Vehicle Segment:
Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive sports car, often considered a 'gentleman's sports car' with rotary sophistication.
Primary Competitors:
Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (Mk3), Porsche 944, Chevrolet Camaro/Pontiac Firebird (late models).
Unique Selling Proposition:
Wankel rotary engine offering a unique driving experience, balanced chassis, advanced styling for its era.
Manual Value Proposition:
Essential for owners and mechanics to maintain and repair the complex rotary engine and advanced systems of the RX-7 FC.
Engine Systems:
Rotary engine (13B-T), lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, forced induction (turbocharger operation and maintenance)
Drivetrain Systems:
Manual transmission (Type R, FS5C-W, G5M-R), automatic transmission (optional, L4T-EL), clutch system, driveshafts, differential, rear axle
Suspension And Steering:
Independent front and rear suspension (MacPherson struts front, multi-link rear), power steering system, steering column, wheel alignment specifications
Braking System:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) operation and diagnosis, parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, mirrors, central locking, audio system, ECU (Engine Control Unit) and sensor diagnostics
Body And Chassis:
Frame and body structure, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, convertible top mechanism (if applicable)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspection and replacement
Engine Repair:
Engine assembly/disassembly, apex seal replacement, rotor housing inspection, lubrication system service, turbocharger overhaul, fuel injector cleaning/replacement
Transmission Repair:
Transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, gear synchro service, drive axle seal replacement
Brake Service:
Brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper service, brake fluid bleeding, ABS component testing
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, troubleshooting faulty circuits, sensor testing and replacement, ECU flashing/diagnosis
Chassis And Body Repair:
Body panel alignment, rust repair, convertible top repair, interior component replacement
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting for common issues
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
In-depth diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, use of diagnostic tools
Component Rebuilds:
Detailed instructions for complete engine, transmission, and major component rebuilds
Specifications And Tolerances:
Precise torque values, clearances, and operating parameters for all components
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive and detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel) Twin-Rotor, Turbocharged
Displacement:
1.3 L (1308 cc), often referred to as 2.6 L equivalent (rotary displacement calculation)
Horsepower Hp:
200-210 hp (naturally aspirated 13B in earlier models, Turbo II) / 200 hp (early Turbo II) up to 210 hp (later Turbo II models) depending on year and market.
Torque Ft Lb:
194-203 lb-ft (Turbo II models)
Fuel Induction:
Fuel Injection (Electronic Fuel Injection - EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating specified by Mazda, typically 91+ recommended for optimal performance)
Cooling Type:
Liquid-cooled, dual-rotor design with specific cooling passages.
Oil Type Recommendation:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended for most conditions. Specific Mazda rotary oil is often preferred for its anti-squeal properties. Premixing 2-stroke oil is NOT recommended for the 13B-T in this generation.
Turbocharger Model:
Hitachi HT06 or similar twin-entry turbocharger on Turbo II models.
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (e.g., FS5C-W or G5M-R for later models)
Optional Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., L4T-EL)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated, single dry-plate clutch
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil often recommended for improved performance and longevity.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific recommendations based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on plug type (standard vs. platinum/iridium). Rotary plugs require specific gap and type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
This vehicle does NOT have a timing belt; it uses a timing chain or gears for the eccentric shaft.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mazda FL22 coolant is often recommended for later Mazda vehicles, but for this era, a high-quality conventional coolant is suitable. Manual will specify.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 compatible brake fluid
Apex Seal Wear:
The most critical known issue for rotary engines. Premature wear can lead to loss of compression. Proper maintenance, avoiding overheating, and careful break-in procedures are crucial.
Oiling System:
The fixed oil metering pump (OMP) is vital for lubricating the apex seals. Failure or clogging can lead to rapid seal wear. The manual details its maintenance and function.
Turbocharger Reliability:
While generally robust, turbochargers can be susceptible to oil starvation or extreme heat cycles if not properly maintained. Intercooler and plumbing should be checked for leaks.
Engine Cooling System:
Rotary engines generate heat differently than piston engines. Ensuring the cooling system is in excellent condition (radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses) is paramount to prevent overheating.
Vacuum Leaks:
Extensive vacuum lines are present. Leaks can cause poor idle, stumbling, and rich or lean running conditions. Thorough inspection and replacement of old hoses are often necessary.
Mazda Rotary Legacy:
Mazda's pioneering work with the Wankel rotary engine, dating back to the Cosmo Sport.
Fc Generation Development:
Successor to the SA22C (first generation RX-7), featuring a more modern design, independent rear suspension, and the introduction of the turbocharged 13B-T engine ('Turbo II' model).
Production Years:
1985-1992 (globally), specifically 1989-1992 for the covered years.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
