vol 31 #07...r citroËn owners and enthusiasts 3 committee support acting president — edward cross...

1R C I T R O Ë N O W N E R S A N D E N T H U S I A S T S� � ��

FEBRUARY / MARCHFEBRUARY / MARCH ‘08 ‘08 �� VOL 31VOL 31 �� NO NO 77

FRONT

DRIVEA U S T R A L I A ’ SA U S T R A L I A ’ S �� N A T I O N A LN A T I O N A L �� M A G A Z I N EM A G A Z I N E �� F O RF O R �� C I T R O Ë NC I T R O Ë N �� O W N E R SO W N E R S �� A N DA N D �� E N T H U S I A S T SE N T H U S I A S T S

2 A U S T R A L I A ’ S N A T I O N A L M A G A Z I N E F O R� � � �

Annual Membership is $45. For overseas membership add $12.

CONTRIBUTORS

MEETINGS

POSTAL ADDRESS

LIFE MEMBERS

MEMBERSHIPCITROËN CLASSIC OWNERS CLUB of AUSTRALIA Inc.The address of the Club and this magazine is: PO Box 52, Balwyn, Victoria, 3103.The Club’s website is: www.citroenclassic.org.auCitroën Classic Owners Club of Australia Inc. is a member of the Association of Motoring Clubs. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of CCOCA or its Committee. Neither CCOCA, nor its Committee can accept any responsibility for any mechanical advice printed in, or adopted from this publication. T he C lub c anno t a c c e p t any responsibility for, or involvement in, any business relationship that may occur between an advertiser and a member of the Club.

Club meetings are held on the fourth Wednesday of every month [except December] at 8pm. The venue is the Canterbury Sports Ground Pavilion, cnr Chatham and Guildford Rds, Canterbury, Victoria. Melway Ref 46, F10.

The committee awards life membership to Club members in recognition of their contribution to, and support of, the Club. Life members are: Peter Boyle 2003Jack Weaver 1991Nance Clark 1984

CH PLATESSend your annual CH renewal form to PO Box 52, Balwyn, 3103. Please do the right thing and enclose a stamped, addressed envelope.

ABOUT TO ARRANGE A CLASSIC/HISTORIC PERMIT FOR YOUR CITROËN?CH permit applications must be accompanied by a RWC. The onus is on owners to demonstrate that their cars are safe. Feel free to consult our Permit Officers for advice regarding getting your car on the road, and keeping it going.

Contributors to this edition of ‘Front Drive’ include: Ted Cross and Rob Little.

DEADLINE

The deadline for the next edition of ‘Front Drive’ is Friday, February 22, 2008

COVER IMAGEThe cover image is taken from the calendar of Traction Avant Nederland and shows the marina and lighthouse at Ouistreham in Normandy..

CITROËNING

R 3 C I T R O Ë N O W N E R S A N D E N T H U S I A S T S� � ��

SUPPORTCOMMITTEE

ACTING PRESIDENT — Edward Cross [03] 9819 2208 [H] [email protected] — Vacant [email protected] — Clare Hadaway [03] 9598 6888 [H] [email protected] COORDINATOR — Mark McKibbin [03] 5625 4020 [email protected] COORDINATOR — Bernie Hadaway [03] 9598 6888 [email protected] PARTS OFFICER — Rob Little [03] 5823 1397 [H] [email protected] EDITOR — Leigh Miles [03] 9888 7506 [H] [email protected] PERSON — Michael Molesworth [email protected]

WEB WALLAH — Jeff Pamplin [03] 9523 0210 [H] [email protected] SECRETARY — Mark McKibbin [03] 5625 4020 [H] [email protected] LIAISON OFFICERS — Ted Cross [03] 9819 2208 [H]Russell Wade [03] 9570 3486 [H]CLUB PERMIT & SAFETY OFFICERS — Russell Wade [03] 9570 3486 [H]Peter Boyle [03] 9470 8080 [H]Mel Carey [03] 9419 4537 [H&B]LIBRARIAN — David Gries [email protected] SHOP — Graham Barton[03] 5987 0767 [H] 04 1810 0992 [M] [email protected] REPRESENTATIVE — Ted Cross [03] 9819 2208 [H]STATE ACTIVITY CO-ORDINATORS — ACT Mike Neil[02] 6254 1040 [H] 04 1821 1278 [M]NSW Bert Houtepen [02] 9746 9920PUBLIC OFFICER — Peter Boyle [03] 9470 8080 [email protected]

FOR SPARE PARTS & TOOLSContact Rob Little. Phone: [03] 5823 1397 spareparts@ citroenclassic.org.au [Please do it at a reasonable hour.]

CLUB SHOPFor Citroën models, memorabilia and other items contact Graham Barton on [03] 5987 0767 or [email protected]

OTHER CLUBS?VIC: www.citcarclubvic.org.auNSW: www.citroencarclub.org.au/W A : w w w . c i t r o ë n .a c e o n l i n e . c o m . a uQLD: www.citroenclub.orgwww.doublechevrons.aunz.com


CONTENTS

ED SED PAGE 4PREZ SEZ PAGE 5A-TRACTIONS PAGE 6CITIN’08 DENILIQUIN PAGE 11FACE TO FACE PAGE 15

ED SED

A ‘LEMON’ FOR THE LADIES PAGE 30FREE MEMBERSHIP PAGE 35SPARE NEWS PAGE 36CLASSIFIED ADS PAGE 37

Volume 31, #7. Where has the year gone? Now, I know that the edito-

rial should tell you all about this edition of ‘Front Drive’, but I am going to tell you about the next edition first. Volume 31 #8

will not only include all the

usual things you expect to see in ‘Front Drive’, it will also include the programme for CitIn’08 Deniliquin.

So, not only will every at-tendee at CitIn receive the essen-tial programme for the weekend, they will also sample, what I regard as [and yes, I am biased], the best Citroën magazine in the country. All right, one of the bet-ter Citroën…

CitIn provides CCOCA with an all too rare opportunity to trumpet its quality and the breadth of interests and membership.

So, I intend to republish some articles from previous editions of ‘Front Drive’. If you have a fa-vourite feature from the past, let me know – I am looking for your input by the end of February.

Articles I am already consid-ering include ‘Traction Detective’ [V30, #7], Bill Schenk’s ‘Mem-ber’s Model’ [V 30, #6], Roy and Esther Beglehole’s Dyane article originally from the Warrnam-bool ‘Standard’ and the brilliant extracts from the writings of LJK Setright [both from V 29, #6]. Actually, looking back, there has been so much stunning material published in ‘Front Drive’, it is difficult to select the best.

This edition? Yes, it is thin-ner than usual: remember, I am always seeking material for ‘Front Drive’. Bumper editions require your input.

The focus is the 10hp 5CV from 1922, with a comparison test and a little history of the model.

This article is illustrated from a little ‘stash’ I recently found that included some superb reproduc-tions of old Citroën advertising. While I have previously seen some of this material, a considerable amount of it is new to my eyes. Enjoy, Leigh F Miles – Editor �


The end of 2007 be-came rather frantic for the Crosses. Out doing

something important for most of November and December with 15 nights out in a row if I remember correctly.

We f ina l ly had a quick holi-day on the south island of New Zealand but did not have time to catch up with our NZ Citroën friends this trip. I loved New Zealand and hope to return as soon as I can.

The CCOCA group who at-tended the Shannon’s Christmas event had a great time and we all agreed to do it again next year. We’ll try to have a second table this year.

2008 is a big year for CCOCA. We are hosting the 2008 CitIn, which is on track to be a success. We already have over 120 partici-pants, which should ensure a full event by the cut-off.

This year is effectively 60 years of the 2CV and we are keen for plenty of 2CV owners to at-tend the CitIn. Naturally, we are looking forward to seeing a wide range of models at the event – our DS 19 group is threatening to at-tend in force so it will be an event to remember.

2009 is the 70th year of the Traction so we are already think-ing could we possibly attend such an important occasion on the

PREZ SEZ

Citroën calendar. Any body inter-ested to get an Australian group together for the Event ?

This week Helen and I were lucky to catch up with Stephen and Joyce LeRoux from the South

African Citroën Club. We had a wonderful meal together and we immediately hit it off. It is amaz-ing that the Citroën family meet anywhere in the world and enjoy each other’s company and attitude to the famous Citroën.

Importantly we have renewed relations with our sister club which has so many similarities and we look forward to closer links with them in 2008 and beyond.

Do not forget to attend the AGM, which is now in April if you are able to do so. This event is important to the ongoing success of CCOCA. It is very important that we have a quorum at the AGM – or that if you cannot join us you return the Proxy form that will be sent with the next edition of ‘Front Drive’.

My next major focus is getting the 2CV ready to attend the 2008 Raid. This will be the event of a lifetime for us. Ted Cross Acting President �


Please note: if no bookings have been received for an

Event, by the booking deadline the Event will be

automatically cancelled.

A-TRACTIONS

• FEBRUARYP I C N I C A T P I C N I C A T H A N G I N G R O C KH A N G I N G R O C KWHEN: Sunday, 10 FebTIME: From 8:00amWHERE: Hanging Rock ReserveCOST: $20 per vehicleBRING: Sunscreen, chair, lunchBOOKING: Not requiredMORE INFO: Graham Williams [email protected] or www.mradmc.com.au

For all veteran, vintage and classic cars and motorcycles, customs, commercials and pedal power cars [not your average car]! Last February the Picnic attracted more than 2,500 entries [display cars] and the organisers are confident the 2008 event will be both bigger and better. Free activities and displays for the whole family. Raffle with great prizes. Souvenir T-shirts and badges for sale. Restaurant, food stalls and picnic facilities. What are you waiting for?

MONTHLY MEETINGMONTHLY MEETINGWHEN: Wednesday, 27 FebruaryTIME: 8:00pmWHERE: Canterbury Sports Ground Pavilion, cnr Chatham & Guildford Rds., CanterburyCOST: FreeBOOKING: Not requiredCONTACT: Leigh Miles, [03] 9888 7506, [email protected]

Come and hear about the Scottish built tug ‘Lyttelton II’, from its arrival in New Zealand in 1938

Right : The Right : The Lyttleton II Lyttleton II at it s f ina l at it s f ina l berth. Come berth. Come along to the along to the F e b r u a r y F e b r u a r y Club meet-Club meet-ing and hear ing and hear how the res-how the res-torat ion of torat ion of the Ly t tel-the Ly t tel-ton II’s en-ton II’s en-gine room is gine room is progressing. progressing. Then, over Then, over the weekend the weekend o f M a r c h o f M a r c h 8 to 10 see 8 to 10 see the work for the work for yourse l f at yourse l f at the National the National S t e a m fe s t . S t e a m fe s t . Det a i l s on Det a i l s on page 8.page 8.


and its working life in the harbour after which it was named. Sold into preservation to a Sydney-based group, it managed to steam it into Sydney Harbour, with an hour’s coal remaining! The tug came to Melbourne, but there were insufficient funds to restore and operate her. She was sadly scrapped in January 2007. The contents of her engine room have been saved and the objective is to ultimately recreate the tug’s engine room, including her two main engines. Club member Derek Moore is heavily involved in the restoration project and tonight he will share the triumphs and disappointments that go hand-in-hand with any major project of this type. Then, over the weekend of March 8 to 10 take a trip to the National Steamfest [see page 8] and see the state of p l a y f o r yourself.

• MARCHR A C V C L A S S I C R A C V C L A S S I C S H O W C A S ES H O W C A S EWHEN: Sunday, 2 MarchTIME: From 8:30am [display] From 10:00am [spectators]WHERE: Flemington Racecourse Nursery CarparkCOST: Display $10.00 Spectators $10.00pp

BOOKING: Essential [see below]

Above: The Above: The delicate op-delicate op-eration of re-eration of re-moving the moving the engines from engines from the Lyttleton the Lyttleton II.II.


CONTACT: Mark McKibbin [email protected]

This event used to be known as ‘British & European Day’ a nd rema i n s open to ca r s manufactured in Britain and

Europe. The featured marques in 2008 are Riley and Aston Martin and the event will include the Mercedes Benz Concours. CCOCA would love to have a superb collection on show this year – so book you attendance as a display car with Mark McKibbin. Entrance on the day is via Epsom Rd [Melway 28, H12]

NATIONAL STEAMFESTNATIONAL STEAMFESTWHEN: Saturday 8 to Monday, 10 MarchTIME: From 10:00am each dayWHERE: National Steam Centre, 1200 Ferntree Gully Rd., Scoresby. Melway 72, D9COST: Adults $10, children $5, family $20BOOKING: Not requiredBRING: Lunch, rug, chairs, sunscreenCONTACT: Leigh Miles, [03] 9888 7506 [H], [email protected]

Steam rollers, steam traction engines, portable steam engines, stat ionary steam engines… working examples from the 1890s

and beyond. Blacksmith’s shop, with working steam hammer. This is one of the finest collections of steam and diesel machinery in the country and on the Labour Day long weekend if it runs, it’ll be running this weekend. The kids [big and small] amongst us will enjoy a ride on the 12” miniature railway too.

CIT IN ‘08 – DENILIQUINCIT IN ‘08 – DENILIQUIN

WHEN: Friday 21 to Monday 24 MarchTIME: From 3:00pmmWHERE: Register at Crossing Café, COST: Until 31 Dec Adults $175, Children $135 From 1 Jan, 2008 Adults $185, children $145 BOOKING: Bookings close 31 January, 2008 or when numbers reach 180CONTACT: Leigh F Miles [03] 9888 7506 [email protected]

A-TRACTIONS


Full details can be found elsewhere in this edition of ‘Front Drive’, but at the end of November [when I was writing this] we have already over HALF FILLED our capacity to take bookings. Clearly, everyone who is anyone in the Citroën world is ‘Doing it in Deni’. Are you?

MONTHLY MEETING MONTHLY MEETING – C A N C E L L E D ! – C A N C E L L E D ! AGM – DEFERRED!AGM – DEFERRED!The March Monthly Meeting is due to be held on Wednesday, March 26. In other years the March Meeting has also been the Club’s AGM. However, due to the proximity of this date to our hosting of CitIn’08, the Committee has decided not to host a meeting in March. The AGM will, as a result, be deferred to the April Meeting – Wednesday, April 23.

The Club’s constitution states:

PA RT 4 – A N N UA L GENERAL MEETING. 12. The Annual General Meeting of the Club shall be held within 91 days of the last day of the financial year of the Club. The day and time for the holding of the Annua l Genera l Me e t i n g s h a l l b e de t e r m i ned by the Executive committee.

KALORAMA VINTAGE KALORAMA VINTAGE & CLASSIC DISPLAY & CLASSIC DISPLAY & M O T O R K H A N A& M O T O R K H A N AWHEN: Sunday, 30 MarchTIME: 9:00amFROM: Manhattan Hotel, Canterbury Rd., RingwoodTO: Kalorama Recreation ReserveCOST: Entrants $10 per vehicle Spectators $5.00 per adultBRING: Sunscreen, chair, lunchBOOKING: Bookings close 10 MarchCONTACT: Bill Eldridge [03] 9798 1995

This event is hosted by the VDC and 2008 sees its 52nd running. Al l proceeds assist the Kalorama Country Fire Brigade in providing services to the community. Participants assemble at the Manhattan Hotel at 9:00am for the ‘Mystery Scenic’ route to Kalorama. Compet it ion event s at the Kalorama Reserve commence after lunch at 12:30 sharp. All cars over 50years can enter. That obviously

includes all Traction Arriere and Traction Avant

models and early D-Series and A-Series cars. We would really love to have a great turn out of Citroën this

yea r.Remember as well, even non-


competitor cars can win Popular Choice Awards and Prizes. The CFA kiosk will provide lunch, ice creams and refreshments. For Victorian members of CCOCA an entry form is included with this

magazine, or contact Bill Eldridge for additional forms.

• APRILANNUAL GENERAL ANNUAL GENERAL M E E T I N G & M E E T I N G & MONTHLY MEETINGMONTHLY MEETINGWHEN: Wednesday, 23 AprilTIME: 8:00pmWHERE: Canterbury Sports Ground Pavilion, cnr Chatham & Guildford Rds., CanterburyCOST: FreeBOOKING: Not requiredCONTACT: Ted Cross, [03] 9819 2208, [email protected]

Yes, it is that time of the year again – the Annual Genera l Meeting is rolling around again. Normally this is held in March, but due to our hosting of CitIn’08 it has been deferred to Wednesday, 23 April.Every year the Committee exhorts you come along to this important event, and every year we manage to have sufficient members attend to assure us a quorum. Remember, if

we do not get a quorum, we sim-ply have to go through the whole thing again. So, please make the effort to come along.VOLUNTEER!

Have you thought of standing for Commit-tee? All Committee positions are ‘up for grabs’. Nomination forms will be sent with the next edi-tion of ‘Front Drive’. Remember, this is will be the only edition of ‘Front Drive’ that will include this form.VOTE!

Voting for the 2008/2009 Com-mittee is a very important right you have as a member of CCOCA. So, come along and make sure you have your input. Or complete the ‘Proxy Form’ that will be with the next ‘Front Drive’.

A-TRACTIONS


CCOCA INVITES INVITES

YOU TO CITIN‘08

DEDENILIQUINNILIQUIN

MARCH 21 – 24, MARCH 21 – 24, ‘08‘08

Monster Raff le ! Yes, that’s the latest news f rom the Cit In’08

Team.They have been hard at work

finding great prizes. The result is CCOCA will be holding prob-ably the biggest CitIn Raff le ever. The prize pool already has a retail value of over $1,300 and 20prizes.

The way the Team are going, I am guessing there is no stopping them and by March 2008 the prize could well be even bigger!

Tickets will be $2.00each for 3 for $5. That sounds like a

bargain to me.We will keep you posted on

prize pool updates.WEB UPDATE

Have you visited the dedicated site for CitIn’08? This is where you will find all the latest news on CitIn’08 – what’s doing, what’s happening. Find it at: www.cit-in.orgLOCAL PUBLICITY

Publicity for the event has al-ready appeared in the ‘Deniliquin Pastoral Times’ – the local paper, so the people in Deniliquin and the surrounding area already know we are coming to town. The


The club approached Deniliquin Council last year, expressing an interest in holding the meeting in Deniliquin over the Easter period.

The event is expected to attract 180 Citroën Classic Car Club members to Deniliquin, as well as at least 100 classic and mod-ern Citroëns.

Club members are expected to begin rolling into Deniliquin on Good Friday and remain until Easter Monday. Deniliquin Council Economic Development Officer Michael

Deniliquin Pastoral Times is pub-lished each Tuesday and Friday, and keeps the 8,500residents of Deniliquin and the surrounding townships well informed about the many events in the district. The Deniliquin Pastoral Times is the unchallenged print medium in this major agricultural centre with an emphasis on community issues and ensuring all sections of the community are catered for. Readership is strong with a high household penetration rate. CLASSIC CITROËNS ROLLING INTO

TOWN. AUGUST 17, 2007 The Citroën Classic Owners Club of Australia wil l host the National Citroën event in Deniliquin next year.


YOU TO CITIN‘08


MARCH 21 – 24, MARCH 21 – 24, ‘08‘08


Conallin said as part of their pro-gram, the club will display their vehicles in Civic Place to comple-ment other activities held in town during the holiday period. Mr Conallin said other than the immediate flow-on effects to the economy, winning the opportu-nity to host the club will have a positive impact on Deniliquin. ‘Having the Citroën Classic Own-ers Club members in Deniliquin during Easter 2008 will provide an additional boost to tourism and the local economy. ‘At the same time it will provide an excellent opportunity for the visitors to enjoy what Deniliquin has to offer.

‘The club has given an under-taking to promote Deniliquin nationally, at every opportunity, through state clubs and their members,’ he said.

Cr Kathy Simpson said the club had approached Deniliquin Chamber of Commerce with a idea to spread the Deniliquin message. She said the club had asked to use the `Do It In Deni’ slogan to promote the local event.

Deniliquin Council will also support the club, providing sponsorship and costs associated with closing Civic Place.

With this support, we are assured of a big country welcome next Easter. The City Council sees our visit as a major contribution to the local economy and they are right behind CitIn’08.

So, the town is already well aware of our arrival and we are certain of a huge local welcome.

The Citroën Classic Owners’ Club of Australia is proud to be hosting CitIn’08 in

Deniliquin.

We believe that the location for CitIn is vital, and Deniliquin has everything you need for an enjoy-able break in the company of fellow Citroën enthusiasts. In addition to good food and the opportunity to show-off and admire our cars, there is a wide variety of attractions for even the least Citroën-minded of us!

Deniliquin is situated at the edge of the Riverine plain, which stretches northward into the driest Continent on earth – welcome to the edge of the outback! It is also on the fringe


display at the Clancys of Conargo winery, the Steam & Pumping Museum, and the Country Patch Cottage Garden highlighting the achievement of an attractive garden in an extremely low-water environ-ment. There is so much to do and see, we are sure you will find plenty to enjoy during this stay, and when you come back again!

CCOCA every year hosts a national Citroën rally over the Queen’s Birth-day weekend in June, so we bring to CitIn an extensive history of hosting events such as this. We are confident that we are offering excellent value for money; with almost everything in the way of food and entertainment included in the fee for attendance.

of the world’s largest redgum forest; bird and wildlife abound, and the well-developed network of forest trails offer you the chance to free your adventurous spirit. Located be-side the Edward River, and with the warm March weather, the attractive sandy beaches will be popular with young and not-so-young.

The town itself is a delight to walk through; enjoy the beautifully restored old buildings, the formal Waring Gardens and the bushland Island Sanctuary, as well as the craft shops, cafes and the annual Easter Saturday Farmers’ Market and Art Show, all within easy walking dis-tance. Attractions further afield include the famous Conargo Pub, the vintage cars and number-plate


YOU TO CITIN‘08


MARCH 21 – 24, MARCH 21 – 24, ‘08‘08


FACE TO FACE

Under their appearance of being toy cars for adults, Citroën’s 5CV

and Peugeot’s Quadrilette give cause to smile. But do not make a mistake there: with some time for study you will discover unsus-pected pleasures at 60kph.

With thei r small pointed tails, the Citroën 5CV and the Peugeot Quadrilette appear to be brothers. Remember, the boat style tail was very a la mode at the start of the 1920s, the down-side is the impossibility of fitting more than one passenger between the rear wheels. What is important about these cars – built in the mad years of the economic boom – was that they allowed a large number of workers and the ‘petit bourgeoisie’ to con-sider buying a car. Before the First World War, owning a car was the exclusive prerogative of the upper classes. But, make no mistake, de-spite the 5CV and the Quadrilette the working class would continue to ride their bicycles for at least another ten years.

It was to lure these potential customers that the cyclecar was born – an extrapolation of the motorcycle, onto four wheels. However, in order to benefit from the motorcycle tax exemption, when in full working order, the cyclecar could not exceed 350kg in weight. With the overall dimen-

sions so seriously reduced, these cars risk appearing like insects of the road.

With his typically individu-alistic approach, André Citroën did not believe in this hybridised

formula. It was Citroën in 1919 who launched the first French car to be built on a production line and at the Paris Salon of 1921 he presented the first authentic French popular car. It weighs just over 500kg on the road and the publicity for the two-seater Torpedo stated

“…this is not a cyclecar, but a genuine motor vehicle with re-duced dimensions but with noth-ing neglected; neither for the trav-eller’s comfort or the reliability of the mechanical components.”

In contradistinction to the young constructor on the Quai de Javel, Peugeot persisted with the cyclecar. The Quadrilette had been launched a year earlier and continued to be a commercial success for the marque.

The 1923 Peugeot Quadri-lette shown here is a Type 172 and has been owned by Robert Huline since 1975 and is equipped with Ducellier electric headlights. This was a period option, replacing the standard acetylene lighting. A mathematician originally owned


FACE TO FACE

the car and the work undertaken by Robert during his ownership has been limited. The car has been repainted [Bordeaux red with black wings] and reupholstered. Mechanically, the magneto has

been rewired, the valves ground and the ball bearings in the crank-shaft bearings have been replaced. The Peugeot is still running with its original crankshaft, reflecting its reliability. These simple two bearing crankshafts were used on nearly all popular cars – including the Citroën 5CV featured here.

The Citroën 5CV has a 2.25m wheelbase and sports a two seater Torpedo body, with light-

In spite of a In spite of a gap between gap between the second the second a nd t h i rd , a nd t h i rd , Citroën 5CV Citroën 5CV easily cruises easily cruises at 50kph.at 50kph.

ing driven by a battery and Delco. These specifications guarantee that the car was built between May and December 1922. 5CVs produced after this date reverted to a magneto thereby eliminating

the cost of the then expensive battery.

C o m p a r e d with the Peugeot,

this 5CV required extensive resto-ration: it completed its life spend-ing 20years as a farm utility. Even the boat tail had been removed to facilitate loading.

It took owner Raymond Ber-trand two years to return the car to its current appearance. The beautiful straw-yellow paint re-minds us of the very first Citroën 5CV which had been promptly christened ‘la petit citron’ follow-


Three cheers Three cheers for the amus-for the amus-ing, Quadri-ing, Quadri-lette it hops lette it hops on the im-on the im-perfec t ions per fec t ions of the road, of the road, but it keeps but it keeps its poise.its poise.

ing its launch. However that is not the reason the colour was chosen. In undertaking the restoration, Raymond found the original col-our on the bodywork and matched it as closely as possible.BE GENTLE

As we have never before taken the wheel of a Quadrilette, some preamble is required. Most cer-tainly the release of 10hp at 2,100rpm is not going to make me shiver in fear and I know that the controls will be simple. Remem-ber, the majority of purchasers of cars in 1923 were not highly experienced. But, it is precisely that simplicity that worries me, even before I climb aboard.

I mean… look at it! This Quadrilette has a frail air about it – the wheel spokes are fine, the hubs are tiny. How long before it

all breaks under the strain?The headlights are located

on the very top of the wings so it has a certain resemblance to a mechanical grasshopper. Actu-ally, by placing the lights here, rather than in front of the grille, Peugeot achieved the subterfuge of widening the beam of light, mak-ing the car appear wider. For the same reason the passenger seat is set slightly aft of the driver’s seat, giving the car an air of not being as narrow as some…

Open the single door, located on the right hand side [the space on the left is taken by the spare wheel], place one foot lightly on the running board, the other on the floor. Be light, very light and all will be well.

Undertake the same manoeu-vre with a firmer step… you felt


FACE TO FACE

The fragile aspect of Quadrilette is reinforced by The fragile aspect of Quadrilette is reinforced by the small size of its hubs and delicacy of the spokes. the small size of its hubs and delicacy of the spokes. With the full wheels, 5CV gives the appearance of With the full wheels, 5CV gives the appearance of being stronger.being stronger.

it? Yes, it lurches from left to right under the mere action of your weight. It appears that almost no weight will upset the delicate balance of this cyclecar. From now on you must remember that the

Quadrilette weighs just 345kg and a fidgeting 80kg driver can easily upset the delicate balance.

In comparison when the driver gets aboard the Citroën the degree of pitching is far less apparent. The 5CV weighs 543kg and the difference is clear. Of course with only more horsepower than the Peugeot its performance must be compromised.

CRANKING OVER

To start either car from cold requires lifting the bonnet and pumping the petrol into the carburettor – after first opening the tap located under the instru-

ment panel. The petrol tanks in both cars are lo-cated directly on front of the wind-

screen! Inevitably, this forgotten motoring pleasure results in your fingers being delicately scented with petrol for the remainder of the day.

Neither car has a manual ad-vance/retard or a choke and only the Citroën has an electric starter which is operated via a button on the floor. The small 6volt battery discharges its task without any un-


1922 CITROËN 5CV 1923 PEUGEOT TYPE 172MOTOR

MAX POWER

DISTRIBUTOR

FUELLING

IGNITION

COOLING

4 cylinders in line, cylinder head and block in cast iron,

two bearing crankshaft, splash lubrication

856cc [55 x 90mm]11hp @ 2,100rpm

side valvesreservoir under pressurebronze Solex carburettor

by 6volt battery and Delcothermosyphon

4 cylinders in line, cylinder head and block in cast iron,

two bearing crankshaft, splash lubrication

667cc [50 x 85mm]10hp @ 2,100rpm

side valvesreservoir under pressurebronze Solex carburettor

magneto and dynamothermosyphon

TRANSMISSIONDRIVE

GEARBOX

rear wheel drive3 forward gears [unsynchro-

nised] and one reverse, with differential

rear wheel drive3 forward gears [unsynchro-

nised] and one reverse, without differential

CHASSISFRONT SUSPENSION

REAR SUSPENSION

ladder with cross beamsrigid axle, front cantilever, without shock absorbers, rigid axle, rear cantilever, without shock absorbers

sheet steel with folded edgestransverse leaf,

without shock absorberssemi-elliptical springs,

without shock absorbersTYRESBRAKES

715 X 115on the back wheels by the emergency brake, and on transmission by the pedal

650 X 65on the right rear wheel by the

emergency brake and on the left rear wheel by the pedal

STEERING worm and roller peg and sectorDIMENSIONSLENGTH/WIDTH

HEIGHT

WHEELBASE

WEIGHT

3.20m/1.40m1.55m2.25m543kg

3.15m/1.20m1.65m2.27m345kg

PERFORMANCEMAX SPEED

FISCAL HP60kph5CV

60kph4CV

PRICENEW IN 19221995 VALUE

8,900FF50,000FF

9,900FF55,000FF


FACE TO FACE

T h e u n -T h e u n -dersides of dersides of Quadrilette: Quadrilette: here i s the here i s the bridge with-bridge with-out a d i f-out a d i f-ferential and ferential and the control the control for the brakes for the brakes separated on separated on each wheel.each wheel.

developing. But fear not, a well maintained Quadrilette will start and for a hot start a mere quarter turn is sufficient.LET’S GO DRIVER

Once started there is not need to delay get-ting behind the wheel as neither car takes long for the mechanicals

to heat up. Close the bonnets and we can get underway and make some comparisons.

The Citroën, with its disc wheels and longer bonnet exhibits better manufacture and the 5CV merits its description as a small car. It is practical, with a luggage trunk accessed via a trap door in the tail, The Quadrilette makes do with a trap door behind the driver – next to the dog-legged seated passenger. With their roofs lowered both offer the passer-by

due excess of energy but in order to preserve its life use of the crank handle is highly advised. Once the carburettor is full, insert the crank into the dog of the crankshaft, find the compression point and a

firm quarter turn of the crank will see the motor launch into activity and run at a fast idle.

With the Quadrilette there is no choice regarding the method of starting. The Peugeot is equipped with a magneto and a dynamo assembled in tandem on the left side of the engine. For a cold start, after titillating the carburettor, it requires a succession of rotations of the crank which will come to a halt either with the engine eventu-ally starting or with wrist cramp


31/05


UNDER THEIR DISGUISE OF TOYS FOR ADULTS, THE CITROËN 5HP AND UNDER THEIR DISGUISE OF TOYS FOR ADULTS, THE CITROËN 5HP AND

PEUGEOT QUADRILETTE CAUSE YOU TO SMILE. BUT MAKE NO MISTAKE: PASS PEUGEOT QUADRILETTE CAUSE YOU TO SMILE. BUT MAKE NO MISTAKE: PASS

TIME IN THEIR COMPANY AND YOU WILL DISCOVER UNEXPECTED PLEASURES TIME IN THEIR COMPANY AND YOU WILL DISCOVER UNEXPECTED PLEASURES

AT 60AT 60KPH…KPH…


FACE TO FACE

an excellent view of the interior. Only the 5CV has a voltmeter located on the turned aluminium dashboard. The Quadrilette has a wooden dash containing only the buttons for contact and illumina-

Hide paint-Hide paint-b r u sh a nd b r u sh a nd voltmeter on voltmeter on the t u rned the t u rned a lu m i n iu m a lu m i n iu m da shboa rd . da shboa rd . T h e p a s -T h e p a s -senge r s s i t senge r s s i t abreast in the abreast in the Citroën. Citroën. S u b t r a c t S u b t r a c t 20cm width 20cm width f r o m t h e f r o m t h e Citroën and Citroën and you acquire you acquire Quadrilette: Quadrilette: to f i t t wo to f i t t wo people, the people, the seats must be seats must be set dog-leg-set dog-leg-gedged

tion – there is little to distract the driver here.

For the first few kilometres this is no bad thing as driving these takes some getting used to. The accelerator is in the middle of the pedals and moreover on the 5CV the gearbox takes some getting used to. First is bottom on the right, with reverse above. Second is top left and third di-rectly below.

And the Quadrilette? It is characterised by a gearbox with the speeds all in a line… a kind of sequential change well in advance of the times. Reverse is ahead, then backwards though neutral and

into first, second and third.

With usage, guess which is the most practical?

WITH VALIANT HEART

If the clutch is light and progressive [fitted with Ferodo linings], the gear lever travel on the Citroën is long, perhaps to limit the chances of crashing the gears in this non-synchromeshed gearbox. But it is nothing: se-lecting a gear is far easier than would be envisaged and double declutching makes it still easier. In both first and second, the 5CV


Between May and December, 1922, 5 HP was Between May and December, 1922, 5 HP was equipped [top] of an ignition by battery and distribu-equipped [top] of an ignition by battery and distribu-tor. Optional equipment on Quadrilette [below] tor. Optional equipment on Quadrilette [below] magneto and dynamo goes up in tandem on the left magneto and dynamo goes up in tandem on the left side of the motor.side of the motor.

is quite lively.Admittedly, to speak of ac-

celeration is not really suitable, but the small four cylinder motor has a valiant heart to move the car when the road is flat or of gentle incline, until the moment when third gear is engaged.

There, there is a hole. If the 5CV is not correctly driven it is necessary to change back to sec-ond so as not to lose all the benefit of the preceding pace. It is the only problem with the ration selection of the box and it is forgotten with familiarity. One can easily hold the small car at 50kph with the throttle at three-quarters and have another 10kph in reserve.

The car travels quietly, com-fortably and the skipping of the vehicle [without shock absorbers] seldom requires corrections to the course. This is fortunate because the steering is firm, but without shimmy.

On board the 5CV, one quick-ly feels at home and calm in this wise little car, but not too…

The car lacks brakes to the front wheels and those operating on the rear wheels lack bite. The pedal acts on the transmission shaft and appreciates only small movements. The hand brake lever operates drums on the rear wheels. The result is that every driver of 5CV will say it to you to stop in time, it is better to anticipate ma-noeuvres, without counting on the driving brake, always by keeping a


FACE TO FACE

hand on the gear lever which plays the role of main brake!THE UNBELIEVABLE LIGHTNESS OF BEING

Moving into the Quadrilette is not a disorientating experience

after the 5CV, but the empty space next to the driver caused by the set-back of the passenger’s seat is always a cause for astonishment. Facing directly straight-ahead the driver sits proud behind the vertical windscreen which serves only to protect him from direct attacks of insects, while the swirl-ing winds serve to cool the hot air which comes from the engine. While the screen of the 5CV and the Quadrilette is not perfectly airtight where it meets the scuttle, it is still quite warm there in the summer.

The large handle of the gear-lever is next to the hand brake on both cars. The Peugeot’s clutch is flexible and each ratio is locked by a small pawl. The change becomes a habit quite quickly because tak-ing up each gear is very easy and the ratios help the 667cc engine to fully exploit its 10hp and to follow easily the speed of the Citroën.

The only problem comes with changing down; it is impossible to change down by double declutch-

ing. When the need arises to change down, it is important not to force the lever as it is considered to be very fragile. It is necessary to change down a gear, by sitting for a moment in neutral before mov-

ing the lever a few centimetres.

As with the 5CV hand l ing the Quadrilette

requires a minimum of concen-tration.

The steering is effortless but the handling is less well-control-led than the Citroën : the kicks of the rear wheel axle unit are synchronised with the imperfec-tions of the road and the wheel scrapes on the inside on sharp turns because of the absence of a differential in the axle housing.MORE AMUSEMENT

The weight difference be-tween the two cars is reflected in their handling. Where this is most advantageous is in the feeling of acceleration. What is essential to know is that one car accelerates more quickly, but the fact is that in the Quadrilette the lightness of the unit gives a general feeling of promptness which one does not find in the Citroën.

And braking? There too the absence of differential must be taken into account. The pedal actuates the left drum, while the lever operates the right drum and whatever the urgency of the situ-ation, the driver must remember


Face on, appreciate the wide difference between Face on, appreciate the wide difference between 5 HP [to the left] and Quadrilette [to the right].5 HP [to the left] and Quadrilette [to the right].


FACE TO FACE

The boat tails on both cars were fashionable in the The boat tails on both cars were fashionable in the 1920s. The Citroën alone had a real boot, note that 1920s. The Citroën alone had a real boot, note that the wicker basket is not original.the wicker basket is not original.

it to ensure braking is effected in equitable proportion on the two drums and to spare the transmis-sion which does not appreciate be-ing braked on only one wheel. The Quadrilette is not easier to retard

than the 5CV, it slows down even more badly, but it is amusing.

If it is necessary to choose between one and the other, the Quadrilette should carry the day. It has the insane charm which one would like to build oneself; minimalist and full with imper-fections.

Fortunately the 5CV has a beautiful assurance which dis-ports it well on small roads and that is essential as it epitomises motorised pleasure. Between 50 and 60kph it is a car that is very

age.A l l o u r

gratitude in the Automuseum of Forez, located at

Saint German - Laval which counts these two cars in there permanent exhibition, as well as to the owners who took part.

This article first appeared in ‘Retroviseur’, in November, 1995 and was written by Michel Dumont, with photos by Jack Bauregard. �


31/06

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The boat tails on both cars were fashionable in the e 1920s. The Citroën alone had a real boot, note that t the wicker basket is not original.


A ‘LEMON’ FOR THE LADIES

Since the very first days of his industrial adventure, André Citroën knew that he

was right when he chose the mass production system – a European first. He also knew that he had to

offer an even more affordable car to people who, due to a limited budget, were denied access to the automobile.

André Citroën did not link affordability with lower quality.

At this time, the only economi-cal vehicles available were pedal cars and traps. Again, the French entrepreneur had a brilliant idea. The car he imagined was a real ‘small car’. Surprisingly, this

popular vehicle got the same level of equipment as its larger, more luxurious com-

petitors. This car was a remark-ably real car, which was to be named the 5HP. The 5HP was in fact a smaller-scale B2. It had only two seats, instead of four and its engine had a much smaller


displacement of 856cc, giving a maximum output of 11hp. This model was presented at the 1921 Paris Motor Show, but com-mercialisation only started nine months later, in 1922. Its price was the lowest ever for what was, again, a real automobile: 8,500FF. The 5HP Type C, which was to be often referred to as the 5CV, was the first popular car. Behind its steering wheel, thousands of Frenchmen learnt to drive a car. The first, and only version to be available in the early days of its life was the two-seater Torpedo in an exclusive lemon yellow colour, which became nick-named ‘petit Citron’. In October 1923, the chassis was reinforced with a cross member linking the rear ends of

the two side sills. The bonnet side flaps were also modified with 16 cooling fins instead of three on the earlier version. This evolution was called the 5HP C2. A con-vertible was added to the Torpedo with the same two-seat interior.

This layout was however soon modified with a three-seater ver-sion of the Torpedo. To accom-modate this third seat, the chassis was stretched by 10cm, giving an overall length of 2.35m, instead of 2.25m on the basic C2. The seat layout in this version was similar to the three-seat version of the B2: the front passenger seat was replaced by a folding seat. The sin-gle rear seat was installed directly behind the folding passenger seat. A very small luggage compartment

V i e w o f V i e w o f t he longe r t he longe r 1923 chassis 1923 chassis showing the showing the lubr icat ion lubr icat ion points.points.


FLEET FOLLIES

was available behind the driver’s seat. This layout was to be aban-doned in October 1924 for what became the famous ‘Trèfle’ seating arrangement. The rear seat was now installed centrally behind the

two front seats. On each side of the single rear seat was a small lug-gage compartment. The car was

nicknamed the ‘Trèfle’, because when seen from above the seats resembled a cloverleaf. Besides the new seating arrangements, the 1924 car boasted a fan-cooled radiator as well as a ‘Banjo’ type

rear axle.In the spring

of 1925, the two-seater version of the Torpedo dis-

appeared. The 5HP, which lived just one more year, remained unchanged. Despite its success,


FLEET FOLLIES

production of the car ceased at the end of the summer of 1926 – after a run of 80,000 vehicles.

Nicknamed ‘Cul de Poule’ [chicken’s arse] because of its body’s amazing rear end, the 5HP

gained a justified reputation for sturdiness and handling ability. Its maximum speed of 60kph was astonishing, at the time. Several

5HP’s are still running today and club members Leigh and Annette Mason and Mark McKibbin are both owners.

This article is based on a chapter of the book ‘Citroën – 80

Years of Future’, by Roger Guyot and Christophe Bonnaud, pub-l ished by Edi-

tions Roger Regis in 1999, and also contains additional material by the editor. �


Free Membership! Yes, keep distributing those cards that came with the last

magazine. The image on the front of the card is a ‘period’ image for the Club.

On the back of the postcard is some information about the Club and an opportu-nity for Citroën owners to find out more about CCOCA.

Write your name in small lettering on the left hand edge of the card and keep them with you when you are out and about. In the glove box is our suggestion.

Whenever you see a Citroën of any model parked, slide a post-card under the windscreen wiper. It’s that simple!

Remember, as the card says, ‘Every Citroën is a classic’ and while the Club’s focus re-mains on models 25years and older we welcome owners of every model in the marque’s current and historic range.

If you are consider-ing putting a card under the wiper of a new model,

please check. If the car displays a membership sticker for another Club, don’t attempt recruitment. That would be inappropriate. Otherwise – go right ahead.

What’s in it for you? We

will keep track of replies and any member who recruits two new members to the Club will receive free membership in 2008/9.

Pretty simple really, when you think about it. If you need additional cards, either email to [email protected] or ring on [03] 9888 7506 and more cards will be in the post for you. Ted Cross �

FREE MEMBERSHIP

Write your name here, before you

hand the postcard out, so we can track how many new

members you recruit.


FLEET FOLLIES

Now, I know I had a ‘go’ with ‘Fleet Follies’ in the last edition, but there are

a couple of updates that are worth sharing with you.LEIGH MILES – EDITOR

First, the Panhard has arrived in Melbourne. The word from Mel Carey at Citro Motors is that the car is in remarkably good condi-

tion – the windscreen is likely to be the only issue of any magnitude I will face in obtaining a road-worthy certificate.

I’m not so sure about the 6-cylinder Holden distributor, but

I am assured it is a clever solution and works well.

Fingers a re presently crossed

that by the time you are read-ing this, the Dyna Z will have returned to the road.

On December 21 my GS was


loaded into a container on the wharf in Copenhagen. While this will not even be in the country by the time you are holding ‘Front Drive’, it should be by the time you are holding Volume 31, No 8.

Now, I am certain that this car will happily provide lots of copy for future issues of ‘Front Drive’ as I slowly come to terms with the car’s idiosyncrasies.

The first of there, I have been told is that the engine has a propensity to flood quite easily, but that unlike a regular engine the spark plugs will not ‘dry out’ easily in situ. The recommenda-tion [from my friend Shaun] is to remove the plugs and, if you want to make a prompt get-away, install replacements.

So, I decided to go in search of a couple of spare plugs. The plug is, not unsurprisingly, the same as used in the NSU Ro80 [NSU G3/18].

The ‘official’ supplier of the plugs is Bosch [MAG340T2SP]. Unfortunately, Bosch discontin-ued this plug in June 2002 and there is no stock in Australia [not surprising] or in Germany.

The Birotor group in France suggested Beru as an alternative. [The Australian distributor for Beru is in Bridge Rd., Richmond and they advised that plug Beru Z108 would set me back $60 each and delivery by sea would take a couple of months; there being none in stock in Australia.

Unfortunately, Beru in Ger-many came back to tell us there is no stock there either and they have no plans to make them again.

I have joined the NSU Ro80 chat group, and discovered that what is believed to be the only on-the-road Ro80 in Australia is for sale. I contacted the owner to discuss spark plugs.

He has suggested joining the UK-based motorcycle club, Rotary Owners Club of the UK and go begging for NGK plugs suitable for the Suzuki RE5. More to come.Leigh F Miles �

O p p o s i t e : O p p o s i t e : The GS in The GS in the container the container on the dock on the dock a t C ope n -a t Cope n -hagen. hagen. B e l o w : B e l o w : M i c h a e l M i c h a e l Molesworth’s Molesworth’s 2 C V v a n 2 C V v a n got through got through i t s r o a d -i t s r o a d -worthy and worthy and now spor ts now spor ts ‘ B L E U E ’ ‘ B L E U E ’ plates.plates.


SPARE NEWS

By the time you get this magazine I hope I will have caught up with all of your

orders again. I have been busy over the holidays doing exactly that, holidaying! Short stops at home

and then off again; sometimes with business and sometimes pleasure. It does seem you get to an age where you seem to be working harder than ever before but getting less done. That is where I believe I am at right now! However, parts are still flowing although the incoming traffic from Europe has slowed consider-ably – so if you are still waiting for parts, then possibly, so am I!

Not long now until Easter and I hope to see a lot of you at Deniliquin, to renew old friend-ships and meet newer members to the Citroën movement. If there is anything you need before then you had better get in quick as time is certainly running out.

It has been good to see a few members having driveshafts converted to CV joints. I believe with the current shafts in work at the moment the number will be around five sets so far.

It is probably a good time to refresh member’s minds of some parts available such as rear main seal conversions and timing

chain tensioners for the engine. If you are working on your engine these are worthy inclusions. Also new and in stock are bumper bar brackets. These items are often cracked or have been welded

before in another life. Exhaust pipe mounts and insu-lators to get your car back to stand-

ard. For those of you with bolt on hubcaps not only are the bolts available but also the repair nuts that can be tack welded onto the bridge to restore the thread.

All of these parts are listed on the club’s website as well as in the parts lists sent out annually with the magazine. If there are parts listed that you do not understand fully, usually a quick phone call is all that is needed to explain their use. By the way our website should be accessible again thanks to the people in the club that know far more about computers than I do. This is a fantastic communica-tion medium when everything is working well.

LED lamps are becoming more available in increasing di-versity. Bruce Stringer recently sent me some interesting websites featuring double contact LEDs with white park lights and amber indicators all in the one lamp, these are particularly useful in tail lamps as they show up much brighter than the normal light bulb making it easier for people


CX & GS AC C E S S O R I E S

CX rear external black louvre. CX Series 1, quad GTi round headlights. GS rear external black louvre. Contact: Serge Doumergue [Mackay, Qld.] 04 1799 7937 or [08] 9173 4312 [31/08]

FOR SALE

WANTED

1970 DS 21 HYDRAULIC

Rare opportunity to buy one of the most sort after variants of the famous Citroen DS 1970 DS21 Hydraulic gearchange. This beautiful classic has dark blue duco with bone coloured leather interior and features a large sunroof of a style in keeping with the era. This very well maintained and regularly serviced example is in very good condition and is a reliable classic. Recent work has included fitting of new clutch. If you have always lusted after a DS this is one you need to consider. Reluctant sale due to move and change of lifestyle. Reg PMY 749. $23,000. Contact Sandy on 0409 433 097 for further information, Vehicle is currently garaged Daylesford. [31/07]

I N C A R A U D I O

Eurovox 6 Stacker CD player unit. Brand new in box. Compatible with most Citroën/Eurovox Stereo/CD player head sets. $220 ONO. Ph. Citro [03] 9419 4537 [31/05]

to see you at night and keeping you safer. Interested, check on www.digielite.com.au or www.brightlightautoparts.com/index.html you never know what you

will find.Keep on Citroëning and see you at Deniliquin for Easter.Rob Little �

T I M B E R D A S H E T A L

Wanted for a 1951 Big 6 a timber dash [square instruments], 4 x 185x400 wheel rims. Metal windscreen trim [inside]. Contact Bob Shackley on [02] 6251 6134 or email [email protected]

40 A U S T R A L I A ’ S N A T I O N A L M A G A Z I N E F O R � � � �

CITROËN CLASSIC OWNERS CITROËN CLASSIC OWNERS C L U B O F A U S T R A L I AC L U B O F A U S T R A L I AAustralia’s National Citroën Car ClubAustralia’s National Citroën Car Club

vol 31 #07...r citroËn owners and enthusiasts 3 committee support acting president — edward cross...

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