Ambassadeur 4600C3 Clicker 23 00

Maintenance and Repair Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 4600C3 Clicker (23-00)

The Ambassadeur 4600C3 Clicker (23-00) is a versatile, right-hand retrieve round reel specifically equipped with a spool clicker (bait alarm). This modern "23-00" revision features the high-performance Carbon Matrix drag system, a 3-bearing drive, and the traditional Swedish "synchronized" levelwind. The addition of the clicker makes this model a favorite for light trolling and live-bait fishing. To maintain its legendary durability and smooth operation, we recommend a service using Deuthlon Reel Grease and Deuthlon Reel Oil.

Phase 1: Exterior Disassembly

1. Handle and Star Drag: Remove the screw from the handle nut locking cap and unscrew the 10mm handle nut. Remove the handle arm, the spring washer, and the star drag wheel.

2. Drag Spring Washers: Note the two curved Belleville washers. Reinstall these in an "opposing" orientation ( ). This ensures the drag applies consistent pressure, which is vital when the clicker is engaged.

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

Phase 2: Drive Train and Gear Maintenance

The C3 series uses high-strength brass gears. Because this model is often used for bait fishing where a fish might strike while the reel is in "clicker mode," the gears must be protected from sudden shock loads.

1. Cleaning the Internals: Remove the internal screws securing the handle-side plate to the frame pillars. Lift the plate to reveal the main gear and pinion assembly. Degrease all components 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 engineered to stay on the teeth even under heavy load, providing a silent, cushioned mesh and preventing corrosion.

3. Clutch Mechanism: Apply a small amount of grease to the pinion yoke and the contact points of the kick lever to ensure the transition from free-spool to engaged gear is crisp.

Phase 3: Levelwind and Idler Gear System

The levelwind on the 4600C3 is synchronized, meaning the line guide oscillates during the cast and when line is being pulled out by a fish against the clicker.

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 of the frame shroud. Clean the "double-helix" grooves of any trapped grit or slurry.

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

3. Oil Application: Apply Deuthlon Reel Oil to the Levelwind Worm Shaft and the Idler Gear. Using oil here instead of grease is critical. Grease creates mechanical drag, whereas Deuthlon oil allows these parts to oscillate with minimal resistance, ensuring the spool can spin freely even when the clicker is off.

Phase 4: Clicker Mechanism and Bearings

1. Clicker Service: Locate the clicker slider and spring on the non-handle side plate. Clean any salt or grit from the plastic clicker cog. Apply a very light film of Deuthlon Reel Grease to the metal clicker tongue where it meets the cog to prevent wear while maintaining a sharp "click" sound.

2. Spool Bearings: Locate the two stainless steel spool bearings—one in the side plate tension knob and one in the opposite side plate.

3. Lubrication: Clean the bearings thoroughly. Apply exactly one drop of Deuthlon Reel Oil to each bearing race. This oil provides the necessary film strength for protection while ensuring the ultra-low start-up inertia required for casting.

4. IAR Bearing: Inspect the one-way roller bearing in the side plate. Clean with alcohol and apply a very light film of oil. Never use grease in the IAR bearing.

Phase 5: Reassembly and Testing

1. Set the Gear Box: Reseat the pinion gear into the yoke and slide the main gear and drag stack onto the drive shaft.

2. Frame Closure: Align the side plate with the frame and tighten the thumb screws.

3. Insert Spool: Slide the spool back into the frame, ensuring the 6-pin centrifugal brake weights are retracted.

4. Final Hardware: Reinstall the star drag, spring washers, handle, and 10mm nut. Secure the locking cap.

Performance Verification

Depress the thumb bar to verify the reel enters free-spool mode. Engage the clicker on the side plate and pull line from the spool to ensure the alarm is loud and consistent. Turn the handle to engage the gears. The combination of Deuthlon Reel Grease on the primary gears and Deuthlon Reel Oil on the levelwind and idler gears ensures your Ambassadeur 4600C3 Clicker (23-00) remains a reliable tool for years to come.