🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-7

Year:

1994

Chassis Code:

FD

Generation:

Third Generation (FD)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 1994 Mazda RX-7 (FD) represents a pinnacle of Japanese sports car engineering, known for its innovative twin-rotor Wankel engine and exquisite design. This workshop manual is crucial for owners and mechanics to maintain and repair this iconic vehicle, which commands a strong enthusiast following.

Competitors:

Competed against performance cars like the Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (Mk IV), Porsche 968, and Chevrolet Corvette C4 during its production era.

Unique Selling Points:

Focus on the rotary engine's unique characteristics, twin-turbo system, advanced suspension geometry, and lightweight construction. The manual's value lies in its ability to guide users through complex rotary engine maintenance, which differs significantly from piston engines.

Benefits For User:

Empowers owners to perform their own maintenance, diagnose issues accurately, and undertake repairs, saving significant costs associated with dealership service. It also provides deep insight into the vehicle's engineering, enhancing the ownership experience.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

General Information, Service Specifications, Emission Control, Electrical Body, Bumpers, Suspension, Steering, Lubrication, Propeller Shaft, Differential, Brakes, Engine, Instrument Panel, Front and Rear Axles, Transmission, Hood, Fenders, Grille, Accessories, Clutch System, Index

Page Count:

Estimated 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Rotary engine (13B-REW) teardown, assembly, component inspection, timing, cooling, lubrication, fuel injection, ignition, emissions control systems (including twin-turbo operation and control).

Transmission Systems:

Manual transmission (R154-derived or Mazda equivalent), clutch system, driveshaft, differential (including limited-slip differential), rear axle.

Chassis Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension (double wishbone), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, steering system (power steering), wheel alignment specifications, subframes.

Braking Systems:

Front and rear disc brakes (vented front, solid rear), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) operation and troubleshooting, brake fluid specifications, caliper, rotor, and pad replacement.

Electrical Systems:

Wiring diagrams, fuse box locations and ratings, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, power locks, HVAC controls, ECU pinouts, diagnostic connector (OBD-I).

Body Exterior Interior:

Body panel removal and installation (hood, fenders, doors, bumpers, grille), interior trim removal, seat adjustment, airbag system (if equipped), glass replacement, seals.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting charts based on symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for OBD-I systems, component testing procedures using multimeters and specialized tools.

Repair Overhaul:

Complete engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, differential replacement, brake system bleeding and repair, suspension component replacement, steering rack overhaul.

Maintenance Procedures:

Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid replacement, belt inspection and adjustment.

Specifications Data:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine clearances, valve lash settings (if applicable to specific rotary apex seals), fluid capacities and types, electrical component resistance values.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance and diagnostics to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed wiring diagrams and component specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF for efficient information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages for on-site reference.

Compatibility:

Compatible with all versions of Windows and Mac.

Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader

Binding Type:

Digital (PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

Print Quality:

Digital reproduction of original factory manual specifications.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

13B-REW

Engine Type:

Rotary (Wankel) Twin-Rotor, Twin-Turbocharged

Displacement:

1.3L (654cc x 2)

Horsepower:

255 hp @ 6500 rpm

Torque:

217 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm

Fuel Injection:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)

Cooling Type:

Liquid-Cooled

Oil Type:

API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 recommended. Specific rotary oil may be recommended for apex seal lubrication (pre-mix or separate injection system). Manual will specify.

Sequential Turbo:

Sequential twin-turbo system for improved low-end response and high-end power.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (less common, especially in enthusiast circles)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically Actuated, Single Dry Plate

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Likely API GL-4 or GL-5 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90. Manual will specify exact type and capacity.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mazda ATF Type M-III or equivalent. Manual will specify exact type and capacity.

Fluid Type:

Likely API GL-5 SAE 80W-90. Manual will specify exact type and capacity, especially for LSD.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4295 mm (169.1 in)

Width:

1750 mm (68.9 in)

Height:

1235 mm (48.6 in)

Wheelbase:

2425 mm (95.5 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1310-1420 kg (2888-3130 lbs) depending on trim and options.

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Not readily specified, but typical for a sports coupe of this era.

Trunk Capacity:

Limited, typical for a 2-seater sports coupe. Specific volume in cubic feet/liters not widely published but generally around 4-5 cu ft.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

No standardized NHTSA ratings for this era in the same way as modern vehicles. Likely performed well in its contemporary crash tests.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Not typically equipped on early FD models; later models may have offered it.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag standard.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners.

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced A-pillars and safety cage structure.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player. CD player optional on some trims. Speaker system typically 4-6 speakers.

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control depending on trim level. Rear window defroster.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Diagnostic Port:

OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics, First Generation) connector, typically located under the dash or in the engine bay.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Rotary engines benefit from frequent oil changes and proper oil level monitoring.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Refer to manual for specific intervals and types. Rotary engines use trailing and leading plugs.

Coolant Flush:

Typically every 2-3 years or 30,000-45,000 miles (48,000-72,000 km).

Timing Belt Replacement:

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

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5-5.0 quarts (4.3-4.7 liters) including oil filter. Manual will confirm exact capacity.

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 7.0-7.5 quarts (6.6-7.1 liters). Manual will confirm exact capacity.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4. Manual will specify.

Apex Seal Wear:

The most critical and well-known issue with rotary engines. Symptoms include loss of compression, hard starting, and decreased performance. Requires engine rebuild.

Oil Consumption:

Rotary engines inherently consume some oil to lubricate apex seals. Excessive consumption can indicate seal wear or lubrication system issues.

Turbocharger Failures:

Common failure point due to heat and stress, especially if maintenance intervals are neglected. Sequential turbo system complexity can add to troubleshooting.

Pre-Catalytic Converters:

Early models had pre-cats that could break apart and be ingested by the engine, causing severe damage.

Cooling System Maintenance:

Due to the high operating temperatures of rotary engines, meticulous cooling system maintenance is crucial to prevent overheating and engine damage.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Rotary Legacy:

Mazda has a long history with the rotary engine, dating back to the Cosmo Sport 110S in 1967. The RX-7 is the flagship rotary-powered sports car for the brand.

Rx-7 Generations:

First Generation (SA/FB, 1978-1985), Second Generation (FC, 1985-1992), Third Generation (FD, 1992-2002). The FD is renowned for its advanced technology and sleek styling.

Production Period:

1992-2002 (global). The 1994 model year falls within the early production phase of the FD generation.

Manufacturing Location:

Hiroshima, Japan

Spirit R:

While not for 1994, later 'Spirit R' models are highly sought after collector's items.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The FD RX-7 was named to Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times during its production run, a testament to its performance and handling.

Motor Trend Import Car Of The Year:

While specific year awards might vary, the RX-7 consistently received praise from automotive journalists for its engineering and driving dynamics.

Automotive Design Awards:

The FD RX-7 is widely regarded as one of the most beautifully designed Japanese sports cars of all time, winning numerous design accolades.