Ambassadeur 4600C4 Winch (10-00)

Maintenance and Repair Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 4600C4 Winch (10-00)

The Ambassadeur 4600C4 Winch (10-00) is a specialized right-hand retrieve round reel designed for high-torque applications, such as pulling deep-diving crankbaits or heavy spinnerbaits. Unlike the standard C4, the "Winch" version features a lower gear ratio to provide maximum cranking power. To maintain this mechanical advantage and ensure the 4-bearing system operates smoothly, high-performance lubrication is required. This guide recommends using Deuthlon Reel Grease for high-load components and Deuthlon Reel Oil for speed-sensitive parts.

Phase 1: Disassembly and Internal Access

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

2. Drag Tensioners: Locate the two Belleville spring washers. Note their orientation; for the Winch model's high-pressure drag, they are typically oriented back-to-back ( ).

3. Side Plate and Spool: Loosen the three knurled thumb screws on the right side plate (handle side). Pull the side plate away from the frame. Slide the spool out and set it aside in a safe area to avoid damaging the spool edges.

Phase 2: Drive Train and Gear Maintenance

The "Winch" gearing is the heart of this reel. Because this model is designed to handle high resistance, the gears are subject to significant pressure.

1. Cleaning the Gear Box: Remove the internal screws securing the handle-side plate to the frame housing. Lift the plate to expose the main gear and pinion assembly. Use a degreaser and a small brush to remove old, contaminated lubricant.

2. Grease Application: Apply a light, even coating of Deuthlon Reel Grease to the teeth of the Main Gear and the Pinion Gear. This grease is specifically formulated to withstand the high-torque loads of "Winching" retrieves, providing a silent, smooth mesh and preventing the gears from galling under stress.

3. Clutch Mechanism: Apply a small amount of grease to the pinion yoke and the kick lever assembly to ensure the thumb-bar engagement remains crisp and doesn't bind.

Phase 3: Levelwind and Idler Gear System

The levelwind on the 4600C4 Winch is synchronized with the spool. Any mechanical resistance in the levelwind system will translate into a heavier feel at the handle and reduced 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 grit or slurry.

2. Idler Gear Inspection: Locate the nylon idler gear that transfers power 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 creates "windage" or drag, whereas the low viscosity of Deuthlon oil allows these parts to oscillate effortlessly, which is essential for maintaining the smooth, high-torque feel of the Winch series.

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

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. Do not grease this bearing, as it will cause the rollers to slip.

Phase 5: Reassembly and Testing

1. Set the Gear Box: Reseat the pinion gear into the yoke and slide the main gear/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 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.

Final Function Check

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. 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 Winch remains a powerful and reliable tool for heavy-cranking applications.