🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-7

Year:

1989

Chassis Code:

FC3S

Generation:

Second Generation (FC)

Production Codes Included:

FC3S

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Sporty, RWD coupe, known for its rotary engine and handling characteristics. Competed with cars like the Nissan 300ZX (Z31), Toyota MR2, and Porsche 944.

Competitive Analysis:

The 1989 RX-7 (FC) stood out with its unique rotary powerplant, providing a high-revving, smooth power delivery. Its independent rear suspension and well-balanced chassis offered excellent roadholding. While some competitors offered more outright power or luxury, the RX-7 offered a distinct driving experience.

Key Features:

Rotary engine, RWD, sophisticated independent suspension, sporty styling, optional Turbo II performance package.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All Models, All Engines

Page Count:

Extensive (Specific number not provided, but described as COMPLETE)

Manual Type:

Complete Service & Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Manual Completeness:

Complete Service and Repair Manual, covering all aspects of vehicle maintenance and repair for the specified model year.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, HVAC, Body & Chassis, Interior Components, Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance, Component Removal & Installation, Repair Procedures, Diagnostic Flowcharts, Overhaul Procedures, Wiring Diagrams, Torque Specifications, Special Tool Usage, Troubleshooting Guides

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete rebuilds.

Engine Rebuild:

Detailed procedures for rotary engine disassembly, inspection, and reassembly, including apex seal replacement and rotor balance.

Turbocharger Maintenance:

Specific procedures for Turbo II models, including turbocharger inspection, repair, and replacement.

Suspension Alignment:

Precise alignment specifications and procedures for front and rear suspension.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical diagrams covering all vehicle systems, including engine control, lighting, accessories, and sensors.

Diagnostic Codes Covered:

Procedures for reading and interpreting diagnostic codes (if applicable for the era) and troubleshooting based on symptoms.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Print Quality:

Likely high-resolution scans suitable for printing, with searchable text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

Mazda Rotary (Wankel) 13B

Naturally Aspirated Hp:

Approx. 160-165 hp

Turbo Ii Hp:

Approx. 200 hp

Naturally Aspirated Torque:

Approx. 190-195 lb-ft

Turbo Ii Torque:

Approx. 250-255 lb-ft

Fuel System Naturally Aspirated:

Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel System Turbo Ii:

Fuel Injection (EFI) with Turbocharger

Engine Layout:

Rotary (Wankel), Twin Rotor

Engine Codes:

13B

Apex Seal Material:

The manual will detail apex seal types and replacement procedures.

Rotor Housing Coating:

Information on rotor housing inspection and potential recoating or replacement.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic

Clutch Type:

Hydraulic Clutch System

Final Drive Ratio:

Varies by model and transmission (manual/auto), likely around 4.10:1 or similar for manual, different for auto.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 95.7 inches (2430 mm)

Length:

Approx. 171.5 inches (4355 mm)

Width:

Approx. 68.7 inches (1745 mm)

Height:

Approx. 49.8 inches (1265 mm)

Curb Weight Approx:

Approx. 2,700 - 3,000 lbs (1225 - 1360 kg) depending on trim and options.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Specific NHTSA ratings for 1989 models may not be readily available in digital format, but the manual would cover vehicle structural integrity.

Active Features:

Power-assisted disc brakes (front and rear), ABS (optional on some trims).

Passive Features:

3-point seat belts, padded dashboard, energy-absorbing steering column.

Front Brakes:

Ventilated Disc

Rear Brakes:

Disc

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional premium sound system.

Driver Assistance:

Limited by modern standards; ABS was an option on some higher trims.

Connectivity:

None (No external connectivity or advanced features).

Ignition System:

Distributor-based electronic ignition, with specific timing adjustments detailed in the manual.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Refer to manual for specific interval, typically 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, with specific attention to oil quality for rotary engines.

Spark Plug Replacement:

The manual will detail specific spark plug types and replacement intervals, which are critical for rotary engine performance.

Timing Belt Replacement:

N/A (Rotary engines do not have a timing belt; they use a chain or are gear-driven).

Engine Oil Specification:

Manual will specify viscosity (e.g., 10W-30, 20W-50) and API service classification, emphasizing high-quality oil suitable for rotary engines.

Coolant Specification:

Proprietary Mazda coolant or equivalent (e.g., ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant mixture).

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity will be specified (e.g., 75W-90).

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron-III or equivalent automatic transmission fluid.

Known Issues:

Apex seal wear, rotor housing wear, oil consumption (inherent to rotary design, management is key), exhaust manifold cracking (especially on turbo models), vacuum hose degradation.

Lubrication Points:

Manual will detail lubrication points for suspension, steering components, and other critical areas.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Refer to manual, typically around 5-6 quarts (4.7-5.7 liters) for rotary engines.

Coolant Capacity:

Refer to manual, typically around 7-8 quarts (6.6-7.6 liters).

Transmission Fluid Capacity Manual:

Refer to manual, typically around 2.0-2.5 quarts (1.9-2.4 liters).

Transmission Fluid Capacity Automatic:

Refer to manual, typically around 4-5 quarts (3.8-4.7 liters) for a pan drop.

Tire Sizes:

Varies by trim and wheel size, common sizes include 205/60R15, 225/50VR16.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

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

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mazda has a long history of innovative engineering, particularly with its pioneering work in rotary engine technology.

Model Evolution:

The FC RX-7, produced from 1985-1992, followed the iconic SA22C (FB) RX-7. It featured a more modern, aerodynamic design and an updated chassis, with a significant performance boost introduced with the Turbo II model.

Production Years:

1985-1992 (for the FC generation)

Production Locations:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The FC RX-7 was generally well-regarded for its performance and handling, often featured in 'best sports car' lists of its era.

Ratings:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics.