This manual covers the Mazda RX-3, also known as the RX3, produced from 1971 to 1978. This first-generation model, built on the AP Series chassis, is distinguished by its unique 12A rotary engine, offering a distinctive performance profile and compact design. Available in sedan, coupe, and hatchback body styles, the RX-3 was celebrated for its sporty styling and agile handling, positioning Mazda as a significant player in the compact sports car market. Its engineering quality and reliability, particularly the innovative rotary powertrain, made it a notable competitor against other sports cars of its era and a key contributor to Mazda's global expansion. This comprehensive workshop service and repair manual provides detailed information for maintaining and repairing the Mazda RX-3 across its production years. It covers essential systems including the rotary engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, steering, electrical systems, and bodywork. The manual offers step-by-step procedures for routine maintenance, troubleshooting common issues, component repair and replacement, and system adjustments. With detailed factory specifications and tolerances, this English-language resource is designed to assist owners, mechanics, and technicians in preserving the performance and longevity of their RX-3 vehicles. 🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mazda Model: RX-3 (also referred to as RX3) Chassis Code: AP Series (e.g., AP12, AP13, AP17) Generation Generation Designation: First Generation Production Years: 1971-1978 Codes Engine Code Primary: 12A (Rotary) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Sports Sedan/Coupe (for its era) Competitive Analysis Competitors: Datsun (Nissan) 240Z, Toyota Corolla Levin/Sprinter Trueno, various European compact sports cars. Key Features Engine Type: Unique Rotary (Wankel) engine, offering a distinct driving experience and compact design. Styling: Sporty and distinctive design, available in sedan, coupe, and hatchback body styles, appealing to performance enthusiasts. Handling: Generally praised for its balanced chassis and agile handling, particularly in coupe form. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Covered Years: 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978 Page Count Total Pages: 262 Manual Type Type: Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format File Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Rotary engine (12A), including apex seals, rotor housings, eccentric shaft, lubrication, cooling, ignition, fuel delivery. Transmission: Manual transmission (4-speed and 5-speed), clutch system, driveshaft, differential. Brakes: Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake. Suspension: Front independent suspension (struts, control arms), rear leaf spring suspension, shock absorbers. Steering: Steering box, steering linkage, steering column. Electrical: 12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, instrumentation, wiring diagrams. Bodywork: Chassis construction, body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, glass, bumpers. Fuel System: Fuel tank, fuel lines, carburetor (likely Hitachi or Mikuni variants), fuel pump. Cooling System: Radiator, fan, coolant hoses, thermostat, water pump. Exhaust System: Exhaust manifolds, pipes, muffler, catalytic converter (depending on market and year). Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine inspections, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, ignition timing adjustments. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures for engine performance, electrical faults, braking issues, and other common problems. Repair: Step-by-step instructions for disassembly, repair, and reassembly of all major vehicle components. Installation: Procedures for installing new or replacement parts and components. Adjustment: Specific procedures for adjusting clutch, brakes, carburetor, ignition timing, and other systems. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to detailed engine rebuilds and system overhauls. Includes factory specifications and tolerances. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Quality: Printable, viewable on multiple OS (Windows, Mac, Linux), requires Adobe Reader. Print Quality Printability: Yes, all pages are printable. Binding Type Binding: Digital (PDF Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Type: Mazda Rotary (Wankel) Code: 12A Configuration: Two-rotor, naturally aspirated Displacement Cc: 1146 Displacement Ci: 69.9 Horsepower Hp: 100-125 hp (approximate, varies by market and emissions control) Torque Lb Ft: 110-130 lb-ft (approximate, varies by market and emissions control) Performance Redline Rpm: 7000+ RPM (typical for rotary engines) Fuel System Carburetor: Single or dual barrel carburetor (e.g., Hitachi, Mikuni), depending on model and year. 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 4-speed manual Optional Type: 5-speed manual (introduced later in production), 3-speed automatic (less common). Features Clutch: Single dry plate clutch. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: 2-door Sedan, 2-door Coupe, 3-door Hatchback (often referred to as the RX-3 Wagon or Rotary Coupe). Wheelbase In: 94.9 (approximate) Weights Curb Weight Lbs: 2000-2300 lbs (approximate, varies by body style and equipment) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Safety Era: Reflects safety standards of the 1970s; modern crash safety features are absent. Active Features Features: Four-wheel drum brakes (early models), front disc brakes (later/performance models), hydraulic braking system. Passive Features Features: Lap seat belts, padded dashboard (basic). 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Features: Basic AM/FM radio, potentially with an 8-track player option in some markets. Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, temperature, and oil pressure. Driver Assistance Features: None (basic safety systems of the era only). Connectivity Features: None. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change: Every...