Market Segment:
Compact/Family Car
Citroen Philosophy:
The GSA represented a unique blend of practicality and innovation, continuing Citroën's tradition of distinctive design and advanced engineering for its era.
Competitors:
Ford Escort, Volkswagen Golf, Renault 14, Fiat 128, Opel Kadett.
Design:
Aerodynamic hatchback design, distinctive front end, and functional interior.
Suspension:
Hydropneumatic suspension offering exceptional ride comfort and self-leveling capabilities.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled flat-four boxer engines.
Interior Ergonomics:
Unique dashboard layout with a 'planetary' speedometer and ergonomic controls.
Engine:
Complete coverage of all engine variants (e.g., 1.1L, 1.3L, 1.4L air-cooled flat-four) including disassembly, inspection, assembly, tuning, and troubleshooting.
Transmission:
Detailed procedures for manual and potentially automatic transmissions, including clutch, gearbox overhaul, and driveline components.
Suspension:
Comprehensive coverage of Citroën's signature hydropneumatic suspension system, including fluid replacement, pressure regulation, accumulator servicing, and component repair.
Brakes:
In-depth information on the brake system, including hydraulic components, disc/drum brake service, and the unique self-adjusting parking brake mechanism.
Electrical System:
Detailed wiring diagrams, troubleshooting guides for electrical faults, and repair procedures for lighting, ignition, starting, charging, and auxiliary systems.
Body And Chassis:
Repair and adjustment procedures for body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, and chassis components.
Fuel System:
Coverage of carburetion (e.g., Solex, Weber), fuel pumps, lines, and tank maintenance.
Cooling System:
Information on the air-cooled engine's cooling system, including fan belt inspection and replacement, and air ducting.
Steering:
Procedures for steering column, rack, and pinion maintenance and repair.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, ignition timing adjustment, fluid level checks, and general inspection procedures.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems, fault finding guides, and symptom-based repair advice.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs, and electrical system diagnostics.
Component Overhaul:
Detailed disassembly, cleaning, inspection, measurement, and reassembly of major components.
Special Tool Usage:
Identification and usage instructions for specific Citroën tools required for certain repair procedures.
Bodywork Repair:
Procedures for panel alignment, rust repair, dent removal, and repainting guidance.
Wheel Alignment:
Specifications and procedures for checking and adjusting wheel alignment.
Cooling System Service:
Maintenance and repair of the air cooling system, including fan, shrouds, and ducting.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including in-depth diagnostic information.
Diagnostic Charts:
Inclusion of detailed troubleshooting flowcharts and diagnostic tables for electrical and mechanical issues.
Quality:
High-quality digital scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.
Binding:
Not Applicable (Digital Format)
Paper Quality:
Not Applicable (Digital Format)
Reader Software:
Adobe Acrobat Reader (or compatible PDF viewer)
Compression Software:
WinZip or equivalent (if provided in a compressed archive)
Operating Systems:
All versions of Windows and macOS
Engine Configuration:
Air-cooled flat-four boxer
Engine Displacement Common:
1.1L (1124cc), 1.3L (1299cc), 1.4L (1360cc)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 57 hp to 75 hp depending on engine variant.
Torque Range:
Approximately 80 Nm to 100 Nm depending on engine variant.
Carburetion:
Single or twin-barrel Solex or Weber carburetors, depending on model and market.
Ignition Type:
Distributor-based ignition system.
Cooling Method:
Forced air cooling with fan and strategically placed ducting.
Engine Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 km (3,000 - 4,500 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 15,000 - 20,000 km (9,000 - 12,000 miles).
Fan Belt:
Inspect and adjust tension regularly, replace as needed.
Hydropneumatic Fluid:
Fluid change and filter replacement typically every 30,000 - 40,000 km (18,000 - 25,000 miles).
Engine Oil:
SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40, depending on climate (refer to manual for specific API classification).
Hydropneumatic Fluid:
LHM (Liquide Hydraulique Minéral), typically Citroën LHS 2.
Transmission Oil:
GL-4 specification gear oil, e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Suspension Leaks:
Hydropneumatic system can develop leaks from hoses, seals, or spheres over time, requiring specialist attention.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older wiring looms and connectors can degrade, leading to intermittent electrical issues.
Corrosion:
Rust can be a concern, particularly in sills, wheel arches, and the rear panel.
Cooling Fan:
The air-cooled engine's fan belt and cooling ducting require regular inspection to prevent overheating.