🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-2 / R-3

Years Covered:

1975-1977

Chassis Codes:

SA22C (for RX-7, R-3 designation likely refers to an internal Mazda code or specific market variant, as RX-2 production ended prior to 1975. This manual appears to cover models that bridge the RX-2 and early RX-7 lineage or specific regional variations.)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The RX-2 and its successor, the early RX-7 (often referred to by chassis codes like SA22C), occupied a unique niche as affordable, sporty coupes with distinctive rotary engines. They competed with cars like the Datsun Z-series, Toyota Celica, and Ford Capri, offering a performance-oriented driving experience.

Competitive Analysis:

Mazda's rotary engine provided smooth operation and a unique character unmatched by piston engines in its class. This manual ensures owners can maintain and repair these specialized vehicles, preserving their performance and collectible value.

Key Features:

This service manual is a vital tool for preserving the unique characteristics of Mazda's rotary-powered coupes. Its comprehensive coverage allows for meticulous maintenance and repair, crucial for these enthusiast vehicles.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Coverage:

Comprehensive service and repair for 1975-1977 Mazda RX-2 / R-3 models.

Page Count:

Estimated 500-1000+ pages (typical for a full factory service manual, specific count not provided but inferred from extensive coverage).

Manual Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed disassembly, inspection, assembly, and specifications for rotary engines (likely 13B variants or earlier depending on exact R-3 designation).

Engine Lubrication:

Oil pump, oil filter, lubrication passages, oil pressure testing, oil cooler (if equipped).

Engine Cooling:

Radiator, coolant pump, thermostat, hoses, fan, pressure testing, coolant specifications.

Engine Control:

Ignition timing, spark plug specifications, distributor, ignition coil, dwell angle, electronic control units (if applicable for late 1977 models).

Fuel System:

Carburetor(s) (likely Nikki or Hitachi), fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, fuel pressure, idle speed adjustment.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, pipes, muffler, catalytic converter (if applicable for late models), gasket replacement.

Accelerator Control:

Throttle cable adjustment, linkage, pedal assembly.

Clutch:

Clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing, pilot bearing, clutch pedal adjustment, hydraulic system (if applicable).

Manual Transmission:

Disassembly, inspection, assembly, gear ratios, shift linkage, transmission fluid specifications.

Automatic Transmission:

If equipped, similar coverage to manual transmission: disassembly, inspection, fluid specifications, operation.

Propeller Shaft:

U-joints, balancing, driveshaft removal and installation.

Rear Final Drive:

Differential assembly, backlash, gear oil specifications, axle shafts.

Front Axle:

If applicable, steering knuckle, wheel bearings, hub assembly.

Rear Axle:

See Rear Final Drive; includes suspension mounting points.

Front Suspension:

Shock absorbers, struts, control arms, bushings, springs, alignment specifications.

Rear Suspension:

Shock absorbers, leaf springs or coil springs (depending on specific RX-2/R-3 variant), trailing arms, panhard rod, alignment specifications.

Brake System:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (common configuration), brake fluid specifications, caliper/wheel cylinder overhaul, rotor/drum specifications, bleeding procedures.

Parking Brake:

Cable adjustment, mechanism inspection, serviceability.

Brake Control:

Master cylinder, brake booster (if equipped), proportioning valves.

Steering Control:

Steering box/rack, tie rods, steering column, power steering system (if equipped), alignment specifications.

Seat Belts:

Inspection, adjustment, retraction mechanisms, anchor points.

Srs:

Supplemental Restraint System (Airbags): Unlikely to be present or extensively covered in 1975-1977 models, but listed for completeness of manual structure.

Body Locks Security:

Door locks, ignition lock, latches, hinges, trunk/boot operation, basic security system components (if any).

Glasses Windows Mirrors:

Window regulators, seals, mirror adjustment and replacement, windshield/rear glass removal and installation.

Exterior Interior:

Trim pieces, bumpers, lighting fixtures, interior panels, carpeting, headliner.

Instrument Panel:

Gauge cluster removal and repair, warning lights, speedometer, tachometer, fuel/temp gauges.

Seats:

Seat removal, adjustment mechanisms, upholstery repair.

Automatic Air Conditioner:

If equipped: AC system components, refrigerant, servicing procedures (likely basic).

Starting Charging:

Starter motor, alternator, battery, voltage regulator, wiring diagrams for these systems.

Lighting System:

Headlights, taillights, turn signals, interior lights, bulb types, wiring diagrams.

Driver Information:

Basic dashboard indicators and warning lights.

Wiper Washer Horn:

Wiper motor, blades, linkage, washer pump, reservoir, horn operation.

Body Control System:

Basic electrical control modules related to body functions.

Lan System:

Local Area Network: Highly unlikely for this era of vehicle; indicates a comprehensive template for manual structure, not necessarily specific features of this model.

Audio Visual Navigation Telephone:

Radios, speakers, antenna systems. Navigation and telephone systems are highly unlikely for this period.

Auto Cruise Control:

If equipped as an optional feature, includes control unit, actuators, and sensors.

Power Supply Ground Circuit Elements:

Battery, alternator, fuses, circuit breakers, relays, wiring diagrams, ground points.

Maintenance:

Regular service intervals, fluid checks, lubrication points, filter replacements, tune-up procedures.

Alphabetical Index:

Facilitates quick look-up of specific topics and components within the manual.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, step-by-step diagnostic routines for various systems.

Repair Procedures:

Detailed instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, assembly, and installation.

Maintenance Procedures:

Regular service tasks like oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, brake adjustments, lubrication.

Specifications Data:

Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, pressure readings, electrical data, alignment settings.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.

Technical Depth:

Full factory service manual depth, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Delivery Method:

Instant download via .rar/.zip archive.

Required Software:

Zip/Unzip utility (e.g., WinRAR, 7-Zip) and PDF reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader).

Printable:

Yes

Binding Type:

Digital (Not Applicable)

Paper Type:

Digital (Not Applicable)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Rotary (Wankel)

Engine Code Examples:

12A (likely for RX-2, though R-3 designation is ambiguous and could indicate transitional models or specific engine tunes)

Displacement:

Approx. 1.15 liters (dual rotor, 12A engine nomenclature)

Horsepower Range:

Typically 110-130 HP depending on specific market and emission controls for the 1975-1977 period.

Torque Range:

Approximately 115-130 lb-ft.

Fuel Delivery:

Carbureted (likely downdraft twin-barrel carburetor, e.g., Nikki or Hitachi).

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

3-speed Automatic Transmission (likely optional on some trims)

Transmission Fluid:

Manual: GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90). Automatic: Dexron II or equivalent.

📐 Dimensions

Body Style:

2-door Coupe, potentially 2-door Fastback/Sedan depending on R-3 designation.

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2,300-2,500 lbs (depending on body style and transmission).

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

No formal crash test ratings from agencies like NHTSA or IIHS were common or publicly available for vehicles of this era in the same way as today. Safety features were basic.

Active Safety:

Disc brakes front, drum brakes rear; adequate handling characteristics for its time.

Passive Safety:

Seat belts (lap and shoulder belts in front), padded dashboard, safety glass.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio, possibly with an 8-track player or cassette adapter depending on trim and options. Manual covers basic radio/speaker troubleshooting.

Driver Assistance Features:

Very limited. Features like cruise control might have been optional on higher trims, but modern driver-assistance systems are absent.

Connectivity:

None, beyond basic electrical connections for lights, ignition, and accessories.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 miles or 3 months. Rotary engines require special attention to oil consumption and lubrication.

Tune Up Interval:

Spark plugs, points (if applicable), and ignition timing checks usually every 12,000-15,000 miles.

Engine Oil Type:

Rotary engine oil requires specific additives. Often API SE/SF grade oils or purpose-built rotary oils were recommended. Manual will specify exact API rating and viscosity (e.g., 20W-50).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., Prestone or equivalent) mixed with distilled water, typically 50/50.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Apex Seal Wear:

Apex seals are a wear item in rotary engines and require proper lubrication and engine care to prolong their life. Symptoms include loss of compression, rough idle, and increased oil consumption.

Carburetor Tuning:

Carburetors can require frequent adjustment and cleaning, especially Nikki units, to maintain optimal performance and fuel economy.

Chassis Rust:

Common for vehicles of this age; inspection of structural components, suspension mounts, and wheel wells for corrosion is essential.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mazda has a long history of innovation, most notably with its development and popularization of the Wankel rotary engine. The RX-series represents a significant chapter in this history.

Model Evolution:

The RX-2 was Mazda's second rotary-powered production car, following the Cosmo. It was produced from 1970 to 1978. The 'R-3' designation in the manual title is unusual for the RX-2 and might refer to a specific market variant or a transitional period leading into the RX-7 (SA22C), which debuted in 1978. This manual bridges this gap.

Production Years:

RX-2: 1970-1978. The 1975-1977 range covered by this manual falls within the later production years of the RX-2, possibly including specific updates or pre-RX-7 models.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The RX-2 and its rotary brethren were often praised for their sporty handling and unique engine technology. While specific awards for the 1975-1977 RX-2 might be scarce in mainstream automotive media, their critical acclaim for innovation and performance is well-documented in automotive history.