Segment:
Sports Car / Grand Tourer
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY Mechanics, Restoration Shops
Key Competitors:
Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (Mk3), Porsche 944
Unique Selling Proposition:
Mazda's signature rotary engine, balanced chassis, and driver-focused design.
Manual Value:
Essential resource for maintaining and repairing the iconic FC generation RX-7, particularly the complex rotary engine.
Engine System:
Rotary Engine (13B) - Disassembly, Assembly, Rebuild, Tuning, Lubrication, Cooling, Fuel Injection (EFI)
Transmission System:
Manual (5-speed) and Automatic Transmission - Overhaul, Shifting Mechanisms, Fluid Specifications
Drivetrain System:
Rear-Wheel Drive, Differential, Driveshafts, Axles
Suspension System:
Front and Rear Suspension (Independent), Bushings, Ball Joints, Shock Absorbers, Springs
Braking System:
Front and Rear Disc Brakes, ABS (if equipped), Hydraulic System, Brake Pad/Rotor Replacement
Steering System:
Power Steering System, Steering Rack, Tie Rods
Electrical System:
Battery, Alternator, Starter, Ignition System, Lighting, Fuses, Relays, Body Electrical, ECU Pinouts
Fuel System:
Fuel Tank, Fuel Pump, Fuel Injectors, Fuel Pressure Regulator, Emission Control Systems
Exhaust System:
Exhaust Manifolds, Catalytic Converter, Muffler, Oxygen Sensors
Cooling System:
Radiator, Water Pump, Thermostat, Hoses, Coolant Specifications
HVAC System:
Air Conditioning, Heater, Blower Motor, Climate Control
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Trim, Upholstery
General Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Top-offs, Spark Plug Replacement (Rotary Specific)
Engine Repair:
Apex Seal Replacement, Rotor Housing Resurfacing, Eccentric Shaft Reassembly, Engine Mounts
Transmission Repair:
Clutch Replacement, Gearbox Overhaul, Synchronizer Replacement
Brake Service:
Brake Pad/Rotor Replacement, Caliper Rebuild, Brake Fluid Flush
Suspension Service:
Strut/Shock Replacement, Bushing Replacement, Alignment Specifications
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Fault Codes, Wiring Harness Repair, Component Testing
Fuel System Diagnostics:
Fuel Injector Cleaning, Fuel Pump Testing, Fuel Pressure Adjustments
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic Diagnosis for Common Problems (e.g., starting issues, rough idle, poor performance)
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic preventative maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced diagnostics and electrical system troubleshooting.
Diagnostic Tools:
Details on required special tools and diagnostic equipment for specific procedures.
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel)
Displacement:
1.3 L (654cc x 2 rotors)
Horsepower Naturally Aspirated:
160 hp @ 6500 rpm (GTUs, GXL)
Horsepower Turbocharged:
200 hp @ 6500 rpm (Turbo II)
Torque Naturally Aspirated:
150 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Torque Turbocharged:
200 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane Recommended)
Rotary Specifics:
Apex seals, side seals, corner seals, rotor housing coating, eccentric shaft.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 6 months (recommended, especially for rotary engines).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual for specific interval and type (two spark plugs per rotor).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable (Rotary engines do not have timing belts; they use a timing chain/tensioner system).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended. Rotary engines require specific oil consumption through the fuel system.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Rotary Engine Wear:
Apex seal wear, carbon buildup, potential for flooding, oil consumption management is critical.
Fuel System Issues:
Clogged fuel injectors, weak fuel pump, vacuum leaks.
Suspension Component Wear:
Worn bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends.
Electrical Gremlins:
Corroded grounds, failing relays, aging wiring harnesses.
Mazda Rotary Development:
Mazda's long-standing commitment to rotary engine technology, starting with the Cosmo Sport.
Fc Generation:
Second generation RX-7 (1986-1991), known as the FC. Successor to the SA22C and predecessor to the FD.
Design Influence:
Influenced by the Porsche 944, featuring a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout and a more refined chassis.
Production Years:
1985-1992 (for the FC generation globally), 1989 model year falls within this range.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan