Target Audience:
Do-it-yourself enthusiasts and professional mechanics seeking detailed repair and maintenance information.
Advantage:
Instant download availability and comprehensive coverage provide immediate access to essential repair data, crucial for older vehicles like the RX-2 and RX-3.
Ease Of Use:
Easy-to-read text sections with top-quality diagrams and step-by-step instructions.
Accessibility:
No special software required beyond a PDF reader; accessible on all computers.
Problem Solving:
Empowers users to 'Fix your problems now' with detailed guidance.
Primary Coverage:
Complete vehicle service and repair for Mazda RX-2 and RX-3 models from 1971 to 1977.
Estimated Page Count:
Detailed page count not specified, but described as covering 'every single detail' and 'complete disassembly,' suggesting a substantial document, likely several hundred pages.
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Rotary engine (12A), clutch, transmission (manual and automatic variants), driveshaft, differential, axles.
Chassis And Suspension:
Front and rear suspension (geometry, components, adjustment), steering system, braking system (front discs, rear drums), wheel alignment.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, ignition system, charging system (alternator/generator), starting system, lighting, gauges, horn, fuse box.
Fuel And Emissions:
Carburetor systems (likely Hitachi/Mikuni variants for the 12A), fuel pump, fuel lines, emission control systems relevant to the era.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass, interior trim, seat removal, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems.
Engine Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, assembly, and rebuilding, including apex seal replacement, rotor housing inspection, and peripheral port timing.
Transmission Service:
Transmission removal, disassembly, inspection of gears and synchros, reassembly, and fluid change procedures.
Brake Service:
Brake pad/shoe replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder overhaul, brake fluid flushing and bleeding, parking brake adjustment.
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, shock absorber/strut replacement, power steering system checks and repairs (if equipped).
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common electrical faults, including testing components and tracing wiring issues using provided diagrams.
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostics with step-by-step troubleshooting guides and fault code interpretation (where applicable).
Repair Scope:
Covers everything from routine maintenance and adjustments to complete engine rebuilds and major component overhauls.
Diagrams And Illustrations:
High-quality diagrams and exploded views illustrating component locations, assembly sequences, and repair procedures.
Printability:
Full Printable
Zoom Capability:
YES (Zoom IN/OUT)
Binding:
Digital Download (no physical binding)
Paper Type:
Digital (N/A - printable on user's preferred paper type)
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader & WinZip (for potential file extraction if zipped, though PDF is primary)
Operating Systems:
Compatible with All Versions of Windows & Mac
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel)
Engine Code:
12A (likely variations for different market/emission standards)
Displacement:
1.16 L (approx. 67.4 cu in) per rotor housing, total effective displacement often quoted around 1.3 L for twin-rotor configurations.
Horsepower Range:
Typically 100-130 hp depending on specific market tune and emissions equipment.
Torque Range:
Approximately 110-130 lb-ft, delivered smoothly due to rotary design.
Carburetion:
Twin-throat downdraft carburetors (e.g., Hitachi, Mikuni) are common for the 12A engine. Details on specific carburetor models and tuning included.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (as emissions regulations evolved during this period).
Apex Seals:
Critical wear component; manual will detail inspection, replacement procedures, and lubrication recommendations.
Cooling System:
Radiator, hoses, water pump, thermostat, and coolant specifications. Rotary engines require precise temperature management.
Lubrication System:
Oil pump, oil filter part numbers, oil capacity, and API service recommendations. Details on oil injection systems for apex seals.
Transmission Type:
Likely a 4-speed manual transmission as standard, with potential 5-speed upgrades available in later models or aftermarket.
Transmission Type:
Optional 3-speed automatic transmission was available on some models.
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios for manual and automatic transmissions will be detailed, allowing for performance analysis and maintenance.
Clutch System:
Single-plate dry clutch. Manual covers clutch disc replacement, pressure plate, release bearing, and flywheel inspection.
Fluid Type And Capacity:
Specifications for transmission fluid (e.g., GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil) and differential fluid, along with required capacities, will be provided.
Crash Safety Era:
As the vehicles are from the 1970s, modern crash safety ratings (like NHTSA or IIHS) are not directly applicable. However, the manual will likely cover structural integrity checks.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. Details on brake pad/shoe specifications and material types are expected.
Seatbelts:
Information on seatbelt inspection, adjustment, and replacement procedures will be included.
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio, possibly with an 8-track player or cassette option depending on trim and market. Manual may cover radio removal and speaker replacement.
Instrument Cluster:
Includes tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, and oil pressure warning light. Manual covers gauge cluster diagnostics.
Lighting System:
Halogen headlights (depending on market regulations), taillights, turn signals, interior lighting. Manual provides bulb specifications and troubleshooting.
Oil And Filter Change:
Typical intervals around 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 6 months, though the manual will provide exact OEM recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Specific types and replacement intervals for the rotary engine's ignition system will be detailed. Two spark plugs per rotor housing.
Coolant Flush:
Standard coolant flush and replacement intervals, likely every 2 years or 30,000 miles.
Engine Oil:
Specific viscosity grade (e.g., 10W-30 or 20W-50) and API classification (e.g., SF or SG) as per era standards. Critical for apex seal lubrication.
Transmission Fluid:
Manual transmission: GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil. Automatic transmission: Dexron-II (or equivalent).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual will specify procedure for bleeding the system.
Apex Seal Wear:
Common issue with older rotaries; manual provides inspection and replacement guidance.
Carburetor Tuning:
Sensitivity to vacuum leaks and proper adjustment of fuel/air mixture. Manual covers calibration procedures.
Cooling System Overheating:
Rotary engines generate heat differently; manual will detail fan clutch, radiator condition, and thermostat checks.
Rotary Pioneering:
Mazda's commitment to rotary engine technology is a hallmark of this era, with the RX-2 and RX-3 being key early models in its adoption.
Design Philosophy:
These models represented Mazda's push into sporty, compact vehicles utilizing unique rotary powerplants. The RX-3 (Savanna) was the successor and evolution of the RX-2 (Capella).
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Production Years:
RX-2: 1970-1974, RX-3: 1971-1978. The manual covers the overlap period.
