Ambassadeur 4600C4 (07-01)

Maintenance and Repair Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 4600C4 (07-01)

The Ambassadeur 4600C4 (07-01) is a high-speed, right-hand retrieve round reel that has long been a staple for anglers requiring a fast 6.3:1 gear ratio. This specific model revision features a 4-bearing system and the classic synchronized levelwind. To maintain its rapid retrieve and maximize its casting potential, this guide utilizes Deuthlon Reel Grease for heavy-duty protection and Deuthlon Reel Oil for speed-sensitive components.

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 Tensioners: Beneath the star drag, note the two Belleville spring washers. They must be reinstalled in an "opposing" fashion ( ) to ensure the drag stack maintains consistent, adjustable pressure.

3. Side Plate Access: Loosen the three knurled 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 C4's high-speed gears rotate significantly faster than standard round reels. Because of this, reducing friction and heat buildup in the gear mesh is vital.

1. Cleaning the Internals: Remove the internal screws securing the right side plate to the frame pillars. Lift the plate to reveal the main drive gear, pinion assembly, and the drag stack. Use a degreaser to strip away 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 high-speed gears, providing a silent mesh and preventing the vibration or "gear feel" often felt in 6.3:1 ratio reels.

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

Phase 3: Levelwind and Idler Gear System

Because the levelwind on the 4600C4 is synchronized, the line guide tracks back and forth during the cast. Any grit or thick grease here will drastically shorten your casting distance.

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 white nylon idler gear on the frame that links the spool to the levelwind. Ensure it is clean and the teeth are not worn.

3. Oil Application: Apply Deuthlon Reel Oil to the Levelwind Worm Shaft and the Idler Gear. Using oil here instead of grease is critical; the lower viscosity allows the levelwind to oscillate rapidly during the cast with minimal resistance.

Phase 4: Bearings and Spindle

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

2. Lubrication: Clean the bearings thoroughly with a specialized solvent. Apply exactly one drop of Deuthlon Reel Oil to each bearing race. This oil provides the necessary film strength for long casts while maintaining ultra-low start-up inertia.

3. Instant Anti-Reverse (IAR): Inspect the one-way roller bearing located in the side plate. If the handle has back-play, clean the bearing 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 centrifugal brake weights are retracted and the spindle seats properly in the pinion gear.

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 effortlessly. Spin the spool by hand; the line guide should track back and forth smoothly across the frame. 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 4600C4 (07-01) is optimized for peak performance and longevity.