid Axle, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications.
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Steering:
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Recirculating Ball Steering Gear, steering column, tie rods, power steering system (if applicable).
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Electrical:
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12V Electrical System, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, wipers, horn, gauges, fuses, wiring diagrams.
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Body:
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Chassis and Body Construction, doors, hood, trunk, windows, seals, interior trim, seat adjustments, bumpers, exterior trim.
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Heating Cooling:
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HVAC system, heater core, blower motor, vent controls, radiator, coolant specifications.
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Procedures Included
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Maintenance:
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Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug gap and replacement, ignition timing, carburetor adjustment, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, lubrication points.
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Repair:
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Engine rebuild (apex seals, rotor housings, eccentric shaft), transmission overhaul, brake caliper/wheel cylinder replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair.
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Diagnostics:
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Troubleshooting guides for common issues, symptom-based diagnostics, engine performance issues, electrical faults, starting problems.
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Specifications:
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Torque specifications for critical fasteners, engine clearances, alignment settings, electrical resistance values.
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Technical Depth
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Depth:
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Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance and adjustments to complete engine and transmission overhauls and detailed electrical system diagnostics.
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Engine Specifications
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Primary Engine
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Engine Code:
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12A (prefaced by L for rotary)
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Engine Type:
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Two-Rotor Wankel Rotary
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Displacement:
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1146 cc (equivalent to approx. 1.2L piston displacement)
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Performance
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Horsepower Rx2:
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Approx. 110-125 hp (depending on market and specific model year)
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Torque Rx2:
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Approx. 112-120 lb-ft (depending on market and specific model year)
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Horsepower Rx3:
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Approx. 100-125 hp (depending on model, e.g., base vs. GT/GSS)
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Torque Rx3:
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Approx. 100-115 lb-ft (depending on model)
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Fuel System
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Fuel Delivery:
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Hitachi/Stromberg Dual-Barrel Carburetor (e.g., Stromberg 150 CD or Hitachi DCAS).
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Fuel Type:
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Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating dependent on original specifications and engine tuning; leaded fuel was common in early years).
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Ignition System
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Ignition Type:
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Distributor-based Ignition System (e.g., single coil or dual coil for improved spark).
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Cooling System
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Cooling Type:
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Water-Cooled Rotary
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Lubrication
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Oil System:
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Integrated Oil Injection System (automatic or manual) for rotor apex seal lubrication, in addition to sump lubrication. Oil type is critical (e.g., API SE/SF, specialized rotary oil recommended).
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Dimensions
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Exterior
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Wheelbase:
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RX-2 Coupe: 95.7 in (2430 mm); RX-2 Sedan: 95.7 in (2430 mm); RX-3 Coupe: 93.7 in (2380 mm); RX-3 Sedan: 95.7 in (2430 mm)
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Length:
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Varies by body style, e.g., RX-2 Coupe: ~165 in (4190 mm)
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Width:
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Varies by body style, e.g., RX-2 Coupe: ~64 in (1625 mm)
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Height:
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Varies by body style, e.g., RX-2 Coupe: ~52 in (1320 mm)
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Weights
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Curb Weight:
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Approx. 2000-2300 lbs (900-1050 kg), depending on body style and equipment.
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Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
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Varies, consult specific model data.
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Maintenance
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Service Intervals
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Oil Change Interval:
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Typically 3,000 miles (5,000 km) or 6 months, but consult manual for specifics. Rotary engines consume oil by design.
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Spark Plug Replacement:
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Check and replace as per manual, often every 15,000-20,000 miles. Use correct plugs (e.g., NGK type).
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Ignition Timing Adjustment:
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Requires periodic adjustment, especially after ignition component replacement. Specific timing marks and procedure in manual.
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Coolant Flush:
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Recommended every 2 years or 24,000 miles.
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Fluid Specifications
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Engine Oil:
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API SE/SF or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40. Specialized rotary engine oil (e.g., with ZDDP additive) is often recommended for long-term engine health. Check oil level frequently as oil is consumed.
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Coolant:
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Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specific capacity: ~5-6 quarts.
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Brake Fluid:
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DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
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Known Issues
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Apex Seal Wear:
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The most critical wear item in a rotary engine. Symptoms include loss of compression, hard starting, rough idling, and reduced power. Requires engine rebuild if worn. Regular oil changes and proper oil level maintenance are crucial.
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Carburetor Issues:
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Carburetors can become gummed up or maladjusted, leading to poor fuel economy, rough idle, or stalling. Rebuilds or thorough cleaning are common maintenance items.
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Cooling System Overheating:
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Rotary engines run hotter than piston engines; radiator condition, fan operation, and coolant levels are critical. Overheating can lead to premature seal wear.
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Chassis Rust:
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Common for vehicles of this age; check floors, wheel wells, and structural members. Manual will cover body panel repair procedures.
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Vehicle History
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Brand Heritage
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Mazda Rotary Introduction:
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Mazda's commitment to the rotary engine began with the Cosmo Sport in 1967, and the RX-2 and RX-3 were crucial in popularizing this unique powertrain technology globally.
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Model Evolution
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Rx2 Launch:
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Launched in 1970 (as the Capella Rotary in Japan), sold internationally as RX-2. Known for its sporty design and rotary performance.
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Rx3 Launch:
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Launched in 1971 (as the Savanna Rotary in Japan), sold internationally as RX-3. A more compact and often sportier offering than the RX-2, available in various body styles including a pickup truck.
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Engine Development:
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Evolution of the 12A rotary engine, with minor updates and performance variations throughout the production run.
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Production
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Production Period:
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RX-2: 1970-1978; RX-3: 1971-1978.
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Key Markets:
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Japan, Australia, North America, Europe.
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