🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-7

Generation:

FD

Model Year:

1992

Chassis Code:

FD3S

Platform:

JC

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Iconic Japanese Sports Car, Rotary-powered Grand Tourer.

Predecessor:

Mazda RX-7 FC (Second Generation).

Competitors:

Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (Mk3/Mk4), Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4, Porsche 944.

Key Selling Points:

Lightweight chassis, balanced handling, potent twin-turbo rotary engine, distinctive styling.

Aerodynamics:

Advanced aerodynamic design for improved stability at high speeds.

Styling:

Sleek, flowing lines, pop-up headlights, and a distinctively curved roofline contribute to its timeless aesthetic.

Rotary Engine Innovation:

The FD RX-7 is synonymous with Mazda's unique rotary powertrain.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital File (Likely PDF)

Page Count:

Estimated 1000+ Pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Rotary Engine (13B-REW), Engine Assembly, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Fuel System (including twin-sequential turbochargers), Ignition System, Emission Control Systems

Powertrain:

Transmission (RWD), Clutch, Driveshaft, Differential, Axles, Gear Ratios

Chassis And Suspension:

Front Suspension (Double Wishbone), Rear Suspension (Multi-link), Steering System, Brake System (ABS), Wheels, Tires

Electrical System:

Engine Control Unit (ECU), Ignition Control, Lighting, Instruments and Gauges, Power Accessories, Audio System, Wiring Diagrams

Body And Interior:

Body Construction, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, Seats, Safety Restraints (Airbags, Seatbelts), Doors, Windows, Convertible Top (if applicable)

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and Filter Changes, Spark Plug Replacement, Air Filter Replacement, Coolant Checks and Changes, Fluid Level Checks and Replenishment

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Procedures, Fault Code Interpretation, Component Testing, Root Cause Analysis for Common Issues

Repair And Rebuild:

Engine Rebuilding (Apex Seals, Rotors, Housings), Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair, Body Panel Repair and Replacement

Diagnostics:

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-I), Sensor Testing, Actuator Testing, Troubleshooting Guides based on Symptoms

Scope:

Comprehensive factory-level detail covering all aspects of vehicle maintenance, diagnostics, repair, and overhaul.

Precision:

Includes torque specifications, clearances, fluid types and capacities, wiring schematics, and detailed component disassembly/assembly instructions.

Target Audience:

Professional Technicians, Advanced DIY Enthusiasts, Restoration Specialists.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format) is the most common and preferred format for these types of manuals, allowing for searchability and scalability.

Resolution:

High-resolution scans ensuring legibility of diagrams, schematics, and text. Typically optimized for digital viewing and printing.

Physical Binding:

N/A for digital download, but original factory manuals were typically bound in heavy-duty binders or stapled booklets.

Physical Paper:

N/A for digital download, but original factory manuals used high-quality, durable paper resistant to shop grease and wear.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

13B-REW

Engine Type:

Rotary (Wankel)

Rotor Displacement:

654 cc per rotor (1308 cc total equivalent)

Configuration:

Two-rotor, Sequential Twin-Turbocharged

Horsepower:

252 bhp @ 6500 rpm (initial models)

Torque:

217 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (initial models)

Redline:

8000 rpm

Injection Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Recommended)

Turbocharging:

Sequential twin-turbo system (Primary turbo for low RPM, Secondary turbo for high RPM)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Mazda RX-7 Type R 5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (less common on performance-oriented trims)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulic Clutch

Drive Layout:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4295 mm (169.1 in)

Width:

1750 mm (68.9 in)

Height:

1230 mm (48.4 in)

Wheelbase:

2425 mm (95.5 in)

Front Track:

1480 mm (58.3 in)

Rear Track:

1485 mm (58.5 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1250-1300 kg (2755-2866 lbs) depending on trim

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

N/A (typically not specified for sports cars)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Not prominently advertised or available for this era/segment.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most models.

Traction Control:

Optional Traction Control System (TCS) on some later models/trims.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag standard from introduction.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners.

Roll Cage:

Integrated structural rigidity and reinforced A-pillars for rollover protection.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory premium audio system with cassette player and AM/FM radio. Often features premium speaker components.

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control systems depending on trim level. Air conditioning is standard.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system for highway driving.

Power Features:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (5,000 - 8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Higher quality synthetic oil is highly recommended.

Spark Plugs:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km), depending on plug type (OEM vs. aftermarket). Critical for rotary health.

Air Filter:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually. Crucial for preventing wear on the rotary seals.

Engine Oil:

API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended. Full synthetic is strongly advised.

Coolant:

Mazda-specific long-life coolant or equivalent (e.g., Dex-Cool compatible) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil for manual transmission.

Differential Fluid:

API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil.

Apex Seal Wear:

The most critical potential issue. Caused by detonation, poor lubrication, or incorrect maintenance. Manifests as low compression, poor starting, and loss of power.

Oil Metering Pump:

Failure can lead to insufficient lubrication of apex seals, exacerbating wear. Regular checks and maintenance are vital.

Sequential Turbo Control:

Solenoid failures or vacuum leaks can affect the transition between turbos, leading to hesitation or power loss.

Catalytic Converter:

Prone to clogging due to incomplete combustion or oil burning, impacting performance and emissions.

Fuel Injectors:

Can become clogged over time, affecting fuel atomization and performance.

📚 Vehicle History

Rotary Legacy:

Mazda's long-standing commitment to rotary engine technology, beginning with the Cosmo Sport 110S.

Fd Development:

Designed by Tom Matano and Hiroshi Masuoka, with significant input from Porsche engineers for chassis tuning and aerodynamics.

Trims And Variants:

Various global market trims including Type R, Type RB, Bathurst R, X-TUDO, etc., each with specific equipment and performance enhancements.

Production Period:

1991-2002

Manufacturing Location:

Hofushima Plant, Japan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver:

Car and Driver's 10Best list for 1993.

Motor Trend:

Recognized for its engineering and performance by automotive publications globally.

Handling:

Consistently praised for its exceptional handling dynamics and driver engagement, often considered a benchmark for its era.