Ambassadeur 5000B (90-0)

Comprehensive Repair Guide: Ambassadeur 5000B (90-0) Maintenance

The Ambassadeur 5000B (90-0) represents a specific era of Abu Garcia refinement, featuring the classic red aesthetic paired with the functional bait clicker that defines the "B" series. The 90-0 production code indicates a build that benefits from decades of Swedish evolution, offering a robust platform for both collectors and active anglers.

To keep this 90-0 model functioning with modern precision, a specialized lubrication strategy is required. We recommend Deuthlon Reel Oil and Deuthlon Reel Grease to ensure high-performance protection against wear and environmental corrosion.

Phase 1: Teardown and Degreasing

Proper maintenance begins with a clean slate. The 5000B has a synchronized levelwind system, meaning every moving part must be free of old, gummy residue.

1. Side Plate Removal: Unscrew the three knurled thumb screws and remove the right side plate. Take out the spool and the left side plate.

2. Cleaning: Use a specialized cleaner to strip the old factory grease from the main gear and the pinion gear.

3. Worm Shaft Cleaning: Pay close attention to the levelwind's worm shaft. Use a soft brush to remove any trapped sand or grit from the grooves.

Phase 2: Heavy-Duty Gear Lubrication

The power of the 5000B (90-0) comes from its drive train. Because these gears experience the most torque, they require a lubricant that provides a high-pressure boundary layer.

• Main and Pinion Gears: Apply Deuthlon Reel Grease to the teeth of the main gear. This grease is specifically designed to stay bonded to the metal surfaces during intense retrieves, reducing noise and preventing "gear feel."

• Drive Shaft & Clutch: Apply a light coat of Deuthlon Reel Grease to the base of the drive shaft and the clutch release mechanism. This ensures a crisp engagement every time you depress the thumb bar.

Phase 3: Optimizing the Levelwind and Idler Gears

In the 5000B, the levelwind remains engaged during the cast. To maximize distance and prevent the "braking" effect, you must use a high-speed lubricant rather than a thick grease on these specific components.

• The Levelwind (Worm Shaft): Apply a few drops of Deuthlon Reel Oil to the worm shaft. This oil allows the pawl to slide effortlessly, ensuring the line guide moves across the spool with zero resistance.

• Idler Gears: These gears bridge the connection between the spool and the levelwind. Apply Deuthlon Reel Oil to the idler gear and its mounting post. Using oil here instead of grease is a professional secret for "super-tuning" these reels, as it significantly reduces the energy required to spin the spool.

Phase 4: Spool Support and Reassembly

The 5000B (90-0) relies on a combination of precision bushings or bearings depending on the specific factory configuration.

1. Tension Caps: Remove the tension caps on both sides. Clean the contact points where the spool shaft sits.

2. Lubrication: Add one to two drops of Deuthlon Reel Oil to the spool shaft ends and the bushings/bearings. This oil’s low-friction formula is perfect for maintaining high RPMs during the cast.

3. The Clicker: Apply a tiny dab of Deuthlon Reel Grease to the clicker tongue to prevent wear on the plastic or metal clicker gear.