Ambassadeur 4601C3 Kokanee 02 17 00

Maintenance and Repair Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 4601C3 Kokanee (02 17 00)

The Ambassadeur 4601C3 Kokanee edition is a specialized version of the classic 4601 series, often featuring a specific gear ratio and aesthetic tailored for the light-tackle requirements of Kokanee fishing. As a "01" model, it is a left-hand retrieve reel utilizing the time-tested C3 three-bearing system. Maintaining this reel is essential for the delicate drag adjustments required when fighting soft-mouthed salmonids. For optimal performance, this guide recommends Deuthlon Reel Grease and Deuthlon Reel Oil.

Phase 1: External Disassembly

1. Handle and Star Drag: Remove the screw from the handle nut cover and unscrew the 10mm handle nut. Remove the handle and the star drag wheel. Pay close attention to the sequence of the washers under the star drag; there is typically a spring washer that provides the tension for the drag clicks.

2. Side Plate Access: Loosen the three thumb screws on the right side plate. Remove the plate and slide the spool out of the frame.

3. Left Side Plate: Unscrew the fasteners holding the left side plate (handle side) to the frame pillars. Carefully lift the plate to expose the main drive gear and the clutch/kick-lever mechanism.

Phase 2: Gear Train Maintenance

The drive gears handle the mechanical load of the retrieve. Keeping them properly lubricated ensures longevity and a "silent" feel.

1. Cleaning: Use a degreaser to strip away old, milky, or hardened grease from the brass main gear and the stainless steel pinion gear.

2. Grease Application: Apply Deuthlon Reel Grease to the Main Gear teeth and the Pinion Gear. This grease is engineered to stay on the gear teeth under pressure, providing a smooth mesh that is critical when using the slow-trolling techniques common in Kokanee fishing.

3. Yoke and Slides: Apply a small amount of grease to the pinion yoke and the contact points of the thumb-bar linkage to ensure crisp engagement.

Phase 3: Levelwind and Idler System

On the Ambassadeur series, the levelwind moves during both the cast and the retrieve. Excessive friction here can cause "shuddering" during the fight.

1. Worm Shaft Cleaning: Remove the pawl cap and the metal pawl from the bottom of the line guide. Slide the worm shaft out. Clean the "double-helix" grooves of any grit.

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

3. Oil Application: Apply Deuthlon Reel Oil to the Levelwind Worm Shaft and the Idler Gear. Using oil instead of grease on these parts allows the levelwind to track with significantly less resistance, which is vital for maintaining a smooth, consistent drop of your lure.

Phase 4: Bearings and Spool Spindle

1. Spool Bearings: Locate the two stainless steel spool bearings. One is housed in the side plate tension knob, and the other is often located on the spool shaft or the opposite side plate.

2. Lubrication: Add one drop of Deuthlon Reel Oil to each bearing. This high-speed oil reduces start-up inertia, allowing for smoother casts with lighter Kokanee dodgers and lures.

3. Spindle: Wipe the spool spindle clean and apply a very light film of oil to the ends where they contact the bearing races.

Phase 5: Reassembly and Calibration

1. Rebuild the Drive: Place the pinion gear into the yoke and seat it over the drive shaft. Install the main gear and the drag washer stack.

2. Secure the Frame: Reattach the left side plate to the frame. Slide the spool back into the center, ensuring the brake weights are tucked in.

3. Final Assembly: Reattach the right side plate. Reinstall the star drag, spring washers, and the handle. Secure the handle nut and the locking cap.

Final Function Test

Engage the thumb bar and ensure the spool rotates freely. Turn the handle to engage the gears and check that the line guide moves across the spool without hesitating. By using Deuthlon Reel Grease on the heavy gears and Deuthlon Reel Oil on the levelwind and idler gears, you have optimized your 4601C3 Kokanee for maximum sensitivity and durability.