Ambassadeur 4600CL3 (08-01)

Maintenance and Repair Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 4600CL3 (08-01)

The Ambassadeur 4600CL3 (08-01) is a right-hand retrieve round reel that balances classic Swedish design with a synchronized levelwind and a 3-bearing system. This specific revision is known for its smooth operation and reliability in various freshwater applications. To maintain the "Swedish smooth" performance and protect the gear train from premature wear, this guide utilizes Deuthlon Reel Grease and Deuthlon Reel Oil.

Phase 1: Exterior Disassembly

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

2. Spring Washers: Note the two Belleville spring washers beneath the star drag. They must be reinstalled back-to-back () to provide the correct spring tension for the drag system.

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 inspect the centrifugal brake weights.

Phase 2: Drive Train and Gear Maintenance

The gear set is the heart of the reel’s cranking power. Proper lubrication here ensures the brass and steel components do not gall under pressure.

1. Cleaning: Use a degreaser and a small brush to remove all old, oxidized grease from the gear teeth. Ensure the drive shaft and pinion yoke are free of debris.

2. Grease Application: Apply a light, even coating of Deuthlon Reel Grease to the teeth of the Main Gear and the Pinion Gear. This high-tenacity grease is specifically designed to stay on the gear teeth under load, providing a silent retrieve and superior protection against corrosion.

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 responsive.

Phase 3: Levelwind and Idler Gear System

On the 4600CL3, the levelwind moves during the cast. Any friction in this system acts as a mechanical brake on the spool, reducing 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 shroud. Clean the spiral grooves of any trapped grit or old, thickened lubricant.

2. Idler Gear Inspection: Locate the nylon idler gear that connects the spool’s rotation to the levelwind system. Ensure the teeth are clean.

3. Oil Application: Apply Deuthlon Reel Oil to the Levelwind Worm Shaft and the Idler Gear. Using oil instead of grease on these parts is critical; the lower viscosity of the oil allows the levelwind and idler gears to oscillate rapidly during the cast with minimal resistance.

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. This oil is formulated to provide high-speed lubrication for maximum spool RPMs during the cast.

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 and apply a very light film of oil. Never use grease in this bearing, as it will cause the rollers to fail.

Phase 5: Reassembly and Final Testing

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 Closure: Align the side plate with the frame and tighten the three 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.

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 4600CL3 (08-01) is optimized for peak performance and longevity.