🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mazda Model: RX-7 Model Code: FC3S (Aero Package/GTU/GXL/Turbo II), FC3C (Convertible) Generation Generation Code: FC Generation Years: 1985-1992 (Second Generation) Codes Relevant Model Years: 1989, 1990 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Sport Compact / Sports Car Competitive Set Era: Directly competed with cars like Nissan 300ZX (Z31), Toyota MR2, Pontiac Firebird, Chevrolet Camaro. Competitive Analysis Distinguishing Features: Unique rotary engine technology, balanced chassis, pop-up headlights, rear-wheel drive layout. Key Features Performance Focus: Designed for driving dynamics and spirited performance, a hallmark of the RX-7 lineage. Design Era: Captures the angular, aggressive styling characteristic of late 1980s sports cars. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Parts Catalog Scope: Comprehensive listing of all factory-specified parts for 1989-1990 Mazda RX-7 models, including diagrams and part numbers. Page Count Estimated Pages: Varies by specific catalog edition; typically 300-600 pages. Manual Type Manual Category: Parts Catalog / Parts Manual Language Primary Language: English Format Physical Format: Printed Booklet 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine (Rotary Wankel), transmission, drivetrain components. Chassis: Suspension, steering, brakes, wheels, tires. Electrical: Wiring harnesses, lighting, ignition, audio components, instrumentation. Body: Exterior panels, bumpers, glass, trim, interior components, seats. Accessories: Optional equipment, climate control, safety systems (where parts are cataloged). Procedures Included Identification Of Parts: Precise part numbers and nomenclature for accurate ordering and replacement. Assembly Breakdown: Illustrated diagrams showing how various components are assembled and their corresponding part numbers. Component Interchangeability: Implicitly indicates if certain parts are shared across different sub-models or years within the 89-90 range. Technical Depth Depth Of Information: Highly detailed for parts identification and sourcing. Does not typically include repair procedures or diagnostic steps, but is essential for correct component specification. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format Availability: Likely available in PDF format for digital distribution, though original is print. Print Quality Original Print Quality: Designed for clarity of diagrams and part numbers, typically black and white with line art illustrations. Binding Type Original Binding: Stapled booklet or perfect bound, depending on original publisher's method. Paper Type Original Paper Quality: Standard automotive manual paper, durable enough for workshop use. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Rotary (Wankel) Engine Engine Code: 13B Engine Configuration: Naturally Aspirated & Turbocharged (depending on trim) Rotor Displacement: 654 cc per rotor (x2) = 1308 cc total equivalent displacement Performance Naturally Aspirated Hp: Approx. 145-160 hp (depending on market and emissions tuning) Turbocharged Hp: Approx. 200-210 hp (Turbo II models) Naturally Aspirated Torque: Approx. 138-146 lb-ft Turbocharged Torque: Approx. 200-203 lb-ft Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Fuel Injection (Bosch L-Jetronic or similar) Recommended Fuel: Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended) 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 5-speed Manual Optional Optional Transmission: 4-speed Automatic (available on some models) Features Turbo Ii Transmission: Reinforced 5-speed manual transmission for higher torque output. Differential: Viscous Coupling Limited Slip Differential (VLSD) often standard on Turbo II and optional on others. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: Coupe (FC3S), Convertible (FC3C) Wheelbase: Approx. 95.7 inches (2430 mm) Length: Approx. 167.7 - 170.1 inches (4257 - 4320 mm), depending on trim/aero package Width: Approx. 67.7 - 69.1 inches (1720 - 1755 mm) Height: Approx. 49.4 - 50.6 inches (1255 - 1285 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 2700 - 3100 lbs (1225 - 1406 kg), depending on model and options Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Typically around 3600-3800 lbs. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Data Era: Data from this era is less standardized than modern NHTSA/IIHS ratings; anecdotal evidence suggests good structural integrity for its class. Active Features Braking System: Four-wheel disc brakes. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on Turbo II and some GXL models. Suspension Design: Independent suspension front and rear for enhanced handling and stability. Passive Features Seatbelts: Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners. Airbags: Driver's airbag standard on most 1990 models, and optional/standard on some 1989 models. Rollover Protection: Convertible models feature reinforced A-pillars and a pop-up roll bar system. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player, often with optional equalizer or amplifier. Speakers: Multiple speaker configurations, typically 4-6 speakers depending on trim level. Driver Assistance ABS: Anti-lock Braking System available on select models, enhancing braking control. Cruise Control: Standard on most higher trims, electronically controlled. Connectivity Early Electronics: Basic electrical systems typical of the era, focusing on core vehicle functions rather than advanced digital integration. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months. Rotary engines require specific oil types and proper idling protocols. Spark Plug Replacement: Refer to the specific service manual, but typically every 15,000-30,000 miles due to the nature of rotary combustion. Timing Belt Alternatives: Rotary engines do not have timing belts; they utilize timing chains or direct drive for the rotor housing. However, the oil pump drive belt and accessory belts require periodic inspection and replacement. Fluid Specifications...
Optional equipment, climate control, safety systems (where parts are cataloged).
Procedures Included
Identification Of Parts:
Precise part numbers and nomenclature for accurate ordering and replacement.
Assembly Breakdown:
Illustrated diagrams showing how various components are assembled and their corresponding part numbers.
Component Interchangeability:
Implicitly indicates if certain parts are shared across different sub-models or years within the 89-90 range.
Technical Depth
Depth Of Information:
Highly detailed for parts identification and sourcing. Does not typically include repair procedures or diagnostic steps, but is essential for correct component specification.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital Format Availability:
Likely available in PDF format for digital distribution, though original is print.
Print Quality
Original Print Quality:
Designed for clarity of diagrams and part numbers, typically black and white with line art illustrations.
Binding Type
Original Binding:
Stapled booklet or perfect bound, depending on original publisher's method.
Paper Type
Original Paper Quality:
Standard automotive manual paper, durable enough for workshop use.
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel) Engine
Engine Code:
13B
Engine Configuration:
Naturally Aspirated & Turbocharged (depending on trim)
Rotor Displacement:
654 cc per rotor (x2) = 1308 cc total equivalent displacement
Performance
Naturally Aspirated Hp:
Approx. 145-160 hp (depending on market and emissions tuning)
Turbocharged Hp:
Approx. 200-210 hp (Turbo II models)
Naturally Aspirated Torque:
Approx. 138-146 lb-ft
Turbocharged Torque:
Approx. 200-203 lb-ft
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (Bosch L-Jetronic or similar)
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual
Optional
Optional Transmission:
4-speed Automatic (available on some models)
Features
Turbo Ii Transmission:
Reinforced 5-speed manual transmission for higher torque output.
Differential:
Viscous Coupling Limited Slip Differential (VLSD) often standard on Turbo II and optional on others.
Approx. 2700 - 3100 lbs (1225 - 1406 kg), depending on model and options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 3600-3800 lbs.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Data Era:
Data from this era is less standardized than modern NHTSA/IIHS ratings; anecdotal evidence suggests good structural integrity for its class.
Active Features
Braking System:
Four-wheel disc brakes. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on Turbo II and some GXL models.
Suspension Design:
Independent suspension front and rear for enhanced handling and stability.
Passive Features
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners.
Airbags:
Driver's airbag standard on most 1990 models, and optional/standard on some 1989 models.
Rollover Protection:
Convertible models feature reinforced A-pillars and a pop-up roll bar system.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player, often with optional equalizer or amplifier.
Speakers:
Multiple speaker configurations, typically 4-6 speakers depending on trim level.
Driver Assistance
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System available on select models, enhancing braking control.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most higher trims, electronically controlled.
Connectivity
Early Electronics:
Basic electrical systems typical of the era, focusing on core vehicle functions rather than advanced digital integration.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months. Rotary engines require specific oil types and proper idling protocols.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to the specific service manual, but typically every 15,000-30,000 miles due to the nature of rotary combustion.
Timing Belt Alternatives:
Rotary engines do not have timing belts; they utilize timing chains or direct drive for the rotor housing. However, the oil pump drive belt and accessory belts require periodic inspection and replacement.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH classification, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended. Critical to use oil with adequate ZDDP additive for apex seals. Specific rotary oils are often preferred.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5.2 US quarts (4.9 liters) with filter change for 13B.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Consult specific manual for Mazda's recommendation (often a green coolant).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 recommended for hydraulic systems.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron-II or equivalent specification.
Known Issues
Apex Seal Wear:
The most critical wear item. Premature wear can lead to compression loss and engine failure. Proper maintenance, avoiding overheating, and correct oil are crucial.
Rotor Housing Wear:
Can occur from improper lubrication or detonation, leading to compression loss.
Heat Management:
Rotary engines generate significant heat. Overheating can accelerate seal and housing wear. Ensure cooling system is meticulously maintained.
Emissions System Issues:
Older emissions control systems (e.g., air injection, O2 sensors) can fail, impacting performance and emissions compliance.
Fuel Injector Clogging:
Can occur, impacting fuel delivery and combustion.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mazda Rotary Legacy:
The RX-7 lineage is synonymous with Mazda's commitment to and success with rotary engine technology, starting with the RX-2.
Model Evolution
Fc Generation Development:
The FC generation (1985-1992) evolved from the SA22C (FB). It adopted a more aerodynamic and sophisticated design, inspired partly by Porsche styling.
Fc Facelift:
A significant facelift occurred for the 1989 model year, including updated styling (front bumper, hood, taillights), improved interior, and enhanced powertrain (Turbo II received a larger turbocharger and intercooler).
Production
Production Period Fc:
1985–1992
Assembly Location:
Hiroshima, Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver Ten Best:
The FC generation, particularly the Turbo II, was frequently featured on Car and Driver's 'Ten Best' lists for its performance and handling.
Road And Track Editors Choice:
Recognized by automotive publications for its driving dynamics and unique powertrain.
Certifications
Iso Certification:
Mazda's manufacturing facilities adhered to ISO quality standards during this production period.
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