Target Audience:
Professional automotive technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts
Value Proposition:
Provides expert-level technical data essential for maintaining and repairing a classic Mazda rotary vehicle, mirroring factory service information.
Comprehensiveness:
Covers all major repair topics from A-Z for all models and trims within the specified years.
Format Benefit:
Easy-to-read PDF format enhances usability and accessibility for digital users.
Covered Models:
All RX-4 models (sedan, coupe, and potentially wagon if applicable within the timeframe)
Covered Trim Levels:
All available trim levels for the 1975-1977 model years
Estimated Page Count:
Likely 500+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)
Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Engine:
Rotary engine (12A) diagnosis, repair, overhaul, timing, lubrication, cooling, emissions control
Fuel System:
Carburetor (likely Hitachi or similar), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank servicing
Transmission:
Manual transmission (4-speed, 5-speed), automatic transmission (TorqueFlite derivative) repair, clutch system, driveshaft, differentials
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake, brake fluid specifications
Suspension:
Front independent suspension (struts/coil springs), rear leaf springs/live axle, steering system, wheel alignment specifications
Electrical System:
Ignition system (distributor, points, coil), charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, gauges, wiring diagrams, fuse box
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant specifications, fan operation
Exhaust System:
Manifold, catalytic converter (if applicable for market), muffler, pipes, emission control routing
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, glass replacement, door mechanisms, body repair procedures
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid level checks, lubrication points
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting for engine, electrical, and mechanical issues
Repair:
Component-level repair and overhaul for all major systems
Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for engine (rotary) rebuild and transmission overhaul
Installation:
Procedures for replacing major components and accessories
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel)
Displacement:
1146 cc (2 x 573 cc rotors)
Rotor Housing Design:
Single-rotor housing with trochoidal shape
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 90-110 hp (depending on market and emissions controls)
Torque Range:
Approximately 100-115 lb-ft
Carburetor Type:
Likely twin-choke downdraft carburetor (e.g., Hitachi DCAS series)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (depending on market regulations)
Cooling Method:
Water-cooled
Oil Type Recommendation:
API SF or SG service classification, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (refer to manual for exact specification)
Emissions Features:
Likely includes air injection system, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), and potentially early catalytic converter technology.
Transmission Type Std:
4-speed manual
Transmission Type Opt:
3-speed automatic (likely a derivative of Chrysler's TorqueFlite)
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate clutch
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios for manual and automatic transmissions will be detailed in the manual.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (verify with manual)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent (verify with manual)
Body Styles:
2-door Coupe, 4-door Sedan
Wheelbase Coupe:
Approx. 98.0 inches (2489 mm)
Wheelbase Sedan:
Approx. 100.8 inches (2560 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2500-2800 lbs (1134-1270 kg), varying by body style and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Specific GVWR will be listed in manual or vehicle data plate.
Crash Test Data:
No standardized crash test ratings like NHTSA/IIHS existed for this era. Manual will cover passive safety features of the time.
Braking System Type:
Front disc, rear drum
Parking Brake Type:
Mechanical lever operating rear brakes
Seat Belts:
Standard lap and shoulder belts (front), lap belts (rear)
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column (design varies by market and specific year)
Body Construction:
Unit-body construction with crumple zones (early design principles)
Radio System:
Likely analog AM/FM radio, possibly with an 8-track player or cassette deck as optional equipment.
Gauges And Instruments:
Full complement of analog gauges including speedometer, tachometer, fuel, temperature, and oil pressure.
ABS Availability:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was not available on this model.
Cruise Control:
Optional on some models, typically a vacuum-operated system.
Modern Connectivity:
No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB.
Engine Oil Change:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (refer to manual for specific intervals based on driving conditions).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Intervals vary based on plug type; consult manual for recommended schedule and specifications.
Rotor Apex Seal Check:
Not a scheduled item, but wear is indicated by compression loss; manual will detail compression testing procedures.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (verify specific recommendation in manual).
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF DEXRON II or equivalent if equipped with power steering.
Rotary Engine Apex Seals:
Wear of apex seals is a common concern with rotary engines, leading to decreased compression and performance if not addressed.
Carburetor Tuning:
Carburetors can require periodic adjustment and cleaning due to age and component wear.
Chassis Rust:
As with many vehicles from this era, susceptibility to rust in critical structural areas and body panels can be a concern depending on climate and care.
Ignition System Wear:
Points, condenser, and distributor components can wear out, affecting ignition timing and performance.
Mazda Rotary Pioneering:
Mazda's commitment to rotary engine technology, starting with the Cosmo and Familia Rotary.
Predecessor Successor:
RX-4 was a significant step in Mazda's rotary-powered passenger car lineup, bridging the gap between earlier models and the iconic RX-7.
Design Language:
Reflected contemporary styling trends of the mid-1970s, with a focus on sporty yet practical design.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Market Introduction:
Introduced in 1972 in Japan as the Mazda Luce AP (Associated Press) rotary, marketed as RX-4 in export markets from 1973/1974 onwards.