Ambassadeur 5601C4 (09-00)

Professional Maintenance Manual: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 5601C4 (09-00)

The Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 5601C4 (09-00) is a classic left-hand drive powerhouse known for its high-speed recovery and "Swedish Made" reliability. The 09-00 revision utilizes a synchronized levelwind system and a precision-engineered drive train that thrives on a specific lubrication balance. Because the C4 series is built for speed, using the wrong lubricants can lead to "gear feel" or reduced casting distance.

To restore this reel to factory-plus performance, we utilize Deuthlon Reel Grease for the high-impact gears and Deuthlon Reel Oil for the high-velocity kinetic parts.

Phase 1: Disassembly and Cleaning

Start by unscrewing the three knurled thumb screws on the handle-side plate and pulling the assembly away from the frame. Remove the spool and inspect the centrifugal brake blocks.

For the 09-00 model, deep cleaning is paramount. Submerge the main gear, pinion, and worm shaft in a solvent to remove old, oxidized lubricants. Use a soft brush to ensure the teeth of the gears are free of any trapped metallic particles or grit.

Phase 2: Drive Train Lubrication

The 5601C4's 6.3:1 gear ratio creates significant friction during the retrieve. To prevent the brass and stainless steel components from wearing down, the lubricant must stay bonded to the metal surfaces.

• Main Gear & Pinion Gear: Apply a light, even coating of Deuthlon Reel Grease to the teeth of the main gear and the pinion gear. This grease is specifically engineered to resist "throw-off," ensuring that even at high speeds, a protective film remains between the gear teeth to provide a smooth, silent cranking experience.

Phase 3: Levelwind and Idler System Optimization

Because the levelwind on the 5601C4 is synchronized (it moves while you cast), it is a major source of potential friction. Using grease in this area will "choke" the reel and kill your casting distance.

• Levelwind Worm Shaft: Apply Deuthlon Reel Oil to the grooves of the worm shaft. This allows the line guide pawl to oscillate with almost zero resistance.

• Idler Gears: These gears link the spool's rotation to the levelwind. Apply Deuthlon Reel Oil to the idler gears and their mounting posts. This ensures the gears spin up instantly during the cast, maximizing your lure's flight time.

Phase 4: Bearing and Spool Service

The spool bearings are the engine of your cast.

1. Bearings: After cleaning, apply exactly one drop of Deuthlon Reel Oil to each bearing. Its unique formula prevents the accumulation of dust and salt, which is critical for maintaining the high-RPM performance of the C4 series.

2. Brake Hub: Lightly wipe the inner surface of the brake drum with a cloth dampened with a tiny amount of oil to ensure the centrifugal weights operate consistently.

Phase 5: Reassembly

Slide the spool back into the frame and seat the side plate. Tighten the thumb screws in a staggered fashion to ensure the frame remains perfectly aligned. Reinstall the handle and star drag, ensuring the tension washers are stacked correctly.

Technical Summary for the 5601C4 (09-00)