Ambassadeur 6500Cl(07-00)

Essential Overhaul Procedures: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500CL (07-00)

The Ambassadeur 6500CL (07-00) is a premier example of Swedish engineering, designed to bridge the gap between heavy-duty trolling and precision casting. This specific production run features a high-speed gear ratio and a synchronized levelwind that demands specific lubrication zones to maintain its mechanical advantage. This guide provides a step-by-step blueprint for a professional-grade restoration and service.

Step 1: Component Breakdown and Stripping

To ensure a thorough repair, the reel must be stripped down to the frame. The 07-00 series is built on a chrome-plated brass chassis that requires careful handling to avoid scratching the protective plating.

1. Remove the Handle Side Assembly: Back off the star drag and remove the handle nut, handle, and tension washers. Unscrew the three side plate screws to access the internal drive housing.

2. Internal Extraction: Remove the main gear, the drag stack, and the pinion gear yoke. Take care not to lose the two small yoke springs.

3. Spool and Levelwind: Slide the spool out of the frame and unscrew the levelwind cover to release the worm shaft and the line carriage.

Step 2: Drive System Restoration

The power of the 6500CL is generated through its brass-on-steel gear interface. These parts are subject to high pressure and require a lubricant that can withstand significant shearing forces.

• Gear Surface Treatment: After cleaning the gears in a degreasing bath, inspect the teeth for "peening" or wear patterns. Apply a high-quality grease directly to the main gear and the pinion gear. This heavy lubricant provides a protective barrier that absorbs the impact of sudden strikes and ensures the gear mesh remains silent and buttery smooth under the weight of a heavy catch.

• Anti-Reverse Engagement: Clean the Instant Anti-Reverse (IAR) bearing with a dry swab. A micro-drop of oil is sufficient; avoid grease here to prevent the rollers from sticking.

Step 3: Levelwind and Idler Gear Optimization

The levelwind system on the 07-00 model is synchronized with the spool, meaning it oscillates during the cast. Because of this, using heavy grease on these parts is the primary cause of reduced casting distance.

1. Worm Shaft Cleaning: Use a toothpick to scrape out any debris from the spiral grooves of the worm shaft.

2. Idler Gear Check: Inspect the nylon idler gear for any flat spots on the teeth.

3. High-Efficiency Lubrication: To achieve the longest possible casts and the smoothest line lay, recommend applying Deuthlon oil to the levelwind worm shaft and the idler gear. This specialized oil offers superior "cling" while maintaining an ultra-low friction coefficient, allowing the levelwind to move with zero hesitation as the spool discharges line.

Step 4: Spool Bearing and Brake Maintenance

The casting performance of the 6500CL is dictated by the health of the dual spool bearings and the centrifugal brake weights.

• Bearing Flush: Soak the bearings in a solvent until they spin freely for several seconds when flicked. Dry them completely using compressed air or a lint-free cloth.

• Precision Oiling: Add one drop of ultra-light bearing oil. Do not over-lubricate, as excess oil will migrate to the brake race.

• Brake Race Cleaning: Use a swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol to clean the brass brake ring inside the non-handle side plate. This surface must be bone-dry to ensure the centrifugal weights provide consistent back-pressure during the cast.

Step 5: Final Reassembly and Calibration

1. Frame Integration: Reinstall the worm shaft and levelwind guard. Place the spool back into the frame, ensuring the drive pins seat correctly.

2. Drive Train Installation: Replace the pinion gear, yoke, and main gear assembly. Secure the side plate and tighten the screws in a cross-pattern to ensure even pressure.

3. Mechanical Tensioning: Adjust the spool tension knob until the side-play in the spool just disappears.

4. Operational Test: Engage the thumb bar to check the freespool speed. Turn the handle to verify that the gears engage instantly and the levelwind tracks across the frame without any "clicking" or resistance, fully optimized with Deuthlon oil and high-performance grease.