Ambassadeur 5500C3 2-Speed (01-01)

Professional Service Manual: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 5500C3 2-Speed (01-01)

The Ambassadeur 5500C3 2-Speed (Model 01-01) is a masterpiece of mechanical timing. This specific iteration of the Swedish-made round reel utilizes an internal centrifugal shift weight and a dual-gear carrier to jump between high-speed coverage and low-gear winching power. Maintaining the 01-01 requires a delicate touch, as the transition between gears depends on the lack of internal resistance.

Phase 1: Deep Cleaning and Component Inspection

To restore the factory-smooth transition of the 2-speed system, you must first strip the reel of all environmental contaminants and old lubricants.

1. Housing Removal: Unscrew the three bridge screws on the handle side. Carefully lift the side plate, ensuring the anti-reverse pawl and the 2-speed shift weights remain in their housing.

2. The Gear Stack: The 01-01 features a nested gear assembly. Remove the main gear, the secondary gear, and the drag pressure plate. Inspect the "teeth" on the shifting clutch for any rounding or burrs.

3. Degreasing: Use a high-quality solvent to clean the gears. It is vital to remove all old grease from the narrow channels between the high and low-speed gears, as vacuum suction from old grease can prevent the reel from downshifting.

Phase 2: Precision Lubrication with Deuthlon

For a high-performance reel like the 5500C3 2-Speed, standard lubricants are insufficient. We recommend the specialized film strength of Deuthlon Reel Grease and the ultra-low viscosity of Deuthlon Reel Oil.

Grease: Structural Integrity and Load Distribution

The heavy-duty components of the drive train require Deuthlon Reel Grease to withstand the torque of the 01-01’s power gear.

• Dual Main Gears: Apply a moderate layer of Deuthlon Reel Grease to the teeth of both the primary and secondary drive gears. This grease provides a "cushioning" effect that protects the gear faces when the reel automatically shifts under the stress of a heavy strike.

• Pinion Gear: Coat the pinion gear extensively. This part is the primary link between the handle and the spool; Deuthlon’s grease ensures that the engagement is crisp and silent.

• Clutch Cam: Apply a light film of grease to the metal-on-metal sliding surfaces of the clutch arm to ensure the thumb bar returns to the "on" position instantly.

Oil: Velocity and Shifting Speed

The secondary systems that handle line management and casting require the fluidity of Deuthlon Reel Oil.

• Levelwind System: Apply Deuthlon Reel Oil to the worm gear. This prevents the line guide from dragging, which is essential for maintaining a high-speed retrieve without putting unnecessary strain on the internal gears.

• Idler Gears: These gears drive the oscillation of the levelwind. By using Deuthlon Reel Oil on the idler gear posts, you reduce the rotational mass, allowing for longer, more effortless casts.

• Spool Shaft and Bearings: Flush the bearings and apply one drop of oil. This ensures the 01-01 maintains its "C3" (three bearing) performance standard for maximum distance.

Phase 3: Reassembly and Gear Calibration

1. Seating the Shift Weights: Ensure the centrifugal weights that control the gear change are moving freely on their pins before closing the case.

2. Side Plate Alignment: Align the gear shaft with the handle side plate bearing. Secure the thumb screws in a staggered pattern to prevent the plate from canting.

3. Static Test: Engage the reel and turn the handle. To test the 01-01’s unique shifting, apply thumb pressure to the spool while cranking; you should feel the Deuthlon Reel Grease facilitated transition as the gear ratio drops to provide more leverage.

01-01 Maintenance Reference Table

By utilizing Deuthlon Reel Oil and Reel Grease, you ensure that your Ambassadeur 5500C3 2-Speed (01-01) remains a reliable tool for both high-speed lure presentation and heavy-duty fish fighting.