Market Positioning:
The Mazda RX-7 (FD) is a legendary halo sports car, renowned for its distinctive styling, lightweight chassis, and advanced rotary engine technology. It targeted performance enthusiasts seeking a unique driving experience.
Key Competitors:
Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (JZA80), Mitsubishi 3000GT (Z16A), Porsche 968.
Selling Points:
Twin-rotor 13B-REW engine with sequential twin-turbocharging, balanced chassis, exquisite handling, advanced aerodynamics, iconic design.
Intended Users:
RX-7 owners, mechanics specializing in rotary engines, automotive restoration enthusiasts, performance tuning shops.
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Management, Fuel System, Ignition System, Emission Control, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Clutch, Driveshafts, Differential, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front & Rear), ABS, Body Electrical, Lighting, HVAC, Interior Trim, Exterior Body Panels, Chassis Components
Estimated Page Count:
1500-2500 (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)
Manual Type:
Workshop Service & Repair Manual
Format:
PDF (Digital Download)
Powertrain:
Comprehensive coverage of the rotary engine (13B-REW), twin-turbo system, fuel injection, ignition, lubrication, cooling, and exhaust systems. Detailed sections on manual and automatic transmissions, clutch assembly, driveshafts, and rear differential.
Engine Repair:
Engine disassembly, inspection, overhaul, reassembly procedures. Apex seal replacement, rotor housing lapping, eccentric shaft balancing, oil injection system service.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common fault identification and correction, electrical system diagnostics, engine performance issues, starting problems, drivability concerns.
Drivetrain Repair:
Transmission removal and installation, clutch replacement, flywheel resurfacing, driveshaft universal joint replacement, differential fluid service and bearing adjustment.
Suspension Steering Brakes:
Strut and shock absorber replacement, bushing replacement, ball joint inspection, wheel bearing replacement, power steering pump and rack service, brake caliper overhaul, rotor replacement, ABS system bleeding and component replacement.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, component testing procedures, fuse and relay identification, starter motor and alternator service, instrument cluster repair, lighting system troubleshooting.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and component overhauls. Includes detailed torque specifications, diagnostic procedures, and specialized tool requirements.
Print Quality:
High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or sections. Clear diagrams and legible text.
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Searchability:
Searchable text content within the PDF for quick access to specific information.
Accessibility:
Downloadable via a provided link after purchase, allowing for offline access.
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel)
Displacement:
1308 cc (654 cc per rotor)
Configuration:
Twin-Rotor, Twin-Turbocharged
Horsepower Early Models:
255 hp @ 6500 rpm
Horsepower Late Models:
280 hp @ 6500 rpm (Series 7/8)
Torque:
295 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (early models); 317 lb-ft @ 5500 rpm (late models)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection with sequential turbocharging control.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Oil Type Recommendation:
Fully Synthetic SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (Mazda recommends specific rotary oils)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 8.5 Liters (2.25 Gallons)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (Mazda recommends a specific coolant formulation)
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual (R5M-A)
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic (430LE)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated, multi-plate dry clutch
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 75W-80 Synthetic Gear Oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mazda ATF (Dexron III/Mercon compatible)
Safety Ratings General:
As a sports car of its era, the RX-7's primary safety focus was on active safety (handling, braking). Passive safety features include seatbelts and basic structural integrity.
Braking System:
Ventilated disc brakes front and rear. ABS was standard on most models, especially later ones.
Suspension Handling:
Double wishbone front suspension, multi-link rear suspension designed for exceptional balance and grip.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags became standard in later model years.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners.
Original Infotainment:
Basic AM/FM/Cassette stereo, optional CD player. Sound systems were functional but not a primary focus compared to driving dynamics.
Driver Assistance Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was a key technological feature for enhanced braking control.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era. Primarily focused on analog systems. No modern connectivity options like Bluetooth or USB were factory-equipped.
ECU Technology:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) managed fuel injection, ignition timing, and sequential turbocharger operation. Early ECUs were less sophisticated by modern standards but were advanced for their time.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Rotary engines require more frequent oil changes and attention to oil level.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles. RX-7s typically use two spark plugs per rotor (a leading and trailing plug).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or annually.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.9 Liters (5.2 US Quarts) with filter.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF (Dexron III/Mercon compatible)
Rotary Engine Wear:
Apex seal wear and housing damage due to improper maintenance, overheating, or detonation. Requires careful monitoring of oil levels and coolant temperature.
Sequential Turbo System:
Failure of the solenoids or actuators controlling the sequential turbochargers can lead to performance issues. Intercooler piping leaks are also common.
Oil Injection System:
Blockage or failure of the oil metering pump (OMP) can lead to insufficient lubrication of the apex seals.
Cooling System Reliability:
Aging hoses and the tendency for the rotary engine to run hotter can lead to coolant leaks or overheating if not meticulously maintained.
Mazda Rotary History:
Mazda is the sole major manufacturer to successfully mass-produce and develop rotary engines, starting with the Cosmo.
Previous Generations:
SA22C (1978–1985) and FC3S (1985–1992). The FD generation represented a significant leap in design, engineering, and performance.
Production Years:
1992-2002
Manufacturing Location:
Mazda's Hofu Plant, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan
Series Distinction:
The FD RX-7 was produced in several 'Series' updates (Series 6, 7, 8), with notable improvements in engine management, suspension tuning, and styling.
Car And Driver Awards:
Car and Driver's Ten Best list multiple times during its production run.
Road And Track Features:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, handling, and unique rotary powerplant.
Enthusiast Recognition:
Widely considered one of the greatest sports cars of the 1990s, with a dedicated global enthusiast following.
