Ambassadeur HPSS4600C 1100

Overhaul Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur HPSS 4600C (Foot Number 1100)

The Ambassadeur HPSS 4600C (1100) is the original production run of the Hank Parker Signature Series. Produced in 2001 (indicated by the "11" in the foot number), this "1100" version represents the initial design before later revisions (like the 1101). Hank Parker, a two-time Bassmaster Classic champion, collaborated with Abu Garcia to create a reel that balanced the classic durability of the 4600 frame with the high-speed ergonomics required for tournament-level bass fishing.

Like other premium 4600C models from this era, it features the Instant Anti-Reverse (IAR) roller bearing and the Ultracast spool system. Because this is the primary production run, it is the purest representation of the HPSS design—a high-speed, narrow-spool reel built for precision casting.

Tools and Lubricants Required

• Precision Screwdrivers: Small flathead and Phillips #1.

• Wrench: 10mm for the handle nut.

• Cleaning Solvent: Isopropyl alcohol or a high-purity degreaser.

• Lubrication: Deuthlon Reel Gear Grease and Deuthlon Cast Lube (Reel Oil).

1. External Disassembly

1. Handle Assembly: Remove the locking screw, the 10mm nut, and the handle. Slide off the star drag and the spring tension washers.

2. Side Plate: Loosen the three knurled thumb screws. Carefully pull the signature-series handle-side plate away from the frame.

3. The IAR Sleeve: Slide the polished stainless steel sleeve off the drive shaft. This sleeve is the "inner race" for the roller bearing; ensure it is perfectly clean and free of any scoring.

4. Spool Removal: Slide the narrow spool out. This is an Ultracast model: the ball bearings are seated inside the spool. Check the 6-pin centrifugal brake weights on the spool's edge.

2. Deep Cleaning the HPSS Internals

Tournament-grade reels like the HPSS are often pushed to their limits, which can lead to salt or grit accumulation in the grease.

• The Gear Stack: Remove the main gear and the drag stack. Clean the metal "keyed" washers until they are mirror-bright. If the original drag washers feel "mushy" or have flattened, a Carbontex upgrade will provide more consistent pressure for heavy hooksets.

• The IAR Bearing: Located inside the handle side plate. Use a cotton swab dampened with alcohol to clean the internal rollers. CRITICAL: Never pack this bearing with grease. Grease will prevent the rollers from engaging, causing the handle to "slip" backwards.

• Level Wind: Remove the worm shaft and the pawl. Because the 4600C level wind is non-disengaging (moves during the cast), any grit here acts as a physical brake on your lures.

3. Precision Lubrication with Deuthlon

Modernizing the lubrication profile allows this signature classic to achieve the "floating" feel required for finesse bass fishing.

Deuthlon Reel Gear Grease:

• Main and Pinion Gears: Apply a light, translucent coat of Deuthlon Reel Gear Grease to the gear teeth. This grease provides a "cushioned" feel to the brass gears, ensuring a silent and buttery-smooth retrieve.

• Clutch Linkage: Apply grease to the thumb bar mechanism and the sliding surfaces of the yoke.

• Yoke Posts: Lightly coat the two posts the pinion yoke slides on for effortless thumb-bar engagement.

Deuthlon Reel Oil (Cast Lube):

• Ultracast Spool Bearings: Clean the two bearings inside the spool and apply one drop of Deuthlon Reel Oil to each. This oil’s ultra-low friction allows the narrow spool to spin up instantly for light lures.

• IAR Sleeve: Apply an extremely thin film of oil to the outside of the sleeve. This protects against corrosion while ensuring the IAR rollers "bite" the sleeve instantly.

• Worm Shaft: Apply one drop to the worm gear. Using oil instead of grease on the level wind is a major performance upgrade for this series.

4. Reassembly and Calibration

1. Level Wind: Reinstall the worm shaft and line guide. Ensure the pawl is seated correctly in the tracks.

2. Internal Assembly: Replace the pinion gear, yoke, and main gear assembly. Ensure the drag washers are seated perfectly flat.

3. Sleeve and Plate: Slide the IAR sleeve onto the drive shaft. Align the side plate and slide it over the sleeve.

4. Final Fastening: Secure the three thumb screws. Reinstall the star drag and handle.

5. Tensioning: Adjust the cast control knob until the side-to-side play in the spool just barely disappears.

Technical Performance Note

The Ambassadeur HPSS 4600C (1100) is a high-performance tournament reel that rewards precise maintenance. By using Deuthlon Reel Gear Grease and Deuthlon Cast Lube, you are removing the internal friction that usually slows down older models. This maintenance ensures your Hank Parker edition remains a crisp, fast-casting tool with the iconic "solid" feel of a Swedish-made Ambassadeur.