Target Audience:
RX-2 owners, DIY mechanics, automotive enthusiasts, repair shops.
Value Proposition:
Comprehensive, accurate, factory-level repair information for cost-effective maintenance and repair.
Differentiation:
Directly sourced factory manual, offering specific details beyond generic guides.
Digital Convenience:
Single, easy-to-use PDF; print only needed pages; no greasy pages.
Diagnostic Tools:
Includes wiring schematics and diagnostic procedures essential for Wankel engine troubleshooting.
Primary Coverage:
1978 Mazda RX-2 (All Models & All Repairs A-Z)
Additional Coverage:
Technician level repair, maintenance, diagnosis, and service.
Estimated Page Count:
Varies (Digital PDF, printable sections)
Type:
Factory Service and Repair Manual
Accessibility:
Compatible with Windows and Mac
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, rebuild procedures, component testing, lubrication, seals, gaskets.
Engine Control:
Ignition system, starting and charging systems, fuel system operation and diagnosis.
Emission Control:
Emission control systems, diagnosis and adjustment procedures.
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, hoses, coolant specifications.
Fuel Service:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, carburetor specifications and service.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (gearbox) overhaul, clutch service, operation; Automatic transmission service, fluid specifications.
Drivetrain:
Drive shafts, universal joints, differential, axle service and specifications.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, shock absorbers.
Brakes:
Brake system diagnosis, hydraulic components, disc/drum brake service, parking brake.
Steering:
Steering column, steering gear, power steering system diagnosis and repair.
Electrical:
Complete wiring schematics, lighting systems, instrument cluster, accessories.
Body Interior:
Doors, windows, seats, interior trim, dashboard, engine hood, exterior panels.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system diagnosis and service, heater core.
Restraint Systems:
Seat belts, supplemental restraint systems (if applicable to specific trims/models).
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, electrical fault finding.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair.
Rebuild Procedures:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild instructions.
Adjustment Procedures:
Carburetor adjustments, ignition timing, brake adjustments.
Wiring Schematics:
Comprehensive electrical diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Depth:
Factory-level, comprehensive coverage for all repairs and maintenance.
Detail Level:
Step-by-step instructions, detailed diagrams, illustrations, and specifications.
Uniqueness:
Specific to the 1978 Mazda RX-2, not generic information.
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel)
Displacement:
2x 300cc (rotor displacement, often referred to as 1.2L or 1146cc actual displacement)
Horsepower:
Approx. 125-130 hp (depending on specific market and tune)
Torque:
Approx. 130-135 lb-ft
Fuel Delivery:
Two-barrel carburetor (e.g., Hitachi, Nikki)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher recommended, check manual for specific octane rating)
Oil Type:
Wankel specific engine oil (e.g., SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40, refer to manual for exact spec).
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5-5.0 quarts (including oil cooler if equipped).
Ignition System:
Distributor-based ignition system with single ignition coil or dual coil system.
Spark Plugs:
Specific long-reach spark plugs for rotary engines (e.g., NGK).
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed manual transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
3-speed automatic transmission
Clutch Type:
Dry single plate clutch
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90, consult manual for precise specification).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
Body Styles:
2-door Coupe, 4-door Sedan
Wheelbase:
Approx. 98.0 inches (2489 mm)
Length:
Approx. 168.7 inches (4285 mm)
Width:
Approx. 64.8 inches (1646 mm)
Height:
Approx. 51.8 inches (1316 mm) for Coupe, 53.5 inches (1359 mm) for Sedan
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2300-2500 lbs (1043-1134 kg) depending on body style and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Consult manual for specific GVWR.
Safety Ratings Era:
Safety standards of the late 1970s.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes.
Steering Features:
Recirculating ball steering mechanism, optional power steering.
Seatbelts:
Lap and shoulder belts (front), lap belts (rear).
Body Construction:
Unitized body construction with energy-absorbing crumple zones.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 3 months, but consult manual for exact recommendation.
Tune Up Interval:
Check manual; typically involves spark plug inspection/replacement and carburetor adjustment.
Timing Belt Chain:
N/A (Rotary engines do not have timing belts or chains; they use a timing system driven by the eccentric shaft).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (50/50 mix with water is standard).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) if power steering is equipped.
Apex Seals:
Wear or failure of apex seals is a common concern in high-mileage rotary engines, leading to loss of compression.
Carburetor Issues:
Carburetor can be sensitive to adjustments and require periodic cleaning/rebuilding due to age and fuel quality.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines inherently consume a small amount of oil as part of their lubrication system; monitoring oil level is crucial.
Cooling System Maintenance:
Proper cooling system maintenance is vital to prevent overheating, which can exacerbate rotary engine wear.
Brand History Context:
Mazda's pioneering efforts in rotary engine technology, building on the success of the RX-7.
Rx Series Lineage:
Preceded the RX-7, demonstrating Mazda's commitment to rotary power in a sportier sedan and coupe package.
Design Influence:
Featured a stylish, coupe-like design for its era, offering an alternative to conventional piston-engine sports cars.
Production Years:
1975-1980 (RX-2, also known as Capella Rotary in some markets).
Manufacturing Location:
Japan