🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mazda Model: RX-3 Production Years: 1971-1978 Chassis Codes: S102, S124, S132 Codes Engine Code Series: Mazda "Rotary" (12A, 13A) 👋 Introduction Market Position Target Audience: Do-it-yourselfers and experienced mechanics. Value Proposition: Inexpensive way to maintain and repair the vehicle, empowering owners to avoid costly mechanic fees. Competitive Analysis Availability: As vehicles age, factory service information becomes scarce; this digital manual provides accessible documentation. Key Features Instruction Style: Easy-to-read text, step-by-step instructions, detailed exploded pictures and diagrams. Visual Aids: Hundreds of photos and illustrations, detailed drawings. Usability: Printable pages for in-garage use, digital format for easy transfer and storage. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual Specific Models Covered: All Mazda RX-3 variants (Coupe, Sedan, Wagon) Page Count Estimated Page Count: Varies by specific edition, but comprehensive manuals typically range from 500-1500 pages. Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format File Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine assembly, disassembly, component inspection, lubrication, timing, seals, rotary apex seal replacement, rotor housing machining. Cooling System: Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan, coolant specifications, leak testing. Starting And Charging: Starter motor, battery, alternator, voltage regulator, wiring diagrams, testing procedures. Ignition System: Distributor, spark plugs, ignition coils, dwell angle, timing adjustments, electronic ignition components. Fuel System: Carburetor(s) (e.g., Hitachi, Mikuni), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter, fuel pressure, cleaning and adjustment procedures. Emission Controls: Air injection systems, PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation), EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), thermal reactors, catalytic converters (later models), vacuum diagrams. Engine Controls: Vacuum control systems, thermal vacuum switches, control solenoids. Transmission: Manual transmission (4-speed, 5-speed) and automatic transmission (e.g., Toyoglide), clutch operation, transmission overhaul, gear ratios, fluid specifications. Driveline: Driveshaft, universal joints, rear axle, differential, wheel bearings, maintenance and overhaul. Suspension: Front independent suspension (struts, control arms), rear leaf springs (later models) or live axle, shock absorbers, bushings, alignment specifications. Steering: Steering gear, tie rods, steering linkage, power steering system (if equipped), steering wheel removal. Brakes: Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, master cylinder, wheel cylinders, brake lines, parking brake, bleeding procedures, specifications. Electrical: Wiring diagrams, lighting circuits, instrument panel, switches, fuses, relays, horn, wipers, power windows (if equipped). Body Interior Exterior: Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, window regulators, seat adjustment, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers, lighting fixtures. HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems (if equipped), components, refrigerant, service procedures. Instrumentation And Warning Systems: Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, oil pressure warning light, brake warning light, diagnostic indicators. Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks and changes, lubrication. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic guides, symptom-based troubleshooting, common problems and their solutions. Repair: Step-by-step instructions for component repair, overhaul, and replacement. Disassembly And Assembly: Complete disassembly and reassembly procedures for major vehicle systems. Electrical Diagnostics: Detailed wiring diagrams, component testing, fault finding. Engine Rebuild: Comprehensive instructions for rebuilding the rotary engine, including specific clearances and tolerances. Technical Depth Depth: Complete Factory Service Manual coverage from basic maintenance to complex engine and transmission rebuilds. Detail Level: Highly detailed with step-by-step instructions, exploded views, diagrams, and photographs. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Compatibility: Windows and Mac OS Searchability: Generally searchable PDF text. Print Quality Printability: All pages are printable. Binding Type Binding: Digital (No physical binding) Paper Type Paper Type: Digital (No physical paper) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Rotary (Wankel) Engine Codes: 12A (573cc per rotor, 1146cc total displacement equivalent), 13A (654cc per rotor, 1308cc total displacement equivalent) Rotor Housing Material: Chromium-plated alloy steel Performance Horsepower Range: Approximately 90-110 hp (SAE Gross), depending on model year and emissions equipment. Torque Range: Approximately 100-120 lb-ft (SAE Gross), depending on model year and emissions equipment. Fuel System Carburetion: Dual downdraft Hitachi or Mikuni carburetors are common. Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (later models may require specific octane ratings due to emissions controls). Maintenance Notes Apex Seal Life: Apex seal wear is a critical maintenance point; refer to manual for inspection and replacement procedures. 🔧 Transmission Standard Manual Transmission: 4-speed and 5-speed manual transmissions were widely available. Optional Automatic Transmission: Optional 3-speed automatic transmission (e.g., Toyoglide). Features Clutch Type: Dry single-plate clutch. Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil is typically recommended. Consult manual for exact specification. Automatic Transmission Fluid: Dexron II or equivalent (check manual for exact specification). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: Approximately 97.0 inches (2465 mm) Length: Approximately 164.0 inches (4165 mm) Width: Approximately 64.4 inches (1635 mm) Height: Approximately 53.0 inches (1345 mm) for Coupe. Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 2,200 - 2,500 lbs (1000 - 1135 kg), depending on body style and equipment. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Refer to vehicle's compliance plate or manual for specific GVWR. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Data:...
Front independent suspension (struts, control arms), rear leaf springs (later models) or live axle, shock absorbers, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Steering gear, tie rods, steering linkage, power steering system (if equipped), steering wheel removal.
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil is typically recommended. Consult manual for exact specification.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent (check manual for exact specification).
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
Approximately 97.0 inches (2465 mm)
Length:
Approximately 164.0 inches (4165 mm)
Width:
Approximately 64.4 inches (1635 mm)
Height:
Approximately 53.0 inches (1345 mm) for Coupe.
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approximately 2,200 - 2,500 lbs (1000 - 1135 kg), depending on body style and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle's compliance plate or manual for specific GVWR.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Data:
No formal crash test data from modern agencies (NHTSA, IIHS) is readily available for this era of vehicle. Safety features were limited by the standards of the time.
Active Features
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. No ABS or other advanced braking aids.
Passive Features
Seatbelts:
Lap and shoulder belts (front), lap belts (rear).
Structure:
Reinforced chassis and body structure as per 1970s automotive safety standards.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio, often with an 8-track player or cassette player as optional upgrades in later years.
Driver Assistance
N A:
No driver-assistance technologies such as ABS, traction control, or airbags were standard or commonly available in this era.
Connectivity
N A:
No integrated connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 3 months. Consult manual for specific recommendation.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by plug type, but often around 10,000-20,000 miles. Refer to manual for specific part numbers and intervals.
Timing Belt Chain Check:
Rotary engines use a chain; refer to manual for inspection intervals and tensioner checks.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
API SE/SF SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40. Check manual for specific viscosity and API rating.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water). Refer to manual for specific type and capacity.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Refer to manual for exact specification.
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5 SAE 80W-90 gear oil. Refer to manual for capacity.
Known Issues
Apex Seal Wear:
Apex seal wear leading to compression loss is a common characteristic of older rotary engines. Regular checks and proper maintenance are crucial.
Carburetor Tuning:
Carburetors require periodic adjustment and cleaning to maintain optimal performance and emissions.
Vacuum Leaks:
Degradation of rubber vacuum hoses can lead to vacuum leaks, affecting engine performance and emissions control.
Cooling System Maintenance:
Ensuring the cooling system is clean and efficient is vital for rotary engine longevity.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mazda Rotary Pioneering:
The RX-3 is a significant model in Mazda's history as a continuation of their commitment to the rotary engine, following the RX-2. It solidified Mazda's reputation for performance and innovation in compact sports cars.
Model Evolution
Generations:
The RX-3 was produced over a single generation but received styling and mechanical updates during its lifespan. Key updates included changes to emissions equipment and styling revisions.
Body Styles:
Available as a 2-door Coupe, 4-door Sedan, and a 5-door Wagon.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Production Volume:
Significant global sales, though precise numbers for the RX-3 alone are often combined with other Mazda rotary models of the era.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Performance Reputation:
The RX-3 gained a reputation for sporty handling and performance, particularly among enthusiasts, due to its lightweight chassis and unique rotary engine.
Motorsport History:
The RX-3 and its rotary engines have a significant history in motorsport, including successful campaigns in touring car racing and rallying, further enhancing its iconic status.