Eflite SNJ-5 / AT-6 Texan 1.5m — The Return of a Classic Warbird, Re-Engineered for 4S Power

Among the aircraft that shaped WWII pilot training, the Eflite SNJ-5 / AT-6 Texan 1.5m stands out as a faithful tribute. The newest edition doesn’t just look authentic—it performs like a completely renewed machine, with electronics that let it fly more confidently and precisely than ever before.

The SNJ-5 1.5m brings the same elegant lines and adds modern electronics beneath the skin.

A Vintage Trainer Reborn

This 1.5-meter warbird keeps its distinctive SNJ-5 “101” scheme but now arrives factory-painted, fully detailed, and nearly ready to fly. Flaps and retractable landing gear aren’t just decorative—they function exactly like the original aircraft. Assembly is tool-free, so you can have it air-ready before a single LiPo finishes charging.

From rivet lines to the cockpit figure, the Texan shows off craftsmanship rarely seen at this scale.

Smart ESC Meets 4S Energy

Inside, the heart of the upgrade is the Spektrum Avian 70A Smart Lite ESC. It works with both 3S and 4S packs, giving pilots freedom to choose between relaxed cruising or aggressive aerobatics. On 4S power, climbs are steeper, the roll rate sharper, and throttle response instant—all without any need for modifications.

CNHL Batteries That Fit and Fly Right

To make the most of the Texan’s range of personalities, CNHL designed several 4S LiPo batteries that drop right into the battery bay and balance perfectly at the recommended CG. Each option caters to a slightly different flying style:

• CNHL G+Plus 2200mAh 14.8V 4S 70C (EC3) — a nimble, direct-connect pack that keeps the model light and quick on the sticks.
• CNHL 3300mAh 14.8V 4S 40C (XT60) — the balanced middle ground, ideal for everyday flying and steady performance.
• CNHL G+Plus 4000mAh 14.8V 4S 70C (XT90) — built for endurance missions and longer, smoother circuits.

Each pack maintains voltage under heavy loads and helps the Texan deliver scale-like precision in both climbs and descents. The 2200mAh feels playful, while the 4000mAh steadies the model for graceful passes and soft landings.

All CNHL packs fit securely inside the stock tray—no modification required.

How It Flies

In the air, the Texan behaves like a well-tuned classic. The heavier 4S setup gives it more authority but still preserves that characteristic trainer smoothness. With flaps deployed, takeoffs shorten noticeably. Even at half throttle, it tracks straight and true, making each sortie feel effortless.

CG and Setup Tips

Balance near 85 mm with 3300–4000 mAh packs. Start with mid-flaps for takeoff and moderate throttle until you get used to the 4S punch. Once trimmed, the aircraft stays remarkably stable, even through loops and slow rolls.

What Pilots Are Saying

Early owners describe this Texan as “the best version yet.” Many enjoy the stronger stance and the realistic gear retraction speed. Others are customizing theirs with vintage weathering and even two-blade props to recreate the famous Texan prop “bark.”

In Summary

The Eflite SNJ-5 / AT-6 Texan 1.5m captures everything people love about vintage warbirds while embracing today’s smart power systems. Combine that with a well-matched CNHL battery and you’ve got a warbird that feels alive every time you throttle up.

Discover more high-performance 4S packs here: 4S LiPo Battery Collection.

Or jump straight to the official battery lineup for this aircraft: Eflite SNJ-5 / AT-6 Texan 1.5m Recommended Batteries.

FAQ

Q: Can I fly from short grass?
A: Yes. The gear geometry is forgiving, and with flaps at 50%, takeoffs are smooth even on rougher fields.

Q: Is 4S safe for the electronics?
A: Definitely. The airframe and Smart Lite ESC are factory-rated for both 3S and 4S use.

Q: What’s the sweet-spot battery?
A: Most pilots like the CNHL 3300mAh 4S for its natural balance of weight and duration. For spirited flying, the 2200mAh keeps things lively.

Q: Do I need adapters?
A: EC3 connects directly. XT60 and XT90 users can add EC3 adapters for quick swaps without current loss.

Q: How do I get that “Texan prop sound”?
A: Try a two-blade prop with slightly higher pitch—it captures the authentic note this trainer was known for.