Classic Radiators Course: Repair and Maintenance
300-hour online course in classic radiators: repair and maintenance. 6 modules covering ASTM D3306 (glycol-based coolants), ISO 17672 (brazing: filler metals) and advanced Excel (repair log). Assigned tutor and open enrolment.
Take the controls.
Run a real engineering trade-off from this field. Move the sliders, watch the model react in real time and beat the challenge.
What you will be able to do
Identify the types of classic radiators and their materials.
Diagnose leaks and blockages using pressure and flow tests.
Apply cleaning and descaling methods compatible with copper and brass.
Repair joints safely using soft and hard soldering.
Recore and rebuild radiator cores while respecting the original appearance.
Select coolants compatible with the materials in the circuit.
Establish a maintenance programme for the cooling system.
Who it's for
- Radiator repair technician who wants to specialise in Classic Radiators: repair and maintenance.
- Soft and hard soldering welder who wants to specialise in Classic Radiators: repair and maintenance.
- Classic vehicle restorer who wants to specialise in Classic Radiators: repair and maintenance.
- Cooling systems technician who wants to specialise in Classic Radiators: repair and maintenance.
- Historic vehicle mechanic who wants to specialise in Classic Radiators: repair and maintenance.
- Workshop manager for thermal components who wants to specialise in Classic Radiators: repair and maintenance.
- Engineering or science graduates seeking to enter radiator workshops.
What you'll work with
- ASTM D3306 (glycol-based coolants)
- ISO 17672 (brazing: filler metals)
- ISO 9453 (soft soldering alloys)
- EN 1779 (leak tests: selection of methods)
- ISO 13585 (qualification of brazers)
- Regulation (EC) 1272/2008 (CLP, classification of chemical products)
6 modules · 300 h
1.1Construction: core, tanks and headers1.2Brass and copper radiators1.3Aluminium radiators1.4Core types and their performance1.5Identifying an original radiator1.6Makes, numbers and labels1.7The value of keeping the original1.8Tools and workbench1.9Safety: lead, acids and burns1.10Workshop: identifying and assessing a radiator
2.1Symptoms of blockage2.2Pressure testing on the bench2.3Locating leaks2.4Flow measurement2.5Assessing the condition of the core2.6Internal corrosion and electrolysis2.7Fin deformation2.8Condition of tanks and necks2.9Condition report and quotation2.10Practical: full diagnosis of a radiator
3.1Removing the tanks3.2Rodding the core3.3Descaling products and their risks3.4Immersion cleaning3.5Controlled-pressure cleaning3.6Neutralising and drying3.7Inspection after cleaning3.8Waste and its management3.9Limits of cleaning3.10Practical: cleaning and descaling a core
4.1Soft soldering brass and copper4.2Preparation and fluxes4.3Repairing individual tubes4.4Plugging tubes: how many are acceptable4.5Repairing tanks and necks4.6Soldering aluminium and its limits4.7Reinforcing mountings4.8Preserving markings during repair4.9Repair quality control4.10Practical: repairing leaks in a core
5.1Deciding to recore5.2New cores and where to obtain them5.3Recoring while keeping original tanks5.4Higher-capacity core: pros and cons5.5Assembly and sealing5.6Painting and finishing the radiator5.7Reproducing mountings and fixings5.8Caps and their restoration5.9Final pressure test5.10Practical: recoring project
6.1Suitable coolant and its replacement6.2Mixing, inhibitors and electrolysis6.3Protecting the complete circuit6.4Annual preventive maintenance6.5Storing the vehicle6.6Protection against stones and insects6.7Balancing authenticity and performance6.8Common workshop mistakes6.9Documented real cases6.10Final project: documented restoration of a radiator
How you'll learn
100 % online training on the SEIUM campus, with downloadable material, recorded classes and an assigned technical tutor. No fixed timetables: students progress at their own pace within the intake, making it possible to combine with work.
Each module combines theory, guided reading of the original standard and applied exercises. The working software is Advanced Excel (repair log), Fusion 360 (design of reconstruction panels), SolidWorks Flow Simulation (flow analysis), in free, academic or evaluation versions. Tests are studied using real procedures for radiator pressure and leak testing, immersion bath for leak detection, and thermal control of the circuit on the road. Assessment is continuous by module plus the final integrating project.
Build it end to end
Your final project follows the real engineering workflow, step by step, reviewed by your tutor.
Identify the types of classic radiators and their materials.
Diagnose leaks and blockages using pressure and flow tests.
Apply cleaning and descaling methods compatible with copper and brass.
Repair joints safely using soft and hard soldering.
Recore and rebuild radiator cores while respecting the original appearance.
Where this takes you
Requirements
- No prior degree is required.
- Internet connection and a computer capable of running the programme's software.
- Sufficient Spanish to follow technical regulatory texts.
Ready to start?
Send your application today. Our admissions team replies within 72 hours with your study plan and funding options.
Frequently asked questions
The programme comprises 300 total hours spread over 3 to 5 months. That is between 10 and 15 hours per week on average, compatible with full-time work.
You work with Advanced Excel (repair log), Fusion 360 (design of reconstruction panels), SolidWorks Flow Simulation (flow analysis). Free, academic or evaluation versions are used, and the tutor indicates the free alternative where one exists.
An SEIUM Institute diploma upon passing the continuous assessment and the integrating project. It is in-house training, not an official qualification from the Ministry.
Yes. Modules passed in a Course or Postgraduate Diploma in the same area are recognised towards the higher-level programme. Check the recognition policy when you enrol.
Related programmes
Course in Asbestos and Lead Replacement in Classic Vehicles
Online 300 h course in asbestos and lead replacement in classic vehicles. 6 modules covering Real Decreto 396/2006 (work involving risk of exposure to asbestos), Regulation…
Cultural Tourism and Historic Motoring Course
Online 300-hour course in cultural tourism and historic motoring. 6 modules covering the UNWTO Global Code of Ethics for Tourism (1999), Directive (EU) 2015/2302 (package travel)…
Visitor Experience in Car Museums Course
300-hour online course in visitor experience in car museums. 6 modules covering UNE 170001-1 (universal accessibility), ISO 21902 (accessible tourism for all) and Qualtrics. Assigned tutor…
More in Restoration & Classics
All Restoration & Classics programmes → · How to apply · Fees & financing · Scholarships