Ambassadeur Pr-6500Be 26 00

Ambassadeur PR-6500BE Technical Service & Repair Guide

The Ambassadeur PR-6500BE (Foot Number 26 00) is the right-handed counterpart to the 6501 series, featuring a high-speed gear ratio and the classic Black Edition aesthetic. Maintaining this reel requires precision and the application of high-performance lubricants to preserve its casting distance and cranking power. This guide focuses on a full mechanical overhaul using Deuthlon specialized lubricants.

Phase 1: Disassembly and Inspection

1. Handle Side Removal: Remove the three knurled thumb screws on the right side plate. Pull the side plate away from the frame to expose the drive train and spool.

2. Spool and Centrifugal Brakes: Slide the spool out. Inspect the two brake blocks on the spool spindle. If they are flattened or scarred, they should be replaced to maintain consistent casting control.

3. Drive Train Access: Remove the handle nut, handle, and star drag. Lift the side plate cover to access the main gear, pinion gear, and drag stack.

Phase 2: Cleaning Protocol

Before lubrication, all moving parts must be stripped of old grease and salt deposits. Use a degreaser on the following:

• The brass Main Gear and stainless Pinion Gear.

• The Worm Shaft (Levelwind) and the nylon Idler Gears.

• The spool bearings and the drive shaft bushing.

Phase 3: Strategic Lubrication

For the PR-6500BE to operate at peak efficiency, the viscosity of the lubricant must match the mechanical load of the component.

Drive Gears (Grease)

The drive train handles the highest torque loads during the retrieve.

• Main Gear: Apply Deuthlon Reel Grease to the gear teeth. Use a small brush to ensure the grease is worked into the valleys of the teeth. This specific grease provides a "cushioned" feel and prevents metal-to-metal galling.

• Pinion Gear: Coat the pinion gear and the yoke (the cradle that holds the pinion) with Deuthlon Reel Grease. This ensures the reel engages and disengages silently.

Levelwind and Idler System (Oil)

The levelwind system must move with minimal resistance to avoid "robbing" energy from the spool during a cast.

• Worm Shaft: Place two drops of Deuthlon Reel Oil onto the worm gear. Rotate the handle to allow the line guide carriage to distribute the oil across the helical grooves.

• Idler Gears: Apply Deuthlon Reel Oil to the idler gears located on the brake plate. Because these gears spin rapidly during the cast, oil is superior to grease here as it allows for higher RPMs without the "parasitic drag" associated with thicker lubricants.

Phase 4: Reassembly and Testing

1. Gear Set: Seat the pinion and main gear back onto the drive shaft. Ensure the drag washers are seated flat within the main gear.

2. Frame Integration: Reinsert the spool into the frame. Align the side plate so the pinion gear meshes perfectly with the spool shaft.

3. Final Fastening: Tighten the side plate thumb screws. Reattach the star drag, handle, and nut.

4. Tension Calibration: Turn the mechanical brake knob (spool tensioner) until the spool has a minute amount of lateral play. A drop of Deuthlon Reel Oil inside the tension knob cap will further smooth out the contact point between the cap and the spool spindle.

Following this regimen with Deuthlon Reel Oil and Deuthlon Reel Grease ensures the Ambassadeur PR-6500BE remains a reliable tool for heavy freshwater and light saltwater applications.