Ambassadeur 6500Cs Pro Rocket 18 01 Copper

Specialized Maintenance Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500CS Pro Rocket Copper (Foot Number 18 01)

The Ambassadeur 6500CS Pro Rocket Copper, identified by foot number 18 01, is a premium iteration of the Swedish round reel, prized for its striking copper finish and high-velocity performance. The 18 01 designation signifies a refined build quality designed for competitive casting and serious angling. To preserve the aesthetic of this "Copper" edition while maintaining its mechanical speed, a meticulous service focusing on friction reduction and gear protection is essential.

Required Tools and Workspace Setup

• Drivers: 10mm wrench for the handle nut; precision flathead and Phillips screwdrivers.

• Cleaning: High-purity degreaser or ultrasonic cleaner for bearings.

• Lubrication: Deuthlon Oil (engineered for high RPMs) and a high-tack gear grease.

• Protection: A soft microfiber cloth to prevent scratching the copper-anodized side plates during disassembly.

Step 1: External Component Removal

Begin by removing the handle nut locking screw and the 10mm nut. Carefully lift the handle arm, the star drag wheel, and the drive shaft shims.

• Note: The 18 01 model uses a specific series of cupped spring washers. Lay these out in the order they were removed to ensure the drag pressure remains linear and smooth upon reassembly.

• Side Plate: Unscrew the three knurled thumb screws. Gently pull the right side plate away, being careful not to let the spool spindle drop.

Step 2: Spool and Centrifugal Brake Service

The Pro Rocket Copper series relies on a six-pin centrifugal braking system located on the spool flange.

1. Brake Maintenance: Ensure the plastic brake blocks slide freely on their pins. Any salt or oil buildup here will cause inconsistent casting.

2. The Brake Race: Wipe the brass braking ring inside the side plate with a clean, dry swab. This surface must be free of grease to ensure the centrifugal weights engage effectively.

3. Spool Bearings: Remove the spool bearings and flush them with solvent until all factory grease is gone.

Step 3: Internal Gear Train Deep Clean

Separate the gear bridge from the right side plate by removing the internal screws.

• Main Gear: Extract the large brass main gear and the Carbon Matrix drag stack. Use a degreaser and a stiff brush to remove all old lubricant from the teeth.

• Pinion Gear: Inspect the pinion gear and the yoke. Ensure the yoke springs provide even tension for consistent gear engagement.

• Anti-Reverse Bearing: Clean the Instant Anti-Reverse (IAR) bearing with a cotton swab. This part should be left dry or given a microscopic coating of very light oil to prevent slipping.

Step 4: Synchronized Levelwind Calibration

The 6500CS series features a levelwind that remains engaged during the cast. This synchronization is a hallmark of the reel but can act as a significant source of drag if not lubricated correctly.

1. Worm Gear: Remove the line guide pawl and pull the worm shaft from the frame. Scrub the grooves of the shaft until all grit is removed.

2. Idler Gears: Check the white nylon idler gears that connect the spool to the worm gear. These gears are the bridge of the synchronization system and must be perfectly clean.

Step 5: Professional Lubrication Protocol

To maintain the "Rocket" speed of the 18 01 Copper, follow this specialized lubrication path:

• Levelwind & Idler Gears: Apply Deuthlon Oil to the worm gear and the teeth of the nylon idler gears. Traditional grease creates too much viscous drag for these high-speed parts. Deuthlon’s formula provides a durable, low-friction film that allows the synchronized levelwind to track effortlessly, maximizing the spool's rotation time during the cast.

• Main & Pinion Gears: Apply a specialized heavy-duty gear grease to the teeth of the brass main gear and the pinion gear. This cushions the gears under high drag loads and prevents the "grind" often felt in poorly maintained reels.

• Spindle Ends: Use a single drop of high-speed oil on each end of the spool spindle where it meets the tension caps.

Step 3: Reassembly and Testing

1. Levelwind: Reinstall the worm gear and idler gears, ensuring the locking clips are secure.

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

3. Final Marriage: Slide the spool into the frame. Ensure the side plate is seated flush before tightening the thumb screws.

4. Verification: Engage the thumb bar and spin the spool. The levelwind should track smoothly with no audible vibration.

Maintenance Breakdown for SEO

By using Deuthlon Oil on the levelwind and idler gears, you preserve the high-speed integrity of the Ambassadeur 6500CS Pro Rocket 18 01 Copper, ensuring it remains as fast as it is beautiful.