🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mazda Model: RX-7 Generation: First Generation (SA/FB) Production Years Covered: 1978-1980 👋 Introduction Market Position Original Market Segment: Affordable Sports Coupe Target Audience: Enthusiasts seeking performance and unique rotary engine experience Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Datsun 240Z/260Z/280Z, Toyota Celica Supra, Porsche 924 Key Features Distinctive Feature: Rotary Engine (Wankel) Design Philosophy: Lightweight, balanced chassis, driver-focused 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Language: English Regions Covered: Global (primarily North America and Japan) Page Count Estimated Page Count: 700+ Manual Type Manual Type: Workshop Repair Service Manual Format File Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Rotary Engine (12A) Fuel System: Carburetor (likely Hitachi/Keihin), Fuel Pump, Lines Ignition System: Distributor, Ignition Coils, Spark Plugs Cooling System: Radiator, Fan, Water Pump, Hoses, Thermostat Lubrication System: Oil Pump, Oil Pan, Oil Filter, Oil Cooler (if equipped) Exhaust System: Manifold, Catalytic Converter (if applicable by region), Muffler Transmission: Manual Transmission (4-speed and 5-speed), Clutch Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive, Driveshaft, Differential, Axles Suspension: Front (MacPherson Strut), Rear (Live Axle with Watt's Linkage), Springs, Shocks, Bushings Steering: Rack and Pinion, Steering Column, Tie Rods Brakes: Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes (typically), Master Cylinder, Lines, Parking Brake Electrical System: Battery, Alternator, Starter Motor, Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Fuses, Relays Body And Frame: Body Panels, Chassis, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass Interior: Seats, Dashboard, Trim, HVAC Controls HVAC: Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (if factory equipped) Procedures Included General Maintenance: Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Checks/Replacement, Belt Adjustments Engine Overhaul: Apex Seal Replacement, Rotor Housing Machining, Rebuild Procedures Transmission Repair: Clutch Replacement, Gearbox Disassembly and Reassembly Brake Service: Pad/Shoe Replacement, Rotor/Drum Machining, Bleeding Electrical Troubleshooting: Wiring Diagram Interpretation, Component Testing, Fault Diagnosis Suspension And Steering Repair: Bushings, Ball Joints, Tie Rod Ends, Strut Replacement Fuel System Diagnostics: Carburetor Adjustment, Fuel Filter Replacement Engine Tune Up: Ignition Timing, Carburetor Synchronization Troubleshooting Guides: Common Problems and Solutions, Diagnostic Flowcharts Technical Depth Diagnostics: Advanced Diagnostics, Fault Code Interpretation (if applicable) Rebuild Procedures: Complete Engine Rebuild, Transmission Rebuild, Differential Rebuild Specifications And Tolerances: Torque Values, Clearances, Wear Limits Wiring Diagrams: Comprehensive Electrical Schematics for All Systems Special Tools: Identification and Usage of Mazda Specific Tools 📊 Manual Specifications File Format PDF Quality: High Resolution, Searchable Text Printable: Yes, all pages are printable Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: 12A Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated Rotary (Two-Rotor Wankel) Displacement: 1146 cc (69.9 cu in) Rotor Housing Material: Chrome-plated aluminum alloy Lubrication System Type: Rotary engine specific oil injection system (RE-I) and sump lubrication Performance Horsepower Peak: 100-110 hp (approx.) Torque Peak: 110-120 lb-ft (approx.) Redline Rpm: 7000 RPM Fuel System Carburetor Type: Two-Barrel Downdraft (e.g., Hitachi DCAS 3140 or Keihin) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane or higher recommended) 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 4-Speed Manual Optional Optional Transmission: 5-Speed Manual (introduced later in the generation/model years) Features Clutch Type: Single Dry Plate Clutch Transmission Fluid Type: API GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 2400 mm (94.5 in) Length: 4215 mm (165.9 in) Width: 1650 mm (65.0 in) Height: 1280 mm (50.4 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1000-1100 kg (2200-2425 lbs) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approx. 1350 kg (2976 lbs) Cargo Trunk Volume: Limited (typical for sports coupes) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Ratings: Not extensively tested by modern standards; primarily focused on occupant protection for its era. Active Features Active Safety Features: Standard braking system, limited electronic aids (if any) Passive Features Passive Safety Features: Seatbelts, reinforced chassis construction 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment System: Basic AM/FM radio with optional cassette player, manual climate controls. Driver Assistance Driver Assistance Features: None (pre-dates modern driver assistance systems). Connectivity Connectivity Options: None 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first Air Filter Replacement: Every 12,000 miles or 12 months Spark Plug Replacement: Every 15,000 miles Coolant Flush: Every 24,000 miles or 24 months Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: API SG/SH or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check owner's manual for specific recommendations) Coolant Type: Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 or DOT 4 Known Issues Apex Seal Wear: Premature wear of apex seals due to improper break-in, overheating, or detonation. Requires engine rebuild. Carburetor Issues: Clogging, vacuum leaks, difficult synchronization leading to poor running. Oil Consumption: Natural characteristic of rotary engines requiring oil injection; excessive consumption can indicate seal wear. Rust And Corrosion: Common in older vehicles, particularly in salt-prone regions, affecting body panels and undercarriage. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Mazda Rotary Development: Mazda's pioneering and successful implementation of the Wankel rotary engine in mass production vehicles. Model Evolution Rx-7 Initial Launch: Launched in 1978 as a successor to the RX-3, aimed...