Despite Jill’s (Patricia Richardson) nonstop efforts for the past three years, the library is still somehow $1000 short on funds. In response, Jill holds a Tool Man auction on Tool Time — where Bob Vila makes a surprise appearance, bringing in $700, whereas Tim (Tim Allen) only goes for $300 when Jill bids on him herself. Emasculated and frustrated at once again being bested by Bob Vila, Tim challenges Vila to a race in their newly-completed hot rods. Tim’s nerves are frayed as he rushes to get his hot rod running in time for the race, but with a little help and wisdom from Wilson (Earl Hindman) he’s able to complete his hot rod after three years of work — and be happy about it despite losing yet another race to Bob Vila.