🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-7

Model Code:

FD3S

Year:

1998

Chassis Code:

FD3S

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 1998 Mazda RX-7 FD3S represented the pinnacle of Mazda's rotary engine sports car development, a highly sought-after JDM icon known for its unique engine, exceptional handling, and distinctive styling. This manual is essential for preserving and maintaining this celebrated performance vehicle.

Competitors:

Competed against iconic sports cars of its era such as the Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (JZA80), and Mitsubishi 3000GT (Z16A). The RX-7 stood out with its naturally aspirated rotary engine, lightweight chassis, and focus on driver engagement.

Vehicle Highlights:

Lightweight chassis, near 50/50 weight distribution, advanced aerodynamic design, twin-sequential turbocharging (13B-REW), sophisticated multi-link suspension.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Complete repair, service, and maintenance procedures for the 1998 Mazda RX-7 (FD3S chassis).

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 2000+ pages (typical for a comprehensive service manual of this era).

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

13B-REW Rotary Engine (Twin-Turbocharged), Engine Management System (ECU), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System.

Drivetrain:

Transmission (R154 manual transmission, potentially automatic options), Clutch System, Driveshaft, Differential, Axles.

Chassis And Suspension:

Front Suspension (Double Wishbone), Rear Suspension (Multi-link), Steering System, Power Steering, Bushings, Bearings.

Brakes:

Front and Rear Disc Brakes, ABS System, Brake Lines, Master Cylinder, Calipers.

Electrical And Electronics:

Wiring Diagrams, Battery, Alternator, Starter Motor, Lighting System, Fuses, Relays, ECU Pinouts, Sensor Diagnostics, Immobilizer System.

Body And Interior:

Body Panel Removal and Installation, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Interior Trim, Seats, HVAC System, Body Sealing.

Engine Repair:

Engine disassembly, inspection, reassembly, apex seal replacement, rotor housing machining, oil seal replacement, peripheral seal replacement.

Turbocharger Service:

Turbocharger inspection, rebuild, replacement, wastegate adjustment, intercooler maintenance.

Transmission Overhaul:

Transmission removal, disassembly, component inspection, reassembly, shift linkage adjustment.

Suspension And Steering Alignment:

Wheel alignment specifications, camber, caster, toe adjustments, suspension component replacement.

Brake System Service:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper rebuilding, bleeding the brake system, ABS system troubleshooting.

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for electrical faults, wiring harness repair, component testing, using diagnostic scan tools.

Fuel System Diagnostics:

Fuel injector testing, fuel pump pressure checks, fuel filter replacement, fuel delivery system troubleshooting.

Cooling System Maintenance:

Radiator flushing, thermostat replacement, coolant hose inspection, water pump replacement.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering detailed diagnostic procedures, component-level repair, torque specifications, and factory tolerances. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High-resolution, text-searchable PDF for easy navigation and information retrieval.

Printability:

Designed for clear printing, allowing users to create physical copies of specific sections or the entire manual.

Binding Type:

N/A (PDF Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (PDF Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Name:

13B-REW

Engine Type:

Rotary (Wankel) Twin-Turbocharged

Displacement:

1.3 Liters (654cc x 2 rotors)

Rotor Housing Material:

Enamel-coated aluminum alloy

Apex Seals:

Often made of carbon-based composite or ceramic for durability and performance (specific material can vary by production revision).

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with trailing and leading spark plugs per rotor.

Horsepower:

255 hp @ 6500 rpm (for 1998 models in most markets).

Torque:

217 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (for 1998 models).

Redline:

8000 rpm

Turbocharging System:

Sequential Twin-Turbochargers (Smaller turbo for low-end response, larger turbo for high-end power).

Fuel Injection:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI).

Fuel Type Required:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher).

Fuel Pump Type:

In-tank electric fuel pump.

Fuel Injectors:

High-impedance, top-feed injectors.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

Mazda R154 5-speed Manual Transmission.

Type:

Optional 4-speed Automatic Transmission (less common).

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated, single-plate dry clutch.

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios are detailed in the manual for precise performance tuning and diagnostics.

Transmission Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific OEM or equivalent fluid type (e.g., Dexron III or equivalent for automatic, GL-4/GL-5 for manual).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

171.7 inches (4360 mm)

Width:

69.1 inches (1755 mm)

Height:

48.2 inches (1225 mm)

Wheelbase:

95.5 inches (2425 mm)

Ground Clearance:

5.1 inches (130 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2900-3100 lbs (1315-1406 kg), depending on options and market.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to vehicle VIN plate for exact GVWR.

Cargo Volume:

Limited, primarily concentrated in the rear storage compartment behind the seats.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

Specific NHTSA ratings for 1998 models may vary by market and testing methodology. Generally considered a safe vehicle for its class and era, but advanced safety features were less common.

ABS:

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

Traction Control:

Traction Control System (TCS) may be standard or optional depending on trim and market.

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger Airbags.

Seatbelts:

3-point Inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners.

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cage and crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player and CD changer controls. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control systems with air conditioning.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by modern standards. Primarily focused on the car's performance and mechanical systems. No Bluetooth or integrated smartphone connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, due to the nature of rotary engines. Consult manual for specific recommendation.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Refer to manual; typically involves replacement of both leading and trailing plugs, interval varies.

Coolant Flush:

Recommended every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Timing Belt Replacement:

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

Engine Oil Type:

Refer to manual. Typically a high-quality synthetic 5W-30 or 10W-30 with good high-temperature performance.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 5.4 US quarts (5.1 Liters) with filter change. Consult manual for exact capacity.

Coolant Type:

Mazda FL22 Coolant or equivalent long-life OAT coolant (Orange/Pink).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Mazda Genuine ATF DEXTRON II or equivalent.

Rotary Specific Issues:

Apex seal wear, oil seal failure, intake manifold air leaks, vacuum hose degradation, ignition coil failure, turbocharger issues (especially after prolonged neglect).

Cooling System:

Overheating due to inefficient cooling system design or failure of components like the coolant control valve or radiator.

Fuel System:

Clogged fuel injectors, weak fuel pump, issues with the pulsation dampener.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Mazda has a long history of producing innovative and driver-focused sports cars, including the iconic RX-7 series, known for pushing the boundaries of rotary engine technology.

Evolution Fd:

The third generation (FD) RX-7, introduced in 1992, represented a significant departure from its predecessors with its modern styling, twin-turbo rotary engine, and advanced chassis. The 1998 model year falls within the later production run, often referred to as Series 7, with subtle refinements.

Production Period:

1992-2002

Production Location:

Mazda Hofu Plant, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The FD RX-7 was frequently lauded by automotive publications, including being named to Car and Driver's '10Best' list multiple times during its production run.

Iconic Status:

Recognized globally as a sports car icon, praised for its driving dynamics, unique powertrain, and lasting design appeal.