Ambassadeur 4601C3 (06-01)

Maintenance and Repair Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 4601C3 (06-01)

The Ambassadeur 4601C3 (06-01) is a left-hand retrieve, high-performance round reel featuring a three-bearing system and a synchronized levelwind. The "06-01" designation identifies a specific production era of this Swedish-made classic. To maintain its signature smooth retrieve and casting distance, a meticulous cleaning and lubrication schedule is required. For professional results, this guide utilizes Deuthlon Reel Grease and Deuthlon Reel Oil.

Phase 1: External Component Removal

1. Handle Assembly: Remove the handle nut locking screw and the 10mm handle nut. Remove the handle arm and the star drag wheel.

2. Spring Washers: Beneath the star drag, you will find two curved Belleville spring washers. Ensure these are noted for reassembly; they should be oriented "back-to-back" to provide maximum tension for the drag.

3. Spool Access: Loosen the three knurled thumb screws on the right side plate. Pull the side plate away from the frame and slide the spool out.

Phase 2: Drive Train and Gear Maintenance

The drive train is responsible for the reel's power. Proper lubrication here prevents the "grind" often felt in older reels.

1. Opening the Gear Box: Remove the screws securing the left side plate (handle side) to the frame pillars. Gently lift the side plate to reveal the drive shaft, main gear, and pinion assembly.

2. Cleaning: Use a degreaser and a small brush to strip away old, contaminated grease from the brass and steel teeth.

3. Grease Application: Apply Deuthlon Reel Grease to the Main Gear and the Pinion Gear. This grease is engineered to adhere to the gear teeth under high torque, providing a smooth mesh and protecting against corrosion.

4. Clutch Mechanism: Apply a tiny dab of grease to the pinion yoke and the kick lever where they make contact with the metal frame.

Phase 3: Levelwind and Idler System

On the C3 series, the levelwind moves during the cast. Any friction here acts as a "brake" on your spool.

1. Worm Shaft Service: Unscrew the pawl cap from the bottom of the line guide and remove the metal pawl. Slide the worm shaft out of the frame. Clean the spiral grooves of any grit.

2. Idler Gear Inspection: Locate the white nylon idler gear on the frame. This gear links the spool's rotation to the levelwind.

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 to oscillate rapidly during a cast with minimal resistance, significantly increasing casting distance.

Phase 4: Bearings and Spool

1. Spool Bearings: The 4601C3 contains two high-speed stainless steel bearings. One is in the side plate tension knob, and the other is in the opposite side plate.

2. Lubrication: Clean the bearings thoroughly. Apply exactly one drop of Deuthlon Reel Oil to each. This high-performance oil ensures the bearings spin at maximum RPMs during the cast.

3. Instant Anti-Reverse (IAR): Inspect the one-way roller bearing in the side plate. If the handle slips, clean the IAR bearing with alcohol and apply a very light film of oil. Never grease this bearing.

Phase 5: Reassembly

1. Seat the Gears: Reinstall the pinion gear into the yoke and seat the main gear and drag stack onto the drive shaft.

2. Close the Plate: Align the side plate with the frame and tighten the screws.

3. Insert Spool: Slide the spool into the frame. Reattach the right side plate and tighten the thumb screws.

4. Handle Reinstallation: Reinstall the star drag, spring washers, and handle. Secure the 10mm nut and locking cap.

Performance Verification

Depress the thumb bar and spin the spool; it should rotate freely with the levelwind tracking smoothly. Turn the handle to engage the gears. The use of Deuthlon Reel Grease on the gears and Deuthlon Reel Oil on the levelwind and idler gears ensures your 4601C3 (06-01) is protected and performing at its peak.