🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-7

Model Code:

FB Body (Second Generation)

Chassis Code:

SA22C (late production)

Generation:

Second Generation (FB)

Years Covered By Manual:

1984-1985

Engine Codes:

12A (Rotary)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Sports Car, Rear-Wheel Drive Coupe

Key Competitors:

Toyota Supra, Datsun 280ZX, Porsche 944, Chevrolet Camaro, Pontiac Firebird.

Unique Selling Points:

Rotary engine technology, distinctive styling, balanced chassis, lightweight construction, driver-focused cockpit.

Target Audience:

RX-7 owners, DIY mechanics, automotive enthusiasts, and restoration specialists seeking in-depth technical knowledge.

📋 Manual Details

Major Systems:

Engine Mechanical, Lubrication, Cooling, Control, Fuel, Exhaust, Accelerator Control, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Propeller Shaft, Rear Final Drive, Front Axle, Rear Axle, Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Brake System, Parking Brake, Brake Control, Steering Control, Seat Belts, SRS, Body, Locks, Security, Glass, Windows, Mirrors, Exterior, Interior, Instrument Panel, Seats, Air Conditioning, Starting, Charging, Lighting, Driver Information, Wiper, Washer, Horn, Body Control, LAN System, Audio Visual, Navigation, Telephone, Cruise Control, Power Supply, Ground, Circuit Elements, Maintenance

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (typical for comprehensive service manuals, often exceeding 1000 pages when considering all diagrams and data)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Comprehensive coverage of the 13B rotary engine, including disassembly, assembly, timing, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection (if applicable for the year/trim), ignition, and emissions control.

Drivetrain Systems:

Detailed information on the clutch, manual and automatic transmissions (including specific model numbers), propeller shaft, universal joints, rear differential, and axle assemblies.

Suspension And Steering:

Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, and the power steering system (if equipped).

Braking Systems:

Front and rear brake system diagnostics, repair, and maintenance, including disc and drum components, hydraulic systems, parking brake, and ABS (if applicable).

Electrical And Electronics:

Starting and charging systems, lighting, instrument panel, driver information systems, wiper/washer/horn, body control modules, LAN system diagnostics, audio-visual, navigation, telephone, and cruise control systems. Extensive wiring diagrams are typically included.

Body And Interior:

Body panel repair, lock and security systems, glass, windows, mirrors, exterior trim, interior components, seats, and air conditioning systems.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues, including diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) if electronically managed.

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, and inspection points.

Repair And Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major vehicle systems.

Technical Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, gap settings, fluid capacities, and electrical system data.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all systems, aiding in troubleshooting and repair of electrical faults.

Depth:

Expert-level detail, equivalent to factory dealership technician manuals, covering everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Compression Format:

RAR or ZIP (requires decompression software like 7-Zip, WinZip, or WinRAR)

Printability:

Printable (allows users to print sections or the entire manual)

Binding:

Not Applicable (Digital PDF)

Paper Quality:

Not Applicable (Digital PDF)

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

Required Software:

Adobe Acrobat Reader (or compatible PDF viewer) and a file decompression utility.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Rotary (Wankel) Engine

Engine Model:

12A

Displacement:

1146 cc (equivalent to approx. 2.3 L reciprocating engine displacement for tax/classification purposes)

Rotor Design:

Two-rotor

Induction System:

Naturally Aspirated (for most 1984-85 models, some later US models had EFI and turbochargers, but this manual likely focuses on the standard NA 12A)

Horsepower Approx:

100-135 HP (depending on specific market and emissions equipment)

Torque Approx:

110-125 lb-ft

Fuel Delivery:

Carburetor (typically twin-choke Hitachi or similar)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Oil Type Recommendation:

API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (specific viscosity may vary based on climate; consult manual for precise recommendations)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (typically 50/50 mix)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type:

3-Speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Fluid Spec:

Dexron III (or equivalent automatic transmission fluid - ATF) for automatic; manual transmission fluid (MTF) for manual (specific GL rating to be confirmed in manual).

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated, dry single-plate clutch

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 95.7 inches (2430 mm)

Length:

Approx. 167.7 inches (4260 mm)

Width:

Approx. 65.7 inches (1670 mm)

Height:

Approx. 49.8 inches (1265 mm)

Curb Weight Approx:

2500-2700 lbs (1134-1225 kg) depending on trim and transmission

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Approx:

3600 lbs (1633 kg)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

4x114.3 mm (4x4.5 inches)

Tire Size Standard:

185/70R14 or 195/60R14 (specifics may vary by trim)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

No standardized global crash test ratings (like NHTSA or Euro NCAP) were prevalent in the early 1980s as they are today. Refer to specific safety equipment and design principles described in the manual.

Braking System:

Front disc brakes, Rear drum brakes (some higher trims may have rear discs); Power assist for brakes.

Steering System:

Recirculating ball or Rack and Pinion (depending on specific model year/trim), Power steering often optional or standard on higher trims.

Seat Belts:

Three-point retractable seat belts for front occupants, lap belts for rear occupants.

Supplemental Restraint System:

SRS (Airbag) system was not standard or widely available on these early RX-7 models. The manual may cover its absence or early implementations if present on specific export models.

Body Construction:

Unibody construction with crumple zones designed to absorb impact energy.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional equalizer and amplifiers. Speaker configuration varies by trim.

Cruise Control:

Available as an option on certain trims, controlled via a stalk on the steering column.

Instrumentation:

Comprehensive analog gauges including tachometer, speedometer, oil pressure, water temperature, and voltage meter. Driver Information System for warnings and diagnostics.

Lan System:

The manual mentions a 'LAN System', which likely refers to internal vehicle network communication for electronic control units, common in more advanced vehicles of the era or specific models.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for precise mileage and time intervals).

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or at 30,000 miles.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 20,000-30,000 miles for standard plugs; specific interval for rotary plugs will be detailed in the manual.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check manual for exact specification).

Power Steering Fluid:

Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or specific power steering fluid as per manual.

Rear Differential Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 gear oil (check manual for precise specification and capacity).

Rotary Engine Apex Seals:

Degradation of apex seals due to poor lubrication, overheating, or detonation can lead to loss of compression and engine damage. Regular oil changes and proper engine operation are critical.

Carburetor Issues:

Carburetors can become clogged or misadjusted, leading to rough idling, poor fuel economy, or stalling. Rebuilding and tuning are common maintenance tasks.

Cooling System Maintenance:

Rotary engines can be sensitive to overheating. Ensuring the cooling system (radiator, hoses, thermostat, coolant) is in good condition is vital.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Origins:

Mazda Motor Corporation, a Japanese automaker, known for its engineering innovation, particularly in rotary engine technology.

First Generation Rx-7:

The RX-7 was first introduced in 1978 as a sporty coupe, succeeding the Mazda RX-3.

Second Generation Fb:

The FB generation (1978-1985) represented a significant update, moving towards a more refined and aerodynamic design, moving away from the earlier SA/FB designation to just FB for the latter half of its run.

Successor:

The RX-7 transitioned to the FC generation in 1986.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Import Car Of The Year:

The RX-7, in its first generation, received numerous accolades, including being named Motor Trend's Import Car of the Year for 1979.

Automotive Journal Reviews:

Consistently praised for its handling, styling, and unique rotary powertrain by automotive publications of its time.

Performance Credentials:

Successfully campaigned in various motorsports, solidifying its reputation as a capable sports car.