Ambassadeur 6500C3(99-07)

Technical Restoration Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500C3 (Foot Number 99-07)

The Ambassadeur 6500C3 (Foot Number 99-07) is a quintessential "Swedish workhorse" from the turn of the millennium. This specific revision (produced around 1999–2001) features the Instant Anti-Reverse (IAR) roller bearing and the modern 6-pin centrifugal brake system.

As a synchronized levelwind reel, the line guide moves during the cast. Because this mechanical link creates inherent drag, the key to "Pro Shop" performance in a 99-07 is removing old, oxidized factory grease and replacing it with modern, low-viscosity synthetics to maximize spool speed.

Phase 1: Precision Teardown and Gear Inspection

To restore the 99-07 to its peak state, organize your parts on a soft mat and break the reel down into three modules.

1. Right Side Plate: Unscrew the three knurled captive thumb screws. Pull the plate away to reveal the drive bridge and the spool.

2. Spool and 3-Bearing System: Slide the spool out. This model features 3 stainless steel ball bearings (two spool bearings and one IAR roller bearing in the handle). Extract the spool bearings from the side plate pockets by removing the wire C-clips with a fine pick.

3. Drive Train Breakdown: Remove the handle, star drag, and side plate cover. Lift the bridge to expose the brass main gear and the Carbon Matrix drag stack.

   • Note: Ensure the IAR bearing inside the side plate is free of debris; if the handle slips backward, this bearing is likely contaminated with oil.

4. Levelwind Assembly: Unscrew the pawl cap, remove the crescent-shaped pawl, and slide the worm gear and its shroud out from the frame.

Phase 2: Deep Cleaning and Degreasing

Old lubricants from this era often turn into a waxy residue that physically "chokes" the spool's rotation.

• Hard Part Degreasing: Submerge the main gear, pinion gear, and worm shaft in a high-grade degreaser. Scrub the gear teeth with a soft brush until they are "surgically" clean.

• Bearing Refresh: Soak the stainless steel ball bearings in isopropyl alcohol. Spin them while submerged to eject years of micro-grit. Once dried, they should spin silently. Do not soak the IAR (roller) bearing; wipe it with a clean cloth to avoid damaging the internal plastic cage.

• Brake Drum Maintenance: Use a cotton swab with alcohol to clean the brass brake drum inside the non-handle side plate. This surface must be dry and oil-free for the 6-pin centrifugal brakes to deploy consistently.

Phase 3: High-Performance Lubrication Protocol

Achieving professional-grade performance requires separating high-speed oscillation from high-torque drive.

Levelwind and Idler Gears (The Casting Chain)

The levelwind is synchronized, meaning it oscillates back and forth during the cast. To maximize distance, 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 surface that won't "clump" or thicken, allowing the line guide to track effortlessly across the spool without slowing down the cast.

Main and Pinion Gears (The Power Train)

The drive gears handle the heavy torque of the retrieve. Apply a thin, even coat of high-viscosity gear grease to every tooth of the brass main gear. This grease acts as a hydraulic cushion, protecting the metal surfaces and ensuring the gear mesh feels "buttery" and silent.

Phase 4: Reassembly and Mechanical Tuning

1. Rebuild the Drive Bridge: Place the pinion gear into the yoke and seat the main gear on the drive shaft. Ensure the Carbon Matrix 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 the necessary lubrication for 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 snugly. Reinstall the star drag and handle.

Technical Performance Summary

Once reassembled, adjust the mechanical tension knob until the spool has zero side-to-side play. Engage the thumb bar and give the spool a flick; with Deuthlon oil on the high-speed oscillation components and fresh grease on the gears, your Ambassadeur 6500C3 99-07 will deliver a silent, powerful, and frictionless performance.