Mazda has revealed the servicing process for the legendary R26B rotary engine, which led the Mazda 787B to victory in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1991. The four-rotor R26B unit produces about 700 hp and revs up to 9,000 rpm. Unlike the production 13B engine for the Mazda RX-7, this one received three spark plugs per chamber and a unique design.
Mazda notes that the engine's key components retain their service life even after racing. Reliability is ensured by ceramic apex seals and reinforced springs that reduce vibrations at high rpm.
The mechanics pay special attention to the inner surface of the housing: when overheated, it can deform and compromise sealing. During repairs, its parameters are checked against the outer part.
After the 1991 victory, regulation changes made rotary engines uncompetitive. Mazda remains the only Japanese brand to have won Le Mans until Toyota's success in 2018.
Today, the company does not participate in factory sports car racing, so supporting historic cars remains a key part of its motorsport program.
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