Ambassadeur 6500C Ph 16 01

Technical Service Manual: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500C Ph (Model 16 01)

The Ambassadeur 6500C Ph (Foot Number 16 01) is a specialized variant within the 6500 series, prized for its "C" series ball-bearing drive and refined internal tolerances. The "16 01" designation indicates a specific production refinement involving the spool spindle and the anti-reverse system. Because this model utilizes a synchronized levelwind—where the worm gear oscillates during the cast—it is prone to significant performance loss if the internal lubricants have oxidized. A professional restoration requires a complete teardown and the application of high-efficiency synthetics.

Phase 1: Disassembly and Internal Assessment

To begin the overhaul of the 16 01 model, isolate the mechanical sections to ensure no small springs or shims are misplaced.

1. Right-Side Access: Loosen the three knurled thumb screws on the handle-side plate. Pull the assembly away to reveal the spool and the main drive bridge.

2. Spool and Bearing Extraction: Slide the spool out. In this model, high-speed stainless steel ball bearings are typically found in the side plate housings. Use a fine-point pick to remove the wire retaining clips and extract the bearings for cleaning.

3. Drive Train Breakdown: Remove the handle nut, handle, and star drag. Lift the side plate cover to expose the brass main gear and the carbon-fiber drag stack. Inspect the IAR (Instant Anti-Reverse) roller bearing for any signs of rust or slipping.

4. Levelwind Components: Unscrew the pawl cap from the line guide. Remove the moon-shaped pawl and slide the worm gear and its protective shroud out from the frame.

Phase 2: Cleaning and Degreasing

Old grease in the 16 01 model can turn into a waxy residue that creates "hydraulic drag," slowing the reel down significantly.

• Component Soak: Submerge the brass main gear, stainless steel pinion, and worm shaft in a high-grade degreasing solvent. Use a soft brush to scrub the gear teeth, ensuring all old, hardened lubricant is removed from the roots of the teeth.

• Bearing Refresh: Soak the ball bearings in isopropyl alcohol. Spin them while submerged to eject micro-grit. Once dried, they should spin silently.

• Frame and Idler Gears: Wipe down the interior of the frame. Clean the teeth of the plastic idler gear, which transfers power from the spool to the levelwind system during the cast.

Phase 3: The Specialized Lubrication Plan

For a reel designed for high-speed casting, the choice of lubricant viscosity is the most critical factor in performance.

High-Speed Oscillation (Levelwind and Idler Gears)

The levelwind system on the 6500C Ph is the primary source of drag during the casting cycle. To achieve maximum distance, apply Deuthlon Reel Power Oil to the worm shaft and the teeth of the idler gears. This ultra-low-friction synthetic oil is designed to stay on the metal surfaces without thickening, allowing the line guide to move back and forth with near-zero resistance.

Load-Bearing Power (Main and Pinion Gears)

The drive gears handle the heavy mechanical torque of the retrieve. Apply a thin, consistent layer of high-viscosity gear grease to every tooth of the brass main gear. This grease provides a necessary cushion between the metal surfaces, preventing wear and ensuring a smooth, silent cranking experience under the pressure of a fish.

Phase 4: Reassembly and Fine-Tuning

1. Rebuild the Drive Bridge: Place the pinion gear into the yoke and seat the main gear on the drive shaft. Ensure the drag washers are clean and reassembled in the correct order.

2. Bearing Lubrication: Place one drop of Deuthlon oil into each cleaned ball bearing. This provides immediate lubrication for the spool’s high-RPM rotation without the "slow-down" effect of heavy grease.

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

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

Technical Calibration

Once reassembled, turn the mechanical tension knob until the spool has zero lateral play. Engage the thumb bar and flick the spool; with Deuthlon oil on the high-speed components and fresh grease on the gears, the 6500C Ph 16 01 should spin silently and retrieve with a solid, buttery feel. This maintenance routine ensures your reel operates at peak efficiency for another season of heavy use.