Ambassadeur USABASS 4600C 89-1

Overhaul Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur USABASS 4600C (Foot Number 89-1)

The Ambassadeur USABASS 4600C (89-1), produced in 1989, is a significant "Early Edition" of the specialized bass series. Unlike the later 1990s and 2000s versions, the 1989 model features the mechanical anti-reverse dog system rather than the Instant Anti-Reverse (IAR) roller bearing. It is a "Thumb Bar" reel built for ergonomics and speed, representing the transition from vintage round reels to the high-performance bass tools of the 90s.

Because this reel is over 35 years old, the original lubricants have likely turned into a waxy "varnish." Restoring it with Deuthlon synthetics will dramatically increase its casting distance and dampen the mechanical noise of the brass gears.

Tools and Lubricants Required

• Precision Screwdrivers: Traditional flathead (thin-blade).

• Wrench: 10mm for the handle nut.

• Cleaning Solvent: Isopropyl alcohol or a professional-grade degreaser.

• Grease: Deuthlon Reel Gear Grease.

• Oil: Deuthlon Reel Oil (Cast Lube).

1. External Disassembly

1. Handle Assembly: Remove the handle nut locking screw and the 10mm nut. Slide off the handle. Take note of the two curved copper tension washers (spring shims) under the star drag; they should face each other like this: ().

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

3. Spool Removal: Slide the spool out. On this 1989 model, the spool shaft is usually integrated with the spool. Inspect the ends of the shaft for any oxidation.

2. Deep Cleaning the 1989 Internals

The late-80s models used a mechanical "claw" for anti-reverse, which provides a distinct, tactile clicking feel.

• The Gear Stack: Remove the main gear and the drag washers. In 1989, these were often fiber or early composite. If they aren't brittle, wipe them with a dry cloth. If you want maximum stopping power, this is a perfect time to upgrade to Carbontex washers.

• Anti-Reverse Dog: Locate the small copper "dog" that hugs the drive shaft ratchet. Clean it thoroughly. If the copper friction ears are bent, gently reshape them with tweezers so they provide just enough tension to move the dog.

• 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 spool.

3. Precision Lubrication with Deuthlon

Modernizing the lubrication profile allows this 1989 classic to achieve the "floating" feel typical of modern reels.

Deuthlon Reel Gear Grease:

• Main and Pinion Gears: Apply a light, translucent coat to the gear teeth. Deuthlon Reel Gear Grease is ideal for these vintage brass gears because it cushions the mesh, eliminating the "chatter" often felt in older Ambassadeurs.

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

• Anti-Reverse Dog: A tiny dab on the dog and the ratchet teeth will quiet the mechanical clicking and prevent wear.

Deuthlon Reel Oil (Cast Lube):

• Spool Bearings: Clean the two ball bearings (usually one in the side plate and one in the tension cap). Apply one drop of Deuthlon Reel Oil to each. This oil’s ultra-low friction allows the spool to start spinning with much less inertia.

• Worm Shaft: Apply one drop to the worm gear. Never use grease here. Using Deuthlon oil instead of grease on the level wind is a major performance upgrade, as it significantly reduces rotational resistance during the cast.

• Spool Shaft: Wipe a thin film of oil along the length of the shaft to prevent corrosion.

4. Reassembly and Tuning

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 anti-reverse dog is properly "hugging" the drive shaft ratchet.

3. Final Fastening: Secure the three thumb screws. Reinstall the star drag, spring washers, and handle.

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

Technical Performance Note

The Ambassadeur USABASS 4600C (89-1) is a robust bridge between the vintage and modern eras. By using Deuthlon Reel Gear Grease and Deuthlon Cast Lube, you are protecting the vintage metallurgy while giving the reel a level of smoothness that was impossible in 1989.