Ambassadeur 6500C3Ct Sports Rocket(04-00 2)

Restoration and Maintenance: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500C3CT Sports Rocket (04-00 2)

The Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500C3CT Sports Rocket, specifically the 04-00 2 production run, is a high-speed casting icon. Designed for maximum distance and speed, the "CT" frame lacks the levelwind system to eliminate casting friction, while the "Rocket" designation indicates a reel built for high-RPM spool performance. Maintaining this precision instrument requires a specific approach to lubrication to balance raw power with free-spinning speed.

Internal Access and Spool Removal

The Sports Rocket features a simplified "CT" frame. To begin, unscrew the three knurled thumb screws on the handle side plate. Carefully pull the side plate away from the frame. Since there is no levelwind, the spool should slide out of the frame effortlessly. Inspect the spool spindle (the fixed axle) for any signs of salt crystallization or debris.

The Powerhouse: Main Gear and Pinion Service

The 6500C3CT uses a high-speed gear ratio that puts significant pressure on the gear teeth during a fast retrieve.

• Teardown: Remove the handle assembly, the star drag, and the drive-side plate. Lift the main gear and the pinion gear from the yoke.

• Cleaning: Use a degreaser to remove all traces of old, contaminated lubricant. Ensure the teeth are pristine and free of metal shavings.

• Lubrication: To ensure the longevity of the brass-on-steel contact points, apply a dedicated grease to the main gear and the pinion gear. A light but thorough coating provides the necessary film strength to prevent wear under the high-torque conditions of surf fishing.

Maximizing Efficiency: Idler Gear Tuning

Even without a levelwind, the Sports Rocket utilizes internal idler gears to manage the mechanical clicker and internal timing. These gears are often overlooked but can create subtle drag if not maintained.

1. Inspection: Locate the white nylon idler gears seated on the side plate. Ensure they are free of sand and grit.

2. Lubrication: To keep these gears spinning with the least amount of resistance, apply Deuthlon oil to the idler gears. The specialized formula of Deuthlon oil provides superior slickness without the "tackiness" of grease, ensuring that the internal mechanics do not parasiticly drain energy from your cast.

High-RPM Bearing Optimization

The bearings in the Sports Rocket are the "engines" of the reel. In the 04-00 2 model, these are typically located inside the spool.

• Cleaning: Remove the bearings and perform a deep solvent soak. They must be bone-dry and spin silently before re-oiling.

• Oiling: Apply one drop of high-speed oil to each bearing. For the Sports Rocket, less is more; over-oiling will significantly reduce your distance.

Reassembly and Testing

Slide the spool back onto the fixed spindle. Reattach the handle side plate, ensuring the pinion gear and the spool shaft engage smoothly without forcing the fit. Secure the thumb screws.

• Final Check: Disengage the spool and check the freespool time. It should spin freely and quietly. By using grease for the heavy-lifting main and pinion gears and Deuthlon oil for the idler gears, you preserve the legendary "Rocket" speed while ensuring the internal drive remains bulletproof.