Ambassadeur 5601Cb (09-00)

Comprehensive Service Manual: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 5601CB (09-00)

The Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 5601CB (09-00) is a quintessential left-handed round reel designed for durability and precision. Known for its distinct "09-00" schematic iteration, this model features a specialized braking system that requires meticulous care. Routine maintenance not only extends the life of the brass internals but significantly improves your casting accuracy.

To achieve peak mechanical efficiency, we recommend the use of Deuthlon Reel Grease and Deuthlon Reel Oil, which are formulated to withstand the high-torque demands of baitcasting environments.

Phase 1: Accessing the Internals

Start by removing the three knurled thumb screws on the handle-side plate. Pull the side plate away from the frame to expose the spool and the drive gear stack. Remove the spool and set it aside.

Carefully disassemble the handle assembly by removing the locking screw, the 10mm nut, and the star drag. Take note of the orientation of the spring washers (Belleville washers) to ensure they are replaced in the correct "opposing" configuration.

Phase 2: Deep Cleaning the Gear Train

The 09-00 version often accumulates debris within the teeth of the drive gear. Use a dedicated degreaser to strip away old, thickened factory lubricants.

• Component Inspection: Check the pinion gear for any burrs or rounded edges.

• Bearing Maintenance: Remove the spool bearings and soak them in solvent. Spin them to ensure they move freely without a "gritty" feel.

Phase 3: Precision Lubrication Strategy

The secret to a silent, powerful retrieve is the application of high-performance lubricants in the correct locations.

• Main Gear and Pinion: Apply Deuthlon Reel Grease to the teeth of the large brass main gear and the smaller pinion gear. This grease provides a superior film strength that prevents metal-on-metal wear during heavy retrieves. Avoid over-greasing; a light, consistent coating on every tooth is more effective than a heavy glob.

• Levelwind Assembly: The worm shaft and the pawl are high-travel areas. Apply Deuthlon Reel Oil to the worm gear. This ensures the levelwind tracks back and forth with minimal resistance, which is vital for maintaining line tension.

• Idler Gears: The plastic idler gears that bridge the drive to the levelwind should also be lubricated with Deuthlon Reel Oil. This reduces the "drag" felt during the cast and retrieve.

Phase 4: Frame and Levelwind Reassembly

Before reattaching the side plate, ensure the levelwind pawl is seated correctly within the worm shaft grooves.

1. Slide the spool back into the frame.

2. Align the pinion gear with the spool shaft.

3. Secure the side plate and tighten the thumb screws.

4. Reinstall the drag stack, ensuring the washers are clean and free of grit.

Phase 5: Tuning for Performance

Once the reel is reassembled, adjust the mechanical brake knob until the spool has just a tiny amount of side-to-side play. This "zero-play" setting, combined with the superior viscosity of Deuthlon Reel Oil on the idler system, will yield maximum casting distance with the 5601CB's self-braking mechanism.

Technical Summary for the 5601CB (09-00)