Market Position:
The Mazda RX-3 was a compact sports car that offered performance and unique rotary engine technology, appealing to enthusiasts seeking an alternative to conventional piston engines. This manual targets owners and mechanics who want to maintain and repair this specific model.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against other sporty compacts of the era, such as the Toyota Corolla Levin/Sprinter Trueno, Datsun 1200/Sunny, and Ford Escort. Its distinct rotary engine provided a unique selling proposition and driving experience.
Key Features:
Focus on the iconic Wankel rotary engine, compact RWD chassis, sporty styling, and the comprehensive nature of the service manual for DIY repairs and professional maintenance.
Target Audience:
Enthusiast owners, independent repair shops, and mechanics specializing in rotary engines or vintage Japanese vehicles.
Systems Covered:
General Information, Engine, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Fuel and Emission Control System, Engine Electrical System, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Electronically-Controlled Systems, Propeller Shaft, Front & Rear Axle, Steering System, Braking System, Wheels & Tires, Suspension, Body, Body Electrical System, Heating & Air Conditioning Systems
Engine Electrical System Details:
Ignition system (distributor, coils, spark plugs), charging system (alternator, regulator), starting system (starter motor, solenoid), wiring diagrams, lighting, gauges, switches.
Fuel And Emission Control System Details:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, carburetor operation and adjustment, emission control devices (e.g., air injection, EGR if equipped).
Braking System Details:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake mechanism, troubleshooting, pad/shoe replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder overhaul.
Suspension Details:
Front independent suspension (struts, control arms), rear leaf springs (depending on body style), shock absorbers, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering System Details:
Steering gearbox, steering column, tie rods, steering wheel, power steering components (if equipped), alignment procedures.
Procedures Included:
Step-by-step repair instructions, complete disassembly and reassembly, troubleshooting, diagnostics, maintenance, adjustments, removal and installation of components
Engine Rebuilding Procedures:
Detailed steps for rotary engine apex seal replacement, rotor housing inspection, bearing replacement, and complete engine assembly.
Transmission Repair Procedures:
Manual and automatic transmission disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive; suitable for both do-it-yourselfers and experienced mechanics, with detailed diagrams and exploded views for accurate work
Diagnostic Information:
Troubleshooting guides, fault diagnosis charts, common problem identification, and solutions.
Manual Scope:
Comprehensive factory service repair manual
Searchability:
Likely searchable PDF text, enabling quick access to specific information.
Printability:
All pages are printable, allowing for physical copies in a workshop environment.
Print Quality:
High quality diagrams and text
Binding Type:
Digital (Downloadable PDF)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital)
Compatibility:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader & WinZip
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel)
Displacement:
Approx. 1146 cc (2 x 573 cc rotors)
Rotor Housing Material:
Often chrome-plated aluminum or cast iron, depending on specific 12A variant.
Horsepower:
Approx. 100-110 hp (depending on specific market and emission controls)
Torque:
Approx. 100-110 lb-ft (depending on specific market and emission controls)
Fuel System:
Carburetor (e.g., Hitachi, Solex)
Carburetor Model Examples:
Hitachi DC-27A, Solex twin-choke.
Oil Type Specification:
API SE, SF or equivalent (refer to manual for specific viscosity, e.g., SAE 10W-30, 10W-40)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for exact recommendation)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Depends on type; platinum-tipped plugs may last longer (refer to manual)
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 10W-30 or SAE 10W-40 recommended for most climates (verify in manual)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 5-6 liters (consult manual)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (verify in manual)
Gearbox Oil Specification:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 (verify in manual).
Differential Oil Specification:
API GL-5 SAE 80W-90 or SAE 90 (verify in manual).
Known Issues:
Apex seal wear (requiring engine rebuild), carbon buildup in the rotary housing, oil seal issues, carburetor tuning, ignition system maintenance, exhaust system corrosion.
Idle Speed:
Specific RPM range for warm engine, e.g., 800-900 RPM (verify in manual)
Ignition Timing:
Specific degrees before Top Dead Center (BTDC) at idle (verify in manual)
Special Tools:
Engine timing tools, apex seal installation tools, specialized Mazda rotary engine tools (detailed in manual)
Brand Heritage:
Mazda, a Japanese automaker, gained significant recognition for its pioneering work with the Wankel rotary engine, starting with the Cosmo and later introducing it to more mainstream models like the RX series.
Model Evolution:
The RX-3, introduced in 1971, was part of Mazda's successful strategy of offering rotary-powered vehicles. It evolved through several sub-models and facelifts during its production run, including this 1975 model.
Production Years:
1971-1978
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Market Impact:
The RX-3 helped solidify Mazda's reputation for rotary engine performance and sporty handling, making the rotary accessible to a wider market. It remains a cult classic among JDM and rotary enthusiasts.
