Market Position:
The Mazda RX-7 (FD generation) is a halo sports car, renowned for its rotary engine and distinctive styling. This manual targets enthusiasts and professional mechanics who maintain or restore these highly specialized vehicles.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against other lightweight, performance-oriented coupes like the Nissan 300ZX, Toyota Supra, and Porsche 968. Its unique rotary powertrain set it apart significantly.
Key Features:
Twin-sequential turbocharged rotary engine, lightweight chassis, advanced suspension for its era, iconic design.
Engine Mechanical:
Rotary Engine (13B-REW), Apex Seals, Rotor Housings, Eccentric Shaft, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Intake System, Exhaust System, Turbocharger System (Twin Sequential)
Engine Management:
Fuel Injection System (EFI), Ignition System, Engine Control Unit (ECU), Sensors (MAP, TPS, O2, Crankshaft Position, etc.), Emission Control Systems (SAS)
Transmission:
Manual Transmission (R154 derivative often found in aftermarket), Clutch System, Driveshaft, Differential
Brakes:
Hydraulic System, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Front and Rear Brake Components (Calipers, Rotors, Pads), Parking Brake
Suspension:
Front Independent Suspension (Double Wishbone), Rear Independent Suspension (Multi-link), Shock Absorbers, Springs, Bushings, Steering System (Power Steering)
Electrical:
Battery, Alternator, Starter Motor, Lighting Systems, Fuses, Relays, Wiring Diagrams, Body Control Module (BCM), Power Windows, Power Locks, Audio System
Body And Frame:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Chassis Structure, Interior Trim, Seats
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning System, Components (Compressor, Condenser, Evaporator), Refrigerant Handling
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Coolant Flushes, Belt Inspections/Replacements, Brake Fluid Service
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-based Diagnostics, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) Interpretation and Resolution
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step Disassembly and Reassembly Instructions for all major components
Component Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake system servicing
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Specifications And Tolerances:
Precise measurements, clearances, and torque values for all critical components
Technical Depth:
Full Factory Level - Covers everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including diagnostics and troubleshooting.
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel)
Engine Displacement Effective:
1.3L (1308cc)
Aspirated:
Twin-sequential Turbocharged
Horsepower Peak:
255 hp @ 6500 rpm (US Spec)
Torque Peak:
217 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (US Spec)
Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Oil Type Recommended:
API SG/SH or SJ, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for specific viscosity based on ambient temperature)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5.7 US Quarts (5.4 Liters) with filter change
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, whichever comes first (highly recommended for rotary engines due to oil consumption and lubrication needs).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (specific interval depends on plug type; rotary engines often use two plugs per rotor).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A (Rotary engines do not have timing belts; they use a chain or gears for the eccentric shaft).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific grade)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron II or III, or specific Mazda fluid (consult manual)
Coolant Type:
Mazda Long Life Coolant or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Known Issues:
Apex seal wear (common rotary issue, accelerated by poor maintenance or detonation), oil seal degradation, vacuum hose leaks, ignition system issues (coil packs, trailing plugs), turbocharger reliability (especially in high-mileage or modified examples), fuel injector clogging.
Common Repairs:
Apex seal replacement, fuel system cleaning/rebuild, turbocharger rebuild, ignition system tune-up.
Brand Heritage:
Mazda has a long history of sports car engineering, with the RX series (RX-2, RX-3, RX-4, RX-7) being its most iconic lineage, celebrated for its rotary engines.
Model Evolution:
The FD RX-7 (1992-2002) is the third generation, representing a significant leap in design, performance, and technology over its predecessors (SA/FB and FC generations). Known for its pure sports car formula.
Production Years:
1992-2002
Manufacturing Location:
Hiroshima, Japan
