Original Market Segment:
Sports Coupe/Grand Tourer
Target Audience For Manual:
Enthusiast owners, DIY mechanics, professional technicians working on classic Mazda rotary vehicles.
Key Competitors Vehicle:
Datsun 240Z/260Z/280Z, Toyota Celica Supra, Porsche 924
Engine Type:
Wankel Rotary
Handling:
Renowned for its balanced chassis and responsive handling, a hallmark of the RX-7 lineage.
Value Proposition:
Provides detailed, specific information on maintaining and repairing the iconic rotary engine and associated systems, which can be complex for those unfamiliar with rotary technology.
Primary Focus:
Carburetor systems
Secondary Coverage:
Engine mechanical, electrical, fuel, ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust, chassis, drivetrain, brakes, steering, suspension, body and interior, maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnostics
Estimated Page Count:
Comprehensive (exact count not specified, but typical for full service manuals)
Type:
Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Engine Systems:
Rotary engine (12A), lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery (carburetor specific), ignition, starting, charging, exhaust
Drivetrain Systems:
Manual transmission, clutch, driveshaft, rear axle assembly
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front strut, rear multi-link), steering, brakes (front disc, rear drum), wheels, tires
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, ignition system, starting system, charging system, accessories
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, trim, climate control (basic)
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant checks, belt tensioning, lubrication points
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common drivability issues, electrical faults, starting problems, overheating
Repair:
Engine rebuild (including apex seal replacement, rotor housing inspection), carburetor overhaul and adjustment, transmission overhaul, brake caliper service, suspension component replacement, starter motor and alternator testing/replacement
Technical Adjustments:
Carburetor idle speed and mixture adjustment, ignition timing adjustment, clutch pedal adjustment
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and drivetrain overhauls. Detailed diagnostic procedures and component specifications.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Rotary (Wankel)
Rotor Displacement:
2 x 573cc (Total nominal displacement 1146cc, often marketed as 1.1L or 1.2L)
Rotor Housing Material:
Chrome-plated steel
Rotor Seal Material:
Apex seals (typically carbon-impregnated material or early versions of composite materials)
Horsepower Range:
100-135 hp (depending on year and emissions controls)
Torque Range:
105-117 lb-ft (depending on year and emissions controls)
Carburetor Type:
Dual downdraft carburetors (e.g., Hitachi, AISAN) - often a primary and secondary carburetor system.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane or higher recommended, check manual for specific grade)
Fuel Pump Type:
Mechanical
Oil Type Recommendation:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (consult specific manual for exact recommendation)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5.3 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter change
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Mazda P/N B6Y1-14-302 (may vary slightly by year, cross-reference needed)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.2 US quarts (6.8 liters)
Ignition System Type:
Distributor-based with electronic ignition (CDI - Capacitor Discharge Ignition on some models).
Spark Plug Type Example:
NGK R6725-9 or equivalent (specific heat range is critical for rotary engines)
Ignition Timing:
Typically 5-10 degrees BTDC (Before Top Dead Center), consult manual for specific settings and procedure.
Type:
5-speed manual transmission
Type:
3-speed automatic transmission
Manual Fluid Type:
GL-4 gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 75W-85, consult manual for specifics)
Manual Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 2.2 US quarts (2.1 liters)
Automatic Fluid Type:
Dexron II or equivalent ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid)
Automatic Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) (check dipstick)
Length:
Approx. 162.8 inches (4135 mm)
Width:
Approx. 65.7 inches (1669 mm)
Height:
Approx. 50.2 inches (1275 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 93.3 inches (2370 mm)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 2330-2580 lbs (1057-1170 kg) depending on trim and options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to VIN plate or vehicle specifications (typically around 3300 lbs / 1500 kg)
NHTSA Crash Test Results:
Data for this era may be limited or not directly comparable to modern standards.
Standard Active Safety:
Disc brakes (front), Drum brakes (rear), limited-slip differential (optional on some trims).
Standard Passive Safety:
Three-point seat belts, padded dashboard, impact-absorbing steering column.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (depending on driving conditions, consult manual)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection (more frequent in dusty environments)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 miles (rotary plugs require specific care)
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 24,000 miles or 24 months
Belt Inspection And Replacement:
Inspect belts every 15,000 miles; replace based on condition (cracking, glazing). Timing belts are not applicable due to rotary design, but accessory belts are.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check reservoir cap or manual)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent (if equipped with power steering)
Apex Seal Wear:
Apex seals are a wear item in rotary engines. Symptoms include loss of compression, hard starting, rough idle, and decreased power. Regular oil changes and proper engine warm-up are crucial.
Carburetor Tuning:
Carburetors require periodic adjustment for optimal performance and emissions. Susceptible to gumming if fuel is left sitting.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines naturally consume some oil as it's injected into the combustion chamber for lubrication. This is normal, but excessive consumption can indicate seal wear.
Chassis Rust:
As with many cars of this era, rust can be a significant issue, particularly in salt-belt regions. Check frame rails, wheel wells, and floor pans.
Electrical Corrosion:
Connections, grounds, and fuse boxes can be prone to corrosion over time, leading to intermittent electrical issues.
Mazda Rotary Introduction:
Mazda has a long and distinguished history with the Wankel rotary engine, dating back to the Cosmo Sport in 1967. The RX-7 is the most iconic embodiment of this technology.
Rx7 Generations:
The first generation (SA/FB, 1978-1985) laid the foundation. This manual covers the entire lifespan of this generation, including the Series 1, 2, and 3 updates.
Production Years For Generation:
1978-1985
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Car And Driver 10Best:
The RX-7 was frequently listed on Car and Driver's 10Best list during its production run, particularly praised for its handling and rotary engine innovation.
Historical Road Test Performance:
Praised for sporty dynamics, responsive steering, and unique engine character.
Relevant Certifications:
N/A (Certifications were less formalized for consumer vehicles in this era compared to today).
