Target Audience:
Citroën GS/GSA owners, enthusiasts, mechanics, restorers
Competitor Manuals:
Original manufacturer workshop manuals, Haynes, Chilton (if available for this model)
Unique Selling Points:
Comprehensive coverage, detailed diagrams, troubleshooting guides, instant digital access, printable format
Approach:
To provide professional-level repair and maintenance information accessible to a wider audience
General Coverage:
Full Service Repair Manual
Specific Coverage:
Maintenance, Repair, Rebuilding, Refurbishment, Restoration, Diagnostics, Electrical Service
Estimated Page Count:
Likely 500+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals)
Type:
Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission, Clutch, Drivetrain
Chassis:
Suspension (Hydropneumatic), Steering, Brakes (Front Discs, Rear Drums), Wheels, Tires
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Ignition System, Charging System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Accessories
Body And Frame:
Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Interior Trim, Chassis Frame
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Repair:
Component removal, overhaul, installation, troubleshooting for all major systems
Diagnostics:
Fault finding, diagnostic charts, electrical troubleshooting
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics
Detail Level:
Detailed illustrations, drawings, photos, and enlarged insets
Suspension Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for servicing and adjusting the hydropneumatic suspension system, including sphere replacement and fluid checks.
Engine Rebuild:
Includes step-by-step instructions for complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.
Bodywork Repair:
Guidelines for repairing body panels, frame, and addressing corrosion.
Diagram Detail:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams with component identification and circuit tracing assistance.
Torque Data:
Includes essential torque specifications for engine, chassis, and drivetrain fasteners.
Engine Type:
Flat-four (Horizontally Opposed), Air-cooled Boxer
Engine Displacement Gs:
1015 cc (1.0L)
Engine Displacement Gs Bi-Rotor:
1124 cc (1.1L)
Engine Displacement Gsa:
1222 cc (1.2L)
Horsepower Gs 1015Cc:
Approx. 56 hp (DIN)
Horsepower Gs 1124Cc:
Approx. 60 hp (DIN)
Horsepower Gsa 1222Cc:
Approx. 65 hp (DIN)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (e.g., Solex, Weber - specific models vary)
Cooling Method:
Air-cooled
Ignition Type:
Coil and Distributor (typical)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Manual (standard on most models)
Transmission Type Optional:
5-speed Manual (available on some variants)
Transmission Type Automatic:
Citroën DS-Matic (or similar semi-automatic) may have been offered on earlier GS models, less common for '78
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, diaphragm spring
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive
Body Styles:
5-door Hatchback, 3-door Estate (Break/Service)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2550 mm (99.8 inches)
Length:
Approx. 4080 mm (160.6 inches)
Width:
Approx. 1600 mm (63 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1370 mm (53.9 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 970 - 1050 kg (2138 - 2315 lbs), depending on version
Crash Test Data:
Limited official crash test data available for this era and model, focus on structural integrity and occupant protection design principles of the time.
Braking System:
Front: Disc Brakes, Rear: Drum Brakes. Often featured Citroën's 'anti-dive' geometry.
Seatbelts:
Provision for seatbelts, likely lap belts in front and rear unless upgraded
Chassis Design:
Integral body/chassis construction with impact-absorbing zones (for its time)
Audio System:
Likely a basic AM/FM radio, possibly with an optional cassette player. No modern infotainment features.
Features:
None by modern standards. Focus is on the hydropneumatic suspension for ride comfort and self-leveling.
Dashboard Layout:
Distinctive dashboard design, often with 'spoon' style gauges. GSA introduced a more integrated and modern dashboard.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 km (3,000 - 4,500 miles) or annually, depending on usage. Consult manual for specifics.
Major Service Interval:
Refer to manual for timing belt (if applicable, though many GS engines were chain-driven or had timing gears), spark plug, and brake service intervals.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50, API SE or SF (consult manual for precise recommendation and capacity).
Hydropneumatic Fluid:
LHM (Liquide Hydraulique Minéral) - Citroën specific hydraulic fluid.
Transmission Fluid:
Manual transmission gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 GL-4 (consult manual for capacity).
Hydropneumatic System:
Leaking spheres, worn seals, low fluid levels can affect ride height and comfort. Requires specialized knowledge.
Engine Issues:
Air-cooled nature can lead to overheating if cooling fins are blocked or airflow is compromised. Carburetor tuning can be critical.
Electrical Issues:
Wiring harness degradation over time, corrosion in connectors, failure of electrical components like the ignition system.
Body Rust:
Susceptible to rust, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and suspension mounting points.
Citroen Philosophy:
Known for avant-garde design, hydropneumatic suspension, and aerodynamic innovation.
Gs Introduction:
Launched in 1970, positioned between the 2CV/Dyane and the DS. Known for its aerodynamic styling and comfortable ride.
Gsa Introduction:
Introduced in 1979 as a facelift/update to the GS, featuring a new dashboard, improved aerodynamics, and revised engines. The 1978 model is the direct precursor to the GSA.
Production Period:
GS: 1970-1980. The 1978 model falls within the latter part of the GS production run.
Manufacturing Location:
France
