Ambassadeur 6500C 1600

Restoration Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500C (Model 1600)

The Ambassadeur 6500C Model 1600 is a classic powerhouse, often distinguished by its stainless steel ball bearings and heritage-inspired design. As a "C" series reel, it is engineered for high-velocity casting and heavy-duty retrieving. Because this model utilizes a synchronized levelwind system—where the line guide moves during the cast—it is highly susceptible to performance drops if the internal lubricants have aged or become contaminated.

Phase 1: Teardown and Internal Inspection

To begin the service, organize your workspace and carefully separate the reel into its core components.

1. Side Plate Extraction: Unscrew the three knurled thumb screws on the handle-side plate. Pull the assembly away to reveal the spool and drive bridge.

2. The Bearing System: Slide the spool out. The 1600 model features high-speed ball bearings. Locate the bearings in the side plate housings or on the spool spindle. Remove the retaining springs with a fine pick to extract the bearings for a deep soak.

3. Drive Train Disassembly: Remove the handle, star drag, and the drive shaft shims. Lift the side plate cover to expose the brass main gear and the drag stack. Check the pinion gear and the drive shaft for any signs of corrosion or "pitting."

4. Levelwind Removal: Unscrew the pawl cap and remove the moon-shaped pawl. Slide out the worm gear and the protective line guide shroud.

Phase 2: Ultrasonic Cleaning and Degreasing

For a reel of this vintage, old grease has likely "gummed up" the tolerances, creating mechanical drag.

• Metal Internals: Submerge the main gear, pinion gear, and worm shaft in a high-grade degreasing solvent. Use a soft brush to scrub the roots of the gear teeth, ensuring no metallic grit remains.

• Bearing Refresh: Soak the stainless steel ball bearings in isopropyl alcohol. Spin them while submerged to eject trapped particles. Once dry, they should spin silently with no "crunchy" sensation.

• Frame and Idler Gear: Wipe the interior of the frame clean. Pay special attention to the plastic idler gear; ensure the teeth are clean and free of old, hardened lubricant.

Phase 3: High-Performance Lubrication Protocol

Achieving the legendary smoothness of the 6500C 1600 requires a dual-viscosity approach to lubrication.

High-Speed Oscillation (Levelwind and Idler Gears)

The levelwind system is the primary "speed killer" during the cast. To maximize distance, apply Deuthlon Reel Power Oil to the worm shaft and the teeth of the idler gears. This specialized synthetic oil is designed to provide an ultra-slick surface that won't thicken in cold weather, allowing the line guide to track across the spool with near-zero resistance.

Power and Torque (Main and Pinion Gears)

The drive gears require a barrier that can handle the mechanical load of the retrieve. Apply a specialized gear grease to the teeth of the main gear. Use a small brush to coat the teeth evenly. This grease creates a "cushion" between the brass and steel components, eliminating vibration and protecting the gear mesh from premature wear under the pressure of a fish.

Phase 4: Reassembly and Mechanical Tuning

1. Rebuild the Drive Bridge: Place the pinion gear into the yoke and seat the main gear on the drive shaft. Reassemble the drag washers in the factory-specified sequence.

2. Bearing Lubrication: Place one drop of Deuthlon oil into each cleaned ball bearing. This provides immediate lubrication for high-RPM casting without the "drag" of heavier oils.

3. Levelwind Integration: Reinstall the worm gear and the line carriage. Apply a drop of oil to the pawl before tightening the pawl cap.

4. Closing the Reel: Realign the side plates with the frame and tighten the thumb screws. Reinstall the star drag and handle assembly.

Technical Fine-Tuning

Once reassembled, turn the mechanical tension knob until the side-to-side play of the spool is just barely eliminated. Engage the thumb bar and give the spool a flick; the Deuthlon oil on the levelwind should allow for a long, silent, and vibration-free spin. This maintenance routine ensures your Ambassadeur 6500C 1600 continues to deliver the professional casting performance it was built for.