🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-7

Model Generation:

FC3S

Model Years Covered:

1989, 1990, 1991

Chassis Code:

FC3S

Engine Code Primary:

13B-T

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Sports Car / Grand Tourer

Brand Image:

Mazda's rotary-powered icon, known for its unique engineering and performance characteristics.

Key Competitors:

Toyota Supra (MkIII), Nissan 300ZX (Z31), Chevrolet Corvette (C4), Porsche 944.

Rotary Engine Advantage:

Smooth operation, high power-to-weight ratio, compact size, and distinctive engine note.

Handling Dynamics:

Well-balanced chassis, independent suspension, and rear-wheel drive contributing to exceptional handling.

Design Aesthetics:

Sleek, aerodynamic coupe body style with pop-up headlights (a signature of the era).

Essential For Owners:

Crucial for maintaining the unique needs of the 13B-T engine and the performance-oriented systems of the RX-7.

Professional Resource:

Provides the same technical information used by factory-trained technicians.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Comprehensive maintenance, repair, diagnostics, and troubleshooting for the Mazda RX-7 FC generation (1989-1991).

Specific Systems Covered:

Engine (Rotary), Fuel System, Ignition System, Emission Control System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Intake System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Driveshaft, Differential, Axles, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front & Rear Disc), ABS, Body Electrical System, Lighting, HVAC, Interior & Exterior Trim, Body Panels, Wiring Diagrams.

Estimated Page Count:

~1500-2000 pages (typical for factory service manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Electronic (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair procedures for the 13B-T rotary engine, including apex seals, rotor housings, eccentric shafts, oil injection system, and rotor housings.

Engine Management:

Ignition timing, fuel injection control, sensor diagnostics (e.g., TPS, MAP, O2, coolant temp), EGI (Electronic Gasoline Injection) system, airflow sensor, idle control system.

Drivetrain:

Clutch operation and adjustment, manual transmission (M/T) disassembly, assembly, and repair; automatic transmission (A/T) diagnosis and component replacement; driveshaft U-joints, rear axle, and differential service.

Suspension Steering:

Front strut assembly, rear independent suspension, bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, power steering system (rack and pinion), wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes ABS:

Disc brake system components, hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) operation, sensor diagnostics, bleeding procedures, parking brake adjustment.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Extensive wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, component testing procedures, fuse and relay locations, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), ECU pinouts.

Maintenance Routine:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil change procedures, filter replacement, spark plug replacement (specific NGK types), coolant service, drive belt inspection and replacement.

Repair Engine:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for engine removal and installation, internal component rebuilding, turbocharger servicing, fuel injector cleaning and replacement.

Repair Transmission:

Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, synchro ring replacement, bearing replacement, torque converter service.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Systematic troubleshooting flowcharts for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems, fault code interpretation.

Body Chassis:

Door panel removal, seat adjustment, interior trim repair, bumper replacement, headlight adjustment, rust prevention and repair guidance.

Depth:

Factory-level diagnostic procedures, component specifications, torque values, clearances, and overhaul instructions. Suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages for on-the-job use.

Scan Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory documentation.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Rotary (Wankel)

Engine Code:

13B-T

Configuration:

Twin-Rotor, Naturally Aspirated & Turbocharged

Displacement:

1.3 L (654 cc x 2)

Bore Stroke Rotary:

Refer to manual for specific rotor dimensions

Horsepower Turbo:

200 hp @ 6500 rpm (Turbo II models)

Torque Turbo:

196 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (Turbo II models)

Horsepower Naturally Aspirated:

145 hp @ 6000 rpm (GT/GS models)

Torque Naturally Aspirated:

144 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (GT/GS models)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EGI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating per manual recommendations)

Fuel Pressure:

Refer to manual for specific specifications

Ignition System:

Electronic ignition with distributor (later models may have distributorless ignition)

Oil System:

Forced lubrication with dedicated oil injection system for apex seals and rotor bearings.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Turbo:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated, single dry plate clutch

Gear Ratios:

Refer to manual for specific gear ratios (e.g., M/T and A/T)

Transmission Fluid Spec:

Refer to manual for specific fluid type and capacity (e.g., Dexron III for A/T, GL-5 gear oil for M/T)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 4,365 mm (171.9 in)

Width:

Approximately 1,740 mm (68.5 in)

Height:

Approximately 1,295 mm (51.0 in)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2,430 mm (95.7 in)

Front Track:

Approximately 1,450 mm (57.1 in)

Rear Track:

Approximately 1,430 mm (56.3 in)

Curb Weight Turbo Mt:

Approximately 1,320 kg (2,910 lbs)

Curb Weight Naturally Aspirated:

Approximately 1,210 kg (2,668 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Refer to manual for specific GVWR

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approximately 60 Liters (15.9 US gal)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

Limited data available for this era; refer to specific governmental testing bodies if available.

ABS:

Available on higher trim levels and Turbo models.

Limited Slip Differential:

Available on performance-oriented models for improved traction.

Seatbelts:

3-point retractable seatbelts

Headlights:

Pop-up halogen headlights

Body Structure:

Reinforced chassis and safety cage for occupant protection.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player on later models. Speaker locations and wiring diagrams included.

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control systems. Manual covers HVAC component diagnosis and repair.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System available on select models, detailed diagnostic procedures in the manual.

Wiring Harnesses:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, aiding in diagnosis and repair of sensors, actuators, and control units.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 km (3,000 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for specific oil type and viscosity.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Refer to manual for specific interval and plug type (e.g., NGK W006-0018 / BPR8ES-11 or equivalent).

Coolant Replacement:

Refer to manual for recommended interval and coolant type (e.g., Mazda Long Life Coolant or equivalent).

Timing Belt Replacement:

N/A (Rotary engines do not have timing belts; they use timing chains or gears).

Engine Oil Type:

Refer to manual for specific viscosity and API rating (e.g., 10W-30 or 10W-40 API SG or higher).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Refer to manual for exact capacity (typically around 4.5-5.0 liters including filter).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Refer to manual (often ATF Dexron II or III)

Apex Seal Wear:

Premature wear can occur due to poor maintenance, overheating, or incorrect lubrication. Manual provides procedures for inspection and replacement.

Oil Consumption:

Rotary engines inherently consume some oil for lubrication. Manual details the function of the oil metering system and checks.

Turbocharger Reliability:

Early turbo models may experience turbo wear or seal failure if not properly maintained. Manual guides on turbo diagnostics and maintenance.

Thermal Management:

Overheating can be an issue for rotary engines; manual details cooling system maintenance and checks.

Vacuum Lines Aging:

Age-related deterioration of rubber vacuum hoses can lead to air leaks and drivability problems. Manual helps identify and replace these.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Rotary Legacy:

Mazda's pioneering commitment to the rotary engine, starting with the Cosmo and RX series.

Fc Generation Introduction:

Launched in 1985, replacing the SA22C (FB) generation. The 1989 model year saw significant updates, including enhanced turbocharging and revised styling.

Turbo Ii Introduction:

Introduced in 1987, the Turbo II variant significantly boosted performance and appeal.

End Of Production:

FC generation production concluded in 1991, succeeded by the FD generation RX-7.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Ten Best:

The RX-7 (FC generation) was recognized by Car and Driver as one of the Ten Best cars multiple times during its production run, particularly for its handling and performance.

Japan Car Of The Year:

While not winning the primary award, the RX-7 series has always been a benchmark in the Japanese sports car segment.