🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-3 Savanna

Year:

1975

Chassis Codes:

S102A, S124A, S133A, S134A

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Mazda RX-3 Savanna (often referred to simply as RX-3) was a compact sports car that represented Mazda's entry into a more performance-oriented segment during the 1970s, particularly known for its rotary engine technology. This manual targets owners and mechanics dedicated to maintaining these unique vehicles.

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts of classic Japanese sports cars, rotary engine aficionados, and owners/mechanics requiring in-depth service information for the Mazda RX-3 Savanna.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against other Japanese compact sports cars like the Datsun 240Z/260Z and Toyota Celica, as well as European offerings. Its key differentiator was the Wankel rotary engine, offering a distinct driving experience and engine characteristics.

Key Features:

Focus on rotary engine maintenance and repair, comprehensive electrical diagrams, detailed component illustrations, and step-by-step repair procedures.

Illustration Quality:

Hundreds of detailed illustrations, drawings, and photos.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All styles covered (Sedan, Coupe, potentially others)

Page Count:

More than 260 pages

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Manual Description:

Digital workshop service manual providing factory-level repair and maintenance information.

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Digital Delivery:

Instant download

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System, Cooling System, Fuel System, Ignition System, Lubrication System, Charging System, Starting System, Drive Shaft, Differential Case Assy, Clutch System, Manual Transaxle System, Brake System, Steering System, Suspension Systems (Front & Rear), Electrical System, Body Repair, Emission Control Systems, Supplemental Restraint System (if applicable to 1975 models, typically not), Wiper & Washer System, Lighting System, Heating & Air Conditioning (if equipped).

Electrical System Coverage:

Comprehensive coverage including wiring diagrams, component locations, troubleshooting for starting, charging, lighting, ignition, and accessory circuits.

Suspension And Steering:

Front: Independent with MacPherson struts. Rear: Live axle with leaf springs or coil springs and locating arms (depending on specific model/year variant). Steering: Recirculating ball, manual or power assisted (optional).

Body And Chassis:

Body panel alignment, rust repair, interior trim removal and installation, weatherstripping, glass replacement.

Procedures Included:

General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine Rebuild and Overhaul, Transmission Removal and Installation, Clutch Service, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering System Overhaul, Electrical System Diagnostics and Repair, Wiring Diagram Interpretation, Body Panel Repair, Interior Trim Service, Diagnostic Procedures, Component Disassembly and Reassembly.

Engine Repair Procedures:

Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, component replacement (e.g., seals, bearings, stationary gears), reassembly, and initial startup.

Brake System Procedures:

Front and rear brake pad/shoe replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder service, brake hose inspection and replacement, brake fluid bleeding.

Transmission Service:

Manual transmission fluid change, clutch adjustment, clutch disc and pressure plate replacement. Automatic transmission service (if equipped) includes fluid changes and filter replacement.

Technical Depth:

Complete, detailed, step-by-step instructions for all major repair and maintenance procedures, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics. Includes diagnostic charts, torque specifications, and component tolerances.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Platform Compatibility:

Windows & Mac & Linux

File Type:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-quality scans, printable pages without restrictions.

Searchability:

Searchable PDF text for quick information retrieval.

Binding Type:

Digital Download (No physical binding)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

Mazda 13B Rotary Engine (likely variants like 13A or 12A for earlier/specific models, but 13B is common for the period and name).

Engine Displacement:

Approx. 1.15 L (13A) to 1.3 L (13B) - actual displacement is measured in cubic centimeters for each rotor face, commonly cited as 1146cc for 13A and 1308cc for 13B.

Horsepower:

Varied by engine variant and tuning, typically ranging from 100-130 hp for naturally aspirated versions.

Torque:

Typically around 100-120 lb-ft.

Engine Layout:

Rotary, Two-Rotor (e.g., 13B)

Engine Cooling:

Water-cooled, with a prominent front radiator and fan system.

Carburetor Type:

Twin-choke downdraft carburetor (e.g., Hitachi DCZ or similar).

Ignition System:

Distributor-based ignition system with ignition coils and spark plugs.

Fuel System:

Carbureted (e.g., Hitachi, Solex twin-choke carburetors).

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed manual transmission.

Optional Transmission:

3-speed automatic transmission.

Features:

Manual transmission typically featured a rear-wheel drive layout with a solid rear axle or limited-slip differential on performance variants. Automatic transmission was less common but available.

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate clutch, hydraulically operated.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Coupe, Sedan, Hardtop Coupe.

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2400 mm (94.5 inches)

Track Width Front:

Approx. 1300 mm (51.2 inches)

Track Width Rear:

Approx. 1290 mm (50.8 inches)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2,200 - 2,500 lbs (1000 - 1135 kg) depending on body style and options.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

Not applicable for modern standardized crash testing; safety features were minimal by today's standards.

Active Features:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Optional limited-slip differential.

Front Brakes:

Ventilated Disc Brakes

Rear Brakes:

Drum Brakes

Passive Features:

Seat belts, padded dashboard, collapsible steering column (early designs).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic AM/FM radio, possibly an 8-track player or cassette deck in some later models or aftermarket installations. Simple dashboard instrumentation.

Driver Assistance Features:

None by modern standards. Relied on driver skill and basic vehicle dynamics.

🔧 Maintenance

Routine Maintenance Intervals:

Oil changes: every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months. Spark plugs: inspect every 10,000 miles. Rotary specific: Apex seal inspection and potential replacement at higher mileage (e.g., 60,000-100,000 miles). Coolant flush: every 2 years or 30,000 miles.

Ignition System Maintenance:

Spark plug inspection and adjustment every 10,000-15,000 miles. Distributor points and condenser service as needed.

Engine Oil:

API SG or SF rated oil, viscosity typically SAE 10W-30 or 20W-50 depending on climate. Rotary engines also require premix oil injection or a separate oil reservoir for lubrication of apex seals and rotor housings.

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity: ~6-7 liters.

Transmission Fluid:

Manual: GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil. Automatic: Dexron II or equivalent.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Differential Fluid:

API GL-5 SAE 80W-90 hypoid gear oil.

Known Issues:

Apex seal wear leading to compression loss, trailing and side seal wear, rotor housing scoring, oil seal degradation, overheating due to rotary engine's thermal characteristics, carburetor tuning challenges, potential for distributor issues. Sourcing of specific rotary parts can be difficult.

Cooling System Issues:

Radiator leaks, fan belt tension, thermostat failure, water pump seals.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mazda has a long history of innovation, famously pioneering the Wankel rotary engine in mass-produced vehicles, starting with the Cosmo Sport and continuing with models like the RX-2, RX-3, RX-4, and later the RX-7 and RX-8.

Model Evolution:

The RX-3 Savanna (introduced in 1971 as the Savanna in Japan and sold as RX-3 in export markets) was an evolution of Mazda's compact rotary-powered offerings, following the RX-2. It was known for its sporty handling and the distinctive sound and smoothness of its rotary engine. The 1975 model year represents a mid-cycle update or a specific trim level within the RX-3's production run.

Key Variants:

Offered in various body styles including a 2-door coupe and a 4-door sedan. Specific trim levels would dictate features and engine output.

Design Inspiration:

Shared platform and design elements with other Mazda rotary cars of the era, featuring a distinctive front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout with a sporty, compact profile.

Production Years:

1971-1978

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Japan.