Ambassadeur 5601CJB 1300

Ambassadeur 5601CJB Technical Service & Repair Guide

The Ambassadeur 5601CJB (Foot Number 1300) is a robust, left-handed jerkbait-specific reel designed to handle the high-impact stress of repetitive lure snapping. This model features a synchronized levelwind system and a reinforced drive train. To ensure this reel maintains its cranking power and casting fluidity, a thorough service using Deuthlon high-performance lubricants is essential.

Phase 1: Disassembly and Inspection

1. Side Plate Access: Loosen the three captive thumb screws on the left-side plate. Carefully pull the side plate assembly away from the frame.

2. Spool Removal: Slide the spool out of the frame. Inspect the centrifugal brake weights on the spool flange; they should be free of oil residue to function correctly.

3. Drive Train Teardown: Remove the handle nut retainer, 10mm handle nut, handle, and star drag. Lift the side plate cover to expose the main gear, drag stack, and drive shaft.

4. Levelwind Removal: Unscrew the line guide nut and remove the pawl. Slide the worm gear out of the frame for a deep clean.

Phase 2: Cleaning and Degreasing

Jerkbait fishing often introduces grit and puts heavy pressure on lubricants, causing them to break down.

• Submerge the Main Gear, Pinion Gear, and Worm Shaft in a degreasing agent. Use a soft brush to remove all old, hardened grease.

• Clean the Idler Gear (the white nylon gear on the frame bridge) and the spool bearings.

• Ensure all parts are completely dry before moving to the lubrication phase.

Phase 3: Strategic Lubrication

The 5601CJB requires a specialized approach: heavy-duty grease for the gears that handle the "jerk" of the lure, and light oil for the parts that move during the cast.

High-Torque Components (Grease)

The drive train is the mechanical heart of the reel and requires maximum protection.

• Main Gear: Apply an even, thorough coat of Deuthlon Reel Grease to the teeth of the brass main gear. This grease is formulated to stay in place under heavy loads, providing a cushioned feel.

• Pinion Gear: Apply Deuthlon Reel Grease to the teeth of the pinion gear and the yoke. This ensures the engagement of the spool remains crisp and silent.

High-Speed and Oscillating Components (Oil)

Because the 5601CJB features a synchronized levelwind, the worm gear and idler gears spin during the cast. Reducing drag here is vital.

• Levelwind Worm Gear: Apply two drops of Deuthlon Reel Oil along the worm shaft. Oil allows the line guide to oscillate with minimal friction, preventing the "drag" that can cause backlashes.

• Idler Gears: Apply Deuthlon Reel Oil to the idler gears. Since these gears transfer motion from the spool to the levelwind, using oil instead of grease ensures the spool can reach higher RPMs during the cast.

• Spool Bearings: Clean the bearings thoroughly and apply one drop of Deuthlon Reel Oil to each for maximum free-spool performance.

Phase 4: Reassembly and Calibration

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 Setup: Reinstall the worm gear, line guide, and pawl. Tighten the pawl cap until snug.

3. Frame Integration: Slide the spool back into the frame. Align the side plate and tighten the three thumb screws.

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

5. Tuning: Adjust the mechanical tension knob until the spool has just a hint of lateral play. This allows the Deuthlon lubricants to work at peak efficiency, offering a balance of power and casting distance.

By using Deuthlon Reel Grease on the gears and Deuthlon Reel Oil on the levelwind and idler gears, you ensure the Ambassadeur 5601CJB remains a durable and high-performing tool for heavy freshwater applications.