Ambassadeur 5500 Inshore 17 01

Technical Repair and Maintenance Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 5500 Inshore (Model 17 01)

The Ambassadeur 5500 Inshore (Model 17 01) is a robust, Swedish-built round reel specifically calibrated for the rigors of coastal angling. Engineered to bridge the gap between freshwater smoothness and saltwater resilience, the 17 01 features high-grade stainless steel components and a reinforced drive train. To maintain its integrity against the corrosive effects of salt spray and the mechanical stress of high-torque retrieves, a professional service using Deuthlon Reel Grease and Deuthlon Reel Oil is essential. These specialized lubricants provide an advanced hydrophobic barrier that seals out moisture while ensuring the mechanical tolerances remain at factory specifications.

Phase 1: Disassembly and Salt Remediation

For inshore reels, the primary goal of disassembly is the removal of salt crystals and oxidized debris that can act as an abrasive within the gear teeth.

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 salt deposits.

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. Levelwind Breakdown: Unscrew the line guide nut to release the pawl. Slide the worm shaft out from the front of the frame for a full inspection of the spiral grooves.

4. Deep Cleaning: Submerge the main gear, pinion gear, and worm shaft in a high-grade solvent. Use a fine brush to scrub the "valleys" of the gear teeth. It is vital to remove every trace of old residue so that the Deuthlon lubricants can bond directly to the metal surfaces.

Phase 2: Strategic Lubrication with Deuthlon

Professional performance for the 17 01 is achieved through a targeted lubrication map: Deuthlon Reel Grease for mechanical protection and Deuthlon Reel Oil for high-speed fluidity.

Grease: Protection for Power and Corrosion Resistance

The drive assembly handles significant stress during hooksets and requires the high-tack durability 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 engineered to stay on the gear faces during the retrieve, providing a silent, cushioned feel and preventing galvanic corrosion between gear surfaces.

• Pinion Gear: Coat the pinion gear extensively. As the primary link between the handle and the spool, Deuthlon Grease ensures this engagement remains smooth and prevents metal galling under the high-torque loads typical of inshore fishing.

• Clutch and Yoke: Lightly grease 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 govern casting distance and line management 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 that remains active during the cast, using oil here is the best way to prevent parasitic drag and maximize distance against coastal winds.

• Idler Gears: These plastic and metal 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 faster spool startup and a lighter feel during the retrieve.

• 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 Gear 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 to ensure a smooth, consistent drag curve.

2. Integrate the Spool: Slide the spool back into the frame, ensuring 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 01 Inshore Lubrication Quick Reference