Ambassadeur 6500A(80-06-00)

Technical Restoration Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500A (Model 80-06-00)

The 80-06-00 model represents a refined era of the Ambassadeur 6500A, featuring the classic black high-speed stickers and the iconic dome-shaped side plates. This specific version is highly regarded for its "A" designation, which often indicates specific spool and bushing configurations designed for heavy-duty casting. Restoring this 1980s classic requires a meticulous approach to clear out decades of debris and apply modern lubrication technology.

Step 1: Disassembly and Inspection

To begin the overhaul, clear a workspace and separate the reel into its primary sub-assemblies.

1. Remove the Handle Side Plate: Loosen the three large bridge screws. Pull the plate away to reveal the drive train. Unlike modern reels, the 80-06-00 uses a more tactile, mechanical clicker and a robust anti-reverse dog.

2. Spool Extraction: Slide the spool out and inspect the spindle. On the 80-06-00, the spool shaft is integrated. Ensure the shaft is perfectly straight by rolling it on a flat glass surface.

3. Levelwind Teardown: Unscrew the worm shield and remove the worm gear. Check the plastic idler gear located on the frame; these are prone to hairline cracks in vintage models.

Step 2: Cleaning the Vintage Components

Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the vintage anodized finish. Use a mild degreaser or specialized reel cleaning solvent.

• Bearings/Bushings: If your 6500A uses brass bushings, soak them in solvent and polish the interior with a cotton swab. If it has been upgraded to ball bearings, ensure they spin freely for at least 5 seconds when dry.

• The Bridge Assembly: Scrub the teeth of the brass main gear and the stainless steel pinion gear. Use a toothpick to remove "gummed up" grease trapped in the roots of the gear teeth.

Step 3: Precision Lubrication Strategy

For a reel produced in 1980, the tolerances are slightly wider than modern CNC-machined reels. This makes the choice of lubricant vital for a quiet, smooth retrieve.

The Levelwind and Idler System

The levelwind on the 6500A is a "constant-mesh" system, meaning it moves during the cast and puts a drag on the spool. To counteract this, apply Deuthlon Reel Power Oil to the worm shaft and the teeth of the idler gear. This oil is engineered to stay fluid under high-speed oscillation, significantly reducing the "chatter" often heard in older Ambassadeurs.

The Main Gear and Pinion

The drive gears require a cushion to prevent wear and provide that "solid" feel during a retrieve. Apply a high-quality gear grease to the main gear. Ensure every tooth is coated, but avoid "globbing" the grease, as excess will eventually migrate into the drag washers and cause them to slip.

Step 4: Reassembly and Mechanical Tuning

1. Reinstall the Drive Train: Place the pinion gear into the yoke and slide the main gear onto the drive shaft. Ensure the anti-reverse dog is properly hooked onto the ratchet gear.

2. Levelwind Timing: Reinsert the worm gear and line carriage. Place a drop of Deuthlon oil on the pawl before tightening the pawl cap.

3. Centrifugal Brakes: This model utilizes two small fiber brake blocks. Ensure they are dry and the brake race (the brass ring inside the side plate) is polished and free of oil.

4. Tensioning: Once the side plates are secured, adjust the cast control knob. For the 6500A, the goal is "zero-knock"—tighten the knob until the side-to-side play of the spool just barely disappears.

Conclusion for the 80-06-00

By combining the vintage mechanical strength of the 1980s design with modern Deuthlon oil and premium grease, you eliminate the friction that originally limited these reels. Your Ambassadeur 6500A is now optimized for modern braided lines or heavy monofilament, ready for another forty years of service.