Advantage Tools was started in 1986 as a little side line business to get rid of odd items.  We sold at various flea markets in the San Jose, California area including the Berryessa Flea Market.  Although we both came from a background in retail, selling at the flea markets was a very different and enlightening experience to say the least. In 1988 we left ‘the big city’ and moved to the smaller community of Manteca in the San Joaquin Valley. 

As retirement dates came closer we tried to decide which direction we would like to see the ‘side line’ business take. We decided to combine our love of cars with our business and selling automotive tools seem like a natural.  We have crisscrossed this beautiful country from California to New York to Washington to Georgia.  We have sold at various events including the Goodguys Rod & Custom Car Shows, Goodguys Nostalgia Races, NSRA, Super Chevy, and major auto swap meets. 

We have come to the conclusion that ‘car people’ are about the best people we have met.  Seeing customers in Delaware that we know from the west coast with both of us laughing and exclaiming “What are you doing here?” has been one of our many, many wonderful memories.  In 2005 we decided to slow down and only sell at the events on the West Coast.

We now get to actually watch the NHRA and NASCAR races on the week-ends.  With 7 children, 14 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild it can get exciting during a race.  We all have our favorite drivers and none of us are shy about bragging on our special driver.

We both hope you enjoy shopping in our store and come back to see us often.

Your Automotive Specialty Tool Source, 

Bob & Kathy Tripp 

'Two Old Tool People'