The Mazda RX-7 FC, produced from 1985 to 1992, is a celebrated sports car known for its distinctive styling and unique rotary engine technology. This 1989 model, featuring the turbocharged 13B rotary engine, delivers a potent blend of smooth power delivery and high-revving performance, characteristic of Mazda's commitment to rotary innovation. Its well-balanced chassis, independent suspension, and rear-wheel drive provide exceptional handling dynamics, making it a favored choice among driving enthusiasts. The sleek, aerodynamic coupe bodywork further solidifies its status as a classic Japanese sports car. This comprehensive workshop service repair manual in English provides detailed guidance for the maintenance and repair of the Mazda RX-7 FC. It covers all major mechanical and electrical systems, including the 13B rotary engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, steering, electrical components, fuel system, cooling system, HVAC, and bodywork. The manual includes routine maintenance procedures, in-depth engine overhaul instructions, transmission repair, brake system service, suspension and steering repair, electrical diagnostics, fuel system diagnosis, turbocharger service, and troubleshooting guides. Its technical depth makes it an invaluable resource for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts seeking to maintain and repair their vehicle effectively. 🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mazda Model: RX-7 Year: 1989 Generation Code: FC Chassis Code: FC3S Engine Code: 13B Engine Type: Rotary (Wankel) Aspiration: Turbocharged 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Sports Car / Grand Tourer Target Audience: Enthusiasts seeking a performance-oriented, driver-focused vehicle with unique rotary engine technology. Competitive Analysis Competitors 1989: Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (MkIII), Porsche 944, Chevrolet Camaro/Pontiac Firebird (with V8 options) Key Features Rotary Engine: Unique Wankel rotary engine delivering smooth power delivery and high-revving capability. Handling: Well-balanced chassis, independent suspension, and rear-wheel drive providing exceptional handling dynamics. Styling: Sleek, aerodynamic coupe bodywork, characteristic of Japanese sports cars of the era. Turbocharging: The 13B turbo provides a significant boost in performance over naturally aspirated models. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Workshop Service Repair Manual Language: English Format: Downloadable (PDF) Scope: Comprehensive professional repair and maintenance 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: 13B Rotary Engine (including Apex Seals, Rotor Housings, Eccentric Shaft, lubrication systems, cooling systems, ignition systems, fuel injection systems, turbocharger system, emissions control systems) Transmission: Manual Transmission (FS5W71C), Automatic Transmission (optional), Drivetrain (driveshafts, differential) Suspension: Front Independent (strut type), Rear Independent (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications Brakes: Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Discs, ABS System, hydraulic components, brake pad/rotor replacement, bleeding procedures Steering: Power Rack and Pinion, steering column, tie rods, pump maintenance Electrical: Battery, alternator, starter, ignition switch, lighting system, power windows, power locks, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, ECU diagnosis Fuel: Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, emissions control (catalytic converter, O2 sensors, EVAP) Cooling: Radiator, coolant reservoir, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan system Bodywork: Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, bumpers HVAC: Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate controls Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, fluid top-offs, belt inspections Engine Overhaul: Complete engine rebuild, apex seal replacement, rotor housing inspection, bearing replacement, timing adjustments Transmission Repair: Clutch replacement, transmission fluid changes, gear inspection, seal replacement Brake System Service: Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, brake fluid flush and bleed Suspension And Steering Repair: Shock absorber replacement, bushing replacement, ball joint replacement, wheel alignment Electrical Diagnostics: Troubleshooting starting and charging issues, diagnosing sensor failures, interpreting wiring diagrams Fuel System Diagnosis: Fuel injector testing, fuel pressure testing, diagnosing fuel delivery issues Turbocharger Service: Turbocharger inspection, seal replacement, wastegate adjustment Troubleshooting Guides: Diagnostic flowcharts for common problems (e.g., engine misfire, poor performance, starting issues) Lubrication System Service: Oil pump inspection, oil cooler service, apex seal lubrication specific procedures Technical Depth Depth: Full mechanical and electrical system repair, including diagnostics and component-level troubleshooting, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchable Text: Yes Printable: Yes Resolution: High-resolution scans/digital creation for clarity Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: 13B Engine Configuration: Two-Rotor Wankel Rotary Displacement Cc: 1308 Displacement Ci: 80 Performance Horsepower Hp: 182 Horsepower Kw: 136 Torque Lb Ft: 183 Torque Nm: 248 Redline Rpm: 7500 Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Recommended) Ignition System Ignition Type: Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with twin ignition coils per rotor 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 5-Speed Manual (FS5W71C) Optional Type: 4-Speed Automatic Features Drive: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length Mm: 4375 Width Mm: 1715 Height Mm: 1295 Wheelbase Mm: 2500 Weights Curb Weight Kg: 1320 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Impact: Not rated (era specific) IIHS Side Impact: Not rated (era specific) Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models/trims Passive Features Airbags: Driver's side airbag (standard on most models)...
The Mazda RX-7 FC, produced from 1985 to 1992, is a celebrated sports car known for its distinctive styling and unique rotary engine technology. This 1989 model, featuring the turbocharged 13B rotary engine, delivers a potent blend of smooth power delivery and high-revving performance, characteristic of Mazda's commitment to rotary innovation. Its well-balanced chassis, independent suspension, and rear-wheel drive provide exceptional handling dynamics, making it a favored choice among driving enthusiasts. The sleek, aerodynamic coupe bodywork further solidifies its status as a classic Japanese sports car.
This comprehensive workshop service repair manual in English provides detailed guidance for the maintenance and repair of the Mazda RX-7 FC. It covers all major mechanical and electrical systems, including the 13B rotary engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, steering, electrical components, fuel system, cooling system, HVAC, and bodywork. The manual includes routine maintenance procedures, in-depth engine overhaul instructions, transmission repair, brake system service, suspension and steering repair, electrical diagnostics, fuel system diagnosis, turbocharger service, and troubleshooting guides. Its technical depth makes it an invaluable resource for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts seeking to maintain and repair their vehicle effectively.
🏷️ Basic Information
Identification
Make:
Mazda
Model:
RX-7
Year:
1989
Generation Code:
FC
Chassis Code:
FC3S
Engine Code:
13B
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel)
Aspiration:
Turbocharged
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Segment:
Sports Car / Grand Tourer
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking a performance-oriented, driver-focused vehicle with unique rotary engine technology.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors 1989:
Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (MkIII), Porsche 944, Chevrolet Camaro/Pontiac Firebird (with V8 options)
Key Features
Rotary Engine:
Unique Wankel rotary engine delivering smooth power delivery and high-revving capability.
Turbocharger inspection, seal replacement, wastegate adjustment
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common problems (e.g., engine misfire, poor performance, starting issues)
Lubrication System Service:
Oil pump inspection, oil cooler service, apex seal lubrication specific procedures
Technical Depth
Depth:
Full mechanical and electrical system repair, including diagnostics and component-level troubleshooting, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchable Text:
Yes
Printable:
Yes
Resolution:
High-resolution scans/digital creation for clarity
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
13B
Engine Configuration:
Two-Rotor Wankel Rotary
Displacement Cc:
1308
Displacement Ci:
80
Performance
Horsepower Hp:
182
Horsepower Kw:
136
Torque Lb Ft:
183
Torque Nm:
248
Redline Rpm:
7500
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Recommended)
Ignition System
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with twin ignition coils per rotor
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
5-Speed Manual (FS5W71C)
Optional
Type:
4-Speed Automatic
Features
Drive:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length Mm:
4375
Width Mm:
1715
Height Mm:
1295
Wheelbase Mm:
2500
Weights
Curb Weight Kg:
1320
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Impact:
Not rated (era specific)
IIHS Side Impact:
Not rated (era specific)
Active Features
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models/trims
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag (standard on most models)
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo cassette player with optional CD player integration on later models.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control with optional automatic climate control on higher trims.
Driver Assistance
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System for enhanced braking control.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control for highway driving.
Connectivity
Original Connectivity:
No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity; aftermarket solutions are common.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for specific rotary oil recommendations.
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plugs:
Platinum-tipped plugs recommended, replace every 30,000-60,000 miles. Specific rotary plug types are crucial.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH or higher, Viscosity SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (check manual for specific rotary engine oil requirements, often a specific blend is advised).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent.
Known Issues
Apex Seals:
Wear and failure of apex seals is a common concern with high-mileage rotary engines, leading to compression loss and poor performance. Regular oil changes and proper engine warm-up are crucial.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines inherently consume a small amount of oil, which is injected into the combustion chamber to lubricate seals. However, excessive consumption can indicate seal wear.
Turbo System:
Oil leaks, wastegate issues, and turbocharger bearing wear can occur with age and mileage.
Engine Mounts:
Rubber engine mounts can degrade over time, leading to increased vibration.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mazda Rotary Development:
Mazda's long history and commitment to rotary engine technology, starting with the Cosmo.
Model Evolution
Rx7 Generations:
The FC generation (1985-1992) followed the SA22C/FB generation and preceded the FD generation. This generation marked a significant evolution in styling, performance, and technology.
Fc Facelift:
The 1989 model year represents the updated FC, often referred to as Series 5 in Japan, but the 'S4 Turbocharged 13B' designation likely refers to the Series 4 Turbocharged variant common in export markets.
Production
Production Years:
1985-1992 (FC Generation)
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver Ten Best:
The RX-7 (FC generation) was named to Car and Driver's Ten Best list multiple times in the late 1980s.
Motor Trend Import Car Of The Year:
While not specifically awarded for the 1989 model year, the FC generation contributed to Mazda's growing reputation in performance automotive journalism.
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