Ambassadeur 5501 Inshore 17 00

Ambassadeur 5501 Inshore (17 00) Master Repair and Maintenance Guide

The Ambassadeur 5501 Inshore (17 00) is the cornerstone of Abu Garcia’s saltwater-grade round reels, specifically engineered for the left-handed angler. This 17 00 production series is distinguished by its high-capacity spool and enhanced corrosion-resistant components designed to thrive in coastal spray. Because this model utilizes a synchronized levelwind system, maintaining the delicate balance between the drive gears and the oscillation assembly is the secret to its longevity and performance.

Phase 1: Disassembly and Salt-Damage Inspection

To begin the overhaul of your 17 00 Inshore, remove the handle assembly and the three knurled thumb screws to access the internal frame.

• The Drive Train: Carefully pull the main gear and the drag washers from the drive shaft. In the 17 00 series, check the gear teeth for any signs of "salt-pitting," which can occur if moisture is trapped within the gear box for extended periods.

• The Levelwind Assembly: Remove the pawl from the line guide and slide out the worm gear. Inspect the "track" of the worm gear for any fine sand or debris that could score the pawl.

• Idler Gears: These plastic cogs bridge the spool's rotation to the levelwind. Inspect them for any warped teeth or signs of "rounding," which can lead to a failure in line-lay synchronization.

Phase 2: Professional Cleaning and Degreasing

Saltwater environments turn old lubricants into an abrasive paste. Use a high-quality solvent to strip all components of their existing grease and oil. Pay particular attention to the idler gear posts and the interior of the worm gear tube. For the 5501 Inshore to cast with its original efficiency, these areas must be surgically clean to prevent any parasitic drag on the spool during the cast.

Phase 3: Strategic Lubrication with Deuthlon

To restore the legendary "Swedish feel" to your 17 00 model, we recommend a specialized regimen using Deuthlon Reel Oil and Deuthlon Reel Grease. These products are engineered to displace moisture and provide a long-lasting barrier against saltwater intrusion.

The Casting Engine: Levelwind and Idler Gears

Since the levelwind moves constantly during both cast and retrieve, reducing its friction is vital for distance.

• Levelwind Worm Gear: Apply Deuthlon Reel Oil to the grooves of the worm gear. Oil is preferred over grease here because it allows the line guide to travel back and forth with zero "stiction," even in cold coastal air.

• Idler Gears: Lubricate the plastic idler gears with Deuthlon Reel Oil. This keeps the startup inertia extremely low, ensuring that the energy from your cast is spent moving the lure, not fighting the weight of the levelwind system.

The Power Center: Main and Pinion Gears

The gears responsible for hauling powerful inshore species require a high-viscosity, high-tack lubricant.

• Main and Pinion Gears: Using a small brush, apply a consistent layer of Deuthlon Reel Grease to the teeth of both the main and pinion gears. This grease creates a protective "cushion" that prevents metal-on-metal wear and significantly dampens mechanical vibration during the retrieve.

• Yoke and Clutch: Apply a light film of grease to the sliding metal surfaces of the yoke to ensure the thumb bar engages with a crisp, reliable snap.

Inshore Maintenance Specification Table

Phase 4: Reassembly and Calibration

Carefully slide the spool back into the frame, ensuring the brake blocks are clicked into your preferred setting. When reattaching the side plate, ensure the pinion gear is correctly seated in the yoke. Once the Ambassadeur 5501 Inshore (17 00) is fully assembled, cycle the handle to allow the Deuthlon Reel Grease to fully coat the gear faces. By utilizing Deuthlon Reel Oil on the levelwind and idler gears and Deuthlon Reel Grease on the primary drive components, you have successfully armored your reel for another season of high-performance inshore angling.