Ambassadeur 5600C4 23 00

Technical Repair Article: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 5600C4 (23 00)

The Ambassadeur 5600C4 (version 23 00) is a refined powerhouse in the round reel category, featuring a fast 6.3:1 gear ratio and a four-bearing system designed for consistent performance. Maintaining this specific model involves a deep understanding of the Ultra Cast design. To preserve its high-speed retrieval and legendary casting distance, a professional teardown and a specific lubrication strategy are required.

Phase 1: Disassembly and Internal Inspection

Proper maintenance begins with a clean, organized workspace to manage the various springs and washers found in the 23 00 drive train.

1. Frame Separation: Loosen the three knurled thumb screws on the handle side plate. Carefully pull the side plate assembly away from the frame.

2. Spool Removal: Slide the spool out of the frame. Inspect the spool shaft and the high-speed bearings. On this model, ensuring these bearings are free of grit is the most critical step for casting performance.

3. Drive Train Access: Remove the handle nut, handle, and star drag. Take care not to lose the tension washers under the drag star. Lift the gear cover to expose the main gear and pinion yoke.

4. Cleaning Protocol: Use a specialized reel cleaner or solvent to strip away old, gummy grease from the gears. For the bearings, a quick soak and spin-dry ensures they are ready for fresh lubrication.

Phase 2: Precision Lubrication with Deuthlon

To keep the 5600C4 running with a "factory-new" feel, we recommend the application of Deuthlon Reel Grease and Deuthlon Reel Oil. These lubricants are engineered to withstand high rotational heat and provide a superior protective barrier.

Applying Deuthlon Reel Grease:

• Main Gear: Use a small brush to apply a light, even coat to the teeth of the brass main gear. This creates a cushion that prevents metal-on-metal wear during the high-speed retrieve.

• Pinion Gear: Apply grease to the exterior teeth and the internal "slot" where it engages the spool. This ensures a smooth, silent engagement when you stop your cast and begin your retrieve.

• Clutch Linkage: Lightly coat the kick lever and sliding plates. This keeps the thumb bar movement crisp and prevents the "sticking" common in older reels.

Applying Deuthlon Reel Oil:

• Levelwind Worm Gear: Place two drops of oil on the worm shaft. Because the line guide is always moving during the cast, oil provides the low-friction protection needed for maximum distance.

• Idler Gears: These plastic gears drive the levelwind oscillation. Using oil here instead of grease keeps the internal drag low, which is vital for the 5600C4's high-speed efficiency.

• Spool Bearings: Apply exactly one drop of Deuthlon oil to each bearing. Over-oiling can slow down the spool; a single drop is all that is needed for high-RPM protection.

Phase 3: Reassembly and Testing

1. Reinstall the Spool: Slide the spool back into the frame, ensuring the shaft seats fully into the non-handle side bearing.

2. Attach Side Plate: Align the pinion gear with the spool shaft. Press the side plate flush against the frame and hand-tighten the thumb screws in a cross-pattern.

3. Function Check: Crank the handle to ensure the levelwind tracks smoothly across the worm shaft. The oscillation should be silent and even.

4. Final Adjustments: Adjust the mechanical brake knob until the spool has no side-to-side play. Depress the thumb bar to verify the spool spins freely without mechanical noise.

Maintenance Quick Reference