Ambassadeur 5500 Inshore 17 02

Technical Repair and Maintenance Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 5500 Inshore (Model 17 02)

The Ambassadeur 5500 Inshore (Model 17 02) is a purpose-built round reel designed to bridge the gap between freshwater finesse and saltwater durability. Featuring a reinforced frame and specialized corrosion-resistant components, this model is engineered to handle the high-torque demands of coastal angling. To ensure the 17 02 maintains its legendary retrieval power and fluid casting performance, a systematic service using Deuthlon Reel Grease and Deuthlon Reel Oil is the professional standard. These lubricants provide an advanced hydrophobic barrier that protects internal alloys from salt-spray oxidation while significantly reducing mechanical friction.

Phase 1: Disassembly and Saltwater Remediation

Inshore environments subject the internal drive train to salt crystallization, which can act as an abrasive. A thorough deep-clean is the foundation of any repair for the 17 02 series.

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

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 Disassembly: Remove the line guide nut and the internal pawl. Slide the worm shaft out from the front of the frame for inspection.

4. Cleaning Protocol: Submerge all metal gears, the worm shaft, and the drive shaft in a high-grade solvent or degreaser. Use a brush to clear the gear teeth of any microscopic contaminants. Ensure all parts are bone-dry before introducing Deuthlon products.

Phase 2: Precision Lubrication with Deuthlon

Optimal performance for the 17 02 model is achieved through a targeted lubrication map: Deuthlon Reel Grease for high-load protection and Deuthlon Reel Oil for rotational speed.

Grease: Protection for Power and Torque

The internal drive train handles significant mechanical stress and requires the high-load capacity of Deuthlon Reel Grease.

• Main Gear Teeth: Apply a light, even coating of Deuthlon Reel Grease to every tooth of the main gear. This grease is formulated to stay bonded to the metal under high pressure, providing a silent retrieve and preventing tooth wear during heavy hooksets.

• Pinion Gear: Coat the pinion gear extensively. As the primary component that engages the spool shaft, Deuthlon Grease ensures this transition is smooth and reduces mechanical vibration under load.

• Clutch and Yoke: Apply a small amount of grease to the metal sliding surfaces of the yoke and kick lever 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 or synchronize the spool 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 Inshore 5500 features a synchronized levelwind that remains active during the cast, using oil here is the best way to eliminate parasitic drag and increase distance against coastal winds.

• Idler Gears: These gears connect the spool to the levelwind mechanism. 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 one drop of Deuthlon Reel Oil to each. This provides high-RPM stability, protecting the bearings while maintaining peak rotational speed.

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.

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 pattern to ensure the gear bridge is perfectly level and sealed.

4. Operational Test: 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 02 Inshore Lubrication Quick Reference