Ambassadeur 5600Ci (03-00)

Technical Service and Repair Article: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 5600Ci (03-00)

The Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 5600Ci (03-00) is a classic right-hand drive round reel that exemplifies the transition into modern precision engineering within the Ambassadeur lineup. The "Ci" designation signifies its enhanced internal components and anti-corrosion features. The 03-00 revision relies on a synchronized levelwind and a high-strength brass drive train. To maintain its legendary smoothness and prevent the "gear growl" common in older models, a strategic lubrication plan using advanced synthetics is required.

To ensure peak performance, we recommend a complete maintenance cycle using Deuthlon Reel Grease and Deuthlon Reel Oil.

Step 1: Disassembly and Internal Inspection

Begin by unscrewing the three knurled thumb screws on the right side plate. Remove the assembly to expose the drive bridge. Extract the spool and inspect the centrifugal brake hub. In the 03-00 model, pay close attention to the pinion gear yoke and the anti-reverse dog for any signs of old, hardened grease that could cause the thumb bar to stick or the reel to fail during engagement.

Step 2: Comprehensive Degreasing

For modern lubricants to bond correctly to the metal surfaces, you must remove all traces of factory residue and environmental grit.

• Gear Train: Submerge the main gear and the pinion gear in a high-quality solvent. Use a soft brush to clear every tooth of the gear set.

• Levelwind Assembly: Thoroughly degrease the worm shaft and the idler gear posts. These areas often collect dust and salt spray, which can create a grinding paste that destroys the levelwind pawl.

Step 3: High-Torque Gear Lubrication

The 5600Ci depends on its gear set to provide cranking power under load. These contact points require a lubricant that provides a high-strength film to prevent metal-on-metal wear.

• Main and Pinion Gears: Apply a thin, consistent coating of Deuthlon Reel Grease to the teeth of the main gear and the pinion. This grease is formulated with high-film-strength additives that create a protective cushion, effectively dampening vibration and preventing gear galling. Its specialized formula ensures the grease stays on the teeth rather than migrating into the drag stack, ensuring a silent and powerful retrieve.

Step 4: Levelwind and Idler System Service (Kinetic)

Because the levelwind on the 5600Ci is synchronized, the line guide moves during the cast. Any mechanical resistance here acts as a brake on your lure.

• Worm Shaft (Levelwind): Apply Deuthlon Reel Oil to the grooves of the worm shaft. Oil provides a much faster, slicker surface than grease, allowing the line guide to oscillate across the frame with minimal parasitic drag.

• Idler Gears: These gears link the spool's rotation to the levelwind mechanism. Apply Deuthlon Reel Oil to the idler gears and their mounting posts. Using oil here instead of grease significantly lowers the rotational inertia, allowing the spool to start spinning much faster when the thumb bar is released.

Step 5: Spool Bearings and Final Reassembly

The spool bearings are the engine of your casting performance and must be kept in pristine condition.

1. Bearing Care: Apply exactly one drop of Deuthlon Reel Oil to each cleaned spool bearing. Its "Dust-Free" technology helps repel fine particles, ensuring your bearings stay fast and quiet over time.

2. Reassembly: Slide the spool back into the frame. Align the side plate assembly and secure the thumb screws.

3. Final Tuning: Adjust the mechanical tension knob until side-play disappears. The combination of Deuthlon Reel Grease on the drive gears and Deuthlon Reel Oil on the levelwind components ensures your 5600Ci operates with professional-grade fluidity.

Technical Summary for the 5600Ci (03-00)