Target Audience:
Citroën GS/GSA owners and enthusiasts seeking to perform maintenance and repairs independently, saving costs and ensuring quality.
Document Purpose:
Empower vehicle owners with the knowledge and instructions to confidently service, repair, and maintain their Citroën GS/GSA.
Information Access:
Provides access to essential technical information often unavailable through standard owner's manuals, enabling in-depth understanding of the vehicle's construction and operation.
Engine Service Repair:
Complete engine disassembly, reassembly, diagnosis, and repair for all applicable engine variants.
Transmission Service Repair:
Detailed procedures for manual and automatic transmission servicing, clutch operation, and gearbox overhauls.
Brake System:
Comprehensive coverage of hydraulic brake systems, including caliper servicing, brake fluid replacement, and parking brake adjustments.
Wiring Diagram:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, aiding in diagnosis and repair of electrical faults.
Electrical System:
In-depth information on the automotive electrical system, including battery, charging, ignition, lighting, and accessory circuits.
Suspension:
Coverage of the unique hydropneumatic suspension system, including fluid checks, pressure adjustments, and component replacement.
Steering:
Detailed information on the power steering system, including hydraulic pump, steering rack, and tie rod end servicing.
Cooling System:
Procedures for radiator, thermostat, water pump, and cooling fan maintenance and repair.
Fuel Injection Fuel System:
Service and repair procedures for the fuel injection system (e.g., Bosch L-Jetronic for later models), fuel pump, injectors, and fuel lines.
Emission System:
Information on emission control components and their servicing, relevant to the period's regulations.
Chassis Body:
Guidance on chassis maintenance, body panel repairs, rust prevention, and alignment.
Restraint System:
Information on seat belt mechanisms and any applicable passive safety features of the era.
Axle:
Front and rear axle servicing, including hub bearings and drive shafts.
General Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and general inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon vehicle problems.
Periodic Lubrication:
Specific lubrication points and schedules for optimal component longevity.
Refurbishing Renovating:
Guidance on restoring and renovating various vehicle components and systems.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to detailed repair and overhaul procedures, suitable for both amateur and professional mechanics.
Engine Type 1972:
Flat-four (Boxer) air-cooled OHV
Engine Displacement 1972:
1015 cc (1.0 L)
Engine Bore Stroke 1972:
80.5 mm x 75 mm
Engine Power 1972:
Approx. 56 PS (55 bhp; 41 kW)
Carburetion:
Single-barrel Solex carburettor
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (as per era's availability)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 km (3,000-4,500 miles) or 6 months, depending on usage and oil type.
Ignition Tune Up:
Spark plugs and points check/replacement usually at 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles).
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40, API SE/SF service classification (check manual for specific recommendations).
Hydraulic Fluid Suspension:
LHM (Liquide Hydraulique Minéral) – proprietary Citroën fluid, essential for suspension and braking system operation.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check specific system requirements for compatibility with hydraulic system).
Rust Susceptibility:
Common issue for vehicles of this era; rust can affect wheel arches, sills, and floor pans. Regular inspection and treatment are crucial.
Hydropneumatic Suspension Leaks:
Potential for leaks in the suspension spheres, pipes, or pump seals, requiring specialized knowledge to repair.
Ignition System Reliability:
Points and condenser ignition can require frequent adjustment and are susceptible to wear. Electronic ignition conversions are a popular upgrade.
Citroen Innovation:
Citroën's legacy of innovative and avant-garde automotive design, particularly in suspension and aerodynamics, heavily influences the GS/GSA.
Gs Development:
The GS was designed as a mid-size family car, intended to bridge the gap between the smaller Ami 8 and the larger DS, featuring a sleek aerodynamic design and the signature hydropneumatic suspension.
Gsa Introduction:
The GSA was an updated version of the GS, introduced in 1980 with revised styling (particularly the front end with integrated bumpers), improved interior, and often larger engines.
Production Period:
GS produced from 1970 to 1986. The 1972 model falls within the early production run.
