🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-7

Year:

1994

Chassis Code:

FD3S

Engine Code:

13B-REW

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Sports Car / Grand Tourer

Target Audience:

Performance enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and owners seeking in-depth knowledge of their RX-7.

Key Competitors Era:

Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (Mk IV), Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4, Porsche 968.

Rotary Engine:

The iconic 13B-REW twin-turbocharged rotary engine, offering a unique power delivery and high-revving character.

Design:

Sleek, aerodynamic styling, often cited as one of the most beautiful Japanese sports cars.

Handling:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, lightweight construction, and exceptional handling dynamics.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Systems:

Engine (Rotary), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Drivetrain (Transmission, Differential), Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front & Rear), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, ECUs, Components), Body & Chassis, Climate Control, Interior & Exterior Trim, Diagnostic Procedures, Specifications, Torque Values, Troubleshooting.

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (Likely PDF, though physical might exist)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed disassembly, inspection, and reassembly procedures for the 13B-REW twin-rotor engine, including apex seals, rotor housings, eccentric shafts, and oil metering pump.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system, fuel pump, fuel filter, injectors, pressure regulator, and evaporative emissions control (EVAP).

Ignition System:

Ignition timing, coil packs, spark plugs, and electronic ignition control.

Cooling System:

Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, and coolant flow principles specific to the rotary engine.

Lubrication System:

Oil pump, oil filter, oil cooler, and the unique oil metering system for apex seals.

Transmission:

Manual transmission (R154) maintenance, repair, and fluid specifications. Differential overhaul procedures.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension component replacement, alignment specifications, steering rack, and power steering system.

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system, ABS system, pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, and bleeding procedures.

Electrical System:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, component testing, ECU diagnostics, lighting, power windows, and audio systems.

Body Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, and basic chassis alignment.

Climate Control:

Air conditioning system service, blower motor, and heater core replacement.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting flowcharts, error code interpretation (OBD-I related for this era), and symptom-based diagnostics.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually every component, from simple fluid changes to complex engine rebuilds.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance tasks, replacement intervals for wear items, and basic upkeep.

Specifications:

Detailed technical specifications, torque values for all fasteners, fluid capacities, and engine clearances.

Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to full engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and bodywork.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (typically)

Searchability:

Usually searchable text, allowing quick access to specific topics.

Diagram Quality:

High-quality, clear, and detailed diagrams and illustrations.

Text Readability:

Easy-to-read text sections.

Binding:

N/A (for digital formats)

Paper Quality:

N/A (for digital formats)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Twin-Rotor, Twin-Turbocharged, Naturally Aspirated (for non-turbo variants, though less common for FD)

Engine Code:

13B-REW

Displacement:

1.3 Liters (654cc x 2 rotors)

Horsepower Hp:

255 hp @ 6500 rpm (for 1994 US Spec)

Torque Lb Ft:

217 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (for 1994 US Spec)

Redline Rpm:

8000 rpm

Fuel Injection Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher)

Fuel Pump Type:

Electric, High-Pressure

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual

Transmission Model:

R154 (often referred to as Mazda's own version)

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic (less common, often specified by region)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically Actuated Multi-Plate Dry Clutch

Transmission Fluid Type:

API GL-4 or GL-5 SAE 75W-90 (Check specific manual for exact spec)

📐 Dimensions

Length Mm:

4295

Width Mm:

1750

Height Mm:

1230

Wheelbase Mm:

2505

Curb Weight Kg:

~1300-1400 kg (Varies by trim/options)

Gross Weight Kg:

N/A (Not typically a user-serviceable spec)

Cargo Volume Liters:

~100-150 Liters (Trunk space)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Crash Test Rating:

N/A (Official ratings for this era for niche sports cars were less common)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS) on some models.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag standard.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia reel seatbelts.

Structural Reinforcement:

Reinforced chassis and crumple zones designed for sports car performance.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM Stereo with Cassette Player, optional CD player.

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control depending on trim level.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for improved braking control.

Diagnostics Port:

OBD-I diagnostic connector, often requiring specific Mazda scan tools or breakout boxes for advanced diagnostics.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first) with premium synthetic oil recommended.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically around 30,000-60,000 miles for rotary-specific spark plugs (two per rotor, often platinum or iridium).

Timing Belt Alternative:

Rotary engines do not have timing belts; they use a chain or gear-driven mechanism (eccentric shaft and rotor gears).

Engine Oil Type:

Synthetic 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for exact viscosity and API rating, e.g., API SG/SH)

Coolant Type:

Mazda FL22 Long Life Coolant or equivalent (Ethylene Glycol based, P-HOAT)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (Check manual for specific recommendation)

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron III ATF or equivalent (check manual)

Apex Seal Wear:

A well-known issue for rotary engines if not properly maintained or if prone to detonation. Symptoms include loss of compression, poor starting, and rough idle.

Sequential Turbo Failure:

The smaller primary turbocharger and larger secondary turbocharger system can be complex. Issues can arise with vacuum lines, solenoids, or the turbos themselves.

Oil Metering Pump Failure:

The pump that injects oil for apex seal lubrication can fail, leading to premature wear.

Vacuum Lines:

Age-related degradation of numerous vacuum lines can lead to boost leaks and driveability issues.

Cooling System Maintenance:

Rotary engines generate significant heat; maintaining the cooling system (radiator, fans, coolant) is critical to prevent overheating.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Rotary Legacy:

Mazda's long and pioneering history with the Wankel rotary engine, starting with the Cosmo Sport.

Rx-7 Generations:

This is the third generation (FD) of the RX-7, succeeding the FC (second generation) and SA/FB (first generation).

Fd Development:

Developed under the leadership of Chief Engineer Fumikazu Yaguchi, emphasizing light weight, balanced handling, and high performance.

Production Years:

1992-2002 (FD generation)

Manufacturing Location:

Hiroshima, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

Named to Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times.

Motortrend Car Of The Year:

While not Car of the Year, it was highly praised by automotive journalists.

Performance Reviews:

Consistently praised for its performance, handling, and unique rotary powerplant.

Manual Authenticity:

Official factory documentation, providing the highest level of accuracy and detail.