Ambassadeur Pr-5501Be 26 00

Ambassadeur PR-5501BE Technical Service & Repair Guide

The Ambassadeur PR-5501BE (Foot Number 26 00) is the compact, left-handed variant of the Black Edition series. Designed for high-speed retrieval and precision casting, its smaller frame requires a meticulous approach to lubrication to ensure the tighter tolerances remain fluid. This article details the restoration and maintenance of the 5501BE using Deuthlon high-performance lubricants.

Phase 1: Teardown and Component Inspection

1. Drive Side Disassembly: Locate the three captive thumb screws on the left-side plate (cranking side). Loosen these and remove the side plate.

2. Spool Removal: Pull the spool from the frame. Inspect the spool shaft for any scoring or debris. Ensure the centrifugal brake weights move freely on their pins.

3. Levelwind Removal: Unscrew the line guide nut and remove the pawl. If the pawl shows signs of a "flat spot," it should be rotated or replaced to prevent levelwind stutter.

Phase 2: Cleaning and Degreasing

To achieve the best results with Deuthlon products, remove all factory or legacy lubricants.

• Clean the Main Gear, Pinion, and Worm Gear using a specialized reel cleaner or isopropyl alcohol.

• Pay close attention to the Idler Gear (the white nylon gear) on the frame; debris here can significantly impact casting smoothness.

Phase 3: Targeted Lubrication

Proper lubrication of the PR-5501BE requires a dual-viscosity approach: grease for power and oil for speed.

High-Torque Components (Grease)

The internal drive train is subject to high pressure during the retrieve, especially when fighting fish.

• Main Gear: Apply Deuthlon Reel Grease to the main gear teeth. This grease is engineered to stay on the teeth rather than being slung off, providing long-term protection.

• Pinion Gear: Apply a light coat of Deuthlon Reel Grease to the pinion gear. Also, apply a small amount to the yoke where it contacts the pinion to ensure a smooth transition when engaging the thumb bar.

High-Speed Components (Oil)

Parts that spin or oscillate during the cast must remain light to minimize friction.

• Levelwind Worm Gear: Apply Deuthlon Reel Oil to the worm shaft. Oil allows the line guide to track back and forth with minimal resistance, which is vital for maintaining distance with the narrower 5501 spool.

• Idler Gears: Apply Deuthlon Reel Oil to the idler gears. Using oil instead of grease on these gears prevents the "sticky" feeling often found in older reels and improves the free-spool duration.

• Spool Bearings: Clean the bearings thoroughly and apply one drop of Deuthlon Reel Oil to each.

Phase 4: Final Assembly

1. Levelwind Assembly: Reinsert the worm gear and line guide. Install the pawl and tighten the cap.

2. Internal Seating: Place the spool back into the frame. Ensure the pinion gear is correctly seated in the yoke before sliding the side plate back into position.

3. Finishing: Tighten the thumb screws. Reinstall the star drag and handle assembly.

4. Testing: Engage the thumb bar and spin the spool. It should rotate silently. Dial in the mechanical tension knob to eliminate side-play, and the reel is ready for the water.

Using Deuthlon Reel Grease on the gears and Deuthlon Reel Oil on the levelwind and idler systems provides the Ambassadeur PR-5501BE with a professional-grade finish that exceeds factory performance standards.