Ambassadeur 5600Ab Anti Backlash (07-00)

Technical Service Manual: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 5600AB Anti-Backlash (07-00)

The Ambassadeur 5600AB (07-00) is a specialized baitcasting reel featuring Abu Garcia’s innovative "Anti-Backlash" technology. This system uses a spring-loaded sensor bar to monitor line tension, mechanically braking the spool if it detects the slack that precedes a professional "bird's nest." Because this model contains more moving parts than a standard 5600, precision lubrication is vital to ensure the safety mechanism remains sensitive and responsive.

Phase 1: Disassembly and Safety System Inspection

To properly service the 07-00 model, you must pay close attention to the interaction between the spool and the AB sensor bar.

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

2. Spool and Sensor Bar: Slide the spool out. You will see the Anti-Backlash bar sitting across the top of the frame. Inspect the pivot points of this bar; if they are clogged with salt or old grease, the bar will not react quickly enough to prevent backlashes.

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

4. Cleaning: Use a dedicated reel cleaner to strip away old, gummy lubricants. All gear teeth and the interior of the worm shaft must be spotless. Ensure the AB bar pivots are flushed clean of any debris.

Phase 2: Strategic Lubrication with Deuthlon

For a mechanical system as sensitive as the Anti-Backlash series, we recommend Deuthlon Reel Grease and Deuthlon Reel Oil. These synthetics provide a low-friction barrier that won't thicken in cold weather or evaporate in the heat.

Grease Application (Deuthlon Reel Grease):

• Main Gear: Use a small brush to apply a light, even coating to the teeth of the brass drive gear. This provides the necessary cushion to protect the teeth during high-pressure retrieves.

• Pinion Gear: Coat the teeth and the yoke contact surfaces. Proper lubrication here is essential for a seamless transition when the reel engages from free-spool to retrieve.

• Clutch Linkage: Lightly grease the sliding metal surfaces of the kick lever to ensure the thumb bar operates with a crisp, tactile response.

Oil Application (Deuthlon Reel Oil):

• Levelwind Worm Shaft: Apply two drops of oil to the spiral worm gear. Because the levelwind is constantly oscillating, oil offers the low-viscosity protection needed to prevent drag during a cast.

• 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 sensitivity of the Anti-Backlash system.

• AB Bar Pivots: Place a single drop of oil on each side of the sensor bar's pivot pins. This ensures the bar can move instantly in response to line slack.

• Spool Bearings: Flush the bearings and apply exactly one drop of Deuthlon oil to each. This thin film allows for maximum RPM while providing high-speed protection.

Phase 3: Reassembly and Operational Testing

1. Reinstall the Spool: Slide the spool back into the frame, ensuring the Anti-Backlash bar sits in its "up" position.

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

3. Check the AB Sensitivity: Depress the Anti-Backlash bar manually. It should move smoothly and spring back to its original position without sticking.

4. The Spin Test: Disengage the thumb bar. The spool should spin silently. Adjust the mechanical tension knob to eliminate side-play, allowing the 5600AB system to operate with peak efficiency.

Maintenance Reference Table