🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-7

Generation Code:

FC

Generation Name:

Second Generation

Series Covered Early:

Series 4

Years Covered Early:

1986-1988

Series Covered Late:

Series 5

Years Covered Late:

1989-1991

Chassis Codes:

FC3S (Coupe), FC3C (Convertible)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Mazda RX-7 FC generation represented a significant evolution in sports car design and performance, particularly known for its rotary engine technology and sharp handling. It competed in a segment with iconic cars like the Nissan 300ZX, Toyota Supra, and Porsche 944.

Competitive Analysis:

The RX-7 FC offered a unique proposition with its lightweight rotary engine, providing a smooth power delivery and distinct character compared to its piston-engined competitors. Its front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout was classic sports car DNA, further enhanced by excellent chassis tuning.

Key Features:

Rotary engine, advanced suspension geometry (DTSS - Dynamic Stability Suspension System), sleek aerodynamic design, optional turbocharging, driver-focused cockpit.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Full vehicle service and repair

Page Count:

Over 1000++ pages

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

General Information, Scheduled Maintenance, Engine, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Fuel System, Emissions Control Systems, Engine Electrical Systems, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Propeller Shaft, Front Axle, Rear Axle, Steering Systems, Braking Systems, Wheels & Tires, Suspension, Body, Special Tools, Technical Data, Wiring Diagrams

Engine Mechanical:

Complete engine overhaul, rotary specific components, seals, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition timing, engine diagnostics.

Transmission And Drivetrain:

Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, clutch assembly, propeller shaft, driveshafts, differential.

Procedures Included:

Maintenance procedures, diagnostic troubleshooting, repair procedures, component removal and installation, specifications, adjustments, torque values, wiring schematics

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common issues, electrical system troubleshooting, engine performance problems.

Repair Procedures:

Detailed instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation, including torque specifications and special tool usage.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level diagnostics and repair, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts

Chassis And Body:

Suspension components (front and rear), steering system, braking system, wheels, tires, body panels, interior trim, electrical systems, HVAC.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

High-resolution PDF, likely searchable text content

Print Quality:

Designed for clear reproduction, suitable for printing key sections or the entire manual

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

1.3L (1308cc) Rotary Engine (13B)

Engine Code:

13B

Horsepower Na:

Approx. 160-170 hp (Series 4 NA), 178 hp (Series 5 NA)

Torque Na:

Approx. 130-140 lb-ft (Series 4 NA), 145 lb-ft (Series 5 NA)

Horsepower Turbo:

Approx. 182 hp (Series 4 Turbo), 200 hp (Series 5 Turbo)

Torque Turbo:

Approx. 190-200 lb-ft (Series 4 Turbo), 203 lb-ft (Series 5 Turbo)

Rotor Housing Design:

Two-rotor, naturally aspirated or turbocharged

Apex Seals:

Critical wear component, subject to specific service and maintenance requirements

Redline:

Approx. 7,000 RPM for NA, 7,500 RPM for Turbo models.

Fuel System Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for all models. Turbocharged models feature Twin Sequential Port Fuel Injection.

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with twin ignition coils for each rotor (leading and trailing plugs).

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission

Optional Transmission:

4-speed automatic transmission

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated, single dry plate

Differential:

Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) often standard on Turbo models and optional on others.

Gear Ratios Manual Approx:

First: 3.48, Second: 2.02, Third: 1.33, Fourth: 1.00, Fifth: 0.79 (typical for Series 5 Turbo manual)

📐 Dimensions

Length Coupe:

Approx. 4,375 mm (172.2 in)

Width Coupe:

Approx. 1,690 mm (66.5 in)

Height Coupe:

Approx. 1,295 mm (51.0 in)

Length Convertible:

Approx. 4,375 mm (172.2 in)

Width Convertible:

Approx. 1,690 mm (66.5 in)

Height Convertible:

Approx. 1,280 mm (50.4 in)

Curb Weight Approx:

1,250 - 1,400 kg (2,750 - 3,080 lbs), depending on model and equipment

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,430 mm (95.7 in)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 135 mm (5.3 in), varies slightly by suspension setup.

Track Width Front:

Approx. 1,435 mm (56.5 in)

Track Width Rear:

Approx. 1,430 mm (56.3 in)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

Specific crash test ratings from this era are less standardized than modern tests. However, the FC RX-7 was designed with crumple zones and reinforced safety structures common for its time.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was optional or standard on higher trims, particularly Turbo models. Rear-wheel drive configuration.

Passive Safety Features:

Three-point seat belts, padded interior surfaces, potentially driver-side airbag (optional/later models).

Seat Belts:

3-point inertia reel seatbelts

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic analog gauges, AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional premium sound systems available. HVAC controls.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by era; primary focus on chassis dynamics and driver feedback. ABS was the main advanced electronic aid.

Connectivity:

No modern connectivity features (Bluetooth, USB, etc.) as standard.

Engine Management System:

ECU-controlled fuel injection and ignition timing. Turbocharged models feature a boost control system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Rotary engines often benefit from more frequent changes.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Specific intervals for leading and trailing plugs, crucial for rotary engine health. Refer to manual for exact mileage.

Timing Belt Replacement:

N/A - Rotary engines do not have timing belts; they use a timing chain or gears.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 is commonly recommended. Consult manual for specific viscosity and approvals. Rotary engines require specific oil formulations and often a separate oil metering system.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to manual for specific Mazda coolant recommendation.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. High-performance synthetic recommended.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Gear oil, typically SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 GL-4 or GL-5. Check manual for specific recommendation.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron-III or equivalent ATF. Refer to manual for specific Mazda ATF type.

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron-II or equivalent ATF. Refer to manual for specific Mazda recommendation.

Common Issues:

Apex seal wear (due to heat and lubrication, especially if poorly maintained), oil seal leaks (front/rear main seals), vacuum hose degradation, alternator bearing failure, thermal reactor clogging (pre-catalyst on some models), fuel injector issues, ignition system component failures.

Rotary Specific Maintenance:

Proper break-in procedure for new or rebuilt rotary engines is crucial. Regular inspection of exhaust system for heat-related damage. Monitoring of oil injection system for proper function.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mazda has a long history of producing innovative and engaging vehicles, with a particular niche carved out by its rotary engine sports cars, starting with the RX-7 line.

Model Evolution:

The FC generation succeeded the original SA/FB RX-7 and introduced a more aerodynamic and refined design, influenced by the Porsche 944. It offered significant upgrades in chassis dynamics, engine power (especially with turbocharging), and overall sophistication.

Production Years:

1985-1992 (globally), with the FC generation covering 1985-1991 model years.

Production Locations:

Japan

Model Variants:

Base Coupe, GT Coupe, Turbo Coupe, Convertible (FC3C), Convertible Turbo.