Ambassadeur 4600CB (85-1 2)

Maintenance and Repair Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 4600CB (85-1 2)

The Ambassadeur 4600CB (85-1 2) is a vintage right-hand retrieve round reel from the mid-1980s. This specific revision features the "Self-Casting" center-button release and a synchronized levelwind system. As a vintage Swedish-made reel, it is built to last multiple lifetimes, but its performance depends entirely on the condition of its lubricants. To protect these aging components and restore its "Swedish smooth" feel, this guide recommends Deuthlon Reel Grease and Deuthlon Reel Oil.

Phase 1: Exterior Disassembly

1. Handle and Star Drag: Remove the screw from the handle nut locking plate. Use a 10mm wrench to remove the handle nut. Pull off the handle arm, the tension spring washer, and the star drag wheel.

2. Side Plate Removal: Loosen the three knurled thumb screws on the right side plate (handle side). Pull the side plate away from the frame.

3. Spool and Brake System: Slide the spool out of the frame. Inspect the centrifugal brake weights on the spool spindle. These must be clean and dry to function correctly.

Phase 2: Drive Train and Gear Maintenance

The gear set in the 85-1 2 model is the source of the reel's cranking power. After decades of potential use, the goal is to prevent further metal-on-metal wear.

1. Cleaning the Internals: Remove the screws securing the right side plate to the frame housing. Lift the plate to expose the main gear assembly. Use a degreaser and a soft brush to remove aged, hardened grease from the teeth.

2. Grease Application: Apply Deuthlon Reel Grease to the Main Gear and the Pinion Gear. This grease is specifically formulated to create a high-load film that stays on the teeth, providing a silent retrieve and protecting these vintage gears from oxidation and galling.

3. Clutch and Release: Apply a small amount of grease to the pinion yoke and the internal release sliders. The "CB" series relies on a precise mechanical link for the center-button release; keeping this well-greased ensures the button engages and disengages effortlessly.

Phase 3: Levelwind and Idler System

The synchronized levelwind on the 4600CB must oscillate freely during the cast. Any mechanical drag in this vintage system will result in poor casting distance and potential backlashes.

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 spiral grooves of all old lubricant and debris.

2. Idler Gear Inspection: Locate the nylon idler gear that connects the spool’s rotation to the levelwind. Inspect for any cracks or brittle teeth, which can occur in older nylon parts.

3. Oil Application: Apply Deuthlon Reel Oil to the Levelwind Worm Shaft and the Idler Gear. Using oil instead of grease is essential here. The lower viscosity of Deuthlon oil ensures that the levelwind and idler gears do not create mechanical resistance, allowing the vintage spool to spin at its maximum potential during the cast.

Phase 4: Bearings and Spindle

1. Spool Bearings: Locate the bearings (or bronze bushings, depending on the specific production batch).

2. Lubrication: Clean the bearings thoroughly with a degreaser. Apply exactly one drop of Deuthlon Reel Oil to each. This oil is designed to maintain a consistent film even at high RPMs, ensuring smooth, predictable casting.

3. Mechanical Tension: Wipe the ends of the spool spindle and apply a micro-drop of oil to the contact points inside the tension knobs.

Phase 5: Reassembly and Testing

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

2. Frame Assembly: Reattach the side plate to the frame and tighten the screws.

3. Spool Installation: Slide the spool back into the frame, ensuring the brake weights are properly positioned. Attach the side plate and tighten the thumb screws.

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

Final Function Check

Depress the center button to ensure the spool enters free-spool mode. Spin the spool; the levelwind should track back and forth silently. Turn the handle to engage the gears and check the drag tension. The use of Deuthlon Reel Grease on the primary gears and Deuthlon Reel Oil on the levelwind and idler gears ensures your vintage Ambassadeur 4600CB (85-1 2) remains a high-performing piece of angling history.