Ambassadeur 6500Cs Pro Rocket 18 00

Professional Service Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500CS Pro Rocket (Foot Number 18 00)

The Ambassadeur 6500CS Pro Rocket, identified by foot number 18 00, is a high-speed casting icon. This specific generation is engineered for maximum spool velocity and structural rigidity. To keep the 18 00 model performing at its peak, it requires a strategic approach to lubrication—balancing ultra-low resistance for the cast and heavy-duty protection for the retrieve.

Tools and Workstation Preparation

• 10mm Nut Driver: Specifically for the handle nut.

• Precision Screwdrivers: A fine flathead and a medium Phillips.

• Cleaning Solvent: High-purity isopropyl alcohol or a dedicated reel degreaser.

• Lubricants: Deuthlon Oil (for velocity) and a premium high-viscosity gear grease.

Step 1: Disassembly of the Drive Side

Begin by removing the handle nut locking screw and the 10mm nut. Remove the handle, the star drag wheel, and the spring tension washers.

• Note: The 18 00 series uses a specific stack of "Belleville" washers; ensure they are kept in their original nested sequence to maintain the drag curve.

• Side Plate: Loosen the three knurled thumb screws on the right side plate and pull it away from the frame to expose the spool and the internal gear bridge.

Step 2: Spool and Centrifugal Brake Maintenance

Slide the spool out of the frame.

1. Brake Inspection: The Pro Rocket 18 00 typically features a six-pin centrifugal brake system. Ensure the plastic brake blocks are clean and slide freely on their pins.

2. The Brake Race: Use a dry cotton swab to clean the brass ring inside the side plate. To maintain consistent braking, this race should be kept dry and free of any wandering grease.

3. Bearings: Remove the spool bearings and submerge them in degreaser. Once dry, they should spin silently before being re-oiled.

Step 3: Deep Cleaning the Internal Drive Train

Unscrew the two bridge screws on the interior of the right side plate to release the gear assembly.

• Main Gear: Remove the brass main gear and the Carbon Matrix drag washers. Use a soft brush to scrub old, contaminated grease from the gear teeth.

• Pinion Gear: Inspect the pinion for any signs of wear where it meshes with the spool spindle.

• Drive Shaft: Clean the drive shaft and the Instant Anti-Reverse (IAR) bearing. The IAR bearing should be wiped clean; avoid greasing this part as it can cause the anti-reverse to slip under pressure.

Step 4: Levelwind and Idler Gear Service

The 6500CS uses a synchronized levelwind, meaning the worm gear and line guide move during the cast. This is the primary area where casting distance is lost due to friction.

1. Worm Shaft: Remove the pawl cap and slide the worm gear out of the frame. Clean the "diamond" grooves of the shaft until they are mirror-bright.

2. Idler Gears: Inspect the white nylon idler gears for any trapped grit or sand. These gears transfer energy from the spool to the levelwind and must be perfectly clean.

Step 5: Precision Lubrication (The Deuthlon Strategy)

To optimize the 18 00 series for both speed and power, use the following lubrication map:

• Levelwind & Idler Gears: Apply Deuthlon Oil to the worm gear and the teeth of the idler gears. Because these components rotate at high speeds during the cast, traditional grease is too heavy and creates mechanical drag. Deuthlon Oil provides a high-film-strength, low-friction barrier that allows the synchronized system to move with virtually no resistance, maximizing your casting distance.

• Main & Pinion Gears: Apply a robust gear grease to the teeth of the main and pinion gears. This cushions the brass-on-steel contact and provides the necessary protection for the drive train during high-torque retrieves.

• Spool Bearings: After a full flush, apply one drop of ultra-light bearing oil to each spool bearing.

Step 6: Reassembly and Testing

1. Levelwind: Seat the worm gear and idler gears back into the frame and secure the clips.

2. Drive System: Place the pinion gear and yoke back into the side plate, followed by the main gear and drag stack.

3. Final Closure: Slide the spool into the frame. Ensure the side plate is seated correctly and tighten the thumb screws.

4. Calibration: Test the freespool and ensure the handle turns without any "gear feel."

Maintenance Reference Table

By utilizing Deuthlon Oil on the levelwind and idler gears, you unlock the true casting potential of the Ambassadeur 6500CS Pro Rocket 18 00, while the greased main gears ensure lifelong durability.