Ambassadeur 5600C4 Winch(09-00)

Expert Maintenance Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 5600C4 Winch (09-00)

The Ambassadeur 5600C4 Winch is a specialized, low-gear-ratio powerhouse designed for cranking deep-diving lures with high torque. The (09-00) version features a robust four-bearing system and a powerful drag stack. Because this reel is built for constant, high-pressure retrieval, regular lubrication with high-performance synthetics is mandatory to prevent gear fatigue.

Phase 1: Teardown and Component Cleaning

To begin the overhaul, ensure you have a clean workspace to organize the small parts of the "Winch" drive system.

1. Side Plate Removal: Loosen the three knurled thumb screws on the right-hand side. Carefully pull the side plate assembly away from the frame to reveal the internal gear train.

2. Spool and Shaft: Slide the spool out of the frame. Inspect the spool shaft and the high-speed bearings. On the 5600C4, these bearings are critical for maintaining the reel's smooth casting performance despite its powerful gear ratio.

3. Drive Train Access: Remove the handle nut, handle, and star drag. Take care when lifting the side plate cover to ensure the pinion gear and yoke springs remain seated.

4. Deep Cleaning: Submerge the main gear, pinion gear, and worm shaft in a degreasing agent. Use a stiff-bristled brush to remove any metal filings or emulsified grease from the gear teeth.

Phase 2: Targeted Lubrication with Deuthlon

To maintain the high-torque efficiency of the 5600C4 Winch, we recommend using Deuthlon Reel Grease and Deuthlon Reel Oil. These lubricants are engineered to stay in place under heavy mechanical loads.

Grease Application (Deuthlon Reel Grease):

• Main Gear: Apply a consistent layer of grease to the teeth of the large drive gear. Since the Winch is used for high-resistance lures, this grease provides the necessary film strength to prevent gear grinding.

• Pinion Gear: Coat the teeth and the internal "slot" where it meets the spool shaft. This ensures smooth engagement when switching from free-spool to retrieve.

• Kick Lever & Clutch: Lightly grease the sliding contact points of the clutch mechanism to ensure the thumb bar operates with a positive, reliable snap.

Oil Application (Deuthlon Reel Oil):

• Levelwind & Worm Gear: Place a few drops of oil on the worm shaft. Because the levelwind is constantly moving during the cast and retrieve, oil provides the low-friction protection needed for long-term durability.

• Idler Gears: These gears transfer power to the levelwind system. Using oil instead of grease here keeps the rotational inertia low, which is vital for maintaining casting distance on a "Winch" model.

• Spool Bearings: Clean the bearings thoroughly and apply one drop of Deuthlon oil to each. Avoid over-oiling, as excess fluid can migrate to the drag washers.

Phase 3: Reassembly and Inspection

1. Reinstall the Spool: Slide the spool back into the frame, ensuring the ceramic or stainless bearings are seated properly.

2. Align the Drive Plate: Position the side plate over the drive shaft, ensuring the pinion gear aligns with the spool shaft. Secure the thumb screws in a triangular pattern to ensure the plate is perfectly level.

3. Drag Calibration: Reassemble the star drag and handle. Test the drag range; it should be smooth from the lowest setting to full lockdown without any "jerking" or sticking.

4. Operational Test: Spin the handle to ensure the levelwind tracks across the spool smoothly. Disengage the thumb bar to confirm the spool spins freely without any mechanical interference.

Component Lubrication Chart