Ambassadeur 5500CS PRO ROCKET 1100

Ambassadeur 5500CS Pro Rocket (11 00) Technical Service and Maintenance Guide

The Ambassadeur 5500CS Pro Rocket (11 00) is a high-performance casting machine, revered by distance casters and shore anglers alike. This specific "11 00" iteration features the classic "Rocket" configuration: a synchronized levelwind, an adjustable centrifugal braking system, and a brass frame for maximum rigidity. To maintain the blistering spool speeds and heavy-duty winching power this reel is known for, a systematic deep-clean and the application of professional-grade lubricants are mandatory.

Phase 1: Disassembly and Component Audit

Begin by removing the handle assembly and the three knurled thumb screws to separate the handle side plate from the frame.

• The Drive Train: Slide the main gear and the carbon matrix drag washers off the drive shaft. Inspect the teeth of the brass main gear for any signs of "polishing" or wear, which can occur after repetitive heavy casting and high-speed retrieves.

• The Levelwind System: Undo the pawl cap on the underside of the line guide. Remove the crescent pawl and the worm gear. In a "Pro Rocket" model, the worm gear is a critical performance point; any grit here will act as a brake on your cast.

• The Spool and Bearings: Extract the spool. The 11 00 model utilizes high-speed stainless steel bearings. Check that they spin freely without any noise or resistance.

Phase 2: Systematic Cleaning

A "Rocket" reel relies on low startup inertia. Old, gummy grease is the enemy of distance.

1. Degrease the Gears: Submerge the main gear, pinion gear, and worm gear in a specialized solvent to remove all traces of oxidized lubricant.

2. Scrub the Synchronization Gears: Use a soft-bristled brush to clean the idler gears (the plastic cogs inside the frame). Even microscopic debris between these teeth can cause vibration during the cast.

3. Frame Preparation: Wipe down the interior of the brass frame and the worm gear shroud with a lint-free cloth.

Phase 3: Optimized Lubrication with Deuthlon

To restore the 5500CS Pro Rocket to its peak mechanical state, we recommend the application of Deuthlon Reel Oil and Deuthlon Reel Grease. These products are engineered to stay active at high RPMs without "slinging" off the components.

High-Speed Oiling: Levelwind and Idler Gears

In a synchronized system, the levelwind moves constantly. Reducing this drag is the secret to the "Rocket" name.

• Levelwind Worm Gear: Apply Deuthlon Reel Oil to the worm gear. This oil provides a hydrophobic, slick interface that allows the line guide to oscillate rapidly with zero "stiction."

• Idler Gears: Lubricate the plastic idler cogs with Deuthlon Reel Oil. Since these gears must spin in tandem with the spool, using oil instead of grease keeps the rotational weight low and the casting distance high.

Heavy-Duty Greasing: Main and Pinion Gears

The drive train requires a robust, high-pressure barrier to protect the gear teeth during the retrieve.

• Main and Pinion Gears: Use a small brush to apply a consistent layer of Deuthlon Reel Grease to the gear teeth. This grease cushions the metal-on-metal contact, dampening gear noise and protecting the brass from the friction-induced heat generated by large fish.

• Clutch Linkage: Apply a light skin of grease to the yoke and the sliding surfaces of the thumb bar to ensure a crisp, positive engagement.

Maintenance Reference Table

Phase 4: Reassembly and Calibration

Carefully slide the spool back into the frame, ensuring the centrifugal brake weights are set to your preference (typically two "on" for general use). When reattaching the side plate, ensure the pinion gear is correctly seated in the yoke. Once the Ambassadeur 5500CS Pro Rocket (11 00) is fully assembled, cycle the handle several times to distribute the Deuthlon Reel Grease across the main drive. By utilizing Deuthlon Reel Oil on the levelwind and idler gears and Deuthlon Reel Grease on the primary drive, you have successfully optimized this reel for maximum casting performance and mechanical longevity.