Boeing-Stearman PT-17

The Boeing-Stearman PT-17 was the USAAF designation for all Model 75 primary trainers powered by Continental engines. The Stearman Model 75 was originally ordered by the USAAC in 1936 as the Lycoming-powered PT-13. The same basic aircraft when powered by the 220hp Continental R-670 engine became known as the PT-17. This was the main Army version, with 2,942 produced. Another 705 similar aircraft were produced for the Navy, 250 N2S-1s and 455 N2S-4s, for a total of 3,647 (some sources give a total of 3,769 but that includes 122 Naval aircraft that were cancelled).

The PT-17 was a two seat single-bay biplane. The fuselage was built around a welded steel tube framework, the wings around a wooden framework, both fabric covered. It had a fixed undercarriage with single faired legs.

PT-17 (A75N1)

The PT-17 used the PT-13A fuselage and was powered by a 220hp Continental R-670-5 of 220hp. The Army accepted a total of 2,942 PT-17s in 1940-1942.

PT-17A (A75N1)

The designation PT-17A was given to a number of PT-17s that were given blind-flying instruments. Twelve were converted in 1940 and another 124 later on.

PT-17B (A75N1)

The designation PT-17B was given to three PT-17s that were given spraying equipments for pest control purposes.

PT-17C

One PT-17 was given standardized Navy and Army equipment as part of an attempt to produce a single model for both services. Some of this work was used on the PT-13D/ N2S-5, the first version to be useable by both services without alteration.

Engine: Continental R-670
Power: 220hp
Crew: 2
Span: 32ft 2in
Length: 24ft 1/4in
Height: 9ft 2in
Empty Weight: 1,936lb
Loaded Weight: 2,717lb
Maximum Speed: 124mph
Cruising Speed: 106mph
Climb rate: 840ft/ min
Ceiling: 11,200ft
Range: 505 miles

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How to cite this article: Rickard, J (14 October 2014), Boeing-Stearman PT-17 , http://www.historyofwar.org/articles/weapons_boeing_stearman_PT-17.html

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