Ambassadeur 6000Ca(06-02)

Comprehensive Technical Service Manual: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6000Ca (06-02)

The Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6000Ca, specifically the "06-02" production variant, is a refined example of the Swedish round reel design. This model is characterized by its synchronized levelwind system and high-tensile brass internals. To maintain the legendary smooth retrieve and long-distance casting capabilities of this specific era, a meticulous approach to lubrication and parts inspection is essential.

Follow this guide to perform a professional-grade teardown and service.

1. Disassembly and Internal Access

Before cleaning, systematically disassemble the reel to prevent the loss of small shims or tension washers.

• Remove the Drive-Side Plate: Loosen the three knurled thumb screws located on the right side of the reel. Gently pull the plate assembly away from the frame to reveal the gear bridge and spool.

• Extract the Spool: Slide the spool out of the frame housing. Inspect the two centrifugal brake weights (blocks) on the spool spindle. Ensure they are free of debris and move easily on their pins.

• Degreasing: Submerge the main gear, pinion gear, and worm shaft in a degreasing agent or isopropyl alcohol. Use a soft nylon brush to remove old, hardened lubricants from the valleys of the gear teeth.

2. Drivetrain and Load-Bearing Lubrication (Grease)

The drivetrain is responsible for the reel’s cranking power. It requires a high-adhesion lubricant that can withstand the pressure of a heavy retrieve.

• Main Gear: Apply Deuthlon Grease to the teeth of the large brass main gear. A thin, even coating is more effective than a heavy application; excess grease can migrate into the drag stack and cause slipping.

• Pinion Gear: Coat the Pinion Gear and the slots of the pinion yoke with Deuthlon Grease. This ensures the gear slides smoothly on the spool shaft during engagement and disengagement of the free-spool mechanism.

3. Levelwind and Oscillation Maintenance (Oil)

The 6000Ca utilizes a synchronized levelwind system, meaning the line guide moves during the cast. Minimizing friction in this system is the key to achieving maximum distance.

• Worm Gear: Apply Deuthlon Oil to the worm shaft (the spiraled rod). This light-viscosity oil allows the line guide pawl to oscillate rapidly with minimal resistance, ensuring even line lay and reduced casting drag.

• Idler Gears: Locate the plastic Idler Gears mounted to the frame and drive plate. These gears synchronize the spool's rotation with the levelwind. Lubricate the idler gear teeth and their mounting posts strictly with Deuthlon Oil. Avoid using grease on these plastic parts, as grease creates parasitic drag that acts as a brake on the spool.

4. Precision Bearing and Spool Care

The "Ca" series utilizes stainless steel ball bearings to support the spool. These require low-viscosity lubrication to maintain high RPMs.

• Ball Bearings: Flush the bearings in solvent and dry them completely. Apply exactly one drop of Deuthlon Oil to each. Excessive oil can create hydraulic resistance, which actually slows down the bearing.

• Mechanical Tensioner: Wipe the copper shims inside the tension knobs clean. Apply a microscopic film of Deuthlon Oil to the ends of the spool spindle where they contact these shims.

5. Reassembly and Calibration

1. Reinstall the Spool: Place the spool into the frame, ensuring the brake weights are properly positioned.

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

3. Handle and Drag Stack: Reinstall the star drag wheel, the handle, and the locking nut. Ensure the spring washers are "nested" (facing each other) to provide the correct tension range.

4. Final Adjustment: Tighten the mechanical brake knob until the spool has just a minute amount of lateral "knock." This setting provides the best balance between distance and bearing longevity.

Technical Lubrication Summary (06-02)