By Natalia Rodriguez
Since its establishment in 1980, Seacliff 76 has been a vital part of the Aptos community, thanks to the unwavering dedication and expertise of Larry Robert.
Seacliff 76 is his first and only job.
“I started at 17 pumping gas for $2.50 (per hour), which was a fair deal at the time,” he said.
In 44 years at Seacliff 76, he’s worked in every position, gradually moving up. He can stand in wherever needed.
He learned everything related to cars from former owner Bert Moulton back when the station was on Frederick Street in Santa Cruz. Larry became the primary mechanic apprentice once the 76 station moved to Aptos. The two acted as business partners working side by side until Moulton retired in 2010 and Larry took over the business.
Seacliff 76 is much more than a gas station — a variety of services for all parts of your vehicle is available. This is a certified smog and repair station, which is handy when you get that renewal notice from the State Department of Motor Vehicles.
The knowledgeable staff has expertise in hybrid car and gas models, which are extremely popular locally, and that means customers keep coming back.
“Lots of folks who own hybrids bring them to our shop,” Larry said.
Chris Hampton is Larry’s current primary technician and the leading skills force in hybrid service and repair. Larry met Chris through Larry’s son Duke, who also works at Seacliff 76. Through the association, Chris was hired as a gas attendant.
Chris was employed by Seacliff 76 for several years before spending six years working and studying at several Toyota dealerships. He ultimately returned to Seacliff 76.
“ It’s nice to be a neighborhood shop,” he explained.
With Hampton’s experience, he’s well-equipped to meet your vehicle needs. He’s Toyota certified as well as factory trained in hybrid diagnostic and repair. His “longtime love of cars” led him to his career path.
If you have a hybrid car, you are not alone. Hybrid sales grew 53% to 1.176 million last year. Hybrids are more efficient than gas-powered vehicles, which may account for their popularity. Consumer Reports says hybrids, with greater fuel economy, more power, and better technology, are a smart choice now.
Seacliff 76 is an excellent resource for local owners seeking a dependable, all-in-one shop.
Chris Hampton isn’t the only savvy employee. Geoff Myers is the service writer and runs the shop and service station side of the business; Greg Feeney is a certified smog technician and ASE certified. Duke Roberts acts as apprentice tech with some service writing. The station has ten employees total, from cashiers to technicians.
Larry says he’s been “fortunate with loyal employees.”
Contact Seacliff 76 for any automotive needs or just to fill up your tank.
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The station is open for gas from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and 7 a.m.- 9 p.m. on weekends.
The auto repair shop is open Monday through Friday 8 a.m.-4 p.m. with smog inspections Saturdays 8 a.m. -1 p.m.
Seacliff 76 is located at 201 Sea Ridge Road, Aptos. The easy-to-remember phone number is 831-688-7600.