Target Audience:
Citroen GS owners, classic car enthusiasts, mechanics specializing in French vehicles
Value Proposition:
Comprehensive resource for maintaining and repairing a unique and classic vehicle, saving costs compared to specialized workshop labor.
Manual Structure:
Detailed sub-steps, notes, cautions, warnings, numbered instructions, bold figure numbers, enlarged insets.
Illustration Quality:
Detailed illustrations, drawings, and photos.
Ease Of Use:
Numbered table of contents for fast information retrieval, combined troubleshooting and wiring diagrams.
Primary Focus:
Full Service Repair
Technical Scope:
Diagnostics, repair, maintenance, rebuild, refurbishment, restoration
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (not specified, but described as comprehensive)
Type:
Full Service Repair Manual
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinRAR
Compatibility:
All Windows Versions, Mac
Powertrain:
Engine, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission
Chassis:
Suspension (Hydropneumatic system), steering, brakes, wheels, tires
Electrical:
Lighting, ignition, charging system, starting system, wiring diagrams, diagnostics
Bodywork:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seals
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault finding procedures
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake system service, suspension adjustments, electrical component replacement
Rebuilding Refurbishment:
Detailed procedures for major component rebuilds
Depth Level:
Professional Technician Level, suitable for advanced DIY mechanics
Diagnostic Tools:
Implied use of standard automotive diagnostic tools
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, horizontally opposed flat-four cylinder (boxer)
Displacement Options:
1015 cc, 1124 cc, 1220 cc (later GSAs)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 55 hp to 70 hp depending on engine variant and state of tune.
Torque Characteristics:
Designed for smooth operation and good low-end torque.
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (e.g., Solex, Weber) across the range.
Cooling Method:
Air-cooled, forced induction via fan.
Ignition Type:
Conventional distributor-based ignition system.
Transmission Type:
Four-speed manual transaxle.
Automatic Transmission:
Optional 'Citroenmatic' electro-hydraulically controlled automatic transmission available on some models.
Transaxle Layout:
Engine and transmission are integrated into a single transaxle unit.
Transmission Fluid:
Likely SAE 75W-80 or SAE 80 gear oil (refer to specific manual for exact specification).
Body Style:
Hatchback, Estate (Break)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2650 mm (104.3 inches)
Length:
Approx. 4050-4150 mm (159.4-163.4 inches)
Width:
Approx. 1640 mm (64.6 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1350-1390 mm (53.1-54.7 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 950-1050 kg (2094-2315 lbs)
Crash Test Performance:
Information not readily available for this era of vehicle, but known for its advanced safety structure for the time.
Braking System:
Disc brakes on front, drum brakes on rear (some models featured a unique brake pedal activation system).
Suspension Safety:
Hydropneumatic self-levelling suspension contributed to stability.
Seatbelts:
Standard seatbelts, likely lap belts in the front and rear initially, with later models potentially offering inertia-reel belts.
Body Construction:
Unitary body construction with integrated safety features.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 km (3,000-4,500 miles) or annually, depending on usage. Specific recommendations in the manual.
Major Service Interval:
More comprehensive checks and component servicing at higher mileage intervals (e.g., 20,000-30,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
Likely SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40, air-cooled engines can be sensitive to oil viscosity. Refer to manual for exact specification.
Coolant Type:
N/A (Air-cooled engine)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for exact specification).
Hydropneumatic Fluid:
Citroen LHS 2 (or compatible mineral-based hydraulic fluid for older systems).
Hydropneumatic System:
Leaking spheres, pump issues, pressure regulator problems common with age.
Engine Wear:
Potential for oil consumption, valve guide wear, and timing belt/chain issues (depending on specific engine variant).
Electrical Corrosion:
Common in older vehicles, particularly wiring connections and grounds.
Rust Corrosion:
Can be susceptible to rust, especially in sills, wheel arches, and floor pans.
Citroen Design Philosophy:
Known for innovative and often avant-garde automotive design, focusing on comfort and aerodynamics.
Facelift:
GSA introduced in 1980 with updated styling (plastic bumpers, revised dashboard, improved interior).
Design Influence:
Designed by Robert Opron, showcasing aerodynamic and flowing lines.
Production Locations:
Primarily France.
Total Production Numbers:
Over 1.5 million units of the GS and GSA combined.
