Vintage Limited-Slip Differentials Course
Online 300 h course on vintage limited-slip differentials. 6 modules covering SAE J306 (gear oil viscosity classification), API 1560 (API GL-4 and GL-5 categories) and advanced Excel. Assigned tutor and enrolment open.
Vintage Limited-Slip Differentials Course — studying from New Zealand
Vehicle restoration and classic engine work in New Zealand is supported by an active enthusiast community and a well-established network of specialist workshops, particularly around the main centres. Historic vehicle registration and compliance fall under the New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, and the Vintage Car Club of New Zealand promotes preservation of historic vehicles. Restoration professionals often combine fabrication, engineering and heritage conservation skills.
Fees for New Zealand: NZ$1,080 (New Zealand dollar), with instalments and employer sponsorship available.
Relevant bodies in New Zealand
Typical roles
Questions from New Zealand
Is restoration engineering recognised by a professional body in New Zealand?
There is no specific statutory register for classic vehicle or heritage restoration engineers in New Zealand. Heritage matters can involve Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, and vehicle roadworthiness is governed by the NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi. SEIUM's qualifications are private and not accredited by any national body, so their value depends on the employer or client.
Where do classic restoration specialists work in New Zealand?
Work is found in independent restoration workshops, classic car dealers, museums, and specialist fabrication businesses, many clustered around the main centres. Clients and employers usually judge by workmanship and a portfolio of completed restorations. A private qualification may complement that evidence but is rarely a deciding factor on its own.
Can I study this while running or working in a workshop here?
Yes. The course is fully online and taught in English, so you can study from home in New Zealand without a student visa. Specialist courses total 300 hours, postgraduate diplomas 800 hours and master's programmes 1,900 hours. An assigned technical tutor supports you, and fees can be paid in instalments.
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
Classify the types of limited-slip differential used in earlier eras.
Explain the internal operation of plate, ZF and worm-type differentials.
Disassemble and measure components using wear criteria.
Rebuild and adjust the differential's preload and backlash.
Select suitable oils and friction additives.
Evaluate modern alternatives against preserving the original.
Prepare a documented rebuild plan for a limited-slip differential.
Who it's for
- Differential and driveline specialist who wants to specialise in Vintage Limited-Slip Differentials.
- Historic racing vehicle preparer who wants to specialise in Vintage Limited-Slip Differentials.
- Classic car restoration mechanic who wants to specialise in Vintage Limited-Slip Differentials.
- Component rebuild technician who wants to specialise in Vintage Limited-Slip Differentials.
- Driveline engineer who wants to specialise in Vintage Limited-Slip Differentials.
- Motorsport technician who wants to specialise in Vintage Limited-Slip Differentials.
- Graduates in engineering or science seeking to enter historic motorsport.
What you'll work with
- SAE J306 (gear oil viscosity classification)
- API 1560 (API GL-4 and GL-5 categories)
- SAE J2360 (gear oils for commercial and military use)
- ISO 6336-1 (gear load capacity)
- ISO 281 (dynamic load capacity of rolling bearings)
- ISO 1328-1 (accuracy of cylindrical gears)
- Turin Charter (FIVA, 2013)
6 modules · 300 h
1.1Function and purpose of the limited-slip differential1.2Types: plate, cone and cam1.3Limited-slip and locking differentials1.4Common manufacturers and models1.5Identifying the fitted type1.6Documentation and exploded diagrams1.7Symptoms of a worn limited-slip differential1.8Expected behaviour on the road1.9Specialist tooling1.10Workshop: identification and diagnosis
2.1Torque distribution between wheels2.2Locking ratio2.3Preload and its function2.4Ramps and actuation angles2.5Plate packs and their order2.6Cones and their wear2.7Springs and disc springs2.8Behaviour under acceleration and engine braking2.9Effect on vehicle behaviour2.10Practical: study of a disassembled mechanism
3.1Removing the differential assembly3.2Ordered disassembly and marking3.3Measuring plate thickness3.4Wear on ramps and cones3.5Clearance between side gears and pinions3.6Condition of the casing3.7Bearings and their preload3.8Measurement sheet3.9Replacement criteria3.10Practical: full disassembly and measurement
4.1Plate kits and how to source them4.2Assembly order of the plate pack4.3Setting the preload4.4Measuring the breakaway torque4.5Shims and washers4.6Fitting the crown wheel and pinion4.7Setting the tooth contact pattern4.8Backlash between teeth4.9Tightening torques4.10Practical: rebuild and setting up
5.1Oils specific to limited-slip differentials5.2Friction additives and when they are needed5.3Compatibility with plates and cones5.4Change intervals5.5Running-in after a rebuild5.6Operating temperature5.7Noise and judder in corners5.8Diagnosing a poor oil5.9Maintenance records5.10Practical: maintenance plan for the assembly
6.1Driving with a limited-slip differential6.2Use in historic motorsport6.3Wear associated with competitive use6.4Modern alternatives and how to judge them6.5Preserving the original assembly6.6Cost of a rebuild6.7Common workshop errors6.8Risks of incorrect adjustment6.9Documented real-world cases6.10Final project: documented rebuild of a limited-slip differential
How you'll learn
100% online study on the SEIUM campus, with downloadable material, recorded classes and an assigned technical tutor. No fixed timetable: students progress at their own pace within the intake, which makes it easy to combine with work.
Each module combines theory, guided reading of the original standard and applied exercises. The working software is Advanced Excel, SolidWorks, KISSsoft, MATLAB, in free, academic or trial versions. Tests are studied using real procedures for measuring preload torque with a dynamometer, disassembly and inspection of friction plates, and checking backlash and tooth contact. Assessment is continuous, module 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.
Classify the types of limited-slip differential used in earlier eras.
Explain the internal operation of plate, ZF and worm-type differentials.
Disassemble and measure components using wear criteria.
Rebuild and adjust the differential's preload and backlash.
Select suitable oils and friction additives.
Where this takes you
Requirements
- No prior qualification is required.
- Internet connection and a computer capable of running the programme's software.
- Sufficient Spanish to follow technical standards documentation.
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 totals 300 hours, spread over 3 to 5 months. That is between 10 and 15 hours a week on average, compatible with a full-time job.
You will work with Advanced Excel, SolidWorks, KISSsoft and MATLAB. Free, academic or trial versions are used, and the tutor indicates the free alternative where one exists.
A SEIUM diploma upon passing continuous assessment and the integrating final project. It is in-house training, not an official Ministry qualification.
Yes. Modules passed in a Course or Postgraduate Diploma in the same area are credited towards the higher programme. Check the recognition policy when you enrol.
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