Ambassadeur 5601Cb 09 03

Ambassadeur 5601CB Technical Service & Repair Guide

The Ambassadeur 5601CB (Foot Number 09 03) is a classic left-handed round reel featuring the "Self-Casting" or "Power Wheel" heritage. This model is engineered for reliability, but its performance—specifically the fluidity of the retrieve and the distance of the cast—is highly dependent on the quality and placement of its lubricants. This guide outlines a professional service procedure using Deuthlon high-performance lubricants.

Phase 1: Disassembly and Inspection

1. Frame Separation: Loosen the three captive thumb screws on the left side plate (cranking side). Carefully pull the side plate assembly away from the frame.

2. Spool Removal: Slide the spool out of the frame. Inspect the spool spindle and the centrifugal brake weights. Ensure the brake weights are dry and move freely on their pins.

3. Drive Stack Disassembly: Remove the handle nut retainer, the 10mm handle nut, and the handle. Remove the star drag and the tension washers. Lift the gear side plate to expose the main gear, pinion gear, and the drag stack.

4. Levelwind Access: Unscrew the line guide nut from the bottom of the carriage to release the pawl. Slide the worm shaft out for a deep clean.

Phase 2: Cleaning and Degreasing

To ensure Deuthlon lubricants bond properly to the metal surfaces, all old, oxidized grease must be removed.

• Clean the Main Gear, Pinion Gear, and Worm Shaft in a degreasing bath. Use a soft brush to remove debris from the gear teeth.

• Thoroughly clean the Idler Gear (the white gear on the frame). This part is often overlooked but is essential for smooth levelwind operation.

• Dry all parts completely before proceeding to lubrication.

Phase 3: Strategic Lubrication

The 5601CB requires a specialized dual-lubrication strategy: grease for the heavy-load drive components and oil for the high-speed oscillating parts.

Power and Drive Train (Grease)

The gears responsible for the retrieve require a high-viscosity barrier to prevent wear and provide a smooth feel.

• Main Gear: Apply an even, thorough coat of Deuthlon Reel Grease to the teeth of the brass main gear. This grease is formulated to withstand high pressure and provides a "cushioned" feel under load.

• Pinion Gear: Apply Deuthlon Reel Grease to the pinion gear teeth and the yoke contact points. This ensures the gear slides effortlessly during engagement and prevents wear on the spool’s drive notches.

Levelwind and High-Speed Parts (Oil)

Components that move during the cast must remain light to minimize startup inertia.

• Levelwind Worm Gear: Apply two drops of Deuthlon Reel Oil along the length of the worm shaft. Oil allows the line guide to transition back and forth with zero hesitation, which is vital for maintaining an even line lay and maximum casting distance.

• Idler Gears: Apply Deuthlon Reel Oil to the idler gears. Since these gears transfer power to the levelwind, using oil instead of grease eliminates the parasitic drag that can shorten a cast.

• Spool Bearings: Clean the bearings thoroughly and apply one drop of Deuthlon Reel Oil to each for a high-RPM spin.

Phase 4: Reassembly and Final Tuning

1. Internal Assembly: Seat the pinion gear in the yoke and place the main gear back onto the drive shaft. Ensure the drag washers are seated flat and in the correct sequence.

2. Levelwind Integration: Reinstall the worm gear, line guide, and pawl. Tighten the pawl cap until snug.

3. Frame Closure: Slide the spool back into the frame. Align the side plate and tighten the three thumb screws finger-tight.

4. Hardware: Reinstall the star drag, handle, and nut.

5. Calibration: Turn the mechanical tension knob until the spool has just a hint of lateral play.

Using Deuthlon Reel Grease on the gears and Deuthlon Reel Oil on the levelwind and idler gears ensures your Ambassadeur 5601CB remains a smooth, durable, and high-performing tool for years to come.