Ambassadeur 5500C3 (99-09)

Technical Repair and Maintenance: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 5500C3 (99-09)

The Ambassadeur 5500C3 (Model 99-09) represents the peak of the classic C3 design, featuring the "Ultracast" design where the spool bearings are housed inside the spool rather than on the side plates. This model is a workhorse for freshwater and light saltwater applications, but its performance is highly dependent on a clean drive train and precision lubrication. To restore this reel to its factory-smooth state, we recommend a full service using Deuthlon Reel Grease and Deuthlon Reel Oil.

Step 1: Disassembly and Internal Inspection

The 99-09 series uses a standard three-screw side plate configuration. Proper disassembly is the first step toward a successful repair.

1. Remove the Handle Side Plate: Back off the three thumb screws and pull the right-side plate away from the frame. Remove the spool and set it aside.

2. Drive Shaft and Drag Stack: Remove the handle nut, handle, and star drag. Push the drive shaft through the side plate to access the main gear and the carbon matrix drag washers.

3. Brake System: Note the position of the six-pin centrifugal brake system on the spool. Ensure the brake weights are clean and moving freely on their pins.

4. Cleaning: Use a dedicated reel cleaner or isopropyl alcohol to strip all old, oxidized grease from the gear teeth and the frame. A clean surface is required for Deuthlon lubricants to bond correctly.

Step 2: Strategic Lubrication with Deuthlon

The 99-09 model benefits significantly from a "zonal" lubrication approach. Using the high-tack properties of Deuthlon Reel Grease on heavy-wear parts and the low-viscosity Deuthlon Reel Oil on speed-critical parts will maximize efficiency.

Grease: Protection for the Power Train

The drive system handles the mechanical stress of the retrieve and requires Deuthlon Reel Grease.

• Main Gear: Use a small brush to apply a thin, even coat of Deuthlon Reel Grease to every tooth of the main gear. This grease is engineered to resist water washout and prevent metal fatigue under heavy loads.

• Pinion Gear: Apply grease to the pinion gear, particularly where it contacts the spool shaft and the main gear. This ensures a quiet, vibration-free retrieve.

• Release Mechanism: Lightly coat the kick lever and the clutch link with grease to ensure the thumb bar snaps back into place crisply.

Oil: Maximizing Casting Fluidity

For the components that spin or oscillate during a cast, Deuthlon Reel Oil is the essential choice.

• Levelwind Worm Shaft: Apply two drops of Deuthlon Reel Oil to the worm gear. Because this model features a non-disengaging levelwind (it moves during the cast), keeping this area oiled is critical for maximum distance.

• Idler Gears: Locate the plastic gears on the side of the frame that drive the levelwind. Apply one drop of Deuthlon Reel Oil to the idler gear posts. This reduces the energy required for the spool to turn the levelwind mechanism.

• Ultracast Spool Bearings: Since the bearings are located inside the spool on the 99-09 model, remove the clips, clean the bearings, and add exactly one drop of Deuthlon Reel Oil to each.

Step 3: Reassembly and Testing

1. Rebuild the Drag: Reinstall the drag washers and main gear onto the drive shaft. Ensure the washers are seated flat to prevent drag "jerk."

2. Frame Integration: Slide the spool back into the frame and align the side plate. Tighten the thumb screws firmly but do not over-torque.

3. Tension Calibration: Adjust the mechanical brake knob until the spool has just a hint of side-to-side play.

4. Final Check: Rotate the handle to ensure the Deuthlon lubricants have coated the gears evenly. The reel should feel effortless to turn, with a silent, smooth engagement of the levelwind.

Lubrication Summary Table

Maintaining your Ambassadeur 5500C3 (99-09) with Deuthlon products ensures that the tight tolerances of this Swedish classic are preserved, providing you with a lifetime of reliable performance on the water.