🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-2 / RX2 / 616

Alias Models:

Capella Rotary, Capella 1600

Chassis Codes:

S102A, S122A (Rotary); LA2, LA2VS (1600)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Mazda RX-2/616 represented Mazda's entry into the compact and subcompact segments with innovative rotary engine technology, aiming to offer performance and refinement distinct from its piston-engined competitors. This manual targets owners and mechanics of a classic Japanese performance car.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against vehicles like the Datsun 1200/1600, Toyota Corolla, and Nissan Sunny. Its unique selling proposition was the rotary engine, offering smoother operation and a distinct performance characteristic. This manual is essential for maintaining these unique attributes.

Key Features:

Focus on the rotary engine's specific maintenance and repair needs, comprehensive coverage of both rotary and piston variants, detailed electrical schematics, and factory-level repair procedures.

Target Audience:

Owners of classic Mazda RX-2, RX2, 616, Capella Rotary, and Capella 1600 vehicles, independent repair shops specializing in Japanese classics, and automotive enthusiasts undertaking restoration projects.

Rarity:

Designated as 'RARE', indicating that original workshop manuals for these specific Mazda models are difficult to find and highly sought after by collectors and restorers.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Comprehensive workshop and repair procedures for the Mazda RX-2, RX2, 616, Capella Rotary, and Capella 1600 models.

Page Count:

Exact page count not specified, but described as 'ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW MANUAL', indicating a comprehensive volume.

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely printed publication, given the 'RARE' descriptor, but potentially available digitally by some sellers.

Completeness:

A comprehensive 'ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW MANUAL' suggests it covers all major systems and repair procedures for the covered models and engine variants.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine (Rotary 13B-R, 12A, and 1600cc piston), Fuel System (Carburetor and potentially early fuel injection), Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Clutch, Transmission (Manual and Automatic), Drive Shaft, Differential, Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering System, Braking System (Drum and Disc variants), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Accessories), Bodywork and Trim, Chassis Components, Troubleshooting, and Specifications.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, tune-ups, engine overhaul (including rotor housing, apex seals, oil seals, eccentric shaft), carburetor adjustment and rebuilding, ignition timing, cooling system service, clutch replacement, transmission rebuild, differential service, suspension component replacement, steering linkage repair, brake caliper and wheel cylinder servicing, electrical diagnostics and repair, body panel alignment, body repair techniques, and detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners.

Technical Depth:

Detailed diagnostic procedures, step-by-step repair instructions for complex components, overhaul procedures for major assemblies, electrical troubleshooting charts, and comprehensive data for accurate repairs and adjustments. Suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.

Troubleshooting:

Extensive troubleshooting guides for common drivability issues, starting problems, electrical faults, and performance issues specific to both rotary and piston engines. Includes diagnostic charts and symptom-based troubleshooting.

Body And Trim:

Procedures for interior trim removal/installation, door panel repair, window regulator service, seat adjustment, exterior trim replacement, and minor bodywork corrections.

Chassis Components:

Details on chassis lubrication points, suspension arm and bushing replacement, shock absorber service, steering rack and linkage repair, and exhaust system maintenance.

Wiring Diagrams:

High-quality, detailed wiring diagrams illustrating the entire electrical system, crucial for troubleshooting and repairs.

Engine Overhaul:

Detailed procedures for complete engine disassembly, inspection, cleaning, component replacement (including seals, bearings, gaskets), and reassembly. Specific to both rotary and piston engines.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

N/A (Assumed printed copy)

Print Quality:

Typically original factory or high-quality reproduction print.

Binding Type:

Likely stitched or perfect bound for durability in a workshop environment.

Paper Type:

Durable paper stock, suitable for workshop use.

Accessibility:

Crucial for maintaining the unique rotary technology and for any restoration work on these classic Japanese vehicles.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

Mazda 13B-R Rotary Engine (Twin Rotor)

Secondary Engine:

Mazda 12A Rotary Engine (Twin Rotor) and Mazda 1.6L (1590cc) inline-four piston engine (for Capella 1600 models).

Performance Rotary:

13B-R: Approx. 120-130 hp (SAE Gross), 12A: Approx. 100-110 hp (SAE Gross). Torque figures vary by specific tuning and emissions equipment.

Performance Piston:

1.6L (1590cc): Approx. 80-90 hp (SAE Gross).

Fuel System:

Primarily downdraft two-barrel carburetors (e.g., Hitachi, Solex variants). Early fuel injection may be present on some later rotary models. The manual covers carburetor tuning, rebuilding, and fuel system diagnostics.

Rotary Specifics:

Critical information on apex seals, side seals, oil metering system, apex seal groove maintenance, port timing, and specific lubrication requirements for rotary engines.

Engine Codes Rotary:

13B-R (3-port, 2-barrel carb), potentially earlier 12A variants.

Engine Codes Piston:

Various codes for the 1.6L engine, often related to the 'E' series (e.g., EGI).

Torque Figures Rotary:

Specific torque values for rotor housing bolts, spark plugs, and ancillary components will be listed, critical for proper rotary engine assembly.

Ignition System:

Contact breaker points ignition system (early models) or electronic ignition (later models). Manual covers dwell angle, timing, spark plug specification, and component replacement.

Cooling System:

Pressurized cooling system with radiator, fan (mechanical), water pump, thermostat, and hoses. Manual covers flushing, leak testing, and component replacement.

Lubrication System:

Engine oil sump, oil pump, oil filter. Rotary engines also have a separate oil injection system for apex and side seals. Manual details oil capacities and checks.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Rotary:

4-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Rotary:

3-speed or 4-speed Automatic Transmission (Mazda 'AT' or similar)

Standard Piston:

4-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Piston:

3-speed Automatic Transmission

Features:

Manual transmission overhaul, clutch assembly service, automatic transmission diagnostics and fluid service, driveshaft and U-joint maintenance, rear axle and differential inspection and fluid changes.

Clutch Type:

Dry single-plate clutch (mechanical or hydraulic actuation depending on specific model year and variant).

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Coupe:

Length: ~4200-4300 mm, Width: ~1600-1650 mm, Height: ~1350-1400 mm (Varies by body style: Coupe, Sedan, Hardtop)

Exterior Sedan:

Length: ~4200-4300 mm, Width: ~1600-1650 mm, Height: ~1380-1430 mm

Wheelbase:

~2400-2450 mm

Weights:

Curb Weight: ~950-1100 kg (depending on engine and body style)

Track Width Front:

Approx. 1280-1300 mm

Track Width Rear:

Approx. 1270-1290 mm

Tire Sizes:

Common sizes include 165SR13, 175/70SR13, 185/70HR13. Manual will provide specific recommendations for different models/trims.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

4x110 mm (Common for Mazda of this era)

🛡️ Safety Features

Ratings:

No formal crash test ratings available from modern organizations (e.g., NHTSA, IIHS) due to the era of production. Safety features reflect 1970s standards.

Active Features:

Front Disc Brakes (standard on most rotary models, optional on 1600), Rear Drum Brakes. Serviceable steering and braking systems detailed.

Passive Features:

Seat belts (lap belts standard, some later models may have inertia reel belts), reinforced body structure for the era. The manual covers body panel repair and alignment.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player or tuner. Manual covers radio removal, installation, and basic electrical connections.

Driver Assistance:

None by modern standards. Focus is on mechanical and electrical systems.

Connectivity:

N/A

Electrical System:

12-volt negative ground system. Includes detailed wiring diagrams for lighting, ignition, charging system (alternator), starting system, gauges, and accessories. Manual covers troubleshooting and repair of common electrical faults.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals Rotary:

Oil Change: Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months. Air Filter: Inspect every 6,000 miles, replace as needed. Spark Plugs: Inspect/replace every 15,000-20,000 miles. Coolant Flush: Every 2 years. **Critical:** Regular checks of oil level and addition of 2-stroke oil to fuel tank (if equipped with older oil injection systems) or manual pre-mix. Apex seal and oil seal life is a critical wear item, requiring careful monitoring and rebuilds at higher mileages (e.g., 80,000-150,000 miles depending on usage and maintenance).

Service Intervals Piston:

Oil Change: Every 3,000-5,000 miles. Air Filter: Inspect every 6,000 miles. Spark Plugs: Inspect/replace every 20,000-30,000 miles. Coolant Flush: Every 2 years. Standard piston engine maintenance applies.

Fluid Specifications Engine Oil:

Rotary: SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 for general use. Special rotary engine oil for the oil injection system (if applicable). Piston: SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40. Consult manual for specific API ratings.

Fluid Specifications Coolant:

Ethylene glycol based coolant. Capacity approximately 5-6 liters. Manual specifies mixture ratio (e.g., 50/50).

Fluid Specifications Transmission:

Manual: GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90). Automatic: Dexron-II or equivalent (check specific type).

Fluid Specifications Differential:

GL-5 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 80W-90). Capacity approximately 1.2-1.5 liters.

Known Issues Rotary:

Apex seal wear, oil seal degradation, carbon buildup in rotor housings, oil consumption, and potential overheating if cooling system is neglected. The manual addresses diagnosis and repair of these common rotary ailments.

Known Issues Piston:

Typical issues for a 1970s 1.6L engine, such as carburetor tuning, ignition component wear, and potential rust issues common to vehicles of this era.

Filter Part Numbers:

Specific part numbers for oil filters (e.g., Mann W112, Fram PH8A equivalent), air filters, and fuel filters will be detailed in the manual. Example: Oil filter equivalent might be a common spin-on filter with a widely available cross-reference.

Tune Up Procedures:

Detailed steps for ignition timing adjustment (using timing light), carburetor idle speed and mixture adjustment, spark plug gap setting, and distributor cap/rotor inspection.

Brake Specifications:

Front discs (ventilated or solid depending on application), rear drums. Manual covers brake pad/shoe replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder rebuilding, brake fluid flushing, and adjustment procedures.

Part Numbers General:

While not explicitly listed, the manual would typically contain references or diagrams allowing identification of specific parts for ordering.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mazda, known for its pioneering work with the Wankel rotary engine, introduced the Capella series as a significant model in its lineup during the 1970s. The RX-2 was a key variant showcasing the rotary's potential.

Model Evolution:

The RX-2 (and its Capella counterparts) was part of Mazda's 'new generation' of rotary-powered vehicles following the successful RX-3. It offered a more refined and larger chassis than its predecessor, available in coupe and sedan body styles. The '616' designation often referred to the piston-engined variants.

Production:

Produced from 1970 to 1978. The RX-2 specifically ran from 1970 to 1974, after which the rotary models in this chassis were typically badged as RX-3 or later RX-7. The Capella platform continued with piston engines for longer.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The Mazda rotary engine itself received significant automotive press acclaim for its innovation and performance potential during this era, contributing to the appeal of models like the RX-2.

Ratings:

Consumer and automotive publication ratings from the 1970s would likely highlight performance and handling for the rotary variants, while praising the practicality of the piston models.

Certifications:

N/A