🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Citroen

Model:

GS / GSA

Year:

1981

Chassis Codes:

VCZ (GS), VCK (GSA)

Generation Identifier:

Series 2 / Facelift (GSA introduced)

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Citroen GS/GSA owners, independent mechanics, restoration enthusiasts

Manual Authenticity:

Genuine Factory Manuals, not 3rd party

Content Quality:

High resolution, detailed illustrations, diagrams, and specifications

Usability:

Searchable PDF, printable pages, easy navigation

Cost Savings:

Potential to save $50-$60 per hour on labor costs

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All Styles Covered

Estimated Page Count:

Hundreds of Pages (printable)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Service Repair:

Yes

Transmission Service Repair:

Yes

Brake System:

Yes

Wiring Diagram:

Yes

Electrical System:

Yes

Suspension:

Yes

Periodic Lubrication:

Yes

Steering:

Yes

Cooling System:

Yes

Fuel Injection Fuel System:

Yes

Emission System:

Yes

Heater Air Conditioning:

Yes

Engine Control System:

Yes

Chassis Body:

Yes

Restraint System:

Yes

Interior:

Yes

Differential Drive:

Yes

Axle:

Yes

Exhaust System:

Yes

Wheels Tires:

Yes

Lighting System:

Yes

General Maintenance:

Yes

Troubleshooting:

Yes

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step, detailed

Diagnostic Procedures:

Advanced troubleshooting guide

Bodywork Repair:

Yes, including panel replacement and alignment guidance.

Depth:

Complete factory training equivalent

Engine Rebuild:

Yes, detailed procedures for overhaul and repair.

Suspension Rebuild:

Yes, covers hydraulics, spheres, arms, and bearings.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Comprehensive, with specific diagnostic steps and wiring diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Printability:

Fully Printable (individual pages or entire manual)

Binding Type:

N/A (Downloadable PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled flat-four (boxer)

Displacement Gs:

1220 cc (for GS models)

Displacement Gsa:

1299 cc (for GSA models)

Engine Variants Covered:

All engine variants for 1981 GS/GSA models

Horsepower Gs:

Approx. 55-60 hp (depending on tune)

Horsepower Gsa:

Approx. 65 hp (depending on tune)

Fuel Delivery:

Carburetted (e.g., Solex twin-choke) for GS, Fuel Injection options for GSA

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed manual transaxle

Optional Transmission:

Hydraulic-actuated semi-automatic ('Self-Changement par Corde') was an option on some models.

Drive Layout:

Front-wheel drive

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles Covered:

Hatchback (2-door and 4-door)

Curb Weight Approx:

980 - 1050 kg (depending on variant)

🛡️ Safety Features

Braking System Type:

Inboard front disc brakes, rear drum brakes

Restraint System Coverage:

Covers seat belts and other passive safety features

💡 Technology Features

Radio:

Optional factory radio, typically analog tuning.

Headlights:

Integrated headlight design, often with optional halogen bulbs.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Approx:

Every 5,000-7,500 km or annually, as specified in the manual.

Tune Up Interval Approx:

As needed or every 10,000-15,000 km for spark plugs, filters.

Engine Oil Type:

Mineral or semi-synthetic SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40, depending on climate (refer to manual for precise OEM specification).

Hydraulic Fluid Type:

LHM (Citroen's mineral-based hydraulic fluid) for suspension and brakes.

Transmission Fluid Type:

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

Hydropneumatic Suspension:

Potential leaks in spheres, lines, or pump; require specialized knowledge to service.

Engine Cooling:

Air-cooled engines can be susceptible to overheating in heavy traffic if cooling fins are clogged or the fan belt is worn.

Electrical System:

Older wiring can be brittle; corrosion is common in connectors.

Rust:

Bodywork can be susceptible to rust, especially in sills, wheel arches, and around windows.

📚 Vehicle History

Citroen Design Philosophy:

Known for innovative and eccentric design, fluid dynamics, and hydropneumatic suspension

Gs Introduction:

Citroen GS launched in 1970, designed to be a comfortable, aerodynamic, and technologically advanced family car.

Gsa Introduction:

The GSA was an updated version of the GS, introduced in 1979, featuring a revised interior (including a dashboard with toggle switches and buttons), improved aerodynamics, and a rotary engine option in some markets (not relevant for this 1981 manual).

Production Period Gs Gsa:

1970-1986

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily France, also built under license in other countries.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Design Award:

Citroen GS won the European Car of the Year award in 1971.