Ambassadeur 5600C4 Mag (09-00)

Comprehensive Repair Article: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 5600C4 Mag (09-00)

The Ambassadeur 5600C4 Mag (09-00) is a high-performance casting reel that integrates a four-bearing system with a specialized magnetic braking unit. Maintaining this specific 09-00 iteration requires an understanding of how the "C4" high-speed gear configuration interacts with the Mag-X braking technology. For peak longevity and casting distance, a professional-grade cleaning and lubrication schedule is vital.

Phase 1: Disassembly and Internal Evaluation

A successful repair begins with a clean workspace and a systematic teardown of the frame and drive components.

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

2. Spool and Brake Removal: Slide the spool out of the frame. Note the magnetic brake carriage on the non-handle side. Inspect the magnets for any oxidation or trapped metallic dust that could interfere with the magnetic field.

3. Drive Train Access: Remove the handle nut, handle, and star drag. Take care with the spring washers located under the drag star. Once the side plate cover is removed, the main gear and pinion assembly will be fully accessible.

4. Component Cleaning: Submerge the brass and stainless steel gears in a degreasing agent. Use a soft brush to ensure no old grease remains in the gear teeth, as residual buildup can cause "gear feel" or grinding during the retrieve.

Phase 2: Targeted Lubrication with Deuthlon

For a reel that operates at high rotational speeds, standard lubricants often evaporate or break down. We recommend Deuthlon Reel Grease and Deuthlon Reel Oil to ensure maximum protection and a smooth casting cycle.

Grease Application (Deuthlon Reel Grease):

• Main Gear: Apply a light, even coating of grease to the teeth of the main drive gear. This provides the necessary cushion for the 6.3:1 gear ratio, reducing heat and friction during high-speed retrieves.

• Pinion Gear: Grease the exterior teeth of the pinion and the area where it slides on the yoke. This ensures that the reel engages instantly when the handle is turned.

• Clutch Linkage: Apply a small amount of grease to the kick lever and the thumb bar release sliders to maintain a crisp, mechanical "click" during operation.

Oil Application (Deuthlon Reel Oil):

• Levelwind Worm Shaft: Apply two drops of oil to the worm gear. This part is responsible for even line lay and must remain fluid to avoid putting unnecessary strain on the drive system.

• Idler Gears: These gears link the spool's rotation to the levelwind. Use oil here to maintain low startup inertia, which is critical for the casting efficiency of the C4 series.

• Spool Bearings: Clean the C4 bearings thoroughly and apply exactly one drop of oil to each. This thin film of Deuthlon oil allows the bearings to reach their maximum RPM without the drag associated with grease.

Phase 3: Reassembly and Calibration

1. Re-seat the Spool: Slide the spool back into the frame. Ensure the spool shaft is seated correctly in the non-handle side bearing.

2. Side Plate Alignment: Carefully align the pinion gear with the spool shaft and slide the handle side plate back into position. Secure the thumb screws.

3. The Mag-X Check: Test the magnetic slider on the top of the reel. It should move freely, bringing the magnets closer to or further from the spool to regulate braking force.

4. Final Function Test: Spin the handle to verify the levelwind is tracking correctly across the worm shaft. Disengage the spool and check for a smooth, silent free-spool.

Maintenance Reference Table