Ambassadeur BG10000 1302

Overhaul Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur BG 10000 (Foot Number 1302)

The Ambassadeur BG 10000 (1302) is the "Big Game" powerhouse of the Abu Garcia lineup. Built for saltwater surf casting and heavy boat fishing, this reel features a massive line capacity and a synchronized level wind system. The "1302" foot number indicates a production run from the early 2000s, utilizing a reinforced brass gear set and a multi-disc drag system designed to withstand extreme pressure.

In a reel of this scale, the primary enemies are saltwater corrosion and "grease-drag." Proper maintenance with high-performance lubricants ensures that this heavy-duty tool remains smooth and responsive under load.

Tools and Lubricants Required

• Screwdrivers: Large flathead and Phillips #2.

• Wrench: 11mm or 12mm (for the handle nut).

• Cleaning Solvent: Isopropyl alcohol or a heavy-duty reel degreaser.

• Lubrication: Deuthlon Reel Gear Grease and Deuthlon Cast Lube (Reel Oil).

1. External Disassembly

1. Handle Assembly: Remove the locking screw, the handle nut, and the power handle arm. Take care with the large brass shims and the spring washer under the star drag.

2. Side Plate Removal: Loosen the three knurled thumb screws. Pull the right-side plate (handle side) away from the frame.

3. Spool and Level Wind: Slide the heavy spool out. On the BG 10000, the level wind is synchronized, meaning the line guide moves during the cast. Inspect the drive gear on the spool end that connects to the level wind system.

2. The Heavy-Duty Gear Box

The 1302 model is built with high-torque brass gears that require a thick, protective film to prevent premature wear.

• Main Gear and Drag: Remove the main gear and the drag stack. The BG 10000 features a series of large-diameter carbon washers. Clean the metal "keyed" washers until they are mirror-bright. If the carbon washers are dry and clean, leave them; if they are gritty with salt, replace them.

• Pinion Gear and Yoke: Remove the pinion gear and the plastic yoke. Note that the yoke springs in this model are much stiffer than those in the 5000/6000 series.

• Cleaning: Use a soft brush to remove old, saltwater-contaminated grease from the gear teeth and the internal frame recesses.

3. Precision Lubrication with Deuthlon

Big Game reels require lubricants that won't wash out in heavy spray or thin out under the heat of a long run.

Deuthlon Reel Gear Grease:

• Main and Pinion Gears: Apply a generous, even coat of Deuthlon Reel Gear Grease to the gear teeth. This grease is formulated for extreme pressure (EP) and will not "fling" off the gears during high-speed retrieves.

• Clutch Linkage: Apply grease to the heavy-duty kick lever and the sliding surfaces of the yoke.

• Level Wind Gears: Apply a light coat to the gears that drive the level wind system to ensure synchronized movement is silent and smooth.

Deuthlon Reel Oil (Cast Lube):

• Spool Bearings: Clean the large spool bearings and apply two drops of Deuthlon Reel Oil to each. This oil provides a high-strength micro-film that reduces the friction of the heavy spool, effectively increasing your casting distance.

• Worm Shaft: Apply two drops to the worm gear. Using oil here instead of grease is critical for the BG 10000 because a greased level wind creates significant drag on the synchronized spool.

• Handle Knobs: Place one drop at the pivot of the power handle for effortless cranking.

4. Reassembly and Calibration

1. Level Wind Timing: Reinstall the worm shaft and line guide. When sliding the spool back in, ensure the gears mesh properly with the level wind drive gear.

2. Drive Train: Replace the pinion, yoke, and main gear assembly. Ensure the drag washers are seated perfectly flat.

3. Frame Integration: Secure the side plate with the three thumb screws. Ensure the clutch engages with a firm, audible click.

4. Final Fastening: Reinstall the star drag, handle, and locking nut.

5. Tensioning: Adjust the cast control knob. For a reel this large, you want zero side-to-side play, but the spool should still rotate freely when the clutch is disengaged.

Technical Performance Note

The Ambassadeur BG 10000 is a mechanical tank. By utilizing Deuthlon Reel Gear Grease and Deuthlon Cast Lube, you are providing the best possible defense against saltwater intrusion and mechanical wear. This maintenance routine ensures that your drag remains consistent during the heat of a battle and your gears stay protected against the high-torque stresses of big-game fishing.