1987 Mazda RX7 Factory Service Manual

The 1987 Mazda RX7 Factory Service Manual provides comprehensive technical information for the second generation (FC) RX-7 featuring the 13B rotary engine, rear-wheel drive configuration, and advanced chassis systems. This manual covers engine overhaul, transmission service, suspension, brakes, electrical systems, and routine maintenance procedures for professional technicians and enthusiasts.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Engine Systems 3. Transmission & Drivetrain 4. Suspension & Steering 5. Brake Systems 6. Electrical Systems 7. Fuel System 8. Cooling System 9. Body & Interior 10. Maintenance Schedule 11. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Specifications

Technical specifications for the 1987 Mazda RX-7 including engine, dimensions, capacities, and performance data.

SpecificationDetails
Engine Type13B rotary engine, twin-rotor
Displacement1.3L (1308cc)
Power Output146 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque138 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Transmission5-speed manual / 4-speed automatic
Fuel SystemElectronic fuel injection
BrakesFront disc / rear drum (ventilated front)
SuspensionIndependent front and rear
Wheelbase95.7 inches
Curb WeightApprox. 2800 lbs

Engine Systems

Complete service procedures for the 13B rotary engine including disassembly, inspection, and reassembly.

  1. Engine removal and installation procedures
  2. Rotor housing inspection and measurement
  3. Apex seal replacement and clearance checks
  4. Side seal and corner seal installation
  5. Eccentric shaft inspection and bearing replacement
  6. Oil injection system service
  7. Ignition system timing and component replacement

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before engine service. Use proper lifting equipment for engine removal.

Transmission & Drivetrain

Service procedures for manual and automatic transmissions, driveshaft, and differential.

  1. Transmission removal and installation
  2. Clutch system service and adjustment
  3. Driveshaft inspection and U-joint replacement
  4. Differential service and gear oil specifications
  5. Shift linkage adjustment
  6. Automatic transmission fluid service

CAUTION! Support vehicle properly with jack stands when working underneath.

Suspension & Steering

Brake Systems

Complete brake system service including hydraulic, mechanical, and parking brake systems.

Front Brakes: Ventilated disc, single piston calipers. Rear Brakes: Drum type with self-adjusting mechanism.

Service Procedures: Pad and shoe replacement, rotor and drum machining, brake fluid flush, proportioning valve service, ABS system diagnostics (if equipped), parking brake cable adjustment.

Electrical Systems

Wiring diagrams, component testing, and repair procedures for all electrical systems.

  1. Battery and charging system diagnostics
  2. Starting system troubleshooting
  3. Lighting circuit repair and bulb replacement
  4. Instrument cluster service
  5. ECU diagnostics and sensor testing
  6. Wiring harness repair and connector service

Tip: Always use factory wiring diagrams for accurate circuit tracing.

Fuel System

Fuel injection system service, tank and pump replacement, and emission control systems.

  1. Fuel pump pressure testing and replacement
  2. Injector cleaning and flow testing
  3. Fuel tank removal and cleaning
  4. Fuel filter replacement intervals
  5. Emission control component service
  6. Throttle body cleaning and adjustment
  7. Air flow meter testing and calibration

WARNING! Relieve fuel system pressure before disconnecting fuel lines.

Cooling System

Radiator, thermostat, water pump, and cooling fan service procedures.

Coolant Specifications: Use ethylene glycol based coolant mixed 50/50 with distilled water. System Capacity: Approximately 8.5 quarts including reservoir.

Body & Interior

Body panel alignment, glass replacement, interior trim, and accessory service.

CAUTION! Use proper trim removal tools to avoid damage to plastic components.

Maintenance Schedule

Factory recommended maintenance intervals and service procedures.

Service IntervalRequired Maintenance
Every 3,000 milesOil and filter change
Every 7,500 milesRotate tires, inspect brakes
Every 15,000 milesReplace air filter, fuel filter
Every 30,000 milesReplace spark plugs, coolant flush
Every 60,000 milesTiming adjustment, transmission service

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Hard startingWeak battery, fuel pump, ignitionTest battery voltage, check fuel pressure, inspect spark
OverheatingCoolant leak, thermostat, water pumpPressure test system, replace thermostat, inspect pump
Poor accelerationClogged filter, ignition timingReplace air/fuel filters, check timing adjustment
Brake vibrationWarped rotors, worn componentsMachine or replace rotors, inspect calipers
Electrical issuesCorroded connections, bad groundsClean battery terminals, check ground connections

Technical Support: Contact Mazda technical assistance for complex diagnostics.

Parts Information: Use genuine Mazda parts for optimal performance and reliability.

1987 Mazda RX7 Factory Service Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025