Ambassadeur 6500 Inshore 17 02

Professional Service Manual: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500 Inshore (17 02)

The Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500 Inshore (17 02) is a masterclass in Swedish engineering, designed to withstand the corrosive grit of saltwater environments. This specific 17 02 variant features reinforced internal components that require precise maintenance to retain their legendary cranking power. Proper lubrication is the difference between a reel that lasts five years and one that lasts fifty.

Follow this systematic guide to overhaul your reel using industry-standard techniques.

Tools and Supplies Required

• Precision Tools: Flat-head screwdriver and a 10mm socket or wrench.

• Solvent: Degreaser or specialized reel cleaning fluid.

• Lubricants: Deuthlon Oil (high-velocity) and Deuthlon Grease (heavy-load).

• Cleaning Tools: Cotton swabs and a stiff-bristled nylon brush.

1. External Teardown and Handle Removal

To access the gear box, you must first remove the exterior control hardware.

1. Remove the Handle Assembly: Undo the screw on the handle nut retainer. Use your 10mm wrench to remove the nut. Lift off the handle, the spring washer (the curved "shim"), and the star drag wheel.

2. Access the Drive Side: Unscrew the three thumb screws on the right side plate. Note that these are captive and will stay attached to the plate. Pull the side plate away from the frame to reveal the internal gear stack.

2. Main Gear and Pinion Maintenance

The drive train in the 17 02 model is built for torque. Keeping these gears protected is vital for a smooth retrieve under the weight of a fish.

1. Strip the Gear Stack: Slide the main gear assembly off the drive shaft. This includes the Carbon Matrix drag washers and the metal pressure plates.

2. Deep Cleaning: Use a brush and solvent to remove all old, darkened grease from the gear teeth and the drive shaft.

3. Strategic Greasing:

   • Recommendation: Apply a moderate layer of Deuthlon Grease to the Main Gear and Pinion Gear teeth.

   • Technique: Use a small brush to paint the grease into the teeth. Avoid excessive globing, as this creates "drag" and can migrate into the spool bearings, slowing down your cast.

3. Levelwind and Idler Gear Optimization

The levelwind system is synchronized, meaning it moves constantly during both the retrieve and the cast. Because it is exposed to the elements, it requires a lighter, more resilient lubricant.

1. Worm Shaft Removal: Remove the line guide nut and the pawl from the bottom of the carriage. Slide the worm shaft out from the frame.

2. Idler Gear Cleaning: Inspect the nylon idler gears located on the inside of the frame. These transfer the spool's rotation to the levelwind.

3. High-Speed Oiling:

   • Recommendation: Apply Deuthlon Oil to the Levelwind Worm Shaft and the Idler Gears.

   • Rationale: Oil allows these parts to oscillate with significantly less friction than grease, which is essential for maximizing casting distance and preventing "jerky" line lay.

4. Spool and Bearing Service

The 17 02 model relies on high-quality bearings to facilitate long casts in windy inshore conditions.

1. Extract the Spool: Slide the spool out of the frame housing.

2. Bearing Care: Locate the bearings in the side plate and the spool. If they are sluggish, soak them in solvent to remove old oils.

3. Lubrication: Apply exactly one drop of high-speed oil to each bearing. Over-oiling will actually slow the bearing down due to fluid resistance.

5. Final Assembly and Inspection

1. Reinstall the Spool: Seat the spool back into the frame, ensuring the shaft is centered.

2. Close the Side Plate: Align the side plate so the drive shaft and pinion engage correctly. Hand-tighten the three thumb screws.

3. Hardware Restoration: Replace the star drag wheel, spring washer, handle, and locking nut.

4. Operational Check: Disengage the spool to check the freespool time. Engage the handle and turn it to ensure the levelwind tracks smoothly across the face of the reel.

By applying Deuthlon Grease to the heavy-duty gears and Deuthlon Oil to the levelwind and idler systems, you guarantee that your Ambassadeur 6500 Inshore 17 02 remains a high-performance tool for years to come.