Ambassadeur 6000C(99-02 Red)

Professional Service Manual: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6000C (99-02 Red Edition)

The Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6000C produced during the 1999–2002 period in the classic red finish is a cherished piece of angling equipment. This iteration features the traditional Swedish "C" bearing system and a synchronized levelwind. Maintaining this specific model requires balancing the protection of its brass gears with the optimization of its casting components.

1. Disassembly and Internal Access

Proper maintenance begins with a clean workspace and a methodical teardown.

• Handle Side Removal: Back out the three large thumb screws on the right side plate. Carefully pull the side plate assembly away from the frame.

• Spool Extraction: Slide the spool out of the frame. Pay close attention to the two centrifugal brake weights (blocks) on the spool's carrier. Ensure they do not fall off during removal.

• Deep Cleaning: Submerge the main gear, pinion gear, and worm shaft in a degreaser. Use a brush to remove old, hardened grease from the teeth, as this is the primary cause of a "rough" retrieve.

2. Drivetrain Lubrication (Grease)

The internal gears handle the torque of the retrieve and require a high-viscosity lubricant to prevent wear.

• Main Gear: Apply Deuthlon Grease to the teeth of the large brass main gear. A thin, even coat is superior to a heavy glob, as excess grease will eventually migrate into the drag washers and cause slipping.

• Pinion Gear: Coat the Pinion Gear and the yoke (the cradle that moves the gear) with Deuthlon Grease. This ensures a smooth transition when engaging the reel from free-spool to retrieve.

3. Levelwind and Idler Gear Optimization (Oil)

The 99-02 Red 6000C uses a synchronized levelwind, meaning the levelwind moves back and forth even during the cast. To maximize distance, friction in this area must be minimized.

• Worm Gear: Apply Deuthlon Oil to the worm shaft (the spiraled rod). This oil allows the pawl to travel with minimal resistance, which is vital for maintaining spool momentum during a long cast.

• Idler Gears: These are the plastic gears that connect the spool's rotation to the levelwind. Lubricate the Idler Gears and their mounting posts strictly with Deuthlon Oil. Using grease on these gears is a common error that significantly increases rotational drag.

4. Bearing and Spool Shaft Care

The "C" model indicates the presence of stainless steel ball bearings, which provide the spool's high-speed rotation.

• Ball Bearings: Remove the bearings from the side plate and the tension cap. After cleaning them with solvent and drying them, apply exactly one drop of Deuthlon Oil to each.

• Mechanical Tensioner: Ensure the copper shims inside the tension caps are clean. A tiny drop of oil on the ends of the spool shaft will prevent friction-induced heat during high-speed casting.

5. Reassembly and Quality Check

1. Seat the Spool: Place the spool back into the frame, ensuring the brake weights are properly positioned on their pins.

2. Attach the Side Plate: Align the pinion gear with the spool shaft. Slide the side plate on and tighten the thumb screws finger-tight.

3. Restore the Handle: Reinstall the star drag (ensuring the spring washers are nested), the handle, and the locking nut.

4. Final Calibration: Adjust the mechanical brake until the spool has just a "tick" of side-to-side play. This ensures the bearings are not under unnecessary lateral pressure.

Technical Lubrication Summary