Ambassadeur 5500Cs Pro Rocket 18 01 Copper

Ambassadeur 5500CS Pro Rocket (18 01 Copper) Advanced Service Guide

The Ambassadeur 5500CS Pro Rocket (18 01 Copper) is a high-performance casting machine that blends striking aesthetics with the legendary reliability of Swedish engineering. This "18 01" edition is sought after for its refined tolerances and specialized copper-anodized finish. To maintain the "Rocket" reputation for blistering casting distances and smooth winching power, it is essential to service the synchronized levelwind and the heavy-duty drive train with professional-grade lubricants.

Phase 1: Disassembly and Component Inspection

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

• The Drive Train: Slide the brass main gear and the carbon matrix drag washers off the drive shaft. Inspect the gear teeth for any micro-burrs or debris that could impede the smoothness of the retrieve.

• The Levelwind Assembly: Undo the pawl cap and remove the crescent-shaped pawl. Pull the worm gear from its shroud. In the 18 01 model, the synchronized levelwind is a primary source of friction during the cast; ensure the worm gear grooves are pristine.

• Idler Gears: Inspect the white plastic gears inside the frame. These bridge the spool's rotation to the levelwind system. Check for any hairline cracks or "rounded" teeth that could lead to a loss of synchronization.

Phase 2: Professional Degreasing

For a high-performance reel like the Pro Rocket, old, contaminated grease acts like a brake.

1. Strip the Components: Submerge all metal gears and the worm gear in a high-quality solvent to remove oxidized lubricants.

2. Clean the Synchronization Track: Use a soft brush to scrub the idler gears and their mounting posts.

3. Worm Gear Prep: Ensure the interior of the worm gear shroud is completely free of the "sludge" that forms when water and old grease mix.

Phase 3: Optimized Lubrication with Deuthlon

To maximize the casting potential of the Copper Pro Rocket, we recommend the application of Deuthlon Reel Oil and Deuthlon Reel Grease. These products are engineered to maintain a low-friction film even at the high RPMs generated during a long-distance cast.

High-Speed Oiling: Levelwind and Idler Gears

In the 5500CS, the levelwind is always engaged. Reducing its drag is the secret to the "Rocket" name.

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

• Idler Gears: Lubricate the plastic idler gears with Deuthlon Reel Oil. Using oil instead of grease on these lightweight parts keeps the rotational weight low, allowing the spool to spin up instantly during the cast.

Load-Bearing Greasing: Main and Pinion Gears

The gears responsible for the retrieve require a robust, vibration-dampening barrier.

• Main and Pinion Gears: Use a small brush to apply a consistent layer of Deuthlon Reel Grease to the teeth of both gears. This grease cushions the metal-on-metal contact, preventing "gear growl" and protecting the brass and steel from friction-induced heat during heavy retrieves.

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

Technical Maintenance Reference

Phase 4: Reassembly and Calibration

Carefully reassemble the Ambassadeur 5500CS Pro Rocket (18 01 Copper), ensuring the pinion gear is correctly seated in the yoke and the spool bearings are properly aligned. Once the side plate is secured, rotate the handle to distribute the Deuthlon Reel Grease across the gear faces. By utilizing Deuthlon Reel Oil on the levelwind and idler systems and Deuthlon Reel Grease on the primary drive components, you have successfully optimized this copper classic for another season of elite performance.