Ambassadeur 4600AB (08-01)

Maintenance and Repair Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 4600AB (08-01)

The Ambassadeur 4600AB (08-01) is a unique and specialized entry in the Abu Garcia lineage. The "AB" designation stands for Anti-Backlash, a mechanical system designed to automatically apply braking pressure to the spool the moment it detects a decrease in line tension, virtually eliminating bird's nests for beginner and intermediate anglers.

This revision features a 5.3:1 gear ratio and a 3-bearing system. Because of the specialized Anti-Backlash activator bar and spring system, this reel requires specific maintenance to ensure the safety feature doesn't interfere with casting distance. This guide utilizes Deuthlon Reel Grease and Deuthlon Reel Oil to optimize performance.

Phase 1: Exterior Disassembly

1. Handle and Star Drag: Remove the screw from the handle nut locking cap. Use a 10mm wrench to remove the handle nut. Pull off the handle, the tension spring washer, and the star drag wheel.

2. Spring Washers: Beneath the star drag, locate the two Belleville spring washers. Reinstall them back-to-back ( ) to maintain a smooth, adjustable drag curve.

3. Side Plate Access: Loosen the three knurled captive thumb screws on the right side plate. Pull the side plate away from the frame and slide the spool out.

Phase 2: The Anti-Backlash (AB) System

The 4600AB features an Activator Bar (the moving bar at the front of the frame) that is linked to the braking system. If this bar becomes sticky or the spring weakens, the reel will either over-brake or fail to stop backlashes.

1. Cleaning the Activator: Inspect the front activator bar. Use a cotton swab and alcohol to clean the pivot points where the bar meets the frame.

2. Lubrication: Apply a single drop of Deuthlon Reel Oil to the pivot pins of the AB bar. Do not use grease here, as it will attract dust and cause the bar to lag, which defeats the anti-backlash timing.

3. Spring Tension: Ensure the small return spring on the AB assembly is clean and free of corrosion. A light coating of oil will protect it from rust.

Phase 3: Drive Train and Gear Maintenance

The 08-01 revision utilizes high-strength brass gears. Proper lubrication is essential to prevent the "gear feel" that can develop in these mid-range workhorses.

1. Internal Access: Remove the internal screws securing the handle-side plate. Lift the plate to reveal the main gear and pinion assembly. Use a degreaser to remove old, darkened lubricant.

2. Grease Application: Apply a light, even coat of Deuthlon Reel Grease to the teeth of the Main Gear and the Pinion Gear. This grease is specifically designed to adhere to metal under load, providing a silent mesh and superior protection against wear.

3. Clutch Mechanism: Apply a small amount of grease to the pinion yoke and the kick lever. This ensures the thumb-bar engagement remains crisp.

Phase 4: Levelwind and Idler Gear

Because the levelwind is synchronized, the line guide oscillates during the cast. Any drag in this system will counteract the benefits of the AB system.

1. Worm Shaft Service: Unscrew the pawl cap on the bottom of the line guide and remove the metal pawl. Slide the worm shaft out and clean the grooves.

2. Idler Gear Inspection: Locate the nylon idler gear on the frame. Ensure the teeth are clean and it rotates freely.

3. Oil Application: Apply Deuthlon Reel Oil to the Worm Shaft and the Idler Gear. The light viscosity of Deuthlon oil allows the levelwind to move with minimal resistance, ensuring the AB system only applies braking when truly necessary.

Phase 5: Bearings and Spindle

1. Spool Bearings: Locate the two stainless steel spool bearings.

2. Lubrication: Clean the bearings thoroughly. Apply exactly one drop of Deuthlon Reel Oil to each bearing race. This maintains ultra-low start-up inertia, which is critical for the AB system to function correctly during the initial stage of the cast.

3. Anti-Reverse: Inspect the IAR (Instant Anti-Reverse) roller bearing in the side plate. Clean with alcohol and apply a very light film of oil. Never grease the IAR bearing.

Phase 6: Reassembly and Testing

1. Reassemble: Reseat the pinion, yoke, and main gear. Align the side plate and tighten the thumb screws.

2. Testing the AB System: With the reel reassembled, pull the line forward quickly. You should see the AB bar move slightly and feel the spool tension increase. This confirms the system is active and lubricated.

The combination of Deuthlon Reel Grease for the gears and Deuthlon Reel Oil for the AB system and levelwind ensures your Ambassadeur 4600AB (08-01) is both smooth-operating and reliably tangle-free.