Ambassadeur 6500C SYNCRO 9902

Advanced Repair Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500C SYNCRO (Model 9902)

The Ambassadeur 6500C SYNCRO (Foot Number 9902) is a specialized mechanical marvel within the Abu Garcia lineup. The "Syncro" feature allows the angler to reduce drag tension by 50% simply by cranking the handle backward—a vital tool for fighting surging fish. Because this model includes the complex Syncro drag hub and a synchronized levelwind system, maintenance is more technical than a standard 6500. Restoring its precision requires a total removal of old lubricants and a strategic application of modern synthetics.

Phase 1: Disassembly and Syncro Hub Inspection

Due to the unique drag system, the 9902 requires careful attention during the teardown of the drive side.

1. Side Plate Access: Loosen the three knurled thumb screws and remove the right side plate. Slide the spool out and set it aside.

2. The Syncro Drive: Remove the handle nut, handle, and the specialized Syncro star drag. Inside the side plate, you will find the Syncro drag hub. Note the orientation of the tension springs and the engagement pin; these allow the drag to "shift" when the handle is back-wound.

3. Gear and Bearing Removal: Extract the main gear and the pinion gear yoke. The 6500C features stainless steel ball bearings. Locate them in the side plates and remove the wire retaining clips to free the bearings for cleaning.

4. Levelwind Components: Unscrew the pawl cap, remove the pawl, and slide the worm gear out from the frame.

Phase 2: Cleaning and Degreasing

A Syncro model must be "surgically" clean to ensure the drag-shift mechanism doesn't stick or hesitate.

• Hard Part Degreasing: Submerge the main gear, pinion, and the entire Syncro hub assembly in a specialized reel cleaner. Use a soft brush to remove caked-on grease from the gear teeth and the internal ratchet of the Syncro hub.

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

• Levelwind Cleaning: Use a cotton swab to clean the worm gear grooves and the protective tube. Ensure the plastic idler gears on the frame are free of old, hardened lubricant.

Phase 3: High-Performance Lubrication Protocol

Because the 9902 is built for high-speed casting and technical drag management, the choice of lubricant viscosity is paramount.

High-Speed Oscillation (Levelwind and Idler Gears)

The levelwind on the Syncro model is synchronized, meaning it oscillates during the cast. This creates significant mechanical drag. To minimize this, apply Deuthlon Reel Power Oil to the worm shaft and the teeth of the idler gears. This high-speed synthetic oil provides an ultra-slick barrier that stays fluid even under high RPMs, ensuring the line guide moves effortlessly and maximizing your casting distance.

Load-Bearing Power (Main and Pinion Gears)

The gear mesh is responsible for the reel's cranking power and the stability of the Syncro drag system. Apply a thin, even coat of high-quality gear grease to the teeth of the brass main gear and the pinion gear. This grease acts as a cushion, dampening vibration and protecting the metal surfaces from wear during heavy retrieves or long fights with powerful fish.

Phase 4: Reassembly and Mechanical Tuning

1. Rebuild the Syncro Drive: Carefully seat the Syncro drag hub back onto the drive shaft. Ensure the drag washers are clean and dry before reassembling the stack in the factory sequence.

2. Bearing Lubrication: Place one drop of Deuthlon oil into each cleaned ball bearing. This allows for maximum spool velocity without the "braking" effect caused by heavier oils.

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. Reinstall the star drag and handle, testing the "back-wind" feature to ensure the drag tension drops as intended.

Technical Performance Summary

Adjust the mechanical tension knob until the spool has zero lateral play. With Deuthlon oil on the high-speed components and premium grease on the gears, your Ambassadeur 6500C SYNCRO 9902 will operate with a silent, "buttery" feel and a perfectly responsive drag system, ready for the most demanding angling conditions.