zipdang Posted July 18, 2017 Share Posted July 18, 2017 I attended the Vanderbrink auction in Norwalk, OH over the last weekend and this little guy followed me home. I'm a sucker for the small and quirky vehicles (also makes it easier since the wife enjoys these too). Never having owned one of these before, I'm at the very beginning of the learning curve. Any experts out there? Suggestions for where to get manuals? Deciphering the VIN tag (any reason not to post a photo of the tag?). This is a 1958 Citroen 2CV van. As I take more pictures, I'll post them if there is any interest. This van definitely did not strain my friend's truck! However, he bought a DIVCO later in the auction and it definitely tested his vehicle. Cheers to all! - Karl 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
keiser31 Posted July 18, 2017 Share Posted July 18, 2017 Cool little truck! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
zipdang Posted July 18, 2017 Author Share Posted July 18, 2017 Thanks Keiser! I thought of you and your uncanny knack for always being in the right place to see cool vehicles. I was surrounded all weekend by the odd and unusual in all conditions. Great times. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JACK M Posted July 18, 2017 Share Posted July 18, 2017 I have always had a fancy for the quirky as well. I probably would have been bidding against you.... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
padgett Posted July 18, 2017 Share Posted July 18, 2017 Wonder if that bed is factory - corrugation sure looks like its big brother. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rusty_OToole Posted July 18, 2017 Share Posted July 18, 2017 55 minutes ago, padgett said: Wonder if that bed is factory - corrugation sure looks like its big brother. Believe it or not they were supposed to look that way. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Hudsy Wudsy Posted July 18, 2017 Share Posted July 18, 2017 A Google Images search shows additional examples of corrugation on other trucks and vans, plus lots of fun colors and color schemes on cars. This old saying may apply to other things as well, but when it comes to cars, "The French imitate no one and no one imitates the French". Have fun with your new toy! 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bush Mechanic Posted July 18, 2017 Share Posted July 18, 2017 Great little car. Like so many people, I've always had a soft spot for the 2CV. And while I like to keep my cars original, I could make an exception for this little device which I spotted in France. It was love at first sight. Beautiful, (to my eyes), nimble, fast enough and quirky. Right up my alley. And yes, folks, that's a Deux Chevaux! 2CV chassis and all mechanicals, clothed in a grp body shell. Cannot recall the name of the UK specialist who has been making these kits for about 40 years, ( and I am a long way from my files). If it's not quirky enough, they offer a different rear moulding to make it a 3 wheeler, as the rear swing arms can be swapped over to run together in the centre of the car. Though I think the 4 wheels would improve the handling! A large-ish German couple were touring in it with a hamper and tooth brushes. So, Zipdang, if you get bored with it's originality...... 3 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bush Mechanic Posted July 18, 2017 Share Posted July 18, 2017 Found the manufacturer of that body kit. It is a Lomax. You might like to take a look at the 3 wheelers. Mick. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Hudsy Wudsy Posted July 18, 2017 Share Posted July 18, 2017 Bush Mechanic, that's an adorable little conversion. I get a chuckle out of the delicate little windshields. I suppose they fit some minimum legal requirement. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
emjay Posted July 18, 2017 Share Posted July 18, 2017 There is a fairly active sub group for micro cars. This is a place to start. http://www.microcar.org/ Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
zipdang Posted July 19, 2017 Author Share Posted July 19, 2017 Thanks for all the replies. Cool car, Bush Mechanic, but I'm in the original car camp. This is how this little truck came from the factory. Mine is pretty rare, though. I understand they only built about 1.2 million of this version of the 2cv. However, it is 1 of 1 in my garage! Now I need to get started figuring this thing out. It is a bit different from my 2 old Fiats. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
fordrodsteven Posted July 19, 2017 Share Posted July 19, 2017 I think that the guys on Wheeler Dealer did one of these vehicles. It looked like theirs needed more work than yours. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
zipdang Posted July 19, 2017 Author Share Posted July 19, 2017 1 minute ago, fordrodsteven said: I think that the guys on Wheeler Dealer did one of these vehicles. It looked like theirs needed more work than yours. I remember that episode. I'm going to rewatch it when I have time. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mike6024 Posted July 19, 2017 Share Posted July 19, 2017 (edited) furgoneta - 425cc two cylinder - Edited July 19, 2017 by mike6024 (see edit history) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Peter J.Heizmann Posted July 19, 2017 Share Posted July 19, 2017 If there are any other Vietnam vets on this Forum you may relate to these Citroens. I recall many of these leftovers from the French influence used as taxi cabs around Bien Hoa and Ton Son Nhut in the Mekong Delta area. The little trucks I recall seeing out of the populated areas and around rice paddies, farms, etc. Considering the French were defeated in 1954 at Dien Bien Phu and I saw many running in 1969-1970 the Vietnamese were a lot like how the Cubans keep the 1950's cars running through ingenuity (or desperation). Peter J. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rusty_OToole Posted July 19, 2017 Share Posted July 19, 2017 If you need help with the mechanicals try a lawn mower mechanic. The drive train is a lot like what you would find in a lawn tractor. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
capngrog Posted July 19, 2017 Share Posted July 19, 2017 I don't know why, but ever since I saw my first one while stationed in France (ages ago in 1960s), I've always liked the Citroen Deaux Cheveaux (2CV). My favorite of all the different 2CV models ( think that there were 3) is the 2CV Sedan Delivery model like zipdang just purchased. Cheers, Grog Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mike6024 Posted July 19, 2017 Share Posted July 19, 2017 It is ideal for delivering your French baguettes around your quaint little hamlet. You do have a bakery and live in a hamlet, don't you? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
zipdang Posted July 19, 2017 Author Share Posted July 19, 2017 46 minutes ago, mike6024 said: It is ideal for delivering your French baguettes around your quaint little hamlet. You do have a bakery and live in a hamlet, don't you? I do live in a hamlet (Radnor, OH) but you can't even buy a gallon of gas or get a loaf of bread. My daughter thought I could be the local ice cream man in this! But seriously folks, I've been looking around a bit now and haven't discovered a place for an owner's manual or service manual. I ordered a couple information-type books, but nothing to address the nitty-gritty. Any suggestions? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Spinneyhill Posted July 19, 2017 Share Posted July 19, 2017 (edited) http://www.2cvsrus.com/restoration/user_manual/pages_e/page_e00.htm https://books4cars.com/listings.php?findmake=Citroen&model=2CV&type=% The above have a parts book 50-64 for $60 plus a "48-62 2CV shop Service repair Manual by Citroen for 2 CV (55_2CV_Svc)" for $130. I just asked the www for "2cv manual" (not in google though). Next I would swap "handbook" for manual. http://www.ebay.com/itm/1949-thru-1962-Citroen-2CV-ORIGINAL-Factory-Shop-Repair-Manual-ja0168-/351263220830?hash=item51c8eb645e:g:i6kAAOSw7ThUmf7U Edited July 19, 2017 by Spinneyhill (see edit history) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
michel88 Posted July 19, 2017 Share Posted July 19, 2017 Fantomworks did a recent show on a 2 CV that was in need of a mechanical freshening. It was owned by two young girls who were French can-can dancers and the car fit their act and were driving every day. It showed the suspension repairs, carb and brake work. I think it was season 4 episode 7. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mike6024 Posted July 20, 2017 Share Posted July 20, 2017 Introduce the starting handle into the orifice - The starting handle is placed in the boot. To use it, open the bonnet and introduce the handle into orifice (1) of the front grille until it engages in the fan pulley. Turn it clockwise by half turns, upwards. Do not forget to keep the handbrake on and to position the gear change lever in neutral. Identification Manufacturer's plate - Under the bonnet on the scuttle panel, right-hand side. Stamped mark - On the R.H. front sidemember of the platform. Engine plate - On the engine housing, right-hand side. Weights - Curb weight 585 kg 1289 lbs http://www.2cvsrus.com/restoration/user_manual/pages_e/page_e42.htm Valve gear Clearance at rockers (engine cold) Inlet: 0.15 to 0.20 mm (0.006 to 0.008 in) Clearance at rockers (engine cold) Exhaust: 0.15 to 0.20 mm (0.006 to 0.008 in) Cylinders 2, flat opposed Bore 74 mm Stroke 70 mm Ignition Static advance setting 8° engine Sparking plugs: Standard fitting AC 42F - BOSCH W 225 T 1 - BOSCH W5 A - EYQUEM 755 - FIRESTONE F 32 P - CHAMPION L 85 - MARCHAL 35 - MARELLI CW 7N Electrode gap 0.65 to 0.75 mm (0.025 to 0.029in) Tires - MICHELIN 125-15 X Sparking plugs: AC 42 F - Bosch W 225 T 1 - Bosch W 5 A - Eyquem 755 - Marchal 35 - Marelli CW 7 N - Firestone F 32 P - Champion L 85. Electrode gap: 0.65 to 0.75 mm (0.025 to 0.029 in). This is for a newer model though, larger engine, 600cc instead of 425 like this subject vehicle so proceed with caution when using this information. 3 hours ago, Spinneyhill said: http://www.2cvsrus.com/restoration/user_manual/pages_e/page_e00.htm Lots of info there! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bush Mechanic Posted July 20, 2017 Share Posted July 20, 2017 I believe the design brief for the 2CV called for a low cost vehicle capable of transporting a farmer and his wife, and a modest pay-load, to market at 80 kph. It was to use simple and reliable mechanicals, have suitable ground clearance for rural use, and be easily serviced. (Or something very similar. My memory is not what it was). It met these guide-lines so well that many are still in every-day use around the world. Cheap and cheerful, with no pretensions. I have a chart of the body changes over the years, (published as a French joke). The changes were very minor, mainly reflecting vehicle regulatory requirements to lighting etc. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
zipdang Posted July 20, 2017 Author Share Posted July 20, 2017 I am really enjoying the learning process here. It certainly has a quite an interesting history and I love the fact that I've stumbled onto an "early" version which is quite bare bones and fun. Wipers running off the speedometer cable...no distributor with points on the crankshaft...inboard brakes...hand "crankability" (found the crank handle)...on and on... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
zipdang Posted July 20, 2017 Author Share Posted July 20, 2017 15 hours ago, Spinneyhill said: http://www.ebay.com/itm/1949-thru-1962-Citroen-2CV-ORIGINAL-Factory-Shop-Repair-Manual-ja0168-/351263220830?hash=item51c8eb645e:g:i6kAAOSw7ThUmf7U This looked pretty good until I read that it is missing "50 or more pages"! Think I'll keep looking... The Books4Cars looks much better. Thanks Spinneyhill. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bush Mechanic Posted July 20, 2017 Share Posted July 20, 2017 Hey, Zipdang, I think you're in danger of falling in love with that fine machine! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JACK M Posted July 20, 2017 Share Posted July 20, 2017 I was going to say that it would make a good parts chaser. However I doubt that the local NAPA in your hamlet would have any for it. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
keiser31 Posted July 20, 2017 Share Posted July 20, 2017 Cool vehicle, but that sheet metal is the flimsiest I have ever seen. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
zipdang Posted July 21, 2017 Author Share Posted July 21, 2017 12 hours ago, Bush Mechanic said: Hey, Zipdang, I think you're in danger of falling in love with that fine machine! Well, I must admit that I'm feeling a bit guilty looking elsewhere in the garage at my lonesome '67 Fiat 500 Giardiniera and my current project of a '59 Fiat Granluce 1200. Infatuation should settle a bit in time... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
capngrog Posted July 21, 2017 Share Posted July 21, 2017 1 hour ago, zipdang said: Well, I must admit that I'm feeling a bit guilty looking elsewhere in the garage at my lonesome '67 Fiat 500 Giardiniera and my current project of a '59 Fiat Granluce 1200. Infatuation should settle a bit in time... Uh, oh. Will those Italian and French "ladies" be able to get along with each other? Well, both countries are well known for their excellent wines, so perhaps alternating a good Italian with a good French wine will calm the waters. Not to mention improve your personal outlook. Cheers, Grog Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
zipdang Posted July 22, 2017 Author Share Posted July 22, 2017 Sounds reasonable, but there may still be trouble...I don't drink. Not taking the high road, just don't care for it and could never come up with a good reason to learn. Hmph. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sebastienbuick Posted July 24, 2017 Share Posted July 24, 2017 Hello, nice purchase;).I'm French so if you have any questions I can help you (we have a lot of 2cv club in France ) Have you looked at the site "le bon coin "?It is a very famous site that is in France.Here is a link : https://www.leboncoin.fr/_vehicules_/offres/midi_pyrenees/occasions/?o=1&q=citroen 2cv Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
zipdang Posted July 26, 2017 Author Share Posted July 26, 2017 Thank you! Merci! It looks my high school French classes may come in handy. That was only about 35 years ago! I have noticed that with the little time I've had to research my new van that most of the information and parts I find are for later 2cvs. Guess that makes my 1958 even more special. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Marty Roth Posted July 26, 2017 Share Posted July 26, 2017 When I didn't have a "CRANK HANDLE", I used a 14mm socket (worn-out) and a short 3/8" ratchet and short extension. It usually took only a quarter- to half-turn to get the Flat Twin 425cc started. Ours was a 1964 Belgian version which had a Double-ended Coil firing both cylinders at the same time - Simplicity personified ! We did have an electric windshield wiper motor, rather than the speedometer-driven version. One important thing would be to replace the rubber grommet which holds up the lower portion of the driver & passenger windows - otherwise the first bump you hit, you'll have the glass smash your elbow resting on the sill. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
zipdang Posted July 27, 2017 Author Share Posted July 27, 2017 6 hours ago, Marty Roth said: One important thing would be to replace the rubber grommet which holds up the lower portion of the driver & passenger windows - otherwise the first bump you hit, you'll have the glass smash your elbow resting on the sill. I wondered about that happening! Those grommets are a bit crusty on mine. I've also learned that mine, too, is a Belgian version as evidenced by the square rear windows and the style of wheels. I love the research... 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bill Boudway Posted July 29, 2017 Share Posted July 29, 2017 Hi, Neat "find" I have a good friend who has a thing for 2-CVs, Mercers, Jaguars, duPonts, and Franklins. He's located in State College, PA. Stan Smith stan@myersmith.com. Good luck, Bill B. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MochetVelo Posted July 29, 2017 Share Posted July 29, 2017 There are many Citroen 2cv cars & trucks still around, and parts and manuals are available. "Les Archives du Collectioneur" is a series of technical manuals for French car collectors. They publish a 2CV manual with lots of photos & information (though it is in French). There is also a Haynes 2CV manual in English which you can probably find in the US. Also search eBay.fr and ebay.uk under "Citroen 2cv". The car enjoys some popuarity in the UK, so books and forums are available there. Also, don't forget Autobooks in Los Angeles. They sell several 2cv books you might like. Finally, seek out the online 2CV forums. Don't be afraid if they are in French; you can use Google translate. Phil Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
zipdang Posted July 30, 2017 Author Share Posted July 30, 2017 Thanks for all the tips. This has been a one-step-forward, two-steps-back kind of day. It started out by finding out the wheels on my van are not correct. They must be from a later model 2CV since they don't have the proper clearance for the suspension damper and the tire rod ends on the front. The previous owner got around this by putting two large flat washers on the wheel studs before placing the wheel and lug nuts on. Hmph. So now I'm looking for a set of early 2cv wheels for this 1958 model. I'm seeing that they must be somewhat rare... Then, while disassembling the front inboard brakes and driveshafts, I discovered the right front wheel hub was busted inside the wheel bearings. This would be another early 2CV specific part so now I'm looking for this, too. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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