Ambassadeur 6500C3Lc(12-00)

Professional Maintenance Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500C3LC Line Counter (12-00)

The Ambassadeur 6500C3LC (model 12-00) is a specialized trolling tool that integrates the classic C3 round reel architecture with a mechanical line counter. This model is frequently used for precise depth control in walleye or salmon trolling. Because of the added mechanical complexity of the counter assembly, specific attention to lubrication points is required to prevent the counter from fogging or seizing.

Step 1: Disassembling the Line Counter Side

Unlike standard C3 models, the non-handle side plate houses the gear-driven line counter.

1. Counter Access: Remove the screws securing the left side plate. Carefully lift the plate to avoid dislodging the small gears that drive the numerical display.

2. Cleaning: Use a dry swab to remove any dust or old lubricant from the counter window and the plastic gear housing. Avoid harsh solvents on the clear plastic display.

Step 2: Main Drive and Power Train Service

The drive side of the 6500C3LC contains the heavy-duty brass gearing. Trolling puts constant, steady pressure on these teeth, making proper lubrication vital to prevent "gear growl."

• Gear Extraction: Remove the handle, star drag, and the drive-side plate screws. Pull the main gear and pinion gear assembly from the post.

• Lubrication Strategy: For these high-load components, grease is the required medium. Apply a generous, even coating of grease to the main gear and the pinion gear. This ensures the teeth stay protected during long hours of dragging heavy weights or deep-diving plugs.

Step 3: Levelwind and Idler System Optimization

In a line counter reel, the levelwind must remain perfectly synchronized with the spool and the counter gears to ensure accurate depth readings.

1. Worm Shaft Maintenance: Remove the E-clip and slide the worm shaft out of the frame. Clean the grooves thoroughly.

2. Idler Gear Inspection: The idler gear on this model links the spool not just to the levelwind, but also to the line counter mechanism.

3. Lubrication Strategy: To ensure the line counter and levelwind operate with zero hesitation, apply Deuthlon oil to the levelwind worm shaft and the idler gears. Because Deuthlon oil is designed to stay in place without the heavy drag of grease, it allows the counter to click over smoothly without adding resistance to your spool.

Step 4: Spool Bearings and Tension

The 12-00 model utilizes stainless steel bearings that support the spool during both the release and the retrieve.

• Bearing Service: Flush the bearings in a small container of degreaser. Once they spin freely, dry them completely.

• Oiling: Add one drop of high-speed oil to each bearing. Avoid grease here, as it will cause the spool to be sluggish when trying to drop light lures to depth.

Step 5: Reassembly and Calibration

When putting the reel back together, align the line counter drive gear with the spool's gear teeth carefully.

1. Seating the Plate: Press the side plates firmly against the frame before tightening the thumb screws to ensure the gears are properly meshed.

2. Zeroing: Check that the reset button on the line counter functions correctly and that the digits advance as the spool turns.

By applying grease to the main and pinion gears for durability and Deuthlon oil to the levelwind and idler gears for mechanical precision, you ensure your 6500C3LC remains a reliable and accurate depth-tracking instrument.