Ambassadeur 650(01-02 Plus)

Professional Service Protocol: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 650 (Foot Number 01-02 Plus)

The Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 650, identified by foot number 01-02 Plus, is a refined variant of the classic round reel design, often featuring a slightly wider spool capacity and a high-speed retrieve suitable for larger freshwater and light saltwater species. The "Plus" designation typically points to enhanced features or upgraded materials compared to base models of the era. To preserve the high-speed efficiency and cranking power of this Swedish machine, a methodical lubrication plan is necessary.

To ensure the best results, we recommend Deuthlon Reel Gear Grease for heavy-load surfaces and Deuthlon Reel Power Oil for high-velocity components. These specialized lubricants are designed to provide a molecular-level barrier against wear while minimizing fluid drag during the cast.

Phase 1: Disassembly and Degreasing

Begin by removing the handle nut, handle, and star drag. Loosen the knurled thumb screws to separate the drive-side plate. Extract the spool, the main gear assembly, and the levelwind components.

For the 01-02 Plus, it is vital to perform a deep clean of the internal drive train. Use a specialized degreaser to remove all traces of factory grease that may have become tacky or contaminated. Pay close attention to the teeth of the brass drive gear and the stainless steel pinion. Ensure the worm shaft is cleared of any trapped grit. Dry all components thoroughly to ensure the new Deuthlon lubricants bond directly to the metal.

Phase 2: High-Load Gear Lubrication

The 650 model relies on its main gear and pinion to provide smooth power delivery during a retrieve. These components undergo significant pressure when under load and require a grease that stays put.

• Main Gear and Pinion: Apply Deuthlon Reel Gear Grease to the teeth of the main gear. Use a small brush to paint a thin, uniform coating onto the gear face. This grease is formulated to provide a "quiet" mesh and prevent the metal-on-metal galling that can occur in high-speed reels. Apply a light coat to the pinion gear as well to ensure crisp engagement when the reel is put back into gear after a cast.

Phase 3: Optimizing the Levelwind and Idler Gears

Since the Ambassadeur 650 utilizes a synchronized levelwind—where the line guide moves during the cast—the efficiency of the oscillation system is the most critical factor for casting distance.

• Worm Shaft and Pawl: Apply Deuthlon Reel Power Oil directly to the grooves of the worm gear. Grease is too viscous for this area and can trap abrasive particles that score the shaft. The Power Oil allows the pawl to track smoothly with minimal resistance.

• Idler Gears: These gears bridge the power from the spool to the oscillation system. Apply Deuthlon Reel Power Oil to the idler gear posts. The thin viscosity of this oil ensures the gear train remains "light," allowing the spool to spin freely without being bogged down by mechanical friction.

Phase 4: Spool Shaft and Friction Management

Casting performance in the 650 is ultimately determined by the friction at the spool's rotation points.

• Spool Shaft: Wipe the stainless steel spool spindle until it is mirror-bright. Apply a single drop of Deuthlon Reel Power Oil to each end of the shaft where it meets the side plate bearings or bushings.

• Tension Shims: Apply a tiny amount of Deuthlon Reel Power Oil to the copper shims inside the cast control caps. This provides a protective hydraulic layer that ensures a smooth, consistent spool speed throughout the cast and prevents heat buildup during long runs.

Final Reassembly and Performance Tuning

Reassemble the side plates, ensuring the centrifugal brake weights are clean and dry. Once the handle is secured, adjust the cast control knob until the spool has the slightest amount of lateral play. Cycle the handle several times to allow the Deuthlon Reel Gear Grease to seat into the gear teeth.

By using Deuthlon's specialized lubricants—grease for the high-torque gears and oil for the fast-moving oscillation parts—you ensure your Ambassadeur 650 remains a silent, powerful, and long-casting tool. Proper maintenance with these high-performance lubricants will protect the reel's internal integrity for many seasons to come.