🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-7

Generation:

FC3S (S5)

Years Covered:

1989, 1990, 1991

Chassis Code:

FC3S

Engine Code:

13B-T (Rotary)

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY Mechanics, Professional Technicians working on S5 RX-7 models.

Differentiation:

Provides detailed, model-specific information crucial for maintaining and repairing the unique rotary engine and chassis of the S5 RX-7, often surpassing generic repair guides.

Rotary Engine Focus:

Dedicated sections on rotary engine internals, apex seals, and unique maintenance requirements.

Electrical Schematics:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for accurate troubleshooting.

Historical Value:

Essential for preserving and maintaining a classic Japanese sports car.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Full Service and Repair

Secondary Coverage:

Workshop, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics

Estimated Pages:

1000+

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) Equivalent

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, verifiable upon receipt)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (Rotary), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Lubrication System, Cooling System

Drivetrain:

Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Clutch, Driveshafts, Differential, Axles

Suspension Steering:

Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Steering System, Wheel Alignment

Brakes:

Front Brakes, Rear Brakes, Parking Brake, ABS System (if applicable)

Electrical:

Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM), Wiper System, Audio System, HVAC Controls

Body Chassis:

Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Windows, Bumpers, Frame, Sealing, Upholstery

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning System Components, Refrigerant System

Safety Restraints:

Seat Belts, Airbag System (if applicable)

Routine Maintenance:

Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Adjustments, Fluid Checks and Top-offs, Lubrication Points

Engine Repair:

Engine Disassembly and Reassembly, Apex Seal Replacement, Rotor Housing Machining, Peripheral Seal Replacement, Drive Pulley Removal/Installation

Transmission Repair:

Transmission Overhaul, Clutch Replacement, Gearbox Reassembly

Suspension Steering Repair:

Shock Absorber Replacement, Bushing Replacement, Ball Joint Replacement, Tie Rod End Replacement, Power Steering Pump and Rack Service

Brake System Repair:

Brake Pad and Rotor Replacement, Brake Caliper Service, Brake Fluid Flush and Bleed, Parking Brake Adjustment

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring Diagrams, Component Testing, Sensor Diagnosis, Fault Code Interpretation

Fuel System Service:

Fuel Injector Cleaning/Replacement, Fuel Pump Testing, Fuel Filter Replacement

Ignition System Service:

Ignition Coil Testing/Replacement, Spark Plug Wire Testing/Replacement

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues

Depth:

Comprehensive: From basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Detailed diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing procedures, and troubleshooting trees.

Special Tools:

Identifies required special tools and their usage.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (typically, ensuring searchability and clear reproduction of diagrams)

Diagram Clarity:

High resolution for all diagrams, schematics, and illustrations.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Rotary (Wankel)

Engine Code:

13B

Displacement:

1.3 Liters (654cc x 2 rotors)

Aspiration:

Naturally Aspirated (early S5) and Turbocharged (late S5, specific trims)

Power Delivery:

Smooth, high-revving powerband, known for its unique sound and compact size.

Horsepower Naturally Aspirated:

Approx. 160-170 hp (depending on market and specific variant)

Horsepower Turbocharged:

Approx. 200-210 hp (for Turbo II models)

Torque Turbocharged:

Approx. 200-210 lb-ft (for Turbo II models)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87+ octane recommended, 91+ for Turbo models)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Twin Ignition (one spark plug per rotor housing per combustion cycle)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Std:

5-Speed Manual

Transmission Type Opt:

4-Speed Automatic

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically Actuated, Dry Single Plate

Drive Layout:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4315 mm (169.9 in)

Width:

Approx. 1690 mm (66.5 in)

Height:

Approx. 1295 mm (51.0 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2430 mm (95.7 in)

Curb Weight Naturally Aspirated:

Approx. 1260 kg (2778 lbs)

Curb Weight Turbocharged:

Approx. 1310 kg (2888 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Typically around 1600-1650 kg (verify specific model)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 114.3 mm (5 x 4.5 inches)

Wheel Size Standard:

15x6.5J or 16x7J (depending on trim and year)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

No comprehensive modern NHTSA ratings available for this era, but designed to meet contemporary safety standards.

Brakes:

Power-assisted disc brakes front and rear (ventilated front). Optional ABS on Turbo II models.

Suspension:

Independent strut suspension front and rear with stabilizer bars for enhanced handling and stability.

Seat Belts:

3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners.

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cage, impact-absorbing zones.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag became standard in later S5 models (confirm specific year/market).

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Speaker configuration varies by trim level (e.g., Bose premium audio on some Turbo models).

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control systems depending on trim. Includes A/C, heater, and ventilation.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature, primarily on Turbo II models.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models for highway cruising.

Connectivity Features:

No modern connectivity features (Bluetooth, USB, etc.) are factory equipped. Upgrades are aftermarket.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, using high-quality synthetic oil recommended.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (specific rotary plugs).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Not Applicable (Rotary engine uses a timing chain or gears).

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended (synthetic preferred for rotary).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5-5.0 liters (including filter).

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 Gear Oil.

Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:

Dexron III/Mercon Automatic Transmission Fluid.

Differential Fluid Type:

API GL-5 SAE 90 Gear Oil.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol-based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Apex Seal Wear:

Premature wear of apex seals due to improper maintenance, overheating, or detonation. Requires engine rebuild.

Oil Consumption:

Rotary engines inherently consume some oil for lubrication; abnormal consumption indicates seal issues.

Vacuum Hose Cracking:

Degradation of vacuum hoses leading to vacuum leaks and drivability issues.

Fuel Injector Clogging:

Can lead to misfires and poor performance.

Injector O-Ring Failure:

Can cause vacuum leaks and fuel delivery issues.

Turbocharger Failure:

Common on turbocharged models due to age and heat cycles; requires rebuild or replacement.

Tps Failure:

Throttle Position Sensor failure can cause erratic idle and throttle response.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Rotary Legacy:

Mazda's pioneering and continued development of the Wankel rotary engine, dating back to the Cosmo.

Fc Generation Introduction:

The FC generation (S4 and S5) replaced the SA22C RX-7 in 1985, moving towards a more modern GT-style sports car.

S5 Updates:

The S5 (1989-1991) brought significant updates including revised styling (bumpers, taillights, headlights), a more powerful 13B-T engine for the Turbo II, updated interior, and improved suspension tuning.

Rx7 Evolution To Fd:

The S5 was the final iteration of the FC generation before the introduction of the iconic FD RX-7 in 1992.

Production Period:

1985-1992 (FC Generation), with S5 covering 1989-1991.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Ten Best:

The FC generation RX-7 was a Car and Driver 'Ten Best' list recipient multiple times during its production run.

Handling Reputation:

Consistently praised for its exceptional handling, balance, and driver engagement, solidifying its status as a true sports car.