Description
Factory Citroen Traction Avant Workshop Manual (1938-1950)
This 116-page illustrated factory workshop manual covers the Citroën Traction Avant “Twelve” (11CV) and “Fifteen” (15CV) – the world’s first mass-produced front-wheel-drive cars with monocoque bodies. An indispensable reference for restorers and specialist workshops maintaining these historic automobiles in the US and worldwide.
Powertrain & Drive Coverage
| Component | Variants Covered |
|---|---|
| Petrol | 11CV (“Twelve”) inline-4; 15CV (“Fifteen”) inline-6 |
| Diesel | N/A |
| Transmissions | 3-speed synchromesh manual gearbox with integral differential |
| Drive | FWD (pioneering front-wheel-drive with torsion bar suspension and rack-and-pinion steering) |
| Model Years | 1938-1950 |
| Badge Twins | Also known as Citroën Light Fifteen, Citroën Big Fifteen, Citroën 11CV, Citroën 15CV |
Common Traction Avant Repairs Covered
| System | Procedures |
|---|---|
| Front-Wheel-Drive Driveshafts | Drive shaft fitting, reboring, spline housing service, inner and outer ball-race extraction – a frequent wear item on these early FWD cars |
| Crown Wheel & Bevel Pinion | Standard and simplified adjustment methods for differential crown wheel and bevel pinion; satellite thrust face rectification |
| Torsion Bar Suspension | Front and rear torsion bar removal, fitting, and adjustment settings; silentbloc dismantling and reassembly; rear-axle camber and toe-in verification |
| Brakes & Master Cylinder | Master cylinder removal and assembly, brake drum rectification, brake-shoe and lining adjustment, lining concentricity checking |
Format & Delivery
PDF (116 pages, ~51 MB, illustrated/scanned original factory document). Instant download; lifetime re-downloads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this manual cover both the 11CV and 15CV Traction Avant models?
Yes. The manual addresses both the “Twelve” (11CV) four-cylinder and the “Fifteen” (15CV) six-cylinder variants across the full 1938-1950 production span. Procedures for the engine, gearbox, and front-drive system apply to both configurations, with the 15CV differing primarily in its longer inline-6 engine block.
Is the Traction Avant the same platform as any other Citroën model sold in the US?
The Traction Avant’s pioneering FWD monocoque architecture was unique to Citroën during this era and was not shared with other marques. In North America the car was sold in very limited numbers as the Citroën Light Fifteen and Big Fifteen through the late 1940s. No badge-twin equivalent was offered by a separate brand.
Are wiring diagrams and ignition timing curves included?
Yes. The electrical chapter provides complete wiring diagrams, dynamo assembly drawings with induction coil and pole-piece details, starter motor assembly, and automatic advance ignition curves – essential when servicing the aging electrical systems on these classic vehicles.
What format is the manual?
The manual is delivered as a PDF file (approximately 51 MB, 116 pages) consisting of scanned factory workshop drawings and sectional diagrams. It opens on any device – Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, or iOS – with no special software required beyond a standard PDF reader.
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