Ambassadeur HPSS4600C 1101

Overhaul Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur HPSS 4600C (Foot Number 1101)

The Ambassadeur HPSS 4600C (1101) is the Hank Parker Signature Series (HPSS) edition of the classic 4600C. Produced in the early 2000s (around 2001, as indicated by the "11" in the foot number), this reel was designed in collaboration with the legendary bass angler Hank Parker. It features a distinct metallic blue or silver aesthetic and is built on the narrow-spool 4000-series frame, making it one of the most ergonomic and high-performing bass reels of its era.

Mechanically, it features the Instant Anti-Reverse (IAR) roller bearing and the Ultracast spool design. Because this is a "Signature Series" reel, maintaining its smooth, professional-grade performance requires precise lubrication and care for its unique cosmetic finish.

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 arm. Remove the star drag and the spring tension washers. Note that the HPSS often features a specialized handle knob; ensure the pivot points are clean.

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 interacts with the one-way bearing; it must be kept free of grit and heavy grease.

4. Spool Removal: Slide the narrow spool out. Notice the Ultracast configuration: the ball bearings are seated inside the spool ends. Inspect the 6-pin centrifugal brake system on the spool pins.

2. Deep Cleaning the HPSS Internals

Hank Parker reels were designed for heavy tournament use, which often leads to "grease-drag" if the reel hasn't been serviced in years.

• The Gear Stack: Remove the main gear and the drag stack. Clean the metal "keyed" washers until they are mirror-bright. The HPSS series uses a multi-disc drag; if the performance is sticky, upgrading to Carbontex washers is the best way to modernize its stopping power.

• The IAR Bearing: Located inside the side plate. Use a cotton swab dampened with alcohol to clean the internal rollers. CRITICAL: Never pack this bearing with grease. Grease will cause the handle to "slip" backwards under the force of a hookset.

• 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 lure's flight.

3. Precision Lubrication with Deuthlon

Using Deuthlon products allows this signature classic to achieve the "floating" feel required for modern bass techniques.

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 is essential for the 4600C’s performance, allowing the narrow spool to spin up instantly for weightless worms or small crankbaits.

• 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 (1101) 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.