Ambassadeur 5600 Plus (84-1)

Technical Service Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 5600 Plus (84-1)

The Ambassadeur 5600 Plus (84-1) is a standout model from the mid-1980s, bridging the gap between classic design and modern ergonomics with its distinctive "Plus" palming side plate and high-speed retrieve. This model features a high-performance drive train that requires specific attention to maintain its smoothness. For this vintage 84-1 iteration, a professional-grade overhaul using high-end synthetics is the only way to ensure the brass and stainless steel components remain in peak condition.

Phase 1: Disassembly and Inspection

Servicing a mid-80s Ambassadeur requires a careful touch to preserve the original hardware and the integrity of the aluminum frame.

1. Removing the Right Side Plate: Loosen the three captive thumb screws on the handle-side plate. Pull the assembly away from the frame.

2. Spool Removal: Slide the spool out of the frame. Inspect the spool shaft and the integrated bearings. On the 5600 Plus, the "Ultra Cast" design relies on the spool spinning on a fixed shaft; ensure this shaft is perfectly polished and free of old grease.

3. Drive Train Access: Remove the handle, star drag, and the tension shims. Take care with the sequence of the drag stack. Lift the gear cover to expose the brass main gear and the pinion yoke.

4. Cleaning Protocol: Submerge the main gear, pinion gear, and worm shaft in a high-quality solvent. Use a soft brush to remove old lubricants. All parts must be completely bone-dry before re-lubricating.

Phase 2: Strategic Lubrication with Deuthlon

To keep the 5600 Plus running with a "factory-new" feel, we recommend the application of Deuthlon Reel Grease and Deuthlon Reel Oil. These specialized products provide a superior film strength that prevents wear on vintage metal.

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 gear fatigue and ensures a silent, powerful retrieve under load.

• Pinion Gear: Coat the teeth of the pinion gear and the internal slot that engages the spool shaft. Proper lubrication here is essential for preventing "gear feel" and ensuring the reel engages crisply when the handle is turned.

• Clutch & Kick Lever: Apply a micro-layer of grease to the sliding metal surfaces of the clutch mechanism to ensure the thumb bar operates with a positive, tactile click.

Applying Deuthlon Reel Oil:

• Levelwind Worm Shaft: Apply two drops of oil to the spiral worm gear. Since the levelwind is always engaged on these models, oil provides the low-viscosity protection needed to minimize friction and prevent the line guide from slowing down your cast.

• Idler Gears: These plastic gears drive the oscillation system. Using oil here instead of grease keeps the internal rotational inertia low, which is vital for maintaining the casting distance of the "Plus" series.

• Spool Bearings: Flush the bearings and apply exactly one drop of Deuthlon oil to each. This thin film provides high-speed protection 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 seats over the spool shaft correctly. Hand-tighten the thumb screws snugly but do not over-torque.

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 spool side-play, allowing the 5600 Plus to handle the rotational load with maximum efficiency.

Maintenance Quick Reference