Ambassadeur 5600Bcx Red 16 00

Technical Repair Article: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 5600BCX Red (16 00)

The Ambassadeur 5600BCX Red (16 00) is a distinctive, high-capacity round reel that combines the classic Abu Garcia silhouette with a striking red finish and a robust drag system. As a "BCX" series model, it is engineered for versatility and power. To maintain its cranking efficiency and ensure the levelwind system remains synchronized with the spool, a thorough teardown and the application of high-end synthetic lubricants are required.

Phase 1: Disassembly and Inspection

Regular maintenance of the 5600BCX is necessary to prevent the buildup of grit and old lubricant, which can compromise the gear mesh and reduce casting distance.

1. Side Plate Removal: Unscrew the three knurled thumb screws on the handle-side plate. Pull the assembly away from the frame to access the spool and the drive housing.

2. Spool Service: Slide the spool out of the frame. Inspect the spool shaft for any signs of oxidation. The 5600BCX features a reliable bearing system that should be checked for smoothness; if the rotation feels "crunchy," the bearings must be flushed.

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

4. Deep Cleaning: Submerge the brass main gear, stainless steel pinion gear, and the worm shaft in a dedicated reel cleaner or solvent. Use a soft brush to ensure the gear valleys are free of debris. Ensure all components are completely dry before re-lubricating.

Phase 2: Precision Lubrication with Deuthlon

To keep the 16 00 model operating with a "factory-fresh" feel, we recommend using Deuthlon Reel Grease and Deuthlon Reel Oil. These specialized products provide a superior film strength that stays on the gears even under heavy mechanical loads.

Applying Deuthlon Reel Grease:

• Main Drive Gear: Apply a light, uniform layer of grease to the teeth of the brass main gear. This provides a protective cushion that prevents metal fatigue and ensures a silent, powerful retrieve when fighting heavy fish.

• 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 grinding and ensuring a seamless transition from free-spool to retrieve.

• Clutch Mechanism: Lightly grease the sliding surfaces of the kick lever and release sliders to ensure the thumb bar operates with a crisp, reliable snap.

Applying 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 minimize friction and prevent the pawl from hanging up.

• Idler Gears: These gears link the spool's rotation to the line-lay system. A light coating of oil ensures they spin with minimal resistance, which is vital for maintaining the casting efficiency of the BCX series.

• Ball 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 greases.

Phase 3: Reassembly and Calibration

1. Seat the Spool: Slide the spool back into the frame, ensuring the shaft aligns perfectly 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 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. 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 5600BCX to handle the rotational load efficiently.

Maintenance Quick Reference