Ambassadeur 4600CB (85-1)

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

The Ambassadeur 4600CB (85-1) is a vintage right-hand retrieve round reel from the mid-1980s. The "CB" designation stands for "Self-Casting," featuring a center-button thumb release that was revolutionary for its time. As a piece of Swedish engineering history, this reel requires specific care to maintain its aging mechanical parts. To ensure this classic continues to perform with modern smoothness, we recommend 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. Pay close attention to the centrifugal brake weights on the spool spindle. These are essential for controlling the cast and should be cleaned of any old, gummy oil.

Phase 2: Drive Train and Gear Maintenance

The gear set in the 85-1 model is a robust brass and steel configuration. Given the age of these components, proper lubrication is the only way to prevent metal fatigue and oxidation.

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 decades of potential buildup.

2. Grease Application: Apply Deuthlon Reel Grease to the Main Gear and the Pinion Gear. This grease is specifically designed to provide a high-load film that stays on the gear teeth even during high-pressure retrieves. For vintage metal, it provides a critical barrier against moisture and corrosion.

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 prevents the button from becoming stiff or failing to engage.

Phase 3: Levelwind and Idler System

The 4600CB features a synchronized levelwind that moves during the cast. Any friction here will drastically shorten your casting distance and cause the reel to feel sluggish.

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.

2. Idler Gear Inspection: Locate the nylon idler gear that connects the spool’s rotation to the levelwind. On 1980s models, check the nylon for any signs of cracking or brittleness.

3. Oil Application: Apply Deuthlon Reel Oil to the Levelwind Worm Shaft and the Idler Gear. Using oil instead of grease on these components is essential. The light viscosity of Deuthlon oil ensures that the levelwind and idler gears do not create mechanical drag, 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 85-1 production run).

2. Lubrication: Clean the bearings thoroughly. Apply exactly one drop of Deuthlon Reel Oil to each. This oil is formulated to stay on the races at high speeds, providing smooth, predictable casting without the "break-in" period required by heavier oils.

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

Phase 5: Reassembly and Function Check

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

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

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

Final Performance Verification

Depress the center button to ensure the spool enters free-spool mode effortlessly. Spin the spool by hand; the levelwind should track back and forth silently. Turn the handle to engage the gears and check the drag tension. The combination 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) remains a high-performing piece of angling history.