Ambassadeur 6500C3Ct Premium Mag Elite 17 00

Pro Service Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500C3CT Premium Mag Elite (17 00)

The Ambassadeur 6500C3CT Premium Mag Elite (model code 17 00) is a specialized, high-performance casting machine. Unlike the standard C3, this "CT" version lacks a levelwind system to minimize friction and features a sophisticated magnetic braking system. This reel is a favorite among surf casters and long-distance tournament anglers who demand precision tuning.

Disassembling the Mag Control Side

The non-handle side plate houses the magnetic brake adjustment. Carefully unscrew the side plate screws to access the internal magnet carrier.

1. Magnetic Tray: Ensure the magnetic slide moves freely. Clean any salt spray or dust from the magnet surfaces with a microfiber cloth.

2. Spool Removal: With the side plate off, slide the spool out. This model utilizes the "Ultracast" system where the bearings are located inside the spool, spinning on a fixed spindle.

Gear Box and Drive Mechanism

Despite being a "CT" long-distance reel, the 17 00 model retains the rugged brass gearing required for hauling in heavy fish through the surf.

• Main and Pinion Gears: Remove the handle, star drag, and drive-side plate. Extract the main gear and the pinion gear held within the yoke.

• Cleaning: Strip away all factory grease that may have thickened or trapped sand.

• Lubrication: To protect the teeth under high-load retrieves, apply a high-viscosity grease to the main gear and the pinion gear. This ensures the metal-on-metal contact is dampened and protected against corrosion.

Idler System Maintenance

While this model is a "CT" (non-levelwind) frame, it still utilizes internal idler gears to drive the internal mechanisms or clicker assemblies depending on the specific spool configuration.

• Idler Gear Care: Locate the plastic idler gears on the frame or side plate assembly.

• Lubrication: For these parts, speed and low resistance are the priorities. Apply Deuthlon oil to the idler gears. Using oil here instead of grease prevents the "sluggish" feeling often found in over-serviced reels and helps maintain the high-RPM spool speeds this reel was designed for.

High-Speed Bearing Service

The bearings in a Mag Elite are the heart of its casting distance.

1. Flushing: Remove the bearings from the spool. Soak them in a solvent until they spin without any gritty sensation.

2. Specialty Oiling: Apply one drop of ultra-thin tournament-grade oil to the bearings. If you are fishing in heavy surf, a slightly thicker oil may be used for longevity, but for maximum distance, thinner is better.

Reassembly and Mag Calibration

Re-seat the spool onto the spindle, ensuring the brake drum is clean. Reattach the handle side plate, making sure the pinion gear aligns perfectly with the spool shaft.

• Testing: Before fishing, dial the Mag control to maximum and perform a test cast, gradually backing off the magnets as the bearings break in.

• Summary: By applying grease to the main and pinion gears for durability, and Deuthlon oil to the idler gears for reduced drag, you optimize the 6500C3CT for elite-level casting performance.