Market Position:
Essential reference for owners and independent workshops specializing in classic Citroen vehicles. Targets enthusiasts and those performing their own maintenance.
Competitive Analysis:
Superior to generic repair guides due to its factory origin. Provides specific details for the CX model, unlike aftermarket publications.
Key Features:
Authoritative factory data, detailed diagrams, specific torque values, component identification, and troubleshooting guidance. Facilitates DIY maintenance and professional repair.
Covered Years:
1974, 1975, 1976, 1977
Page Count:
Not specified, but typical FSMs are extensive (estimate 500-1000+ pages)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual
Digital Quality:
Average (referring to the scan quality of the original document, implies potential for minor imperfections).
Systems Covered:
Engine, Carburation, Ignition, Cooling, Clutch, Torque Converter, Gearbox, Gearbox Control, Driveshafts, Hydraulic Systems (Source & Reserve Pressure), Front Axle, Rear Axle, Suspension System, Steering System, Brakes, Electrical Systems, Heating, Bodywork
Procedures Included:
Disassembly, Reassembly, Inspection, Maintenance, Component Identification, Unit Repair, Troubleshooting, Installation, Operation
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for trained mechanics and advanced DIY owners. Covers detailed repair procedures, specifications, and schematics.
Special Tooling Requirements:
The manual will detail any specific or specialized tools required for repairs, particularly for the hydropneumatic system, clutch, and engine components.
Bodywork Coverage:
Information on panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, window regulators, trim pieces, and potentially basic body repair techniques. Includes identification of body panels.
Schematics Included:
Detailed schematics and diagrams for all major systems, including engine, transmission, electrical, hydraulics, and suspension.
Engine Variants Covered:
2.0L (2000), 2.2L (2200 Petrol), 2.2L (2200 Diesel), 2.4L (2400)
Engine Performance Details:
Manual provides specifications for horsepower, torque, and engine operating parameters for each covered variant.
Fuel System Coverage:
Carburetion and fuel delivery systems for petrol engines (specific carburetor models like Weber or Solex would be detailed).
Ignition System Coverage:
Details on ignition timing, spark plug specifications, distributor operation, and coil requirements.
Cooling System Coverage:
Information on radiator, coolant flow, thermostat operation, and fan systems.
Engine Design:
Inline-four cylinder (OHC) engines for most variants. Diesel variant features a naturally aspirated diesel engine.
Cooling System Components:
Details on radiator capacity, coolant types (e.g., ethylene glycol based), water pump, thermostat operation, and cooling fan drive mechanisms.
Transmission Types Covered:
Manual and Automatic transmissions (including Citroen's semi-automatic Hydropneumatic transmission control associated with earlier models, and conventional automatics).
Transmission Features:
Details on torque converter operation, gear ratios, clutch operation (for manual), and hydraulic control systems for automatic/semi-automatic variants.
Transmission Fluid Specs:
Likely to specify ATF types (e.g., Dexron or equivalent) for automatic transmissions, and gear oil for manual transmissions. Capacities would be included.
Gearbox Control Details:
Specific procedures for adjusting or repairing the gearbox shift linkages and any hydraulic controls associated with automatic/semi-automatic transmissions.
Driveshaft Specifications:
Information on driveshaft construction, universal joints, CV joints (if applicable), and balancing procedures. Includes removal and installation steps.
Safety Ratings:
Historical safety ratings (e.g., Euro NCAP predecessors) are not readily available for this era, but the manual would detail safety-related systems like brakes and steering.
Active Safety Features:
Detailed information on the hydraulic braking system, power steering system, and potentially advanced suspension components contributing to active safety.
Passive Safety Features:
Bodywork structural information, seatbelt anchor points, and potential details on safety glass or early impact-absorbing structures.
Infotainment Features:
The manual would cover the basic radio systems, speaker installations, and antenna functionality of the era. Advanced infotainment was not a feature.
Driver Assistance Features:
Focus on the advanced hydraulic suspension and steering systems which provided a unique driving experience and were considered cutting-edge technology for their time.
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No modern connectivity features).
Electrical System Details:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, component testing procedures, and troubleshooting for the electrical system, including lighting, ignition, and auxiliary functions.
Service Intervals:
Manual will provide detailed recommended service intervals for engine oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, brake servicing, suspension checks, etc., typically based on mileage or time.
Fluid Specifications:
Crucial information on engine oil viscosity and API ratings, coolant type and mixture, brake fluid type (DOT 3/4), power steering fluid (LHM for Citroen's hydropneumatic system), and transmission fluid specifications.
Common Issues Guidance:
While not explicitly listed, FSMs often hint at or provide diagnostic procedures for common wear items or system quirks of the era, such as hydropneumatic system maintenance, potential electrical issues, or carburetor tuning.
Lubrication Points:
Diagrams and specifications for chassis lubrication, suspension joint greasing, and other critical lubrication points.
Filter Part Numbers:
Likely to include part numbers or specifications for oil filters, air filters, and fuel filters for the covered engine variants.
Troubleshooting Guidance:
Provides systematic diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common mechanical and electrical problems.
Brake Specifications:
Detailed coverage of front and rear brake systems (likely discs front and rear, possibly a hydropneumatic assisted brake booster), including pad/shoe replacement, caliper/cylinder overhaul, and bleeding procedures. Fluid types and capacities are essential.
Suspension Details:
Comprehensive coverage of the hydropneumatic suspension system, including sphere servicing, hydraulic fluid (LHM) maintenance, height corrector operation, and shock absorber replacement. Front and rear axle specifics are vital.
Brand Heritage:
Citroen is renowned for its pioneering automotive engineering, particularly in suspension and aerodynamics. The CX builds upon the legacy of the DS.
Model Evolution:
The CX replaced the iconic DS in 1974. It featured a longer wheelbase, improved aerodynamics, and refined hydropneumatic suspension. This manual covers the early iterations of the CX.
Production Period:
1974-1992 (This manual specifically covers 1974-1977 models).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily France.
Model Recognition:
The CX is celebrated for its futuristic design, comfortable ride, and unique character, often considered a 'halo' car for Citroen.
Model Significance:
The CX is considered one of the last true 'Citroens' characterized by radical innovation and a unique driving experience, particularly its 'flying carpet' ride quality.