Historical Context:
The Citroën GS/GSA was a distinctive and innovative family car produced from 1970 to 1986, known for its aerodynamic design, hydropneumatic suspension, and front-wheel drive. It occupied a unique niche between smaller hatchbacks and larger saloons.
Competitors:
Key competitors included the Ford Escort, Vauxhall/Opel Astra/Kadett, Volkswagen Golf, and Renault 12/18.
Design Innovation:
Aerodynamic 'Kammback' profile, advanced hydropneumatic suspension offering exceptional ride comfort and self-levelling capabilities.
Engine Technology:
Air-cooled flat-four engines (initially 1015cc, later 1222cc and 1299cc for GS, and 1299cc and 1580cc for GSA) renowned for their smoothness and reliability.
Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and independent mechanics to perform comprehensive maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs on their 1979 Citroën GS/GSA, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.
Primary Coverage:
All Service and Repair
Specific Sections Listed:
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, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Axle
Estimated Page Count:
Varies (Downloadable format, typically extensive)
Type:
Workshop/Service/Repair Manual
File Type Details:
Downloadable PDF for instant access and offline use.
Powertrain:
Engine (all variants), Transmission (manual and automatic), Drivetrain (front-wheel drive, axles)
Chassis:
Suspension (Hydropneumatic, front and rear), Steering (rack and pinion), Brakes (front disc, rear drum), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Complete Electrical System, Wiring Diagrams, Ignition System, Charging System, Lighting, Instruments, Accessories
Body And Interior:
Chassis/Body Construction, Doors, Windows, Seats, Trim, Body Repair
Emission Control:
Information on emission control systems relevant to the 1979 model year regulations.
Engine Control:
Details on the engine management systems, including ignition timing and carburetion adjustments.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, lubrication, filter replacement, inspections
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, common problems and their solutions, fault finding guides
Overhaul:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement
Refurbishment Renovation:
Guidance applicable to restoring and renovating components and the vehicle's overall condition.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and full mechanical rebuilds.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, horizontally opposed (flat-four) OHV
Displacement 1979:
Likely 1222cc or 1299cc for the GS, with 1299cc and 1580cc available for the GSA which began production in 1979.
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 56-72 hp for 1.2-1.3L variants, up to 75-79 hp for 1.5L variants (GSA).
Torque Range:
Approx. 90-105 Nm for 1.2-1.3L variants, up to 110-115 Nm for 1.5L variants (GSA).
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (e.g., Solex or Weber twin-choke for higher performance variants)
Cooling Method:
Forced air circulation via cooling fins and fan.
Historical Safety Standards:
Met European safety standards of the era; lacked modern passive safety features like airbags or ABS.
Braking System:
Front ventilated discs, rear drums; servo-assisted.
Body Structure:
Integrated safety cage and crumple zones, designed with safety in mind for its time.
Restraint System:
Standard seat belts (often lap belts in front, lap belts in rear).
Oil Change:
Recommended every 5,000 - 7,500 km or annually.
Major Service:
Recommended every 20,000 - 30,000 km, including ignition system checks, valve clearances, and general inspection.
Engine Oil:
SAE 20W-50 or SAE 15W-40 (API SE/SF specification). Check manual for specific recommendations.
Hydropneumatic Fluid:
Citroën LHS 2 (a mineral-based fluid). Never use hydraulic fluid like 'green' fluid (LHM) used in DS/SM/CX models.
Transmission Fluid:
Gear oil SAE 75W-80 or 75W-90 (API GL-4).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Rust Susceptibility:
Common for older vehicles, particularly sills, wheel arches, and floor pans.
Hydropneumatic System:
Potential leaks from hoses or seals, worn spheres, accumulator failures. Requires specialized knowledge.
Ignition System:
Wear in points, condenser, or distributor cap can affect running.
Engine Cooling:
Air-cooled engines are generally robust but require clean cooling fins for efficient operation. Overheating can be an issue if airflow is obstructed.
Citroen Innovation:
Citroën is renowned for its engineering innovation, particularly in suspension systems (e.g., 2CV, DS) and aerodynamic design.
Gs To Gsa:
The GSA was a facelifted and updated version of the GS, introduced in 1979. Key changes included a new front-end design (replacing the original exposed headlights with faired units), revised interior with a distinctive 'asteroid' dashboard, and minor mechanical updates.
Production Years:
GS: 1970-1986; GSA: 1979-1986.
Manufacturing Locations:
France ( 主要生产地), Vigo (Spain), Mangualde (Portugal), and various other international assembly plants.
