June 24, 2013 -- YUMA, Ariz. - Onboard Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., sounds of power tools being utilized on aircraft is commonplace, but the flight line is not the only location the roar of engines and tools being used can be heard.
The Auto Hobby Shop is located by the car wash and across from the Armory on base..
“We are here for the Marines and DoD employees to help them with their cars,” said Bob Lawrence, the Auto Hobby Shop manager and a native of Sharon, Penn.
Services are run in two ways at the shop depending on the needs and wants of the customer.
“Here we have two sides,” explained Lawrence, a mechanic for 35 years. “On one side you can rent out bays and tools that you can use to work on your own car or we also can also personally do the minor work for your car.”
With a staff of collectively over 140 years of experience, the employees are there to help guide a novice mechanic through any project.
“If you don’t know what you are exactly doing with your car or have questions, this is a great place for guidance,” said Cpl. Dalton Jensen, a Marine Aviation and Weapons Tactics Squadron One flight equipment specialist and a former employee of the auto shop.
The Auto Hobby Shop also provides another service to their patrons as well, an education.
“Every month or so we give classes to anyone who wants to learn the basic of car upkeep,” said Lawrence. “Show them how to properly change tires and brakes pads as well as checking and maintaining car fluids.”
The Auto Hobby Shop is an investment in the future, for both Marines and their vehicles.
“[The Auto Hobby Shop] helps teach them about cars so they can’t be taking advantage of,” said Lawrence. “It is different than most car shops; our main mission is not business, our goal is to serve the Marines and their families.”
For more information, contact the Auto Hobby Shop staff at (928) 269-2395/5765.