Ambassadeur 5501Cs Pro Rocket 18 00

Technical Service Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 5501CS Pro Rocket (18 00)

The Ambassadeur 5501CS Pro Rocket (18 00) is a premier left-hand retrieve round reel, specifically engineered for extreme casting distances and high-torque performance. Featuring a classic brass frame and a synchronized levelwind system, this "Rocket" series model is a favorite among anglers who require durability and precision. To maintain the 18 00 model's high-speed efficiency, a comprehensive service involving deep cleaning and the application of professional-grade synthetics is required.

Phase 1: Disassembly and Internal Evaluation

Proper maintenance of the Pro Rocket begins with a systematic teardown to ensure all old, contaminated lubricants are removed from the drive housing and bearing races.

1. Removing the Left Side Plate: Loosen the three captive thumb screws on the handle side. Gently pull the plate assembly away from the frame.

2. Spool and Brake Access: Slide the spool out of the frame. Inspect the six-pin centrifugal braking system. Ensure the brake blocks are clean and the pins are straight. Any oil residue on the brake drum will cause inconsistent casting performance.

3. Drive Train Breakdown: Remove the handle assembly, star drag, and the tension washers. Lift the side plate cover to expose the heavy-duty brass main gear and the stainless steel pinion gear.

4. Cleaning Protocol: Submerge the gears, worm shaft, and drive shaft in a high-quality solvent. Use a soft brush to ensure the gear valleys are spotless and free of metallic debris. Dry all components completely before re-lubricating.

Phase 2: Precision Lubrication with Deuthlon

To maintain the Pro Rocket's reputation for smoothness and power, we recommend using Deuthlon Reel Grease and Deuthlon Reel Oil. These specialized products offer superior film strength and thermal stability.

Grease Application (Deuthlon Reel Grease):

• Main Drive Gear: Apply a light, uniform coating of grease to the teeth of the brass main gear. This provides a durable cushion that protects the gear teeth from wear and ensures a silent, powerful retrieve under the load of heavy lures.

• Pinion Gear: Coat the teeth of the pinion gear and the yoke contact surfaces. Proper lubrication here is essential for preventing "gear feel" and ensuring the reel engages crisply when the handle is turned.

• Clutch Mechanism: Apply a micro-layer of grease to the sliding metal surfaces of the kick lever and release sliders to ensure the thumb bar operates with a positive, tactile snap.

Oil Application (Deuthlon Reel Oil):

• Levelwind Worm Gear: Apply two drops of oil to the spiral worm gear. Since the levelwind on the Rocket is synchronized and moves during the cast, oil offers the low-viscosity protection needed to maximize casting distance.

• 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, which is vital for the 5501CS’s high-speed oscillation.

• 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 "fluid drag" associated with heavier oils.

Phase 3: Reassembly and Final Testing

1. Seat the Spool: Slide the spool back into the frame, ensuring the centrifugal brake weights are seated correctly on their pins.

2. Housing Alignment: Position the side plate over the frame, ensuring the pinion gear aligns perfectly with the spool shaft. Tighten the thumb screws in a cross-pattern to ensure even pressure.

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

4. Operational Test: Disengage the thumb bar. The spool should spin silently and freely. Adjust the mechanical tension knob to eliminate spool side-play, allowing the Pro Rocket to handle the rotational load with peak efficiency.

Maintenance Quick Reference