The ultimate guide to the E-flite PT-17 1.1m PNP (EFL3375) - All that model flight enthusiasts need to know

Are you looking for a detailed insight into the E-flite PT-17 1.1m flight model with a span of 1.1 meters? In this comprehensive article you will learn all the information about this impressive RC double decker in PNP format. We illuminate the technical specifications, customer experiences, flight behavior and much more to help you with your purchase decision. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced model pilot, this guide provides valuable information about the legendary Stearman replica from E-flite.

Technical data and facts

The E-flite PT-17 1.1m PNP (EFL3375) is a detailed replica of the classic American training aircraft, characterized by excellent flying characteristics and impressive detail.

Customer experiences and reviews

The user community evaluates the E-flite double-decker predominantly positively. Particular emphasis is given on the following aspects:

Advantages according to customer reviews:

• Impressive scale loyalty to the historical model
• Stable flying properties despite double-decker construction
• High quality pre-installed components
• Good visibility in the sky through striking color
• Wide range of flights from leisurely flights to basic art flight maneuvers

Critic points from user point of view:

Some customers complain about the fastening of the lower support surface, which can yield with harder landings. Here, experienced users recommend additional backup before the first flight. In some cases, the relatively high purchase price is also criticised, with most model flyers still assessing the price-performance ratio as appropriate.

A customer reports: "After 50 flights, I can say that this model is one of the most stable in my collection. Especially in light winds, the double-decker shows its strengths and lies in the air."

Test results and flight properties

In various tests, the historic double-decker is consistently positive. Specialist magazines and experienced pilots praise in particular:

Flight behaviour:The PT-17 rebuilding convinces with its stable and good-natured flight behavior. Despite its double-decker design, it shows no significant tendencies to tilt or to unexpected reactions. Tax precision is rated as very good, which also allows more demanding flight maneuvers.

Ascending power:With the recommended 3S battery, the model reaches an impressive gradient. The powerful brushless motor provides sufficient thrust to easily master steep climbs. Even with additional ballast or wind conditions, sufficient power reserve remains.

Flight times:With a 3S 2200mAh LiPo battery, realistic flight times of 8-12 minutes are possible. In the case of retained gas conduction and abandoning energy-intensive maneuvers, experienced pilots can reach up to 15 minutes. The use of a 3S 2600mAh battery can further extend the flight time, but increases the flight weight easily.

Material quality and processing

The E-flite PT-17 1.1m convinces with its high-quality processing and robust material selection:

• hull and wings: Made from robust EPO foam with strategically placed reinforcements
• Chassis: Stable wire suspension with scale optics and good suspension for uneven pistes
• Finishing and decor: Work-side applied, detailed and abrasion-resistant lacquering in classic colors
• Connecting elements: High-quality plastic and metal components for reliable connections

The material quality corresponds to the superior standard, which can be expected from E-flite products. Particularly noteworthy is the detail of the scale reproduction, which ranges from the pilot bust to the true-scale struts between the wings.

Transportability and handling

For a model of this size class, the Stearman replica offers good transport properties:

• The lower support surface can be easily removed
• Thanks to its compact design, the disassembled model fits into a medium-sized transport bag
• The sturdy construction also forgives the transport in the car without special protective covers

For regular transport it is nevertheless recommended to purchase a suitable transport bag in order to avoid damage. Especially the filigree struts between the supporting surfaces should be protected from transport damage.

Spare parts supply

The spare part supply for this double-decker is uncomplicated. As a product of an established manufacturer like E-flite, all important components are readily available:

• Support surfaces, side wheels and other external components can be reordered individually
• Electronic components such as motor, controllers and servos are standard parts and easy to replace
• The chassis and smaller components are available via specialist trade or directly from E-flite

Experience has shown that the spare part situation remains good even years after purchase, as E-flite supplies its successful models with spare parts in the long term. This is an important factor in the longevity of the investment.

Target group and entry barriers

The PT-17 double-decker is aimed primarily at these target groups:

Advanced pilots:With its stable flight characteristics and detailed implementation, the model addresses particularly advanced pilots who have already gained experience with beginners models and are now looking for a characterful scale model.

Scale enthusiasts:Model aircraft with preference for historical aircraft will appreciate the detailed implementation of the classic American training aircraft.

Beginners with previous knowledge:Even ambitious beginners can enjoy this model, but should already have basic experiences with simpler models. Although the double-decker forgives many pilot errors, it still requires a certain fingertip feeling.

Construction and assembly time

Thanks to the PNP format (Plug-and-Play), the assembly of the E-flite PT-17 is relatively simple:

1. Unpack and control of all components (approx. 15 minutes)
2. Mounting of the supporting surfaces on the fuselage (approx. 30 minutes)
3. Installation of receiver and cabling (approx. 30 minutes)
4. Programming of the transmitter and setting of the rudder stops (approx. 30 minutes)
5. Focus control and final check (approx. 15 minutes)

Overall, an experienced model builder should plan about 1.5 to 2 hours for complete assembly. The included guide is described by users as understandable and helpful, with detailed step-by-step explanations and helpful illustrations.

Community support and online resources

An active community has developed around the E-flite double-decker:

• Foren: In German-speaking and international RC forums there are numerous threads with experience reports, tuning tips and problem solutions
• Video tutorials: Various videos on platforms such as YouTube are available for building, flying practice and maintenance
• Social groups: In social networks there are special groups for e-flite pilots, in which re-exchange takes place

This community support is particularly valuable for beginners as they can rely on a wealth of experience and quickly find help in problems.

Alternative models compared

To make a sound purchasing decision, it is worth looking at comparable models from other manufacturers:

Dynasty PT-17The Dynam PT-17 is a direct alternative with similar size and equipment. Compared to the E-flite model, it offers a somewhat cheaper entry price, but it has light marks in terms of detail and material quality. In particular, the coating and the processing quality of the struts are somewhat simpler in the Dynam model.

FMS PT-17 1400mmWith a span of 1.4 metres, the FMS model is significantly larger than the E-flite PT-17. This ensures an even more stable flight image and more presence in the sky, but makes transport more complicated. Priced is the FMS model in a similar category, but by size it offers a little more "aircraft for money".

E-flie Night Timber X Evolution 1.2mThe Night Timber X is an interesting alternative in the same price segment, but with a completely different flight character. This STOL model (Short Take-Off and Landing) combines good-natured flight behavior with 3D art flight suitability and is equipped with LED lighting for dawning flights.

Value for money

With an average market price of about 220-280 euros (as of spring 2025), the E-flite PT-17 is positioned in the middle to top price segment for models of this size class. The value of the value of the value for money is differentiated:

Positive to rate:

• High-quality pre-installed electronic components
• Excellent processing quality and detail
• Durable construction with good spare parts supply
• Excellent flying properties

Critical to consider:

• Higher purchase price compared to simpler models
• Additional investment necessary for receiver, battery and charger

In the overall view, the historic double decker offers an appropriate price-performance ratio for ambitious model flyers that value quality, faithfulness to detail and authentic flight behavior. However, starters with a limited budget should perhaps begin with a more affordable start-up model.

Tips, tricks and optimizations

To get the maximum out of your E-flite PT-17, we have collected valuable tips from experienced pilots:

Recommended improvements

Structural optimizations:

• Reinforcement of the lower support surface fastening with thin carbon fiber bars
• Additional securing of the struts between the supporting surfaces with a drop of medium-strength screw securing lacquer
• Attaching small silicone O rings to the chassis axles to prevent slippage

Electronic upgrades:

• Installation of a telemetry receiver for live monitoring of the battery voltage
• Upgrade to a digitally controlled BEC for more stable power supply of servos
• Optional: retrofit with LED lighting for dusk flights

Performance optimizations:

• For more performance: conversion to a stronger motor (e.g. 3536-910KV) with adjusted propeller
• For longer flight time: lighter servos and optimized cabling for weight reduction
• fine tuning of the focal point for better flight behaviour

Flight tips for beginners and advanced

For beginners:

• Take first flights at Windstille or very light wind
• Maintain larger altitude to have sufficient reaction time
• Gentle, well-considered tax inputs instead of hectic corrections
• Start with low dual rate (about 70% rash)

For advanced:

• The PT-17 is ideal for true-scale flight manoeuvres such as slow forward flights, wide curves and gentle rolls
• Watch the structural boundaries of the model in art flight figures
• Higher dual rate (100%) and moderate Expo values (25-30%) for advanced maneuvers

Frequent questions and solutions

Technical problems and their elimination

Question: My PT-17 moves strongly to the left after the start. What can I do?

Solution: This behavior is not unusual for double-deckers with a strong motor and has several possible causes:

• Check the trimming of the side rudder and adjust it as needed
• Check if all rows are neutral when the transmitter is neutral
• A light right-handed engine crash (about 1-2°) can compensate for pulling
• With stronger pulling, a minimum twisting of the lower support surface can be present, which can be corrected by cautious twisting.

Question: The lower support surface has dissolved in a hard landing. How do I fix them permanently?

Solution: The fastening of the lower support surface is a known weak point. Here helps:

• Additional reinforcement of the absorption with epoxy resin
• Insert thin carbon fiber rods for structural reinforcement
• Use of high-quality Velcro for a flexible but secure connection
• In case of repeated problems: conversion to an improved fastening system with small GFK plates

Question: The battery life seems too short. How can I optimize them?

Solution: For an improved battery life, you can:

• Switch to a high-quality LiPo battery with lower internal resistance
• Adjust the flight style: Less full gas, more sailing phases
• Optimize propeller size: An inch greater can be more efficient (Attention: increased engine load)
• Switch to a 4S battery with adjusted controller for more efficiency at partial load

Sources and spare parts

Question: Where do I get spare parts for my E-flite PT-17?

Answer: Spare parts are available via different channels:

• Authorized e-flite dealers lead the complete spare parts assortment
• Online model shops offer both original parts and compatible alternatives
• In older models it is worth a look at model construction forums where used parts are often offered

Question: Which receiver is optimal for the PT-17?

Answer: Recommended recipients are:

• Spectrum AR631+ with AS3X+ and SAFE Select technology for stabilized flight characteristics
• For other remote control systems: Compact 6-8 channel receiver with FASST, ACCST or similar protocols
• Telemetry capable receivers offer the advantage of battery monitoring during flight

Technical questions

Question: Is the PT-17 suitable for beginners?

Answer: With limitations yes. Ideally, beginners should have already gained experience with a simpler coach model. Although the double-decker gives many mistakes and flies stable, the responses to tax inputs are clearer than with pure beginners models. With a modern receiver with stabilization function (such as spectrum AS3X), the model is also well controllable for beginners.

Question: How does the model react with wind?

Answer: The E-flite PT-17 exhibits good wind stability up to medium wind strengths (about 15-20 km/h). The relatively high surface load and the double-decker design ensure a certain insensitivity to sheets. With stronger wind the handling becomes more demanding and requires more pilot experience. Especially at side winds the landings should be planned generously.

Conclusion and recommendation for purchase

The E-flite PT-17 1.1m PNP (EFL3375) convinces as a detailed replica of an American classic with excellent flying properties and high-quality processing. The strengths are clearly in detail, good spare parts supply and balanced flight behavior, which allows both true-to-scale flying and moderate art flight maneuvers.

Who is this model particularly suitable for?

• Model flyers with preference for historic aircraft and double deckers
• Pilots with basic knowledge looking for a characteristic second or third model
• Advanced, who want a good-natured scale model for relaxed flying

Who should take more alternatives?

• Absolute Beginners Without Experience
• Pilots with limited budget
• Model flyer with focus on high-speed or extreme 3D art flight

In the overall view, E-flite's historic double-decker represents a worthwhile investment for ambitious model flyers that value quality, authenticity and long-term flight fun. With the right care and occasional upgrades, this model will be happy for many years and will be a eye-catcher on every model airfield.