Ambassadeur 6500C 23 00 Olive Brown

Professional Restoration Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500C Olive Brown (Model 23 00)

The Ambassadeur 6500C Olive Brown (Foot Number 23 00) is a distinguished vintage-style reel known for its unique earthy tones and "C" series ball-bearing precision. This specific 23 00 production run features the classic high-speed gear ratio and a synchronized levelwind system that moves in tandem with the spool during the cast. To maintain the smooth, "silent" operation of this collector-grade reel, a meticulous approach to cleaning and lubrication is required.

Step 1: Systematic Disassembly

To protect the unique olive brown finish, use specialized reel screwdrivers that won't slip and mar the side plates.

1. Remove the Handle Side Plate: Loosen the three knurled thumb screws. Pull the side plate assembly away to reveal the drive bridge and the spool.

2. Spool and Bearings: Slide the spool out. This model houses two stainless steel ball bearings—one in the tension knob and one in the non-handle side plate. Carefully remove the retaining clips to free the bearings for a deep soak.

3. Drive Train Extraction: Remove the handle, star drag, and the drive shaft shims. Lift the side plate cover to expose the brass main gear and the carbon-fiber drag stack. Inspect the pinion gear for any chipped teeth.

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

Step 2: Deep Cleaning and Inspection

Old, oxidized lubricants can act like an abrasive paste, wearing down the brass internals of the 23 00 model.

• Metal Parts: Submerge the main gear, pinion, and worm shaft in a degreasing solvent. Use a brush to ensure the valleys between the gear teeth are perfectly clean.

• Bearing Refresh: Soak the ball bearings in a solvent bath and spin them to eject trapped particles. Dry them thoroughly with compressed air or a lint-free cloth.

• The "Olive" Frame: Wipe down the interior of the frame and the idler gear. Check the plastic idler gear for any sign of wear, as this component is critical for the synchronized levelwind movement.

Step 3: Modern Lubrication Protocol

Applying the right lubricant to the right part is the most critical step in restoring the 6500C’s performance.

Levelwind and Idler Gears

Because the levelwind on the 6500C oscillates during the cast, it is a primary source of friction. To minimize this drag, apply Deuthlon Reel Power Oil to the worm shaft and the idler gear teeth. This high-speed synthetic oil provides a "wet" barrier that allows the line guide to track back and forth with zero hesitation, significantly increasing your maximum casting distance compared to standard oils.

Main and Pinion Gears

The gear mesh is the "engine" of the retrieve. Apply a thin, even coat of high-quality gear grease to the teeth of the brass main gear. This grease creates a protective cushion that eliminates the "vibration" often felt in older reels, ensuring a smooth, powerful retrieve even under the pressure of a heavy fish.

Step 4: Reassembly and Calibration

1. Gear Bridge Rebuild: Place the pinion gear into the yoke and seat the main gear on the drive shaft. Ensure the drag washers are clean and stacked in the correct "dry" sequence.

2. Bearing Lubrication: Place one drop of Deuthlon oil into each cleaned ball bearing before sliding them back into their housings.

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

4. Closing the Reel: Realign the olive brown side plates with the frame. Tighten the thumb screws in a staggered pattern to ensure the spool stays centered.

Final Technical Adjustment

Once reassembled, adjust the mechanical tension knob until the spool has just a fraction of side-to-side play. This "zero-play" setting, combined with Deuthlon oil on the high-speed components and fresh grease on the gears, will make the 6500C 23 00 Olive Brown feel better than the day it left the factory.