Ambassadeur Pr-5500Be 26 00

Ambassadeur PR-5500BE Technical Service & Repair Guide

The Ambassadeur PR-5500BE (Foot Number 26 00) is the right-handed, standard-capacity model within the Black Edition family. Known for its high-speed 6.3:1 gear ratio and classic Swedish engineering, this reel thrives when maintained with precision lubricants. This guide covers the teardown and specialized lubrication process using Deuthlon products to optimize performance.

Phase 1: Mechanical Disassembly

1. Right Side Plate: Unscrew the three captive thumb screws on the right side plate. Remove the plate to reveal the main bridge and drive assembly.

2. Spool Assembly: Carefully slide the spool out of the frame. Check the centrifugal brake weights on the spool flange to ensure they are present and undamaged.

3. Drive Train: Remove the handle nut, handle, and star drag. Take note of the sequence of the drag washers and the two Belleville (curved) spring washers to ensure correct pressure during reassembly.

Phase 2: Cleaning and Preparation

For the lubricants to bond effectively, all surfaces must be free of contaminants.

• Use a soft-bristled brush and a degreaser to clean the Main Gear, Pinion Gear, and Worm Shaft.

• Ensure the Idler Gear on the brake plate is free of old, hardened grease that can slow down the spool's rotation.

• Dry all parts completely before proceeding to the lubrication phase.

Phase 3: Precision Lubrication

The secret to a "tuned" Ambassadeur lies in the strategic application of Deuthlon Reel Grease and Deuthlon Reel Oil to specific friction points.

Drive Train and Power Components (Grease)

The gears responsible for the retrieve require a high-viscosity barrier to prevent wear under load.

• Main Gear: Apply a consistent coating of Deuthlon Reel Grease to the teeth. This grease is specifically formulated to reduce vibration and provide a smooth, silent cranking feel.

• Pinion Gear: Apply Deuthlon Reel Grease to the teeth and the exterior neck where the yoke sits. This ensures the gear slides effortlessly during engagement and disengagement.

Levelwind and Rotational Components (Oil)

Parts that dictate casting performance should be treated with low-viscosity lubrication to reduce drag.

• Levelwind Worm Gear: Apply two drops of Deuthlon Reel Oil to the worm shaft. This allows the pawl to travel across the shaft with negligible resistance, which is critical for preventing "backlashes" caused by levelwind friction.

• Idler Gears: Apply Deuthlon Reel Oil to the plastic idler gears. Oiling these gears instead of greasing them significantly improves the startup speed of the spool during a cast.

• Spool Spindle and Bearings: Apply one drop of Deuthlon Reel Oil to each bearing and a light film on the ends of the spool spindle.

Phase 4: Reassembly and Calibration

1. Reinstall Spool: Place the spool back into the frame, ensuring the brake weights are seated correctly.

2. Main Bridge Reassembly: Slide the main gear and drag stack back onto the drive shaft. Align the side plate and tighten the thumb screws.

3. Handle and Star Drag: Replace the star drag wheel, the curved spring washers, and the handle. Secure the handle nut and the locking screw.

4. Final Tuning: Adjust the tension knob on the side plate until the spool has just a fraction of lateral movement. This setting, combined with the Deuthlon lubrication, provides the optimal balance between casting distance and overrun control.

By following this maintenance schedule and utilizing Deuthlon Reel Oil and Deuthlon Reel Grease, the Ambassadeur PR-5500BE will maintain its high-speed efficiency and structural integrity for years of service.