Ambassadeur 6500C 22 00 Blue

Expert Service Manual: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500C Blue (Model 22 00)

The Ambassadeur 6500C Blue (Foot Number 22 00) is a striking, collector-favorite reel known for its vibrant anodized blue finish and high-speed performance. This model features a ball-bearing drive (denoted by the "C") and a synchronized levelwind system. Because the blue anodizing can be sensitive to harsh abrasives, and the "C" bearings require precision care, this service focuses on maximizing spool speed while protecting the reel’s aesthetic and mechanical integrity.

Phase 1: Safe Disassembly and Inspection

To prevent scratching the blue finish, use high-quality tools that fit the screw heads perfectly.

1. Side Plate Removal: Loosen the three knurled thumb screws on the handle side. Pull the side plate away to expose the spool and the drive bridge.

2. The "C" Bearings: Slide the spool out. In the 22 00 model, you will find ball bearings located in the side plate covers or on the spool shaft. Use a thin wire or a bearing tool to remove them for cleaning.

3. Drive Train Access: Remove the handle assembly and the star drag. Take care not to lose the small spring washers (Belleville washers) under the star drag. Lift the bridge to reveal the brass main gear and the carbon drag stack.

4. Levelwind Components: Remove the pawl cap and the pawl from the line carriage. Slide the worm gear out of the frame.

Phase 2: Cleaning the Anodized Components

Maintenance on a "Blue" model requires extra care to preserve the color.

• Exterior Care: Wipe the side plates with a soft microfiber cloth and a drop of mild soap. Avoid soaking the plates in strong degreasers that might dull the anodizing.

• Internal Degreasing: Submerge the metal gears and ball bearings in a specialized cleaning solvent. Use a soft brush to remove old, dried grease from the gear teeth and the worm shaft.

• Brake Race: Use a cotton swab to clean the brass brake race inside the non-handle side plate. It must be perfectly dry and debris-free for the centrifugal brakes to engage consistently.

Phase 3: The Specialized Lubrication Plan

To achieve the "High Speed" performance this reel is famous for, you must separate the high-rotation parts from the high-torque parts.

Levelwind and Idler Gears

On the 6500C, the levelwind moves back and forth during the cast. Any resistance here will significantly shorten your casting distance. Apply 1–2 drops of Deuthlon Reel Power Oil to the worm shaft (levelwind) and the plastic idler gears on the frame. This oil is specifically formulated to provide a "slick" surface that doesn't drag against the pawl, allowing the spool to spin with minimal resistance.

Main and Pinion Gears

The gear set provides the power for the retrieve. Apply a smooth, thin layer of gear grease to the teeth of the main gear and the pinion gear. This grease acts as a shock absorber between the brass and steel, preventing the "grinding" sensation that occurs when metal surfaces meet under load.

Phase 4: Reassembly and Fine-Tuning

1. Reinstall the Gears: Seat the pinion gear into its yoke and slide the main gear back onto the drive shaft. Ensure the drag washers are clean and reassembled in the correct order.

2. Bearing Placement: Place a single drop of Deuthlon oil into each ball bearing before reseating them. This ensures they spin at maximum RPM without overheating.

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

4. Closing the Reel: Align the blue side plates with the frame. Tighten the thumb screws snugly by hand.

Technical Optimization

Once reassembled, turn the mechanical tension knob until the spool has no side-to-side "knock." If the spool feels sluggish, you may have used too much grease on the gears or too heavy an oil on the bearings. With Deuthlon oil on the levelwind and premium grease on the gears, the 6500C 22 00 should provide a silent, lightning-fast cast and a powerful, smooth retrieve.