🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-7

Generation:

FC / Second Generation

Model Years Covered:

1989, 1990, 1991

Chassis Code:

FC3S (Coupe), FC3C (Convertible)

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Owners, enthusiasts, and mechanics of the 1989-1991 Mazda RX-7 (FC generation) seeking detailed repair and maintenance information.

Manual Advantage:

This manual provides factory-level detail, crucial for understanding the unique rotary engine and advanced systems of the FC RX-7, offering a significant advantage over generic aftermarket guides.

Ease Of Use:

Designed with step-by-step instructions for ease of following, making it accessible for DIYers of any skill level.

Cost Savings:

Empowers owners to perform their own repairs and maintenance, leading to significant cost savings on labor.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

General Information, Engine, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Fuel and Emission Control System, Engine Electrical System, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Electronically-Controlled Transmission Features, Propeller Shaft, Front & Rear Axle, Steering System, Braking System, Wheels & Tires, Suspension, Body, Body Electrical System, Heating & Air Conditioning Systems, Technical Data, Special Tools

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive, likely over 1000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Downloadable:

Yes

Operating Systems:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader & Zip Software

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Rotary engine operation, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery (EFI), emission controls (including vacuum routing and sensor diagnostics), ignition system, engine electrical troubleshooting, and rebuild procedures.

Drivetrain Systems:

Clutch operation and service, manual transmission (including gear sets, synchronizers, and seals), automatic transmission (including hydraulic controls and electronic interfaces), propeller shaft (U-joints, balancing), front and rear axle (differentials, bearings, seals).

Chassis Systems:

Steering system (rack and pinion, power assist, alignment), braking system (front and rear disc brakes, ABS if equipped, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, calipers), suspension (front strut, rear multi-link, bushings, springs, shocks), wheels and tires (specifications, mounting, balancing).

Body And Electrical:

Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, HVAC system diagnosis and repair, body electrical systems (lighting, power windows, locks, mirrors, dashboard instrumentation), wiring diagrams.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major vehicle systems.

Maintenance Procedures:

Routine maintenance tasks such as fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, spark plug (apex seal related) checks, belt adjustments, and general inspection procedures.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common mechanical and electrical issues, including engine performance problems, starting issues, and system malfunctions.

Technical Data And Specs:

Detailed specifications for all components, including torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, and diagnostic parameters.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complex component overhauls and diagnostics, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Quality:

High-resolution PDF, allowing for clear viewing of text and diagrams.

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable within the PDF for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

All pages are printable, allowing users to print specific sections or the entire manual.

Binding Type:

Digital (PDF), no physical binding

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Rotary (Wankel) Engine

Engine Code Naturally Aspirated:

13B (Non-Turbo)

Engine Code Turbocharged:

13B-T (Turbocharged and Intercooled)

Horsepower Na:

Approximately 145-160 hp (depending on specific market and year)

Horsepower Turbo:

Approximately 200-210 hp (depending on specific market and year)

Torque Na:

Approximately 135-145 lb-ft

Torque Turbo:

Approximately 190-200 lb-ft

Fuel System Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Required Fuel Octane:

Premium Unleaded (91+ Octane recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (with Electronically Controlled Overdrive)

Clutch Type:

Single Dry Plate Clutch

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (check manual for specific Mazda recommendations)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III or equivalent (check manual for specific Mazda recommendations)

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Coupe (Hardtop), Convertible

Wheelbase:

Approximately 95.2 inches (2418 mm)

Length:

Approximately 167.7 inches (4257 mm)

Width:

Approximately 69.1 inches (1755 mm)

Height:

Approximately 50.8 inches (1290 mm) for Coupe

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2800-3100 lbs (1270-1406 kg) depending on trim and options

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)

Wheel Size Standard:

15x6.5 inches (std), 16x7 inches (optional on Turbo II)

Tire Size Standard:

205/60R15 (std), 205/55R16 (optional on Turbo II)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Not readily available for this era of domestic testing, but generally considered a robustly built car.

Braking System:

Power-assisted disc brakes front and rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an option, particularly on higher trims and Turbo models.

Steering System:

Power-assisted rack and pinion steering, providing good feedback and control.

Seat Belts:

Three-point inertia reel seat belts

Body Structure:

Designed with a strong unibody structure for its time, incorporating front and rear crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player, often with amplifier and speaker upgrades on higher trims. Manual covers basic diagnostics and speaker replacement.

ABS System:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on select models, providing enhanced braking control. Manual details ABS operation and troubleshooting.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams are included in the manual, essential for diagnosing electrical issues and understanding system integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, with rotary-specific oil recommended. Check manual for exact interval.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Rotary engines use two spark plugs per rotor. Intervals vary; refer to manual. Critical for proper combustion and apex seal life.

Timing Belt Replacement:

N/A (Rotary engines do not have timing belts; they use a chain or gear-driven system for the rotor housing).

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended. Rotary-specific oils are highly beneficial. Consult manual for specific grade and quantity.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Check manual for Mazda's specific coolant type.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron II or III ATF or Mazda specific power steering fluid.

Apex Seal Wear:

A common concern with rotary engines, exacerbated by poor maintenance, overheating, or improper fuel/oil mixtures. Regular oil changes and quality oil are critical. Manual covers diagnosis.

Vacuum Leaks:

Numerous vacuum lines can lead to leaks, affecting engine performance and idle quality. Manual provides detailed vacuum diagrams and troubleshooting.

Catalytic Converter Clogging:

Common in older vehicles, can restrict exhaust flow and reduce power. Manual covers diagnostic procedures.

Fuel Injector Clogging:

EFI system components can require cleaning or replacement over time.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Rotary Legacy:

Mazda's long and storied history with the rotary engine, beginning with the Cosmo and continuing with the RX series, cemented its reputation for innovative engineering.

Fc Generation Introduction:

The second generation RX-7 (FC) debuted in 1985, evolving from the SA/FB. It featured a more modern design, improved handling, and the option of a turbocharged engine.

Fc Updates 1989:

The 1989 model year represented a significant mid-cycle refresh for the FC RX-7, introducing revised styling (pop-up headlights were retained but slightly updated), improved aerodynamics, chassis stiffening, upgraded suspension components, and a power increase for the Turbo II model.

Production Years Fc:

1985-1992

Manufacturing Location:

Hiroshima, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Ten Best:

The RX-7, particularly the Turbo II variants of the FC generation, was frequently lauded by automotive journalists for its performance, handling, and innovative rotary engine, often appearing on lists like Car and Driver's '10Best'.