1971 Hot Wheels

1971 Hot Wheels Snake Rail: Identification & Wheelie Parts

Published September 19, 2026 by Muncle Mikes

White Snake Rail dragster with exposed front engine, small front wheels and rear wheelie assembly

Start at the back when checking a loose Snake Rail. The small wheelie assembly can be missing even when the long white body looks tidy. A clear rear photograph tells you more about completeness than another flattering side view.

Reference photographs: On Line Redline Guide.

Identify the 1971 Fuel Dragster

Mattel lists the Snake Rail Dragster as a 1971 release, item 5951. This is the front-engine rail, distinct from the Snake funny car. The reference records U.S. production, a white body and driver, and no glazing.

Underside of white Snake Rail showing Fuel Dragster and U.S.A. base markings and the rear wheelie mechanism — Read the base before assigning a release year.

The underside reads Fuel Dragster. Its molded copyright date is not proof of the year an individual example was sold. The original sticker sheet used the spelling Snakee; missing graphics should be recorded separately from paint wear.

The parts behind the rear tires

Rear view of white Snake Rail with black wheelie assembly and two translucent auxiliary wheels — Check that the rear assembly is present.

Close-up of Snake Rail underside showing the white hook, metal counterweight and wheelie wheels — The hook and counterweight sit between the small wheelie wheels.

The detachable wheelie piece and the small front-wheel bearings deserve close inspection. Ask for sharp photographs of both front hubs and the complete underside. These views can reveal missing parts; they do not prove that every fitted component is original. Record replacements, repairs and reproduced stickers in the car’s description.

One car or a complete set?

The rails were supplied in the Wild Wheelie track set and a special two-pack. A loose car and an empty box do not make a complete set. Inventory the actual contents, and compare offers with the same parts included.

For loose Hot Wheels, keep release identification and condition as separate notes. A readable base, both sides and an unobstructed rear view make a useful record.