Basic Information Identification Make: Mazda Model: RX-2 / RX-3 Covered Years: 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978 Codes Chassis Codes: S102A (RX-2 Coupe), S124A (RX-2 Sedan), S108A (RX-3 Coupe), S124A (RX-3 Sedan/Wagon/Pickup) Introduction Market Position Positioning: The Mazda RX-2 and RX-3 were iconic rotary-powered sports compacts that challenged the automotive status quo of their era, offering unique performance and handling characteristics. This manual serves enthusiasts and mechanics looking to maintain or restore these classic vehicles. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Competed against compact sports cars and performance sedans from brands like Datsun (Nissan), Toyota, and various European manufacturers, often distinguished by its distinctive rotary engine. Key Features Engine Type: Rotary Wankel engine, a defining characteristic offering smooth operation and high RPM capability. Styling: Distinctive Japanese styling of the 1970s, available in coupe, sedan, and later wagon/pickup body styles (RX-3). Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual Language: English Format: PDF Download Page Count Estimated Page Count: Extensive (typically 500+ pages, varies by specific manual version) Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Rotary Engine (12A, 13B variants), engine overhaul, lubrication, cooling, fuel system (carburetor), ignition system, emission controls, engine mounting. Transmission: Manual Transmissions (4-speed, 5-speed), Automatic Transmissions (3-speed), clutch, driveshaft, differential, axle shafts. Brakes: Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake, brake fluid specifications. Suspension: Front Independent Suspension (MacPherson strut), Rear Leaf Spring Solid Axle, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications. Steering: Recirculating Ball Steering Gear, steering column, tie rods, power steering system (if applicable). Electrical: 12V Electrical System, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, wipers, horn, gauges, fuses, wiring diagrams. Body: Chassis and Body Construction, doors, hood, trunk, windows, seals, interior trim, seat adjustments, bumpers, exterior trim. Heating Cooling: HVAC system, heater core, blower motor, vent controls, radiator, coolant specifications. Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug gap and replacement, ignition timing, carburetor adjustment, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, lubrication points. Repair: Engine rebuild (apex seals, rotor housings, eccentric shaft), transmission overhaul, brake caliper/wheel cylinder replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair. Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides for common issues, symptom-based diagnostics, engine performance issues, electrical faults, starting problems. Specifications: Torque specifications for critical fasteners, engine clearances, alignment settings, electrical resistance values. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance and adjustments to complete engine and transmission overhauls and detailed electrical system diagnostics. Manual Specifications File Format File Type: Searchable PDF Print Quality: High-resolution scans, suitable for printing individual pages or sections. Binding Type Binding: Not Applicable (Digital PDF) Paper Type Paper Type: Not Applicable (Digital PDF) Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: 12A (prefaced by L for rotary) Engine Type: Two-Rotor Wankel Rotary Displacement: 1146 cc (equivalent to approx. 1.2L piston displacement) Performance Horsepower Rx2: Approx. 110-125 hp (depending on market and specific model year) Torque Rx2: Approx. 112-120 lb-ft (depending on market and specific model year) Horsepower Rx3: Approx. 100-125 hp (depending on model, e.g., base vs. GT/GSS) Torque Rx3: Approx. 100-115 lb-ft (depending on model) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Hitachi/Stromberg Dual-Barrel Carburetor (e.g., Stromberg 150 CD or Hitachi DCAS). Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating dependent on original specifications and engine tuning; leaded fuel was common in early years). Ignition System Ignition Type: Distributor-based Ignition System (e.g., single coil or dual coil for improved spark). Cooling System Cooling Type: Water-Cooled Rotary Lubrication Oil System: Integrated Oil Injection System (automatic or manual) for rotor apex seal lubrication, in addition to sump lubrication. Oil type is critical (e.g., API SE/SF, specialized rotary oil recommended). Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: 4-Speed Manual Optional Transmission Type Optional: 3-Speed Automatic (e.g., Mazda JATCO 3N71B) Features Clutch Type: Single Dry Plate Clutch Gear Ratios: Varies by transmission and model, detailed in manual. Transmission Fluid Type: GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 80W-90) for manual transmissions; Dexron-II (or equivalent) for automatic transmissions. Specific capacities detailed in manual. Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: RX-2 Coupe: 95.7 in (2430 mm); RX-2 Sedan: 95.7 in (2430 mm); RX-3 Coupe: 93.7 in (2380 mm); RX-3 Sedan: 95.7 in (2430 mm) Length: Varies by body style, e.g., RX-2 Coupe: ~165 in (4190 mm) Width: Varies by body style, e.g., RX-2 Coupe: ~64 in (1625 mm) Height: Varies by body style, e.g., RX-2 Coupe: ~52 in (1320 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 2000-2300 lbs (900-1050 kg), depending on body style and equipment. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr: Varies, consult specific model data. Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Data: No extensive official crash test data available from modern agencies for this era of vehicle. Safety features were basic by today's standards. Active Features Active Safety: Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes, good weight distribution from rotary engine aiding handling. Passive Features Passive Safety: Lap Seat Belts (front), reinforced chassis structure (compared to some contemporaries), shatter-resistant glass (in some configurations). Technology...