Ambassadeur 4600C4 Mag(09-00)

Maintenance and Repair Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 4600C4 Mag (09-00)

The Ambassadeur 4600C4 Mag (09-00) is a high-performance, right-hand retrieve reel that combines the speed of the C4 series with an adjustable magnetic braking system. The "09-00" revision features a 4-bearing system and a synchronized levelwind. To maintain its high-speed retrieve and precision casting control, this guide recommends Deuthlon Reel Grease for the drive train and Deuthlon Reel Oil for the casting components.

Phase 1: Exterior Disassembly and Mag System Care

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

2. Accessing the Internals: 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.

3. Magnetic Brake Inspection: Look inside the left side plate (non-handle side) to find the magnetic brake assembly. Use a clean, dry cotton swab to wipe any dust or moisture from the magnets and the flat surface of the spool flange.

   Note: Do not apply grease or oil to the magnets or the spool flange. Magnetic braking relies on eddy currents, and lubricants will attract debris that can interfere with this process.

Phase 2: Drive Train and Gear Maintenance

The C4 series features a high-speed gear ratio (typically 6.3:1). At these speeds, gear friction can generate heat and vibration if not properly lubricated.

1. Cleaning: Remove the screws securing the right side plate to the frame pillars. Lift the plate to reveal the main drive gear and pinion. Use a degreaser to remove all old, darkened grease from the gear teeth.

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 designed to stay on the teeth at high RPMs, providing a silent mesh and preventing the "gear chatter" often felt in high-speed reels.

3. Clutch Mechanism: Apply a small amount of grease to the pinion yoke and the thumb-bar kick lever to ensure smooth engagement.

Phase 3: Levelwind and Idler Gear System

Because the 4600C4 Mag has a synchronized levelwind, the line guide moves during the cast. Any mechanical drag here will fight against your magnetic brake settings.

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

2. Idler Gear: Locate the nylon idler gear on the frame. Ensure it is free of grit.

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 of Deuthlon oil allows the levelwind to oscillate rapidly with minimal resistance, ensuring the magnetic brake remains the primary control for your cast.

Phase 4: Bearings and Spool Spindle

1. Bearing Service: Locate the spool bearings (one in the tension knob and one in the side plate).

2. Lubrication: Clean the bearings thoroughly with a solvent. Apply exactly one drop of Deuthlon Reel Oil to each bearing. This high-speed oil provides the necessary film strength for long casts while maintaining the ultra-low friction required for the C4 series.

3. IAR Bearing: Inspect the Instant Anti-Reverse roller bearing in the side plate. If the handle has back-play, clean it and apply a very light film of oil. Never grease the IAR bearing.

Phase 5: Reassembly and Testing

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

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

3. Insert Spool: Slide the spool back into the frame. Ensure the centrifugal weights (if present) are pushed in.

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

Performance Verification

Depress the thumb bar to check the free-spool. Adjust the magnetic dial to ensure the magnets move correctly. Spin the spool; the levelwind should track smoothly across the frame. Turn the handle to engage the gears. The combination of Deuthlon Reel Grease on the gears and Deuthlon Reel Oil on the levelwind and idler gears ensures your Ambassadeur 4600C4 Mag (09-00) is optimized for both speed and control.