Ambassadeur 4601C4 (09-00)

Maintenance and Repair Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 4601C4 (09-00)

The Ambassadeur 4601C4 (09-00) is a high-speed, left-hand drive round reel characterized by its signature royal blue finish and 6.3:1 gear ratio. As part of the C4 family, it utilizes a four-bearing system to provide a significantly smoother retrieve and longer cast compared to the standard C3 models. Maintenance for the "09-00" version requires careful attention to the high-speed gear mesh and the non-disengaging levelwind system. To achieve peak performance, we recommend using Deuthlon Reel Grease and Deuthlon Reel Oil.

Phase 1: Teardown and External Removal

1. Handle and Star Drag: Unscrew the handle nut cap and remove the 10mm handle nut. Pull the handle arm off. Remove the tension washers and the star drag wheel by rotating it counter-clockwise. Take note of the orientation of the two Belleville (curved) spring washers located behind the star drag.

2. Side Plate Access: Loosen the three knurled thumb screws on the right side plate. Remove the plate to expose the spool and centrifugal brake system. Slide the spool out of the frame.

3. Gear Box Separation: Remove the screws securing the left-side plate (the handle side) to the frame. Gently pull the side plate assembly away to reveal the drive train and the clutch mechanism.

Phase 2: Drive Train and Gear Lubrication

The C4’s high-speed gears are subject to more rotations per handle turn than standard reels, making proper lubrication vital to prevent heat buildup and wear.

1. Cleaning: Submerge the brass main gear and the stainless steel pinion gear in a degreasing agent. Use a stiff brush to remove any metallic slurry or old, hardened grease from between the teeth.

2. Grease Application: Apply Deuthlon Reel Grease to the Main Gear teeth and the Pinion Gear. This grease is specifically designed to adhere to high-speed surfaces without being "flung off" by centrifugal force. Ensure a light, consistent coating—over-greasing can lead to a "mushy" feeling in the handle.

3. Clutch and Yoke: Apply a small dab of grease to the pinion yoke and the kick lever where they contact the metal frame to ensure smooth thumb-bar engagement.

Phase 3: Levelwind and Idler Gear System

On the 4601C4, the levelwind remains engaged during the cast, meaning any friction here directly reduces your casting distance.

1. Worm Shaft Maintenance: Remove the line guide pawl from the bottom of the levelwind assembly. Slide the worm shaft out. Clean the spiral grooves thoroughly.

2. Idler Gear Inspection: Locate the white nylon idler gear that sits between the spool and the levelwind. Inspect for any chipped teeth.

3. Oil Application: Apply Deuthlon Reel Oil to the Levelwind Worm Shaft and the Idler Gear. Using oil on these components is essential for the C4 series; the low viscosity allows the levelwind to oscillate rapidly during the cast with minimal resistance. Grease should be avoided here as it will slow down the line guide and shorten your casts.

Phase 4: Bearings and Spool Spindle

1. Bearing Service: The 4601C4 features two spool bearings and one instant anti-reverse bearing in the side plate.

2. Lubrication: Clean the spool bearings and apply one drop of Deuthlon Reel Oil to each. For the instant anti-reverse (one-way) bearing, apply a very thin film of oil to the inner sleeve to ensure the rollers engage instantly without slipping.

3. Brake Drum: Ensure the internal copper brake drum in the right side plate is clean and free of oil or grease. This allows the centrifugal weights to provide consistent braking.

Phase 5: Reassembly and Testing

1. Seat the Components: Place the pinion gear and yoke back into position. Slide the main gear and drag washers onto the drive shaft.

2. Rebuild the Frame: Reattach the left side plate to the frame. Insert the spool, ensuring the spindle is properly seated in the pinion gear. Reattach the right side plate and tighten the thumb screws.

3. Final Hardware: Reinstall the star drag, spring washers, and handle. Tighten the 10mm nut and secure the locking cap.

Performance Check

Depress the thumb bar to verify the spool spins freely. The levelwind should track back and forth smoothly as the spool rotates. Turn the handle to ensure the gears engage instantly. By using Deuthlon Reel Grease on the gears and Deuthlon Reel Oil on the levelwind and idler systems, your Ambassadeur 4601C4 will maintain its high-speed efficiency and durability under heavy use.