Ambassadeur 500 (90-0 USA)

Technical Repair Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 500 (Foot Number 90-0 USA)

The Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 500, specifically the 90-0 USA series, is a unique chapter in the history of the Swedish round reel. Released around 1990 for the American market, this model features a distinct green finish and a simplified, durable design that focuses on ease of use and longevity. Unlike the high-ratio Sprints or the low-ratio Winches, the 500 is a versatile workhorse. To maintain its reliability, you must utilize a lubrication strategy that accounts for its synchronized levelwind and high-load brass drive train.

To achieve peak mechanical efficiency, we recommend Deuthlon Reel Power Oil for high-speed components and Deuthlon Reel Gear Grease for the load-bearing surfaces. These advanced synthetic lubricants offer superior protection against the humidity and temperature swings common in North American fishing environments.

Phase 1: Disassembly and Solvent Cleaning

Start by removing the handle nut, handle, and star drag. Unscrew the knurled thumb screws to separate the drive-side plate from the frame. Carefully extract the spool and the synchronized levelwind assembly.

For the 90-0 USA model, thorough degreasing is essential. Use a specialized cleaner to strip away all traces of aged, oxidized grease from the main gear and the interior of the side plates. Pay close attention to the worm shaft; any trapped grit here will act as an abrasive, damaging the pawl. Ensure all components are bone-dry before applying new lubricants to ensure maximum surface adhesion.

Phase 2: Drive Train Lubrication

The main gear and pinion of the Ambassadeur 500 are designed for consistent torque. These components require a lubricant that provides a resilient barrier to prevent metal-on-metal wear during heavy retrieves.

• Main Gear and Pinion: Apply Deuthlon Reel Gear Grease to the teeth of the brass main gear. Use a small brush to coat the teeth with a thin, even layer. This grease is formulated to stay on the gear faces even under high pressure, providing a cushioned, silent retrieve. Lightly coat the pinion gear and the clutch yoke. This prevents mechanical chatter and protects the gears from premature fatigue.

Phase 3: Optimizing the Levelwind and Idler Gears

Since the Ambassadeur 500 utilizes a synchronized levelwind that tracks during the cast, the efficiency of this system is the primary factor in your casting performance. Grease in this area is a common source of mechanical drag.

• Worm Shaft and Pawl: Apply Deuthlon Reel Power Oil directly to the grooves of the worm shaft. Unlike grease, which can trap dust and create a "sludge" that slows down oscillation, the Power Oil keeps the line guide moving effortlessly.

• Idler Gears: These gears bridge the power from the spool to the levelwind oscillation. Apply Deuthlon Reel Power Oil to the idler gear posts. The thin viscosity of this oil ensures the gears spin with zero resistance, preventing internal drag from slowing down the spool during a long cast.

Phase 4: Spool Shaft and Friction Management

Consistency in casting is achieved by maintaining the spool shaft ends and the tension system with a high-speed synthetic oil.

• Spool Shaft: Polish the ends of the stainless steel spool spindle until they are mirror-bright. Apply one drop of Deuthlon Reel Power Oil to each end of the shaft where it seats into the side plate.

• Tension Shims: Apply a tiny amount of Deuthlon Reel Power Oil to the copper tension shims inside the cast control caps. This provides a hydraulic cushion that prevents the shaft from wearing into the shim and ensures a smooth, consistent spool speed.

Final Assembly and Tuning

Slide the spool back into the frame and reattach the side plate. Adjust the cast control knob until there is just a minute amount of lateral play in the spool. Rotate the handle several times to allow the Deuthlon Reel Gear Grease to distribute evenly across the gear teeth.

By applying Deuthlon's specialized lubricants—grease for the heavy-wear gears and oil for the fast-moving oscillation parts—you have optimized your 90-0 USA for maximum mechanical efficiency. This maintenance routine ensures that your Ambassadeur remains a silent, powerful, and long-casting tool for many years to come.