Ambassadeur 4600C4 1500

Maintenance and Repair Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 4600C4 (15-00)

The Ambassadeur 4600C4 (15-00) is a high-speed, right-hand retrieve round reel built for efficiency and durability. The "15-00" designation indicates a production revision likely from the 2015 era. This model features a blazing 6.3:1 gear ratio, a 4+1 bearing system, and the synchronized levelwind system that Abu Garcia is famous for. To keep this modern classic running at peak performance, 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. Use a 10mm wrench to remove the handle nut. Pull off the handle arm, the curved spring washer, and the star drag wheel.

2. Tension Washers: Beneath the star drag, note the two Belleville spring washers. For the high-pressure Carbon Matrix drag system found in the 15-00 model, these must be reinstalled in an "opposing" fashion ( ) to ensure consistent drag tension.

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 C4 (15-00) utilizes the Duragear 2 system, designed for increased strength. At a 6.3:1 ratio, these gears move fast and require a high-cling lubricant.

1. Opening the Gear Box: 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 Carbon Matrix drag stack.

2. Cleaning: Use a degreaser and a small brush to remove all old, darkened grease from the gear teeth. Inspect the gears for any burrs or excessive wear.

3. 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 engineered to adhere to high-speed gears, providing a silent mesh and preventing the vibration often felt in high-speed reels during heavy retrieves.

4. 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, it tracks back and forth during the cast. Reducing friction here is the most effective way to increase 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 old, thickened lubricant.

2. Idler Gear Inspection: Locate the nylon idler gear that transfers motion from the spool to the levelwind system. Ensure the teeth are clean and free of debris.

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 is too viscous and creates mechanical "windage" or drag, whereas Deuthlon oil allows these parts to oscillate rapidly with minimal resistance, significantly improving casting performance and line lay.

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 degreaser. Apply exactly one drop of Deuthlon Reel Oil to each bearing race. This oil is formulated to stay on the races at high RPMs, providing maximum spool speed and protection.

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, as it will cause the rollers to slip.

Phase 5: Reassembly and Testing

1. Gear Set: Reseat the pinion gear into the yoke and slide the main gear and drag stack back 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 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 with the screw.

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 (15-00) is optimized for peak performance and longevity.