Ambassadeur 5600C5 Mag-X (11-00)

Maintenance and Repair Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 5600C5 Mag-X (11-00)

The Ambassadeur 5600C5 Mag-X is a sophisticated piece of engineering, blending the classic Swedish round reel design with a specialized magnetic braking system. To maintain its high-speed performance and longevity, a systematic approach to teardown and lubrication is essential.

Phase 1: Preparation and Disassembly

Before beginning, ensure you have a clean, lint-free workspace. This specific model features the Mag-X sliding brake control, which requires careful handling to avoid misaligning the magnetic carriage.

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

2. Spool Access: Slide the spool out of the frame. Take note of the C5 ceramic bearings located on the spool shaft or within the side plates. These bearings are the heart of the reel's "Ultra Cast" design and require specific attention.

3. The Mag-X System: On the non-handle side, inspect the magnetic brake dial. It is generally best to leave the magnetic carrier intact unless there is significant debris, as the sliding mechanism is finely calibrated.

Phase 2: Cleaning and Degreasing

For a professional-grade repair, all old, oxidized lubricants must be removed. Use a specialized reel cleaner or high-flash-point solvent to strip the gears and bearings.

• Bearings: Soak the ceramic bearings in solvent, rotate them to dislodge particles, and dry them completely using compressed air.

• Drive Train: Use a soft brush to scrub the teeth of the main gear and the pinion gear. Ensure no brass or stainless steel shavings remain in the gear valleys.

Phase 3: Strategic Lubrication

The 5600C5 Mag-X relies on a dual-lubrication strategy to balance cranking power with casting distance. We highly recommend using Deuthlon Reel Oil and Deuthlon Reel Grease for their superior film strength and water resistance.

Applying Deuthlon Reel Grease:

• Main Gear & Pinion Gear: Apply a light, even coat of grease to the teeth of the large brass main gear. Do not over-grease; the goal is a "wet" look rather than a thick paste. Ensure the pinion gear—the smaller gear that engages the spool—is also coated. This reduces friction under the heavy load of a fighting fish.

• Drag Washers: If the drag system is "dry," a micro-layer of Deuthlon grease can be applied to the carbon matrix washers to ensure a smooth, stutter-free startup.

Applying Deuthlon Reel Oil:

• Levelwind System: The worm shaft and line guide should be treated with a few drops of oil. This ensures the line lays evenly without adding the drag that grease would cause.

• Idler Gears: These plastic gears drive the levelwind. Use oil here to maintain a low-inertia rotation during the cast.

• Spool Bearings: Apply one single drop of oil to each ceramic bearing. Over-oiling will significantly decrease your casting distance.

Phase 4: Reassembly and Testing

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

2. Attach Handle Side Plate: Align the pinion gear yoke with the spool shaft and press the side plate flush against the frame. Tighten the thumb screws in a staggered pattern to ensure even pressure.

3. Function Check: Disengage the spool using the thumb bar. The spool should spin freely with a whisper-quiet hum. Engage the handle; the levelwind should track smoothly across the front of the reel without hesitation.

4. Mag-X Calibration: Slide the magnetic control through its full range to ensure the magnet carrier moves closer to and further from the spool flange without obstruction.

Technical Summary for the Ambassadeur 5600C5 Mag-X