1971 Hot Wheels Rumblers 3 Squealer
Casting #: 604811 listed variations
1. TOOLING
The 3 Squealer (Model #6012) was introduced in the debut 1971 RRRumblers wave. It is a heavy-duty three-wheeled trike design, characterized by a massive die-cast metal body and an exposed plastic engine assembly that integrates into the handlebars. Unlike two-wheeled RRRumblers, the 3 Squealer provides greater stability on flat surfaces. For track performance, it utilized a detachable clear plastic "track guide" (stabilizer) that allowed the oversized rear wheels to fit within the standard Hot Wheels orange track. The 'Roar' factor is achieved through the mechanical interaction of the plastic stabilizer tab clicking against the wheel spokes during motion, simulating engine noise.
2. RIDERS
The original rider figure for the 3 Squealer is the "Bearded Biker" sculpt. This figure features a bearded man wearing a vest, trousers, and a protective helmet.
- Standard Color: Brown or Black.
- Rare Variations: Dark Green, Blue, or Tan.
- Note: Figures were made of a flexible PVC material, designed to "straddle" the seat and grip the handlebars.
3. COLOR REGISTRY
The 3 Squealer was produced during the transition from Spectraflame to Enamel finishes. Documented colors include:
- Spectraflame: Aqua, Blue, Green, Magenta, Red, and Rose.
- Enamel: Yellow and Orange (later releases).
- Information not available: Specific production quantities per color.
4. CHASSIS & TIRES
The chassis is integrated into the heavy die-cast main body.
- Wheels: Features two large "Deep Dish" chrome-spoke rear wheels and one smaller front wheel. The rear wheels are significantly wider than standard Redline-era car wheels.
- Markings: The underside of the die-cast body typically bears the following embossed text: "Hot Wheels", "3 SQUEALER", "© 1970 Mattel Inc", "Hong Kong", "Pat. Pend."
5. CONDITION
Due to the play-heavy nature of the RRRumblers line, several "Condition Killers" are prevalent:
- Handlebars: The thin plastic handlebars and front fork assembly are highly prone to snapping; finding them unbent and unbroken is rare.
- Chrome Loss: The vacuum-metallized chrome on the engine and wheel spokes often oxidizes or wears off due to friction.
- Missing Riders: Because the figures were not permanently attached, a significant majority of loose units are missing the rider.
- Brittle Plastic: The clear track stabilizer (the "kickstand" equivalent) is often missing or has snapped off at the mounting point.
6. MARKET TRENDS
Values fluctuate based on the presence of the original rider and the integrity of the handlebars.
- Loose (Good Condition, No Rider): $35.00 – $65.00 USD.
- Loose (Near Mint with Original Rider): $125.00 – $225.00 USD (Highly dependent on Spectraflame color rarity).
- Mint on Card (MOC): $450.00 – $800.00+ USD.
