Ambassadeur 5501 Inshore 17 01

Ambassadeur 5501 Inshore (17 01) Expert Maintenance and Repair Article

The Ambassadeur 5501 Inshore (17 01) is a robust, left-handed round reel designed specifically for the rigors of coastal angling. This 17 01 version is prized for its high-grade stainless steel components and its ability to handle the corrosive nature of salt spray while maintaining the precision of a fresh-water reel. To preserve the mechanical integrity of this Swedish-made tool, a specialized lubrication strategy is required—one that balances high-speed casting performance with maximum corrosion defense.

Phase 1: Disassembly and Saltwater Audit

To begin the overhaul, remove the handle, the star drag, and the three bridge screws on the right side plate. In an inshore reel, the primary enemy is calcified salt and "stiction."

• The Drive Train: Slide the main gear and the drag stack off the drive shaft. Inspect the interface between the gear teeth for any signs of pitting. Even high-grade brass and stainless steel can suffer from "pitting" if salt is left trapped in the gear mesh.

• The Synchronized Levelwind: Remove the worm gear and the line guide pawl. Since the 17 01 model utilizes a synchronized system—where the levelwind moves during the cast—the cleanliness of the worm gear determines your casting distance.

• Idler Gear System: Check the white plastic gears inside the frame. These bridge the power between the spool and the levelwind. Ensure no sand or salt crystals are embedded in the plastic teeth.

Phase 2: Deep Cleaning and Preparation

Thoroughly degrease all internal components using a high-quality solvent. For the Ambassadeur 5501 Inshore, it is vital to scrub the worm gear shroud and the idler gear posts. These areas often accumulate a "sludge" of old grease and salt that can act as a brake on the spool. Ensure every part is completely dry before moving to the lubrication phase to allow the new synthetics to bond correctly to the substrate.

Phase 3: Targeted Lubrication with Deuthlon

For the 17 01 Inshore, we recommend the application of Deuthlon Reel Oil and Deuthlon Reel Grease. These lubricants are engineered to withstand the high-torque and high-speed environment of professional angling while providing a hydrophobic shield.

The Casting Engine: Levelwind and Idler Gears

In a synchronized reel, the levelwind is the biggest source of friction.

• Levelwind Worm Gear: Apply Deuthlon Reel Oil to the length of the worm gear. Oil is superior to grease in this application as it allows the pawl to track at higher RPMs without the "plowing" effect of a thicker grease, resulting in significantly longer casts.

• Idler Gears: Lubricate the plastic idler cogs with Deuthlon Reel Oil. This keeps the synchronization movement light and crisp, ensuring that the energy from your cast goes into distance rather than fighting heavy lubrication.

The Power Center: Main and Pinion Gears

The gears responsible for winching power require a high-viscosity barrier that won't wash out.

• Main and Pinion Gears: Brush an even coating of Deuthlon Reel Grease onto the teeth of the main and pinion gears. This grease is formulated to "stay put" on the gear faces, providing a protective cushion that eliminates gear noise and protects the metal from the corrosive effects of moisture.

• Clutch Mechanism: Apply a light film of grease to the yoke and the sliding plates of the thumb bar to ensure a positive, smooth engagement.

Technical Maintenance Summary

Phase 4: Final Reassembly

Carefully slide the spool back into the frame, ensuring the brake weights are properly aligned. When reattaching the side plate, ensure the pinion gear is correctly seated in the yoke. Once the Ambassadeur 5501 Inshore (17 01) is fully assembled, rotate the handle to distribute the Deuthlon Reel Grease across the drive train. By utilizing Deuthlon Reel Oil on the levelwind and idler gears and Deuthlon Reel Grease on the main and pinion gears, you have restored this inshore masterpiece to its peak operating potential.