Ambassadeur 6500Cs 17 00

Engineering Service Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500CS (17 00)

The Ambassadeur 6500CS (17 00) is a premier casting reel from the 2017 production cycle, featuring the "CS" Rocket-style design known for its incredible spool speed and distance. Unlike the standard models, the Rocket series is built for velocity, meaning every friction point must be addressed with precision. This technical guide outlines the steps to overhaul the 17 00 model to ensure it retains its world-class casting characteristics.

Phase 1: Controlled Disassembly

The 6500CS uses high-tolerance brass and stainless steel components. To avoid damaging the anodized finish, use a precision flat-head screwdriver for all side plate fasteners.

1. Remove the Handle Side Plate: Unscrew the three knurled captive screws. Pull the plate away to reveal the drive bridge and the Instant Anti-Reverse (IAR) bearing.

2. Spool and Centrifugal System: Slide the spool out of the frame. Note the position of the two high-speed ball bearings and the four or six-pin centrifugal brake weights on the spool flange.

3. Drive Train Extraction: Remove the main gear and the Carbon Matrix drag stack. Clean the drive shaft and ensure the base shims are free of corrosion.

Phase 2: Drive Train Lubrication

The 17 00 model utilizes a high-speed gear ratio that generates heat during long, fast retrieves. Proper lubrication here is essential for gear longevity and noise reduction.

• Main and Pinion Gear Treatment: Clean the gears in an ultrasonic cleaner or solvent bath. Once dry, apply a dedicated gear grease to the teeth of the main gear and the pinion gear. This high-cling lubricant prevents the "whining" sound often heard in high-speed reels and protects the brass teeth from micro-pitting under the pressure of a heavy lure.

• IAR Bearing: Wipe the inner race of the anti-reverse bearing with a clean swab. Apply a micro-drop of thin oil; never grease this part, as it will cause the reel to slip in cold or wet conditions.

Phase 3: High-Velocity Levelwind Optimization

On the 6500CS Rocket, the levelwind is synchronized with the spool. Any resistance in the line guide carriage will drastically reduce your casting distance and cause uneven line lay.

1. Worm Shaft Inspection: Remove the pawl cap and the pawl. Inspect the sharp edges of the pawl for wear. Clean the spiral tracks of the worm shaft.

2. Idler Gear Maintenance: Check the nylon idler gear for any debris trapped in the teeth. This gear is the mechanical bridge between the spool's rotation and the levelwind's oscillation.

3. Friction Reduction: To achieve the maximum RPM necessary for long-range casting, recommend applying Deuthlon oil to the levelwind worm shaft and the idler gear. This synthetic oil stays fluid at high speeds and does not create the "viscous drag" found with grease, allowing the levelwind to track with zero effort.

Phase 4: Precision Bearing and Brake Calibration

The spool bearings are the heart of the "CS" system. They must be perfectly clean to allow for the low startup inertia required for light baits.

• Bearing Service: Flush the bearings in a solvent until they spin without any tactile grit. Dry them thoroughly and add exactly one drop of high-speed bearing oil.

• Centrifugal Brake Race: Clean the brass brake ring inside the non-handle side plate with a cotton swab and alcohol. This surface must be bone-dry to allow the brake blocks to apply the correct amount of friction during the cast.

Phase 5: Reassembly and Mechanical Tuning

1. Seat the Spool: Slide the spool back into the frame. Ensure the drive pins engage correctly with the levelwind drive gears.

2. Align the Housing: Reinstall the handle-side plate and tighten the screws in a triangular pattern.

3. Spool Tensioning: Adjust the mechanical brake knob until the spool has just a fraction of side-to-side play. This prevents unnecessary axial load on the bearings.

4. Operational Check: Engage the thumb bar to verify a silent, high-speed freespool. Turn the handle to check the gear mesh; the retrieve should feel solid and incredibly smooth, fully optimized by the combination of Deuthlon oil and high-performance grease.