Futaba S3170G Mini Digital Retract Servo MG 8.5kg 0.47s 4.8V - 6V FUT05102422-1

Overview

The Futaba S3170G Mini Digital Retract Servo MG is a professional-grade servo specifically engineered for model aircraft retract systems. This compact, high-torque servo delivers exceptional performance for RC aircraft enthusiasts across the UK who demand reliable, controlled landing gear deployment. Whether you're flying scale models, electric gliders, or high-performance aircraft, the S3170G provides the precision and durability required for safe, repeatable retract operations.

As part of Futaba's renowned servo lineup, the S3170G combines digital precision with analogue-style reliability. The servo is purpose-built for low-speed, high-torque applications where smooth, controlled movement is essential. Its metal planetary gear construction ensures longevity and consistent performance, even in demanding flight conditions. This is the servo of choice for RC aircraft builders and pilots who refuse to compromise on quality or performance.

Measuring just 34.5 × 16.0 × 25.8mm and weighing only 26g, the S3170G is exceptionally compact, making it ideal for installation in tight fuselage spaces on model aircraft. It operates across the standard 4.8V to 6.0V voltage range, compatible with most RC receiver batteries and power systems used in UK RC flying clubs and by hobby enthusiasts.

Key Features

• Metal Planetary Gear Train — The servo utilises a high-quality metal planetary gear system that delivers exceptional durability and reliability compared to plastic alternatives. This construction method ensures smooth, consistent torque delivery and extends the servo's operational lifespan, making it a trusted choice for long-term aircraft projects and competitive flying.
• High Torque Output — Producing 8.5 kgf·cm at 6.0V, this servo generates sufficient force to reliably operate retract mechanisms even under load. The voltage-scalable torque (7.0 kgf·cm at 4.8V) means you can adjust performance based on your power system, ensuring optimal operation across different aircraft builds.
• Low-Speed Operation — With a transit time of 0.47 seconds per 60 degrees at 6.0V, the S3170G operates at deliberately reduced speed. This measured movement is essential for retract systems, preventing shock loads on mechanical components and ensuring smooth, controlled gear extension and retraction during flight operations.
• Digital Control Circuit — The digital control architecture provides precise servo positioning and signal processing. This ensures accurate command response from your RC receiver, critical for reliable retract system function where consistency is paramount.
• Compact Mini Case Design — The aerodynamically styled mini case measures just 34.5 × 16.0 × 25.8mm, fitting easily into confined spaces typical of aircraft fuselages. At only 26g, it adds minimal weight to your model whilst maintaining structural integrity and performance.
• Standard 25T Spline Output — The servo features a 25-tooth spline with 6mm diameter, providing compatibility with a wide range of aircraft horn sets and retract mechanism linkages commonly available in the RC model shop market.
• PWM Command Protocol — Using standard Pulse Width Modulation control, the S3170G integrates seamlessly with virtually all RC receivers and control systems on the market, ensuring straightforward installation in your existing RC setup.
• Voltage Range Flexibility — Operating between 4.8V and 6.0V, the servo accommodates both 4-cell NiMH receiver batteries and 2S LiPo battery systems, offering flexibility in power configuration for different aircraft installations.

Technical Performance

The Futaba S3170G represents the pinnacle of servo engineering for aircraft retract applications. Its metal planetary gearbox is engineered to withstand repeated extension and retraction cycles without degradation, offering the consistency demanded by serious RC aircraft enthusiasts. The servo's digital control circuit processes incoming PWM signals with precision, translating them into smooth, accurate mechanical movement. At 6.0V, the S3170G delivers 8.5 kgf·cm of torque, sufficient to manage the mechanical resistance of quality retract mechanisms whilst maintaining controlled deployment speeds. The 0.47-second transit time per 60-degree movement ensures that landing gear extends and retracts smoothly during flight transitions, preventing the rapid jerking movements that can stress mechanical components or compromise flight characteristics. The servo's 26-gram weight is negligible in most aircraft applications, yet the compact 34.5 × 16.0 × 25.8mm case dimensions allow installation in cramped wing root bays and fuselage sections. Whether your RC aircraft is powered by electric motors, nitro engines, or gliding on thermal lift, the S3170G provides the reliable, repeatable servo performance that distinguishes professional builds from amateur projects. The use of quality materials throughout—metal gears, precision bearings, and reinforced plastic casing—ensures this servo will serve faithfully across numerous flying seasons.

What's in the Box

• 1× S3170G Mini Digital Retract Servo
• Servo horns (multiple options for different linkage configurations)
• Mounting hardware (brackets and fasteners for secure installation)
• Horn set screw: 3mm × 8mm (supplied for secure horn attachment)

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is the Futaba S3170G suitable for retract systems on large-scale RC aircraft? — Yes, absolutely. The S3170G is specifically designed for aircraft retract applications and is used in models ranging from small electric trainers to large-scale aerobatic aircraft. Its 8.5 kgf·cm torque output is sufficient for most quality mechanical retract systems, though very heavy models with high-friction mechanisms may require dual servos for enhanced pulling force.
• What is the difference between the S3170G and other Futaba retract servos? — The S3170G is optimised for low-speed, high-torque operation, making it ideal for smooth retract deployment. Its metal gear construction provides superior longevity compared to plastic-gear alternatives, whilst the compact mini case design suits modern aircraft with space-constrained fuselages. Futaba's product range includes servos with varying speed and torque characteristics; the S3170G specifically prioritises controlled movement over rapid transit.
• What voltage should I run the S3170G at? — The servo operates across 4.8V to 6.0V, making it compatible with both traditional four-cell NiMH receiver batteries (4.8V nominal) and modern 2S LiPo batteries (7.4V nominal, stepped down to 6V via BEC). Running at 6.0V delivers maximum performance; running at 4.8V reduces torque slightly (to 7.0 kgf·cm) but maintains reliable operation. Choose your voltage based on your aircraft's power system and available receiver battery capacity.
• How fast does the S3170G operate? — The servo completes a 60-degree movement in 0.47 seconds at 6.0V, or 0.57 seconds at 4.8V. This deliberate slowness is intentional for retract systems, preventing mechanical shock and ensuring smooth gear deployment. This is slower than speed-optimised servos, but that's by design—retract operation demands smooth, controlled movement rather than rapid response.
• What mounting hardware is included? — The servo comes with standard servo mounting brackets and fasteners. The spline output is 25-tooth (Ø6mm), which accepts standard servo horns included in the package. The supplied horn set screw is 3mm × 8mm; ensure you use the correct size to avoid stripping or cross-threading.
• Is this a digital or analogue servo? — The S3170G is a digital servo with PWM command protocol. This means it processes incoming control signals digitally for precise positioning, though it maintains the robust reliability characteristic of analogue designs. Digital operation ensures accurate servo centering and predictable movement.
• How much does the S3170G weigh? — Weighing just 26 grams (0.92 oz), this servo is exceptionally light. In most RC aircraft, total servo weight contributes only minimally to overall aircraft mass, making the S3170G ideal for weight-sensitive designs where every gram matters for flight performance and battery endurance.
• Can I use the S3170G for non-retract applications? — Whilst the S3170G is optimised for retract mechanisms, its robust metal gears and high torque output make it suitable for other control surfaces on small to medium aircraft. However, you'll benefit most from its design if using it for purposes requiring smooth, controlled, sustained force rather than rapid movement.

Why Buy from RC Model Shop?

RC Model Shop is a trusted UK RC retailer and authorised dealer for all the brands we stock, including Traxxas, ARRMA, Losi, FTX, Hobbywing, Spektrum and more. Based in Walsall, we have a physical store where customers are welcome to come in, view products and purchase in store. Whether you are a seasoned competitor, a weekend basher, or just discovering the world of RC for the first time, our team of experienced RC enthusiasts is here to help you find the perfect setup and provide ongoing support. Order the Futaba S3170G Mini Digital Retract Servo MG 8.5kg 0.47s 4.8V - 6V FUT05102422-1 today with confidence, knowing you are buying from an authorised retailer with genuine products, expert knowledge and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Shop online or visit us in Walsall — we look forward to helping you get the most out of your RC experience.