Ambassadeur 6500C3 Ct Mag 17 00

Technical Service Manual: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500C3 CT Mag (Model 17 00)

The Ambassadeur 6500C3 CT Mag (Foot Number 17 00) is a high-performance "open frame" reel designed for extreme distance casting. The CT designation signifies the absence of a levelwind, which removes mechanical drag and allows the spool to achieve significantly higher RPMs. The Mag indicates the inclusion of an adjustable magnetic braking system, giving the caster precise control over the spool's acceleration and deceleration—a critical feature when casting into varying wind conditions.

The "17 00" code identifies a modern production run (mid-to-late 2000s) that benefits from tighter tolerances and the Carbon Matrix Drag system.

Phase 1: Precision Teardown and Magnetic Analysis

Because this model lacks a levelwind but includes a magnetic slider, the non-handle side plate contains the most sensitive braking components.

1. Right Side Plate Removal: Loosen the knurled captive screws. Pull the handle side plate away to reveal the spool.

2. Spool and 3-Bearing System: Slide the spool out. This model features two high-speed stainless steel ball bearings and one IAR (Instant Anti-Reverse) roller bearing. Extract the spool bearings from the side plate and the spindle for deep cleaning.

3. Magnetic Brake Assembly: On the non-handle side plate, inspect the magnetic slider carriage.

   • Maintenance Tip: Ensure the slider moves freely. If the magnetic carriage feels "crunchy" or stiff, a small amount of fine grit may be trapped in the slider track.

4. 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.

Phase 2: Cleaning and Degreasing Protocol

In a Mag-braked reel, "cleanliness is speed." Any stray grease on the spool edges or the magnets will create unpredictable braking behavior.

• Hard Part Degreasing: Submerge the main gear and pinion gear in a high-grade degreaser. Use a soft brush to scrub the teeth until they are "surgically" clean.

• Bearing Refresh (Crucial): Soak the ball bearings in isopropyl alcohol. Spin them while submerged to eject micro-grit. Once dried, they should spin silently and for an extended duration.

• Magnet and Spool Edge Cleaning: Use a cotton swab with alcohol to wipe the magnets and the inner rim of the spool. Magnetic braking relies on Eddy Currents; any oil or debris between the magnets and the aluminum spool will interfere with the magnetic field's efficiency.

Phase 3: High-Performance Lubrication Protocol

For the 17 00 CT Mag, the goal is to let the magnets do the work of slowing the reel, not the oil.

The Spool Bearings (Speed Zone)

Apply only one drop of Deuthlon Reel Power Oil to each cleaned spool bearing. This ultra-thin synthetic oil allows for maximum RPM stability without the "clamping" effect of heavy grease. Never use grease in these bearings, as it will drastically reduce your casting distance.

Main and Pinion Gears (Power Zone)

Apply a thin, even coat of high-viscosity gear grease to the teeth of the brass main gear. This ensures the reel feels solid and quiet during the retrieve, but because these gears disengage during the cast, the grease will not affect your distance.

Phase 4: Reassembly and Mechanical Tuning

1. Rebuild the Drive Bridge: Place the pinion gear back 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. Magnetic Slider Calibration: Reassemble the side plates. Move the external mag-slider to "Max" and verify the internal magnets move toward the spool. Move it to "Min" and ensure they retract.

3. Mechanical Calibration: Adjust the mechanical tension knob until the spool has a tiny, almost imperceptible amount of side-to-side play (roughly 0.1mm). This "floating" position is essential for distance.

Technical Performance Summary

The CT Mag 17 00 is a "tuned" instrument. With Deuthlon oil in the bearings and a clean magnetic field, this reel is capable of legendary distances. During the cast, you can start with the Mag slider on "6" (Max) and slowly slide it down to "0" (Min) as the lure reaches its apex to "open up" the spool for the final glide.