Ambassadeur 6001C(87-0)

Technical Maintenance Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6001C (87-0)

The Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6001C, specifically the "87-0" production run, is a vintage left-hand drive powerhouse from the late 1980s. The "C" designation indicates that this model is equipped with stainless steel ball bearings, a significant upgrade over the bushing models of that era. Because these reels often contain decades-old, solidified factory lubricants, a complete service is required to restore the ultra-smooth Swedish performance they are known for.

1. Disassembly and Degreasing

To begin the repair, you must clear away old grease "varnish" that can cause sluggishness in the drivetrain.

• Handle Assembly (Left Side): Since this is a 6001 model, the drive system is on the left. Remove the handle nut, handle, and star drag. Take care to keep the two tension washers in their original order.

• Accessing the Frame: Loosen the three bridge screws on the left side plate and remove it. Slide the spool out and inspect the two white centrifugal brake weights on the spool spindle.

• Deep Clean: Submerge the brass main gear, pinion gear, and the worm shaft in a degreaser. Use a fine brush to ensure the teeth of the gears are completely free of old debris and metallic filings.

2. High-Pressure Lubrication (Grease)

The internal gears of the 87-0 series are built for torque. Using a high-adhesion grease ensures silent operation and prevents metal fatigue.

• Main Gear: Use a small brush to apply Deuthlon Grease to the teeth of the large main gear. This specialized grease stays on the gear teeth even during fast retrieves, providing a cushioning layer that eliminates the "gritty" feel common in older reels.

• Pinion Gear: Apply Deuthlon Grease to the Pinion Gear and the yoke where it rests. This ensures that when you turn the handle to engage the reel from free-spool, the gears mesh perfectly without grinding.

3. Oscillation System Optimization (Oil)

The 6001C uses a synchronized levelwind. Because the line guide moves across the spool during the cast, any friction here acts as a brake.

• Worm Shaft: Apply Deuthlon Oil to the worm gear (the diamond-spiral shaft). This light-viscosity oil allows the pawl to move back and forth at high speed with minimal resistance.

• Idler Gears: These plastic gears connect the spool’s rotation to the levelwind mechanism. Lubricate the Idler Gears and their mounting posts strictly with Deuthlon Oil. Never use grease here; grease is too heavy for these parts and will significantly reduce your casting distance.

4. Bearing and Spool Care

The stainless steel bearings in the 87-0 model are the primary support for high-speed spool rotation.

• Ball Bearings: Remove the bearings from the side plate and tension cap. Flush them with solvent until they spin freely, then dry them. Apply exactly one drop of Deuthlon Oil to each. One drop is sufficient; more will create hydraulic drag.

• Spool Spindle: Wipe the spool shaft ends clean and apply a microscopic film of Deuthlon Oil to the tips to prevent friction against the tension shims.

5. Final Assembly and Adjustment

1. Re-seat the Spool: Place the spool into the frame, ensuring the brake blocks are properly seated on their pins.

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

3. Handle and Drag: Reinstall the star drag, handle, and locking nut. Ensure the spring washers are "nested" (curved sides facing each other) for maximum drag range.

4. Tuning: Adjust the mechanical brake knob until the spool has a tiny amount of side-to-side play. This allows the bearings to spin at maximum efficiency without being pinched.

Technical Summary for 87-0 Model