🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Citroën

Model:

GS / GSA

Year:

1974

Chassis Code:

VF7

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Essential technical resource for owners and independent repair shops specializing in the Citroën GS/GSA, providing factory-accurate information for maintenance and repair.

Target Audience:

Citroën GS/GSA owners, classic car enthusiasts, independent European car repair specialists, and restoration shops.

Comparison:

This manual is an 'Actual Genuine Repair Service Factory Manual,' distinguishing it from less authoritative third-party publications and ensuring the highest level of accuracy and completeness.

Features:

Hundreds of pages of detailed procedures, factory-correct specifications, comprehensive troubleshooting, all styles covered, extensive system coverage, and high-resolution illustrations.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Comprehensive service, maintenance, and repair for all GS and GSA variants of 1974

Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (exact count not specified, but implied extensive coverage)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems:

General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Wiring Diagram, 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

Specific Engine Details:

Detailed engine overhaul, component replacement (pistons, rings, valves, bearings), camshaft timing, lubrication system, cooling system (air-cooled specifics), fuel delivery and ignition systems.

Specific Transmission Details:

Gearbox overhaul, clutch adjustment and replacement, driveshaft maintenance, fluid changes, and troubleshooting of transmission issues.

Specific Brake Details:

Front and rear brake caliper overhaul, disc and pad replacement, hydraulic system bleeding, parking brake adjustment, master cylinder repair.

Specific Electrical Details:

Complete wiring diagrams with component identification, starter motor, alternator, battery service, lighting system repair, ignition system diagnosis, instrument panel functionality.

Specific Suspension Details:

Detailed instructions for the Hydropneumatic system (if applicable to specific 1974 GS models and variations covered), shock absorber servicing, spring and damper checks, and chassis component replacement.

Body And Chassis Structure:

Frame and body construction, welding points, jacking points, door and lock mechanisms, glass replacement procedures.

Fuel And Emission Control:

Fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank, emission control devices (e.g., PCV system), exhaust system.

Procedures:

Step-by-step repair procedures, advanced troubleshooting, diagnostic guidance, maintenance tasks, rebuild instructions, refurbishment processes, restoration details

Diagnostic Procedures:

Systematic troubleshooting trees, fault code interpretation (where applicable), common symptom diagnosis, and solutions for mechanical and electrical problems.

Bodywork And Chassis:

Body panel repair, rust prevention and repair techniques, door mechanism servicing, interior trim removal and installation, chassis lubrication.

Heating And Ventilation:

Heater core service, ventilation system ducting inspection, blower motor troubleshooting, and climate control system maintenance (if equipped).

Engine Tuning:

Includes carburetor adjustment, ignition timing, valve clearance adjustment, and general performance tuning guidelines.

Wheel Alignment And Balancing:

Specifications for wheel alignment angles and procedures for tire balancing.

Depth:

Factory-level technical expertise, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

Works on all PC-based Windows operating systems and macOS.

Printability:

Printable without restriction, allowing for full or partial document printing

Searchability:

Searchable PDF functionality allows for quick information retrieval.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Storage:

Can be saved to hard drive or burned to CD-ROM for archival.

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Flat-four (boxer) air-cooled engine

Displacement Gs 1974:

1129 cc (1.1 L)

Horsepower Gs 1974:

Approximately 56-60 PS (DIN)

Torque Gs 1974:

Approximately 80-85 Nm (59-63 lb-ft) at around 3000 rpm.

Fuel System Type:

Carbureted (e.g., Solex, Zenith) for most 1974 models

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (91 RON or higher recommended)

Carburetor Details:

Specific carburetor models like Solex 32 PBISA or Zenith 36 IV. Manual will detail their adjustment and overhaul.

Cooling Type:

Air-cooled with fan assist. Manual covers fan belt inspection, bearing checks, and airflow management.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed manual transaxle

Optional Transmission:

Citroën Dyana-matic (semi-automatic) was available on some models, though less common on the early 1974 GS.

Dyanamatic Features:

This system typically involved an automatic clutch and a 3-speed torque converter automatic gearbox, offering a smoother driving experience.

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2550 mm (99.6 in)

Length:

Approximately 4120 mm (162.2 in)

Width:

Approximately 1600 mm (63 in)

Height:

Approximately 1370 mm (53.9 in)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 980 kg (2160 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Approximately 1400 kg (3086 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Safety Era:

Reflects 1970s safety standards; advanced safety features were less prevalent than in modern vehicles.

Active Safety:

Four-wheel disc brakes (inboard front discs), rack-and-pinion steering.

Braking System Layout:

Inboard ventilated front discs, outboard rear discs, coupled hydraulic system with dual circuits.

Passive Safety:

Reinforced body structure, lap seat belts (front). The manual likely details seat belt inspection and maintenance.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic radio, likely AM/FM. The focus of this era was on mechanical and electrical functionality, not advanced infotainment.

Driver Assistance Systems:

Limited to power-assisted steering and advanced braking system (for its time).

Steering System:

Rack and pinion, power assisted on some variants. Manual covers servo and hydraulic system maintenance.

Connectivity Features:

None in the modern sense; connectivity was limited to basic electrical systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 km (3,000 - 4,500 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Manual will specify exact interval and oil type.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically at 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles). Manual will list correct spark plug part numbers and gap specifications.

Brake Fluid Change:

Recommended every 1-2 years due to hygroscopic nature. Manual will provide specific recommendation.

Engine Oil:

Likely SAE 20W-50 or similar multi-grade oil suitable for air-cooled engines. Manual will provide precise API service classification and capacity.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic fluid. Manual will specify type and bleeding procedures.

Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 gear oil. Manual will specify viscosity grade and capacity.

Coolant Specification:

Not applicable as the engine is air-cooled. Manual will detail any ancillary fluid requirements.

Common Problems:

Early GS models could experience issues with the Hydropneumatic suspension (though less prevalent in the standard GS compared to DS/SM), carburetor tuning, ignition system components, and rust due to its construction. The manual will provide diagnostic procedures for these.

Tune Up Procedures:

Includes ignition timing adjustment, carburetor adjustment, spark plug replacement, and air filter replacement as detailed in the manual.

Electrical Gremlins:

Older wiring can degrade; the manual's wiring diagrams and troubleshooting section are crucial for diagnosing intermittent electrical faults.

📚 Vehicle History

Citroen Philosophy:

Citroën's reputation for innovative engineering, unique designs, and driver comfort is exemplified by the GS/GSA.

Gs Introduction:

The Citroën GS was introduced in 1970, positioned as a compact executive car, bridging the gap between the Ami 8 and the larger DS.

Gsa Updates:

The GSA featured updated styling including plastic bumpers, a revised dashboard, and improved aerodynamics, along with optional alloy wheels and a 5-speed gearbox.

Production Period:

The GS was produced from 1970 to 1986. The GSA variant, with updated styling and features, was introduced in 1980.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car Of The Year Awards:

The Citroën GS was named European Car of the Year in 1971, recognized for its advanced design and engineering.