Ambassadeur 5501C3 15 01

Technical Service Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 5501C3 (15 01)

The Ambassadeur 5501C3 (15 01) is a left-hand retrieve round reel that serves as the benchmark for versatility and durability in the Abu Garcia lineup. Utilizing a 5.3:1 gear ratio and a three-bearing system, this model is designed to handle everything from freshwater bass to light saltwater species. To maintain the smooth retrieval and reliable casting of the 15 01 iteration, a professional maintenance routine using high-performance synthetic lubricants is required.

Phase 1: Disassembly and Inspection

A successful service begins with a systematic teardown to ensure all grit and old, oxidized lubricants are removed from the internal housing.

1. Removing the Side Plate: Loosen the three captive thumb screws on the left-side (handle) plate and pull the assembly away from the frame.

2. Spool and Bearing Access: Slide the spool out of the frame. Inspect the spool shaft and the high-speed bearings. On the 15 01 model, the Ultra Cast design means the spool spins on a fixed shaft; ensuring the internal bearing races are clean is vital for casting distance.

3. Drive Train Breakdown: Remove the handle, star drag, and the tension washers. Lift the gear cover to expose the brass main gear and the stainless steel pinion yoke.

4. Deep Cleaning: Submerge the gears, worm shaft, and drive shaft in a high-quality solvent. Use a soft brush to remove all traces of old grease. Dry all components completely before re-lubricating.

Phase 2: Precision Lubrication with Deuthlon

To keep the 5501C3 running with a "factory-new" feel, we recommend using Deuthlon Reel Grease and Deuthlon Reel Oil. These specialized products provide superior film strength and water resistance.

Applying Deuthlon Reel Grease:

• Main Drive Gear: Apply a light, uniform coating of grease to the teeth of the brass drive gear. This provides the necessary cushion to prevent metal fatigue and ensures a silent retrieve.

• Pinion Gear: Coat the teeth of the pinion gear and the internal slot that engages the spool shaft. Proper lubrication here prevents "gear feel" and ensures crisp engagement.

• Clutch Linkage: Apply a micro-layer of grease to the sliding metal surfaces of the kick lever and release sliders to maintain a tactile thumb-bar response.

Applying Deuthlon Reel Oil:

• Levelwind Worm Shaft: Apply two drops of oil to the spiral worm gear. Since the levelwind is constantly in motion, oil offers the low-viscosity protection needed to minimize friction.

• Idler Gears: These gears link the spool's rotation to the line-lay system. Using oil here instead of grease keeps the internal rotational inertia low, maximizing casting efficiency.

• Spool Bearings: Flush the bearings thoroughly and apply exactly one drop of Deuthlon oil to each. This thin film allows the spool to reach high RPMs without the "clogging" effect of heavier oils.

Phase 3: Reassembly and Operational Testing

1. Seat the Spool: Slide the spool back into the frame, ensuring the shaft is properly aligned with the non-handle side bearing.

2. Housing Alignment: Position the side plate over the frame, ensuring the pinion gear aligns with the spool shaft. Tighten the thumb screws snugly by hand.

3. Check the Oscillation: Rotate the handle to verify that the levelwind tracks smoothly and evenly across the front of the reel.

4. Final Spin Test: Disengage the thumb bar. The spool should spin silently and freely. Adjust the mechanical tension knob to eliminate side-play, allowing the C3 system to operate at peak performance.

Maintenance Reference Summary