🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-7

Model Code:

SA22C / FB

Generation:

First Generation (SA/FB)

Years Covered:

1981-1983

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Mazda RX-7 (SA22C/FB) represented a significant step in affordable sports car design, blending performance, distinctive styling, and the unique appeal of Mazda's rotary engine. This parts manual targets owners and workshops dedicated to maintaining or restoring these iconic vehicles.

Competitors:

Competed with cars like the Datsun Z-cars (280ZX), Toyota Supra (first generation), and various European sports coupes of the era. Its rotary engine provided a unique selling proposition.

Manual Features:

Contains every part number, comprehensive exploded diagrams for visual reference, ability to zoom in on fine details, professional quality presentation.

Vehicle Features:

Lightweight chassis, rear-wheel drive, distinctive 'Wankel' rotary engine, hatchback body style, sporty handling characteristics.

📋 Manual Details

General:

Comprehensive parts catalog for all components of the Mazda RX-7 (SA22C/FB) models from 1981-1983.

Mechanical Systems:

Engine (Rotary), Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Electrical System, Ignition System.

Body And Interior:

Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Seats, Glass, Lighting, Bumpers, Doors, Hood, Trunk, HVAC Components.

Estimated Pages:

Estimated 300-500 pages (exact count not provided, but typical for comprehensive parts catalogs).

Type:

Parts Manual / Parts Catalog

Language:

English (Likely, based on market and product description)

Format:

Professional Quality, likely printed or high-quality digital reproduction.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Rotary engine (12A) internal components, rotor housings, apex seals, oil metering, intake manifold, exhaust manifold, cooling system specific to rotary engine.

Drivetrain:

Transmission components (manual and automatic), clutch assembly, driveshaft, differential, axle shafts.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, control arms, bushings), springs, shock absorbers, steering rack, tie rods, steering column.

Brakes:

Brake calipers, rotors, brake pads, master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake mechanism.

Electrical:

Wiring harnesses, battery, alternator, starter motor, ignition system components (distributor, coils), lighting components, switches, fuses, relays.

Fuel System:

Carburetor(s) (likely Hitachi/Mikuni), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank, fuel filter.

Body Panels:

Fenders, hood, doors, quarter panels, roof panel, trunk lid, bumpers, grilles, spoilers, emblems.

Interior:

Dashboard components, center console, door panels, seat tracks, seat belts, headliner, carpet, climate control components.

Part Identification:

Identification and sourcing of all original Mazda factory replacement parts.

Assembly Disassembly Guidance:

Implied by exploded diagrams, aiding in the correct assembly and disassembly of various vehicle sub-assemblies.

Part Number Reference:

Provision of exact manufacturer part numbers for ordering and inventory.

Depth:

Detailed enough for parts procurement, identification, and basic understanding of part relationships within the vehicle. Not a repair manual, but essential for parts sourcing during repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Professional Quality - likely high-resolution scans of original factory documentation or a well-organized digital database.

Quality:

High quality, allowing for enlargement of views to see even the smallest parts and details.

Binding:

N/A (if digital), or likely durable binding for printed versions (e.g., spiral-bound, perfect-bound).

Paper:

N/A (if digital), or typically good quality, coated paper for printed technical manuals.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Rotary (Wankel)

Engine Code:

12A

Displacement:

1146 cc (nominal, actual internal volume is complex due to rotary design)

Rotor Housing Design:

Two rotors, side-port induction.

Horsepower:

Approximately 100-135 hp (depending on emissions controls and market) for 1981-1983 models.

Torque:

Approximately 100-115 lb-ft (depending on market).

Fuel Delivery:

Twin Hitachi downdraft carburetors (e.g., model DCAS 22). Some later models might have had EFI options in certain markets, but the 1981-1983 typically refers to carbureted versions.

Recommended Fuel:

Unleaded gasoline, typically 91 octane or higher (refer to specific vehicle plate).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual transmission.

Transmission Type:

3-speed automatic transmission (less common for enthusiasts).

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate clutch, hydraulically actuated.

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios for manual transmission would be detailed in the manual but are generally focused on sporty performance.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2400 mm (94.5 in)

Length:

Approx. 4320 mm (170.1 in)

Width:

Approx. 1660 mm (65.4 in)

Height:

Approx. 1255 mm (49.4 in)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

4x110

Tire Size Front Rear:

Typically 185/70HR13 or 205/60HR13 depending on trim and options.

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1100-1200 kg (2425-2645 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

No specific NHTSA ratings available for vehicles of this era.

Braking System:

Front: Ventilated disc brakes. Rear: Disc brakes (standard on most models covered).

Steering System:

Recirculating ball steering, power assist optional or standard depending on trim.

Seat Belts:

3-point lap and shoulder belts for front occupants.

Body Structure:

Unit body construction with integrated safety cage.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio, often with cassette player. Speaker placement typically in doors and rear parcel shelf.

Instrumentation:

Tachometer (prominent, given rotary engine characteristics), speedometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature gauge, oil pressure gauge, and various warning lights.

ABS:

Not typically available on 1981-1983 models. Anti-lock braking systems were a nascent technology.

Cruise Control:

Optional on higher trim levels.

Connectivity Features:

No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB. Primarily analog systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,000 miles or 3 months. Rotary engines are oil-hungry and often require more frequent checks.

Spark Plugs:

Check every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (often dual spark plugs per rotor).

Air Filter:

Check every 7,500 miles, replace as needed.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.

Engine Oil:

API SF or SG, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40. Rotary-specific oil can be beneficial. Crucially, 2-stroke oil is added to the dedicated oil injection system (if equipped).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II (or equivalent).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Rotary Oil Injection Oil:

Specific Mazda rotary injection oil or equivalent API TC-W3 marine 2-stroke oil.

Apex Seals:

Wear and failure of apex seals are a common concern in high-mileage rotary engines, leading to loss of compression.

Carburetor Issues:

Carburetors can become gummed up or require frequent adjustment due to age and fuel quality.

Cooling System Overheating:

Rotary engines generate significant heat; radiator, hoses, and thermostat maintenance are critical to prevent overheating.

Oil Consumption:

Rotary engines naturally consume oil as part of their lubrication system. Excessive consumption can indicate seal wear.

Rust And Corrosion:

Common in vehicles of this age, particularly in areas exposed to road salt.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Rotary Legacy:

Mazda's commitment to the rotary engine began with the Cosmo and NSU partnership. The RX-7 was the pinnacle of their rotary sports car development in this period, offering unique performance.

Generation Transition:

The 1981-1983 models represent the facelift and update of the original SA22C platform, often referred to as the FB generation. Key changes included revised styling, improved interior, and suspension refinements over the earlier models.

Production Years:

First generation (SA/FB): 1978-1985. Manual covers 1981-1983 facelift period.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Sports Car Designation:

Consistently praised for its sporty handling, styling, and unique rotary engine, earning it a significant following among enthusiasts and numerous accolades as a classic sports car.