Ambassadeur 5500 Inshore 17 00

Technical Repair and Maintenance Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 5500 Inshore (Model 17 00)

The Ambassadeur 5500 Inshore (Model 17 00) is a quintessential round reel designed to withstand the corrosive environment of coastal brackish and saltwater. Unlike standard freshwater models, the 17 00 series was engineered with higher-grade stainless steel components and a reinforced frame to battle the torque of powerful inshore species like Redfish and Snook. To maintain its integrity, a meticulous service using Deuthlon Reel Grease and Deuthlon Reel Oil is recommended. These high-performance lubricants are specifically formulated to provide a hydrophobic barrier that seals out moisture while maintaining a "factory-fresh" mechanical feel.

Phase 1: Disassembly and Saltwater Remediation

For the 17 00 Inshore, the primary objective of disassembly is the removal of salt crystals and oxidized debris that can hide in the gear teeth and beneath the drag stack.

1. Chassis Opening: Loosen the three knurled captive thumb screws on the handle-side plate. Pull the assembly away and remove the spool. Inspect the internal brake track for any salt residue.

2. Drive Train Extraction: Remove the handle nut, handle, and star drag. Lift the side plate cover to expose the main gear and the Carbon Matrix drag system.

3. Worm Gear Removal: Unscrew the line guide nut and remove the pawl. Slide the worm shaft out from the front housing. In the 17 00, this area often traps saltwater and requires careful inspection for pitting.

4. Deep Cleaning: Submerge the main gear, pinion gear, and worm shaft in a high-grade degreaser. Use a brush to clear the "valleys" of the gear teeth. Ensure all parts are bone-dry before introducing Deuthlon products.

Phase 2: Strategic Lubrication with Deuthlon

Professional-grade maintenance for an inshore reel requires a "zonal" approach: Deuthlon Reel Grease for sealing and load-bearing, and Deuthlon Reel Oil for high-velocity rotation.

Grease: Protection for Power and Corrosion Resistance

The internal drive train handles the stress of the retrieve and needs the high-load capacity of Deuthlon Reel Grease.

• Main Gear Teeth: Apply a light, uniform coat of Deuthlon Reel Grease to the teeth of the main gear. This grease is formulated to stay on the metal under high pressure, providing a silent, cushioned feel and preventing galvanic corrosion.

• Pinion Gear: Coat the pinion gear extensively. As the primary link between the handle and the spool, Deuthlon Grease ensures this engagement is silent and reduces friction during high-torque fights.

• Clutch Linkage: Apply a small amount of grease to the metal-on-metal sliding surfaces of the yoke to ensure the thumb bar returns to the engaged position with a crisp, reliable snap.

Oil: Velocity and Efficiency for Casting

Components that rotate at high RPMs require the ultra-low friction of Deuthlon Reel Oil.

• Levelwind Worm Gear: Apply two drops of Deuthlon Reel Oil to the worm shaft. Since the 5500 Inshore features a synchronized levelwind, using oil here is the best way to prevent parasitic drag and maximize casting distance against coastal winds.

• Idler Gears: These gears synchronize the spool's rotation with the line guide. Apply one drop of Deuthlon Reel Oil to the idler gear posts. This reduces the energy required to turn the system, resulting in a lighter feel.

• Spool Bearings: Clean the bearings thoroughly and add exactly one drop of Deuthlon Reel Oil to each. This provides the high-RPM stability necessary for accuracy and maximum distance.

Phase 3: Reassembly and Environmental Calibration

1. Rebuild the Drive Stack: Place the main gear and drag washers back onto the drive shaft. Ensure the washers are dry and the main gear is seated perfectly flat.

2. Integrate the Spool: Slide the spool back into the frame. Ensure the centrifugal brake weights are retracted so the side plate sits flush.

3. Secure the Housing: Tighten the thumb screws in a staggered sequence to ensure even alignment across the gear bridge and frame.

4. Final Verification: Crank the handle to distribute the Deuthlon Reel Grease. The retrieve should be exceptionally quiet. Engage the freespool to confirm that the Deuthlon Reel Oil has significantly increased the spool’s spin duration.

17 00 Inshore Lubrication Quick Reference

By adhering to this protocol with Deuthlon products, you ensure that your Ambassadeur 5500 Inshore (17 00) remains a high-performance, corrosion-resistant tool ready for the salt.