🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-7

Model Generation:

FC

Model Years Covered:

1984, 1985

Chassis Codes:

FC3S

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Mazda RX-7 owners (1984-1985) seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, or understand their vehicle's mechanics

Value Proposition:

Significantly cheaper than obtaining multiple paper manuals or professional repair services. Offers a cost-effective solution for preserving vehicle health and saving money on repairs.

Rotary Engine Expertise:

Addresses the unique challenges and complexities of the Mazda rotary engine, providing crucial information for owners who find it difficult to get accurate diagnosis and repair from general technicians.

All Encompassing Data:

Provides a vast amount of information covering nearly every system and component of the vehicle, from basic maintenance to complete rebuilds.

Format Convenience:

Digital format allows for quick searching and printing of specific pages, eliminating the need for multiple bulky paper manuals and preventing damage to original documentation.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Comprehensive repair and maintenance

Secondary Coverage:

Technical data, body information, chassis systems, engine systems

Estimated Pages:

Hundreds

Type:

Service and Repair Manual (Digital Format)

Language:

English

Digital Format:

CD (Downloadable), implies digital reproduction for printing

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System, Fuel System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Ignition System, Rotary Engine Specifics

Drivetrain:

Manual Transaxle System, Automatic Transaxle Assy, Transmission Valve Body, Torque Converter Clutch, Drive Shaft, Differential Case Assy

Chassis:

Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering System, Brake System, Wheel and Tire System, Chassis Frame Repair

Electrical:

Wiring Diagrams, Lighting System, Charging System, Starting System, Ignition System, Power Window Control System, Power Door Lock Control System, Audio & Visual System, Instrument Panel, Combination Meter

Body:

Body Repair, Hood, Doors (Front and Rear), Bumpers (Front and Rear), Glass (Windshield, Door, Back Door), Interior Trim, Sun Roof System, Exterior Trim

Climate Control:

Heater & Air Conditioner, Air Conditioning System, Heater Radiator Assy, Air Conditioner Refrigerant

Safety Systems:

Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Seat Belt Warning System, Air Bag Systems (Front, Side, Curtain, Rear Sensors), Seat Belts

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guidance for common issues, system diagnostics

Maintenance Procedures:

Routine maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication

Repair Procedures:

Component removal, installation, and adjustment procedures for most major systems; Engine rebuild guidance mentioned

Adjustment Procedures:

Valve clearance adjustment, wheel alignment, parking brake adjustment

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed wiring schematics for various systems

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering both routine maintenance and major component overhaul, including engine and transmission rebuilds

Diagrams And Illustrations:

Detailed pictures and diagrams illustrating part locations and access

Troubleshooting Focus:

Emphasis on diagnosing and resolving issues, particularly for the rotary engine, aiming to prevent unnecessary costly repairs

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Type:

Downloadable CD/digital file, implying suitability for printing specific pages

Recommendation:

Printable pages for workshop use, preserving original digital copy

For Printed Manual:

Not specified (as it's digital), but typically would be comb-bound or spiral-bound for workshop use if printed

For Printed Manual:

Not specified (as it's digital), but recommended to be durable for workshop environments

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Rotary (Wankel)

Engine Code:

12A

Rotor Displacement:

1.146 liters per rotor (2.292 liters total displacement)

Induction System:

Fuel Injection (for many models, also carbureted variants existed)

Engine Management:

Electronic Engine Control (ECCS) system

Horsepower Approx:

135-146 hp (depending on exact market and emissions controls)

Torque Approx:

130-135 lb-ft (depending on exact market and emissions controls)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Fuel Delivery:

Fuel Injectors (for ECCS models), Carburetor (for earlier or specific models)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transaxle

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transaxle

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate clutch

Transaxle Layout:

Rear-wheel drive, engine mid-ship placement with rear transaxle

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

95.7 inches (2430 mm)

Length:

168.5 inches (4280 mm)

Width:

67.7 inches (1720 mm)

Height:

49.8 inches (1265 mm)

Curb Weight Approx:

2730 - 2910 lbs (1238 - 1320 kg), varies by trim and options

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with optional amplifiers and premium speaker systems.

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models, particularly higher trims or Turbo II variants.

Not Applicable:

No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth, USB, or Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (or 3-6 months) depending on driving conditions; consult manual for specific recommendations based on oil type.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately every 30,000 - 45,000 miles for standard plugs; specific recommendations for platinum or rotary-specific plugs may differ.

Timing Belt Replacement:

N/A (Rotary engines do not have timing belts; they utilize a chain or direct drive for the eccentric shaft.)

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended for most conditions. Specific rotary engine oils or additives may be beneficial.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 or GL-5 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 Gear Oil

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF)

Coolant:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity approx. 7.1 quarts.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid

Apex Seal Wear:

One of the most critical and common issues in rotary engines. Wear can lead to loss of compression, poor starting, and reduced power.

Oil Consumption:

Rotary engines naturally consume oil to lubricate their seals, but excessive consumption can indicate seal wear or other issues.

Cooling System Overheating:

Due to the compact and high-output nature of the rotary, the cooling system must be in excellent condition to prevent overheating, especially in traffic or under load.

Vacuum Leaks:

Extensive vacuum hose routing and brittle plastic components can lead to vacuum leaks, affecting idle quality and engine performance.

Catalytic Converter Clogging:

Common on higher mileage vehicles, particularly those not maintained properly, leading to reduced power and poor performance.

📚 Vehicle History

Rotary Pioneering:

Mazda's long-standing commitment to the rotary engine, dating back to the Cosmo Sport, positioned RX-7 as its performance flagship.

Generation Transition:

The FC generation (1986-1991) succeeded the SA22C (FB) generation and introduced significant chassis and powertrain refinements, including the widespread adoption of fuel injection and Turbo II models.

1984-1985 Specifics:

These early FC models represent a transition phase, offering a blend of performance and comfort, and were available in various trims, including the naturally aspirated GXL and the potent Turbo II variants.

Production Period:

FC generation produced from 1985 to 1992 (model years 1986-1991 in North America), with 1984-1985 models being the earliest introduction of this chassis globally.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motortrend Import Car Of The Year:

The first generation RX-7 (FB) was named Motor Trend Import Car of the Year in 1979. While the FC generation wasn't the direct recipient, it built upon the success and reputation established by its predecessor.

Car And Driver 10Best:

RX-7 models, particularly Turbo II variants, frequently appeared on Car and Driver's 10Best lists, recognizing its performance and handling prowess.