Ambassadeur 4601C3 Clicker 23 00

Maintenance and Repair Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 4601C3 Clicker (23 00)

The Ambassadeur 4601C3 Clicker is a versatile, left-hand retrieve round reel that features an integrated line-out alarm (clicker), making it a favorite for trolling and bait fishing. The "23 00" designation refers to its specific production revision. To keep the clicker audible and the high-speed retrieve smooth, a strategic lubrication plan is required. For this service, we recommend Deuthlon Reel Grease and Deuthlon Reel Oil.

Phase 1: Disassembly and Clicker Inspection

1. Handle Side: Remove the handle nut cap screw and the 10mm handle nut. Remove the handle, the spring washer, and the star drag wheel.

2. Accessing the Internals: Loosen the three thumb screws on the right side plate (palm side) and remove the side plate. Slide the spool out of the frame.

3. The Clicker Mechanism: On the 4601C3 Clicker, the alarm mechanism is located on the side plate. Inspect the clicker tongue and the spring. Ensure the plastic or metal "click" tooth is not excessively worn.

4. Left Side Plate: Unscrew the fasteners securing the left side plate to the frame to access the main gear and drive assembly.

Phase 2: Gear Train and Drive Lubrication

The main gears translate your handle turns into spool power. Because this model is often used for trolling, these gears undergo constant, low-level stress.

1. Cleaning: Remove all old, contaminated grease from the gear teeth and the drive shaft using a degreaser and a small brush.

2. Grease Application: Apply Deuthlon Reel Grease to the Main Gear and the Pinion Gear. This grease provides a resilient, waterproof barrier that prevents metal-on-metal wear.

3. Clutch Linkage: Apply a light dab of grease to the kick lever and the thumb-bar sliders to ensure the reel clicks into gear crisply every time.

Phase 3: Levelwind and Idler System

A smooth levelwind is critical for even line lay, especially when the clicker is engaged and the spool is turning slowly against a drag.

1. Worm Shaft Maintenance: Remove the pawl cap from the bottom of the line guide and take out the pawl. Slide the worm shaft out of the shroud.

2. Idler Gear: Locate the nylon idler gear that connects the spool’s rotation to the levelwind worm shaft.

3. Oil Application: Apply Deuthlon Reel Oil to the Levelwind Worm Shaft and the Idler Gear. Using oil here instead of grease is paramount; it allows the levelwind to track effortlessly without adding mechanical resistance that could dampen the sensitivity of the reel or the sound of the clicker.

Phase 4: Bearings and Spool

1. Spool Bearings: The C3 utilizes high-quality stainless steel bearings. Remove them from their seats (one in the tension knob, one in the side plate).

2. Lubrication: Clean the bearings and apply one drop of Deuthlon Reel Oil to each. This ensures the spool can spin freely during a cast or when line is being pulled out by a fish.

3. Centrifugal Brakes: Wipe the brake drum clean with a dry swab. Do not apply oil or grease to the brake weights, as they rely on dry friction to control the cast.

Phase 5: Reassembly and Testing

1. Drive Assembly: Seat the pinion gear back in the yoke and replace the main gear and drag stack.

2. Reassemble Frame: Secure the left side plate to the frame. Insert the spool, ensuring the spindle engages the pinion.

3. Final Components: Reattach the right side plate. Replace the star drag, spring washers, and the handle. Secure the handle nut and cap.

Verification

Switch the clicker to the "on" position and pull line from the spool; the alarm should be sharp and consistent. Turn the handle to ensure the clicker automatically disengages (if applicable) and the gears mesh silently. Using Deuthlon Reel Grease on the main gears and Deuthlon Reel Oil on the levelwind and idler gears ensures your 4601C3 Clicker remains a reliable tool for seasons to come.