🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Citroën

Model:

GS / GSA

Year:

1974

Chassis Code:

AY

Engine Code Range:

G129, G130, G133, G134

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

An indispensable resource for owners and independent mechanics seeking to maintain and repair the innovative Citroën GS/GSA.

Advantage:

Provides factory-level information, crucial for diagnosing and repairing the unique hydropneumatic suspension and front-wheel-drive layout of the GS/GSA, often surpassing generic repair manuals.

Features:

Comprehensive coverage, detailed diagrams, step-by-step procedures, troubleshooting guides, factory-level accuracy, digital convenience.

📋 Manual Details

Models Covered:

All GS and GSA models (including various engine and trim levels)

Years Covered:

Primarily focused on 1974, but relevant to the entire GS/GSA production run (1970-1986) with specific emphasis on early models.

Estimated Pages:

Hundreds (as per description, precise number not specified)

Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Service Repair:

Comprehensive overhaul, component testing, adjustments, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing, lubrication system.

Transmission Service Repair:

Manual and automatic transmission servicing, removal, disassembly, assembly, adjustments, fluid specifications, clutch operation.

Brake System:

Hydraulic system, disc brakes (front), drum brakes (rear), parking brake, hydraulic fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, component replacement.

Wiring Diagram:

Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems, including lighting, ignition, charging, instruments, and accessories.

Electrical System:

Starter motor, alternator, battery, ignition system, lighting circuits, instruments, dashboard, fuse box, common electrical faults and troubleshooting.

Suspension:

Hydropneumatic suspension system (Hydractive), front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, spheres, anti-roll bars, wheel alignment.

Steering:

Rack and pinion steering system, steering column, universal joints, tie rod ends, power steering (if equipped), steering geometry.

Cooling System:

Radiator, fan, thermostat, water pump, coolant specifications, hoses, system pressure testing, troubleshooting leaks.

Fuel Injection Fuel System:

Carburetor (various types like Solex, Weber) or early fuel injection systems, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel tank, fuel lines, troubleshooting fuel delivery.

Emission System:

Emission control components (if applicable for the era and market), PCV system, catalytic converter (later models), troubleshooting emission-related issues.

Heater Air Conditional:

HVAC system operation, heater core, blower motor, controls, air conditioning system (if equipped).

Engine Control System:

Ignition timing, carburetor adjustments, basic engine control unit (if fitted), diagnostic procedures for engine performance.

Chassis Body:

Body construction, chassis components, rust prevention, panel repair, door mechanisms, hinges, latches, glass replacement, underbody protection.

Restraint System:

Seat belts, anchorage points, safety features as per 1974 standards.

Interior:

Dashboard removal and repair, instrument panel, seats, upholstery, trim panels, headliner, carpeting.

Differential Drive:

Front-wheel drive system, gearbox integration, CV joints, driveshafts, lubrication.

Axle:

Front axle assembly, wheel bearings, hub assembly.

Maintenance:

General maintenance, periodic lubrication, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, tune-up procedures.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and complex faults across all vehicle systems.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all mechanical and electrical components.

Diagnostics:

Detailed diagnostic routines, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical system diagnostics.

Disassembly Assembly:

Complete instructions for removing, disassembling, cleaning, inspecting, and reassembling components.

Installation:

Guidance on installing new or reconditioned parts correctly.

Depth:

Professional technician level, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics.

Detail Level:

Highly detailed, with substeps, notes, cautions, warnings, and numbered instructions.

Visual Aids:

Hundreds of detailed illustrations, drawings, and photos, with enlarged insets for specific part examination.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

All versions of Windows & Mac

Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader & WinZip

Printability:

Full Printable

Zoom Functionality:

Zoom IN/OUT enabled

Binding:

Digital Download (Printable)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, flat-four (boxer) engine

Displacement 1974:

1124 cc (1.1 L)

Horsepower 1974:

Approx. 55-60 bhp (varies by tune)

Fuel Delivery:

Typically downdraft twin-choke Solex carburetor (e.g., Solex 32 DIDTA)

Ignition Type:

Distributor-based ignition system

Cooling Method:

Air-cooled

Oil Type Recommendation:

Multi-viscosity oil, e.g., 20W-50 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for specific API service classification)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-speed manual transaxle

Transmission Type Optional:

3-speed semi-automatic (Citroën 'Reflex' or C.A.R. type)

Drive Layout:

Front-wheel drive with integrated engine and transaxle

Gearbox Oil Type:

API GL-4 hypoid gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2550 mm (100.4 in)

Length:

Approx. 4050 mm (159.4 in)

Width:

Approx. 1630 mm (64.2 in)

Height:

Approx. 1340 mm (52.8 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 950-1050 kg (2094-2315 lbs) depending on trim and equipment

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Features Era:

Seat belts (front standard, rear optional), collapsible steering column, reinforced safety cage, dual-circuit braking system.

Active Safety:

Excellent road holding due to hydropneumatic suspension and low center of gravity.

Passive Safety:

Impact-absorbing body structure, padded dashboard.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio (optional), speaker placement.

Driver Aids:

None by modern standards; focus on mechanical control and driver feel.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-10,000 km or 6-12 months, depending on usage and oil specification (refer to manual for exact intervals).

Tune Up Interval:

Spark plugs, ignition timing, carburetor adjustment at intervals recommended in the manual, often around 15,000-20,000 km.

Hydropneumatic Fluid:

LHM (Liquide Hydraulique Minéral) - specific Citroën specification is critical.

Common Issues:

Hydropneumatic system leaks, sphere wear, potential corrosion, electrical gremlins common in older vehicles, carburetor tuning sensitivity.

📚 Vehicle History

Citroen Innovation:

Citroën's legacy of avant-garde design and engineering, particularly with hydropneumatic suspension and front-wheel drive.

Gs Gsa Development:

The GS was launched in 1970, featuring advanced technology for its time. The GSA, introduced in 1979, was an evolution with styling updates and improved features, including a revised dashboard.

Production Period:

Citroën GS: 1970-1986. The 1974 model falls within the initial, highly regarded phase of the GS.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Design Award:

European Car of the Year 1971.