Ambassadeur 5501 Inshore 17 02

Ambassadeur 5501 Inshore (17 02) Advanced Repair and Service Guide

The Ambassadeur 5501 Inshore (17 02) is a purpose-built, left-handed round reel designed to bridge the gap between heavy freshwater applications and demanding coastal environments. The "17 02" blueprint focuses on internal corrosion resistance and a high-strength drive system. Since this model features a synchronized levelwind—where the line guide moves in tandem with the spool during the cast—maintaining a clean, low-friction environment is critical for preventing "salt-stiction" and maximizing performance.

Step 1: Disassembly and Salt-Exposure Audit

Begin by removing the handle, star drag, and the drive-side plate screws. In the 17 02 model, specific attention must be paid to areas where salt spray tends to accumulate and calcify.

• The Drive Stack: Carefully remove the main gear and the drag washers. Check the underside of the main gear for any green oxidation (verdigris), which is common in reels exposed to brackish water.

• The Levelwind Assembly: Unscrew the pawl cap and remove the line guide. Examine the worm gear for any pitting or grit that could snag the pawl during high-speed rotation.

• Synchronization Gears: Located behind the spool and inside the frame, the idler gears are the mechanical link for the levelwind. Ensure these plastic cogs are not warped or clogged with old, dried lubricant.

Step 2: Specialized Cleaning

To ensure new lubricants bond effectively, you must strip all legacy grease and salt residue. Use a high-quality degreaser to soak the main gear, pinion gear, and worm gear. Use a soft brush to clean the teeth of the idler gears. For inshore reels, it is vital to clear the worm gear shroud of any fine sand or salt crystals that act as an abrasive against the pawl.

Step 3: Optimal Lubrication with Deuthlon

To maintain the precision of the 5501 Inshore, we recommend the application of Deuthlon Reel Oil and Deuthlon Reel Grease. These products are engineered with superior moisture-displacement properties, essential for saltwater longevity.

Low-Inertia Oiling: Levelwind and Idler Gears

Because the levelwind is always engaged, reducing its rotational weight is the secret to longer casts.

• Levelwind Worm Gear: Apply Deuthlon Reel Oil to the worm gear grooves. Unlike grease, which can trap salt and become a grinding paste, this oil provides a slick, hydrophobic barrier that sheds water and debris.

• Idler Gears: These plastic gears should be lubricated with Deuthlon Reel Oil. This ensures the synchronization system operates with minimal resistance, allowing the spool to spin freely without being "tethered" by heavy lubricants.

High-Pressure Greasing: Main and Pinion Gears

The drive train bears the brunt of the load when fighting powerful inshore species.

• Main and Pinion Gears: Apply a specialized coating of Deuthlon Reel Grease to the gear teeth. This grease is formulated to resist "washout" from salt spray, providing a durable cushion that prevents metal-on-metal wear and keeps the retrieve feeling buttery smooth.

• Clutch and Cam Plates: Lightly grease the metal sliding surfaces of the kick lever and yoke to prevent corrosion and ensure a crisp engagement of the thumb bar.

Inshore Maintenance Specification Table

Step 4: Reassembly and Mechanical Validation

Carefully re-seat the spool and ensure the centrifugal brake weights are correctly positioned. When reattaching the side plate, ensure the pinion gear aligns perfectly with the spool shaft drive pin. Once secured, cycle the handle to distribute the Deuthlon Reel Grease across the main drive. By utilizing Deuthlon Reel Oil on the levelwind and idler systems and Deuthlon Reel Grease on the primary gears, you have successfully armored your Ambassadeur 5501 Inshore (17 02) against the elements.