🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Citroën

Model:

GS / GSA

Year:

1977

Model Generation:

Series 1 (GS)

Chassis Code:

FV (GS), GE (GSA)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

A specialist vehicle known for its innovative hydropneumatic suspension and aerodynamic design, aimed at buyers seeking comfort, originality, and a distinctive driving experience. The GSA variant introduced minor styling updates and improved practicality.

Competitors 1977:

Ford Cortina, Vauxhall Cavalier, Peugeot 504, Renault 16, Volkswagen Passat (B1)

Key Vehicle Features:

Hydropneumatic self-leveling suspension, distinctive aerodynamic wedge-shaped body, front-wheel drive, powerful boxer engines, comfortable and spacious interior.

Manual Advantage:

Provides professional-level diagnostic and repair information, enabling owners to save significant costs on maintenance and repairs. Offers detailed step-by-step instructions, critical specifications, and illustrations.

Manual Purpose:

To provide comprehensive and accurate guidance for servicing, maintaining, and repairing the Citroën GS/GSA 1977, mirroring the information used by official service centers.

📋 Manual Details

Vehicle Models Covered:

All GS and GSA models, all engines, all trim levels, all transmission types

Estimated Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF Download

File Access Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (for potentially compressed files).

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Covered Systems:

General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Wiring Diagrams, Electrical System, Suspension, Periodic Lubrication, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection/Fuel System, Emission System, Heater/Air Conditioning, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Interior, Differential/Drive, Axle

Hydropneumatic Suspension Coverage:

In-depth coverage of the hydropneumatic system: component identification, pressure testing, sphere recharging/replacement, pump operation and repair, fluid level adjustment, ride height regulation, and troubleshooting of common system faults.

Chassis Body Coverage:

Information on body panel repair, door mechanisms, latch systems, window operation, and general chassis inspection.

Included Procedures:

Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Repair, Disassembly, Assembly, Cleaning, Reinstallation, Diagnostics, Electrical Service Procedures, Fuel System Adjustments, Emission Controls, Bodywork Repair, Interior Trim Removal/Installation

Electrical System Procedures:

Detailed breakdown of the electrical system, including component testing, wiring harness routing, fuse box layout, starter, alternator, lighting systems, and dashboard instrumentation diagnostics. Complete with comprehensive wiring diagrams.

Brake System Repair:

Detailed procedures for brake pad/shoe replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder overhaul, brake disc/drum inspection and machining, hydraulic system bleeding, and parking brake adjustments.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive: From basic scheduled maintenance and fluid changes to in-depth engine overhauls, transmission diagnostics, and detailed electrical system troubleshooting with wiring diagrams. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Detailed diagnostic procedures for all major systems, including troubleshooting charts, symptom analysis, and corrective actions for electrical faults, fuel system issues, and mechanical problems.

Engine Rebuild Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for engine disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, and reassembly, including cylinder head work, piston and ring replacement, crankshaft and bearing checks, and valve timing.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

PDF, fully printable, zoom in/out capability

Compatibility:

Compatible with all versions of Windows and Mac operating systems.

Print Quality:

High resolution for clear diagrams and text

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download - Printable)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download - Printable)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 1977:

1.3L (1299 cc) and 1.5L (1440 cc) flat-four (boxer) naturally aspirated gasoline engines. (GSA variants introduced a 1.6L option).

Engine Performance 1.3L:

Approx. 62 PS (61 hp; 46 kW) at 5500 rpm, Torque: Approx. 98 Nm (72 lb-ft) at 3000 rpm.

Engine Performance 1.5L:

Approx. 70 PS (69 hp; 51 kW) at 5500 rpm, Torque: Approx. 110 Nm (81 lb-ft) at 3000 rpm.

Fuel System Type:

Typically Solex carburetors (single or twin choke depending on engine variant). Later models and GSA variants may feature fuel injection.

Engine Codes:

Various codes like 'X' series (e.g., XY7, XY8, XY9) depending on displacement and specific tune.

Cooling System Type:

Air-cooled (unique feature for many Citroëns of this era).

Engine Layout:

Air-cooled, rear-mounted (behind front axle), flat-four (boxer) engine.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed manual transaxle.

Optional Transmission:

3-speed semi-automatic (Citroën DS-derived 'electronic' gearbox on some models, more common on earlier GS versions).

Transmission Features:

Integrated transaxle unit with differential, FWD layout.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2630 mm (103.5 in)

Length:

Approx. 4150 mm (163.4 in)

Width:

Approx. 1660 mm (65.4 in)

Height:

Approx. 1370 mm (53.9 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 970-1050 kg (2138-2315 lbs) depending on engine and equipment

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1400-1500 kg (3086-3307 lbs) (estimate, requires manual confirmation)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

No formal crash test ratings available from modern agencies for this era of vehicle.

Active Safety Features:

Disc brakes front and rear (often ventilated discs on front), responsive rack-and-pinion steering.

Passive Safety Features:

Seat belts (often lap belts in the rear), crumple zones integrated into the body structure.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic radio with manual tuning, often AM/FM. No advanced infotainment systems as per modern standards.

Driver Assistance Features:

None. Focus on mechanical engineering and ride comfort.

Connectivity Features:

None. Vehicle systems are entirely mechanical and electrical with no digital connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Typical Service Intervals:

Oil changes: every 5,000-10,000 km (3,000-6,000 miles) or annually. Major services involving inspection of suspension, brakes, and ignition system: every 20,000-30,000 km (12,000-18,000 miles). Specific intervals for timing belt (if applicable, some air-cooled engines were chain-driven) and other components would be detailed in the manual.

Engine Oil Type:

Multi-grade oil, typically SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40, depending on climate and specific engine recommendations. Refer to manual for exact API service classification.

Hydropneumatic Fluid:

LHM (Liquide Hydraulique Minéral) - Citroën's proprietary hydraulic fluid.

Transmission Fluid:

Manual gearbox oil, GL-4 specification, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.

Common Issues:

Hydropneumatic system leaks (spheres, hoses, pump), corrosion (especially around wheel arches and sills), ignition system (points, condenser, coil), carburettor tuning, exhaust system wear, thermostat issues (air-cooled engines can overheat if airflow is obstructed).

Suspension Adjustment:

Ride height adjustment may require specialized tools and knowledge, detailed in the manual for proper setting.

Oil Filter Part Number Example:

Mann-Filter W918/5, Purflux LS386, or equivalent (specific part number would be detailed in manual).

📚 Vehicle History

Citroen Heritage:

Citroën has a long history of innovation in automotive engineering, particularly with its revolutionary hydropneumatic suspension systems and avant-garde designs (e.g., Traction Avant, DS, SM).

Gs Gsa Evolution:

The GS was launched in 1970, winning European Car of the Year in 1971. It was renowned for its comfort and handling. The GSA, introduced in 1980, was a facelifted version with updated styling (especially the front end), a revised interior, and a hatchback boot.

Gs Design Philosophy:

Designed by Robert Opron, focusing on aerodynamics and passenger comfort, integrating Citroën's signature hydropneumatic suspension for a uniquely smooth ride.

Production Period:

GS: 1970-1980; GSA: 1980-1986. The 1977 model falls within the original GS production run.