Ambassadeur 4600CL3 (10-00)

Maintenance and Repair Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 4600CL3 (10-00)

The Ambassadeur 4600CL3 (10-00) is a right-hand retrieve round reel renowned for its classic aesthetics and reliable performance. As a member of the "CL" family, it features a synchronized levelwind system and a smooth three-bearing drive. To maintain its precision and protect the internal components from wear and corrosion, high-quality lubrication is essential. This guide utilizes Deuthlon Reel Grease for high-load components and Deuthlon Reel Oil for high-speed parts.

Phase 1: Disassembly and Access

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

2. Internal Tension: Note the two Belleville spring washers located beneath the star drag. These must be reinstalled in an "opposing" orientation ( ) to ensure proper drag tension.

3. Side Plate Removal: Loosen the three knurled thumb screws on the right side plate (handle side). Pull the side plate away from the frame to expose the main gear assembly.

4. Spool Removal: Slide the spool out of the frame. Inspect the spool shaft and the centrifugal brake weights for any buildup of debris or old lubricant.

Phase 2: Drive Train and Gear Maintenance

The 4600CL3 uses a high-strength gear set that requires a robust lubricant to handle the torque of heavy retrieves.

1. Cleaning: Use a degreaser and a soft brush to remove all old, oxidized grease from the Main Gear and the Pinion Gear. Ensure the teeth are clean and free of any metallic particles.

2. Grease Application: Apply Deuthlon Reel Grease to the teeth of the Main Gear and the Pinion Gear. This grease provides a resilient, high-pressure film that prevents metal-on-metal wear and ensures the gears mesh silently.

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

Phase 3: Levelwind and Idler System

On the 4600CL3, the levelwind is synchronized with the spool, meaning it moves during both the retrieve and the cast. Reducing friction here is the most effective way to prevent backlashes and maximize 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 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 intact and clean.

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 is too viscous and creates mechanical "windage" or drag, whereas Deuthlon oil allows these parts to oscillate rapidly with minimal resistance, significantly improving casting performance.

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 formulated to stay on the races at high RPMs, providing maximum spool speed and protection.

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 slip.

Phase 5: Reassembly and Testing

1. Gear Set: Reseat the pinion gear into the yoke and slide the main gear and drag stack back 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 brake weights are retracted and 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; 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 (10-00) operates with maximum efficiency and durability.