Ambassadeur BG10000CT 1401

Overhaul Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur BG 10000CT (Foot Number 1401)

The Ambassadeur BG 10000CT (1401) is a heavy-duty powerhouse designed for surf casting and big-game saltwater fishing. The "BG" stands for Big Game, and the "CT" signifies the absence of a level wind system, which maximizes casting distance by eliminating the friction and mechanical load of a line guide carriage.

With its massive brass gears and reinforced frame, this reel is built for extreme pressure. However, saltwater environments are brutal on these components. Using high-performance synthetics like Deuthlon is essential to prevent internal corrosion and ensure the heavy spool can still cast with efficiency.

Tools and Lubricants Required

• Precision Screwdrivers: Large flathead and Phillips head.

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

• Cleaning Solvent: High-purity isopropyl alcohol or a saltwater-specific degreaser.

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

1. External Teardown

1. Handle Assembly: Remove the handle nut locking screw and the large handle nut. Pull off the power handle, the heavy tension washer, and the star drag. Note the heavy-duty brass shims under the star drag.

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

3. Spool Access: Slide the heavy spool out of the frame. Because the 10000CT has no level wind, the spool is the only moving part in the frame during the cast. Inspect the ends of the spool shaft for salt deposits.

2. The Heavy-Duty Drive Train

The 1401 model features a reinforced drive shaft and a massive drag stack designed for high-drag pressures.

• The Gear Stack: Remove the main gear and the drag washers. The BG series uses a multi-disc drag system (typically carbon-based). Clean the metal "keyed" washers until they are polished. If the carbon washers are dry, they can be cleaned with a dry cloth; if contaminated with salt, replace them.

• Pinion and Yoke: Remove the heavy-duty pinion gear and the yoke. Ensure the two yoke springs are clean and have not lost their tension.

• Main Gear Cleaning: Use a brush and solvent to remove old, thickened grease from the large-cut teeth of the brass gear.

3. Saltwater Protection with Deuthlon

In a Big Game reel, lubrication isn't just about smoothness—it's about a physical barrier against saltwater intrusion.

Deuthlon Reel Gear Grease:

• Main and Pinion Gears: Apply a generous but even coat of Deuthlon Reel Gear Grease to the gear teeth. This grease is specifically engineered to resist water washout and provides extreme pressure (EP) protection for the brass internals during a fight with a large fish.

• Clutch and Cam: Grease the heavy-duty kick lever and the sliding surfaces of the yoke.

• Frame Contacts: Apply a light film of grease to the inner edges of the side plates where they meet the frame to create a moisture seal.

Deuthlon Reel Oil (Cast Lube):

• Spool Bearings: The 10000CT relies on two large, high-load bearings. Apply two drops of Deuthlon Reel Oil to each. This oil creates a durable micro-film that survives the high-heat friction generated by long casts and heavy fish runs.

• Spool Shaft: Wipe a thin film of oil along the length of the shaft to prevent "pitting" from saltwater exposure.

• Handle Knobs: Place two drops at the pivot of the power handle for effortless cranking under load.

4. Reassembly and Tuning

1. Gear Assembly: Replace the pinion gear and yoke. Seat the main gear and the drag stack back onto the drive shaft.

2. Side Plate: Reattach the side plate and secure the thumb screws. Ensure the clutch engages with a firm, positive click.

3. Spool Seating: Slide the spool into the frame. In a CT model, alignment is critical for free-spool performance; ensure the spool is perfectly centered.

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

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

Technical Performance Note

The Ambassadeur BG10000CT is a tank, but even tanks require maintenance. By using Deuthlon Reel Gear Grease and Deuthlon Cast Lube, you are providing the highest level of protection against the corrosive effects of saltwater. Deuthlon's technology ensures the drag remains smooth under high heat and the gears stay silent and protected, allowing you to focus on the fight rather than mechanical failure.