Positioning:
A highly specialized manual catering to owners and mechanics of the iconic Citroen GS/GSA, a car known for its distinctive design and innovative hydropneumatic suspension. This manual targets enthusiasts seeking to maintain or restore their vehicles to original specifications.
Competitors:
Direct competitors would be other workshop manuals from specialized publishers or original manufacturer service bulletins. The advantage of this digital format is instant accessibility and affordability compared to older, out-of-print paper manuals.
Features:
Detailed illustrations, step-by-step instructions with numbered steps and bold figure numbers, critical notes/cautions/warnings, combined electrical troubleshooting with wiring diagrams, searchable PDF format, printable pages.
Primary Coverage:
Full Service, Repair, Maintenance, Refurbishment, Restoration
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific edition, but comprehensive manuals typically exceed 500 pages.
Type:
Full Service & Repair Manual
Engine:
Detailed engine overhaul, tuning, diagnosis, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, ignition system.
Transmission:
Manual gearbox, clutch assembly, gear linkage, lubrication, maintenance, and repair procedures.
Suspension:
Hydropneumatic suspension system (front and rear), fluid levels, pressure regulation, component replacement, troubleshooting.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, component overhaul.
Electrical System:
Full wiring diagrams, component testing, starter motor, alternator, battery, lighting system, ignition system, dashboard instrumentation.
Bodywork:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, rust repair considerations.
Steering:
Steering rack, tie rods, steering column, lubrication, and adjustment procedures.
Maintenance:
Regular service intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, belt tensioning.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, common fault finding, electrical system diagnostics, engine performance issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle components, including engine rebuilds and transmission overhauls.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete rebuilds and diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, flat-four boxer engine (GS/GSA models)
Displacement:
1.1L (1124cc) / 1.3L (1220cc) / 1.3L (1299cc) - GSA variants often featured the larger displacement.
Bore X Stroke:
Varies by engine: e.g., 1124cc = 83.0 mm x 101.0 mm
Horsepower:
Approx. 56-60 bhp (1.1L), 60-65 bhp (1.3L), 72 bhp (GSA 1.3L)
Torque:
Approx. 80-85 Nm (1.1L), 93-98 Nm (1.3L)
Top Speed:
Approx. 140-155 km/h (87-96 mph)
Fuel Delivery:
Single or twin Solex/Weber downdraft carburetors (e.g., Solex 32-34 PICS, Weber 30 DGF)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (RON 91 or higher depending on market and engine variant)
Ignition Type:
Conventional distributor-based ignition system with points and condenser, or early electronic ignition on later models.
Cooling Method:
Forced air cooling via a fan driven by the engine crankshaft.
Type:
4-speed or 5-speed manual transaxle
Type:
Hydraulic automatic transmission (less common)
Clutch:
Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated diaphragm spring clutch.
Gearbox Oil:
Hypoid gear oil, API GL-4, SAE 75W-80 or 80W-90. Consult manual for exact fill level.
Length:
Approx. 4,050 mm (159.4 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,600 mm (63.0 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,380 mm (54.3 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 950 - 1050 kg (2094 - 2315 lbs) depending on model and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Approx. 1400 kg (3086 lbs)
Crash Test Results:
Limited formal crash test data available for this era and region. Focus was on passive safety features of the time.
Brakes:
Front ventilated disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Early models may have had less powerful braking systems.
Seatbelts:
Standard front seatbelts, rear optional. Lap belts were common in the rear.
Body Structure:
Integrated safety cage, crumple zones (designed to the standards of the era).
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 km (3,000 - 4,500 miles) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific intervals.
Spark Plugs:
Every 20,000 - 30,000 km (12,000 - 18,000 miles).
Timing Belt Chain:
The air-cooled boxer engine uses a gear-driven camshaft, thus no timing belt or chain replacement is required.
Engine Oil:
API SF/CD, SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40. Consult manual for specific grade based on climate.
Coolant:
Air-cooled engine, no coolant required.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic fluid.
Suspension Fluid:
LHM (Citroen Hydraulic Fluid) - Green coloured fluid.
Suspension Leaks:
Hydropneumatic spheres and seals can degrade over time, leading to sagging or loss of ride height. Requires specialized knowledge for maintenance.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses and connectors can lead to intermittent electrical issues, especially in older, unrestored vehicles.
Rust:
Like many cars of this era, the chassis and body panels are susceptible to rust, particularly in areas with exposure to road salt and moisture.
Carburetor Issues:
Carburetors can become gummed up with age and disuse, affecting fuel mixture and engine performance. Regular cleaning and adjustment are necessary.
Citroen Philosophy:
Citroen is renowned for innovation, aerodynamic design, and advanced engineering, particularly its pioneering work in hydropneumatic suspension systems. The GS/GSA embodies this spirit.
Gs Evolution:
The GS was launched in 1970. The GSA (Grand Super Automatique) was a significant facelift and improvement introduced in 1980, featuring updated styling, a revised interior, and improved engine options.
Production Years:
GS: 1970-1986. GSA: 1980-1986.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily France.
