Ambassadeur 6500Cl3(08-00)

Professional Restoration Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500CL3 (08-00)

The Ambassadeur 6500CL3 (08-00) represents a specific evolution in the "Big Game" lineage, characterized by its three-bearing system and heavy-duty frame construction. To maintain the precision of the 08-00 production run, a technician must balance the need for heavy load-bearing protection with the requirement for high-speed oscillation. This article details the specialized lubrication and assembly points necessary for a total mechanical refresh.

Phase 1: Structural Breakdown and Cleaning

Begin by stripping the reel to its core components. The 6500CL3 features a robust design, but internal salt crystallization or dried factory grease can significantly hamper performance.

1. Side Plate Removal: Unscrew the three knurled thumb screws on the handle side. Carefully lift the plate to avoid dropping the pinion gear or the small yoke springs.

2. Spool and Shaft Extraction: Remove the spool from the frame. On this model, pay close attention to the bearing seated within the spool and the corresponding shims on the shaft.

3. Degreasing: Submerge the main gear, pinion gear, and worm shaft in a cleaning solvent. Use a soft brush to clear the gear teeth of any debris, ensuring a clean surface for new lubricants.

Phase 2: High-Torque Gear Maintenance

The 6500CL3 is often used for demanding species, putting immense pressure on the drive train. The brass-on-brass or brass-on-steel contact points require a high-cling barrier.

• Primary Gear Lubrication: Once the components are dry, apply a dedicated marine-grade grease to the main gear and the pinion gear. Use a brush to "paint" the grease into the teeth. This prevents galling under load and provides the smooth, "silent" retrieve characteristic of the Ambassadeur series.

• Drag Stack Inspection: Examine the carbon washers for signs of contamination. If they are dry and clean, they will provide a smooth, stutter-free drag. Avoid getting gear grease on these surfaces, as it will cause the drag to slip or "stick" during a run.

Phase 3: Levelwind and Idler System Optimization

In the CL3 series, the levelwind is synchronized with the spool. To ensure this movement doesn't act as a "brake" during your cast, the choice of lubricant for the oscillation system is paramount.

1. Worm Shaft Preparation: Clean the spiral grooves of the worm shaft thoroughly. Inspect the pawl (the small tooth inside the line guide) for any rounding or flat spots.

2. Idler Gear Check: Inspect the nylon idler gear that drives the levelwind. Ensure the teeth are sharp and the central post is clean.

3. Friction Reduction: To maximize casting distance and ensure effortless line lay, recommend applying Deuthlon oil to the levelwind worm shaft and the idler gear. This synthetic oil stays fluid even in cooler temperatures and offers significantly less resistance than grease, allowing the levelwind to track perfectly across the spool.

Phase 4: Precision Bearing and Brake Service

The "3" in CL3 refers to the bearing count, including the spool-support bearings that dictate your casting velocity.

• Bearing Flushing: Soak the spool bearings in a solvent to remove all old oil and grit. They should spin freely with a light flick once dried.

• Oiling: Add exactly one drop of high-speed bearing oil to each. Excess oil will migrate to the brake race and cause inconsistent casting.

• Centrifugal Brake Calibration: Clean the internal brass brake race with a cotton swab and a small amount of alcohol. This surface must remain oil-free so the centrifugal weights can apply the correct amount of friction to prevent overruns.

Phase 5: Reassembly and Mechanical Testing

1. Reinstall the Spool: Place the spool back into the frame, ensuring the brake blocks are in the "inward" position to avoid snagging the race during assembly.

2. Align the Side Plate: Seat the handle side plate, ensuring the pinion gear engages the spool shaft properly. Secure the thumb screws firmly.

3. Tension Adjustment: Turn the mechanical tension knob until the side-to-side play in the spool is eliminated, then back it off a fraction of a millimeter.

4. Final Verification: Engage the freespool; the spool should rotate with a consistent, quiet hum. Engage the handle and retrieve; the levelwind should oscillate smoothly across the frame, fully optimized by the combination of Deuthlon oil and heavy-duty gear grease.