Welcome to the comprehensive guide for the Mazda RX-7, Second Generation (FC), covering model years 1989 through 1991. This iconic sports car, known for its distinctive styling, balanced chassis, and the unique rotary engine, offered a compelling alternative in its segment. Engineered with a focus on performance and driving dynamics, the RX-7, particularly the turbocharged variants, delivered an exhilarating experience for enthusiasts. Its lightweight construction and rear-wheel-drive layout contributed to its reputation for exceptional handling and agility, making it a celebrated vehicle among car aficionados. This manual provides complete service and repair information for the North American market Mazda RX-7 FC. It details every system, including the rotary engine (13B-T), drivetrain, chassis, and electrical components, offering in-depth coverage from routine maintenance to complex overhauls. You will find detailed procedures for engine, transmission, suspension, and brake systems, along with comprehensive wiring diagrams and troubleshooting guides. This resource is designed to empower owners, mechanics, and technicians with the knowledge necessary to maintain, diagnose, and repair the vehicle effectively, ensuring its longevity and optimal performance. 🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mazda Model: RX-7 Model Code: FC3S Generation Generation Name: Second Generation Generation Code: FC Codes Production Years Covered: 1989, 1990, 1991 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Sports Car / Grand Tourer Target Audience: Enthusiasts, performance-oriented drivers, owners seeking in-depth knowledge for maintenance and repair. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (Mk3), Mitsubishi Starion, Porsche 944 Key Features Defining Characteristic: Rotary Engine (13B-T), Balanced Chassis, Lightweight Construction, Distinctive Styling Trim Levels Overview: Base, GT, GXL, Turbo-R (JDM specific) 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Complete Service and Repair Regional Variants Covered: North American Market (Likely, based on common manual offerings) Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1500-2000+ (Typical for comprehensive factory service manuals) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine System: Rotary Engine (13B-T), Engine Mechanical, Lubrication, Cooling, Fuel Injection (Bosch L-Jetronic/EGI), Ignition System, Emission Control Systems, Turbocharger System (CT26), Engine Management (ECU/DTCs) Drivetrain System: Manual Transmission (Type R/M, FS5C71A), Automatic Transmission (Optional, JATCO), Clutch System, Driveshafts, Rear Axle Assembly, Differential Chassis System: Suspension (Front MacPherson Strut, Rear Independent), Steering System (Power Rack and Pinion), Brakes (Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Discs, ABS), Wheels and Tires Electrical System: Wiring Diagrams, Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Windows, Mirrors, Audio System, Cruise Control, HVAC Controls, ECU Pinouts, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) Body And Interior: Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Seats, Dashboard, Trim, Sound Deadening, HVAC Ducts, Exterior Trim, Weatherstripping Procedures Included Maintenance Procedures: Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Coolant Flush, Brake Fluid Flush, Transmission Fluid Change, Differential Fluid Change, Belt Replacement Diagnostic Procedures: Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Retrieval and Interpretation, Sensor Testing, Actuator Testing Repair Procedures: Engine Overhaul (Apex Seals, Rotor Housing Inspection), Turbocharger Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Clutch Replacement, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering Rack Rebuild, Electrical Component Replacement, Body Panel Repair Special Procedures: Turbocharger Boost Adjustment, Fuel Injection Calibration, Ignition Timing Adjustment, Compression Testing (Rotary), Engine Reassembly Torque Specifications Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and drivetrain overhauls. Includes detailed diagrams, specifications, and step-by-step instructions suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF (Portable Document Format) Searchability: Likely Searchable Text (depends on original scan quality) Print Quality Resolution: High Resolution Scan (Typical for quality digital manuals) Clarity: Clear text and legible diagrams Binding Type Binding Type: Not Applicable (Digital PDF) Paper Type Paper Type: Not Applicable (Digital PDF) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: 13B-T Engine Type: Rotary (Wankel), Twin Distributor, Twin Spark Ignition Displacement: 1.3L (1308cc) Performance Horsepower Hp: 200 hp @ 6500 rpm (Base Turbo), 210 hp @ 6500 rpm (Later models/GT) Torque Lb Ft: 190 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (Base Turbo), 200 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (Later models/GT) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch EGI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended) Induction Forced Induction: Turbocharged (Single Turbocharger, Hitachi/Garrett CT26 type) Cooling System Type: Liquid-Cooled Lubrication System Type: Wet Sump Engine Management ECU Type: Engine Control Unit (ECU) with diagnostics 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-Speed Manual Manual Transmission Model: FS5C71A Optional Transmission Type: 4-Speed Automatic Automatic Transmission Model: JATCO 4E55 Features Clutch Type: Hydraulic, Dry Single Plate Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 175.2 inches (4450 mm) Width: 69.1 inches (1755 mm) Height: 49.2 inches (1250 mm) Wheelbase: 95.7 inches (2430 mm) Front Track: 57.7 inches (1465 mm) Rear Track: 57.7 inches (1465 mm) Weights Curb Weight Lbs: 2950-3100 lbs (Approximate, depending on trim and options) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Lbs: Approx. 3700 lbs 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact Rating: Not Specifically Rated for this Era...
Welcome to the comprehensive guide for the Mazda RX-7, Second Generation (FC), covering model years 1989 through 1991. This iconic sports car, known for its distinctive styling, balanced chassis, and the unique rotary engine, offered a compelling alternative in its segment. Engineered with a focus on performance and driving dynamics, the RX-7, particularly the turbocharged variants, delivered an exhilarating experience for enthusiasts. Its lightweight construction and rear-wheel-drive layout contributed to its reputation for exceptional handling and agility, making it a celebrated vehicle among car aficionados.
This manual provides complete service and repair information for the North American market Mazda RX-7 FC. It details every system, including the rotary engine (13B-T), drivetrain, chassis, and electrical components, offering in-depth coverage from routine maintenance to complex overhauls. You will find detailed procedures for engine, transmission, suspension, and brake systems, along with comprehensive wiring diagrams and troubleshooting guides. This resource is designed to empower owners, mechanics, and technicians with the knowledge necessary to maintain, diagnose, and repair the vehicle effectively, ensuring its longevity and optimal performance.
🏷️ Basic Information
Identification
Make:
Mazda
Model:
RX-7
Model Code:
FC3S
Generation
Generation Name:
Second Generation
Generation Code:
FC
Codes
Production Years Covered:
1989, 1990, 1991
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Segment:
Sports Car / Grand Tourer
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, performance-oriented drivers, owners seeking in-depth knowledge for maintenance and repair.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors:
Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (Mk3), Mitsubishi Starion, Porsche 944
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and drivetrain overhauls. Includes detailed diagrams, specifications, and step-by-step instructions suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Likely Searchable Text (depends on original scan quality)
Print Quality
Resolution:
High Resolution Scan (Typical for quality digital manuals)
2950-3100 lbs (Approximate, depending on trim and options)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Lbs:
Approx. 3700 lbs
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
Not Specifically Rated for this Era (Pre-dates extensive standardized testing)
IIHS Crash Test Results:
Not Available for this Era
Active Features
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (Optional on some models, standard on Turbo II later)
Passive Features
Seat Belts:
3-Point Inertial Reel Seatbelts
Airbags:
Driver Side Airbag (Optional/Late Models)
Body Construction:
Unibody with Front and Rear Crumple Zones
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM Stereo Cassette Player with optional CD Player (rare). Speaker configurations varied by trim level.
Driver Assistance
ABS:
Available as an option, typically on higher trims or turbo models.
Connectivity
OBD System:
Pre-OBDII (On-Board Diagnostics). Diagnosis typically involves reading flash codes or using specific diagnostic tools for the era.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval Miles:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (whichever comes first)
Coolant Flush Interval Miles:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Spark Plug Replacement Interval Miles:
Every 30,000 miles (Specific rotary spark plugs)
Transmission Fluid Change Interval Miles:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (Manual/Automatic)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (Check manual for specific viscosity recommendations, often with an emphasis on higher zinc content for rotary engines)
Coolant Type:
Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Mazda ATF-Type T-IV or equivalent
Differential Fluid Type:
API GL-5, SAE 80W-90
Known Issues
Rotary Engine Wear:
Apex seal wear, rotor housing scoring, oil seal degradation are common concerns for high-mileage rotary engines. Regular oil changes and proper warm-up/cool-down are crucial.
Turbocharger Reliability:
Early turbocharger designs could be prone to failure if not properly maintained or if consistently driven hard without adequate cooling. Oil supply and filtration are critical.
Fuel Injector Clogging:
Can occur due to poor fuel quality or age, affecting performance and idle stability.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many cars of this era, aging wiring harnesses, relays, and sensors can lead to intermittent electrical issues.
Vacuum Leaks:
Degradation of rubber vacuum hoses and seals can lead to vacuum leaks, affecting engine performance and drivability.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mazda Rotary Legacy:
Mazda's long-standing commitment to rotary engine technology, beginning with the Cosmo Sport.
Model Evolution
Fc Generation Introduction:
Introduced in 1985 for the 1986 model year, replacing the SA22C (FB) RX-7.
Fc Facelift:
Received a significant facelift for the 1989 model year, including revised styling, improved aerodynamics, updated interior, and a more powerful 13B-T engine.
Production
Production Period:
1985-1992
Manufacturing Plant:
Mazda's Hofu Plant, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver Ten Best:
The FC RX-7 was named to Car and Driver's Ten Best list multiple times, including for 1989.