Ambassadeur 6500C Syncro(99-01)

Technical Restoration Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500C Syncro (Model 99-01)

The Ambassadeur 6500C Syncro (Foot Number 99-01) is a specialized mechanical baitcaster designed for precision drag management. This late-90s model features the "Syncro" drag hub, which allows for an instantaneous 50% reduction in drag pressure when the handle is rotated backward—a critical feature for handling large fish at the boat side. Because the 99-01 utilizes a synchronized levelwind system, maintaining the balance between its complex drag internals and its casting efficiency is paramount.

Phase 1: Disassembly and Syncro Hub Analysis

The 99-01 requires a methodical teardown of the drive side to ensure the drag-shifting mechanism is free of obstruction.

1. Right-Side Access: Loosen the three knurled thumb screws and pull the handle-side plate assembly away from the frame.

2. Spool and Bearings: Slide the spool out. This model houses stainless steel ball bearings. Carefully remove the retaining clips from the side plate pockets and extract the bearings for a deep soak.

3. The Syncro Drive Stack: Remove the handle and the Syncro-specific star drag. Lift the main gear to reveal the Syncro cam and friction washers. Note the orientation of the "butterfly" spring washers; these are essential for the drag-release function.

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

Phase 2: Cleaning and Degreasing

A Syncro model must be completely free of old, "varnished" grease to ensure the drag-release mechanism does not stick.

• Hard Part Cleaning: Submerge the main gear, pinion gear, and the Syncro hub components in a high-grade degreasing solvent. Use a soft brush to scrub the internal ramp of the hub where the drag-shifting occurs.

• Bearing Refresh: Soak the ball bearings in isopropyl alcohol. Spin them while submerged to eject micro-grit. Once dried, they should spin silently and without any "gritty" sensation.

• Frame Maintenance: Wipe the interior of the frame clean. Pay special attention to the plastic idler gear; ensure the teeth are free of debris, as this gear synchronizes the levelwind with the spool's rotation during the cast.

Phase 3: High-Performance Lubrication Protocol

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

High-Speed Oscillation (Levelwind and Idler Gears)

The levelwind system on the 99-01 is synchronized, meaning it oscillates back and forth during the cast, creating mechanical drag. To minimize this, apply Deuthlon Reel Power Oil to the worm shaft and the teeth of the idler gears. This specialized synthetic oil provides an ultra-slick barrier that stays fluid at high RPMs, allowing the line guide to move effortlessly and maximizing your total casting distance.

Power and Torque (Main and Pinion Gears)

The drive train and Syncro hub handle the mechanical pressure of the retrieve. Apply a thin, even coat of high-viscosity gear grease to every tooth of the brass main gear and the pinion gear. This grease acts as a hydraulic cushion, dampening vibration and protecting the metal surfaces from wear during heavy fights with powerful fish.

Phase 4: Reassembly and Mechanical Calibration

1. Rebuild the Drive Bridge: Place the pinion gear back into the yoke and seat the main gear on the drive shaft. Reassemble the Syncro hub, ensuring the drag washers are clean and reassembled in their factory-specified order.

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

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 side plates and tighten the thumb screws snugly. Reinstall the Syncro star drag and handle.

Technical Performance Summary

Once reassembled, adjust the mechanical tension knob until the spool has zero lateral play. Test the Syncro feature by tightening the drag and then cranking the handle backward; you should feel a distinct release in tension. With Deuthlon oil on the levelwind and fresh grease on the gears, your Ambassadeur 6500C Syncro 99-01 is restored to its peak professional performance.