Ambassadeur 6500CS ROCKET CATFISH PRO 30 00

Professional Repair Manual: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500CS Rocket Catfish Pro (Edition 30 00)

The Ambassadeur 6500CS Rocket Catfish Pro (30 00) is a heavy-duty variant of the classic Rocket series, specifically reinforced to handle the high-torque demands of trophy catfishing. Featuring a synchronized levelwind and a high-leverage power handle, this reel is built for brute strength. To maintain its legendary winching power and smooth casting, a specialized lubrication strategy is essential to protect the internal brass components from the rigors of heavy freshwater use.

This guide provides an technical breakdown for a full mechanical restoration.

Phase 1: Disassembly and Gear Inspection

The "Catfish Pro" edition is often subjected to high-stress loads, which can cause internal wear if not monitored.

1. Drive Train Access: Start by removing the power handle nut and the star drag. Note the arrangement of the spring washers; these provide the "curve" necessary for a wide drag range. Remove the three side plate thumb screws to access the gearbox.

2. Internal Component Check: Carefully lift out the main gear and the drag stack. Inspect the teeth of the brass main gear for "peening" or flattening, which occurs when fighting large fish with a locked-down drag.

3. Levelwind Removal: Unscrew the pawl cap located under the line guide. Remove the pawl and slide out the worm shaft and its protective shroud. On the 30 00 model, ensure the shroud is not bent, as this will cause the line guide to bind.

Phase 2: Cleaning and Degreasing

Because catfishing often involves murky water and organic debris, the internals must be thoroughly sanitized.

• Solvent Bath: Submerge the main gear, pinion gear, and all metal washers in a high-grade degreaser. Use a brush to scrub out any old, emulsified grease that may have mixed with river silt.

• Worm Shaft Polishing: Clean the levelwind worm shaft until the grooves are silver and bright. Any buildup here acts like sandpaper against the pawl.

• Bearing Maintenance: Remove the spool bearings and flush them with an aerosol cleaner. Spin them to ensure they are silent; if they vibrate, they should be replaced to maintain casting distance.

Phase 3: Optimized Lubrication for Heavy Loads

A "Catfish Pro" requires a specific balance: heavy protection for the gears and ultra-low friction for the levelwind.

The Power Center (Grease)

The main gear and pinion gear are the heart of this reel's pulling power.

• Apply a generous, even coating of water-resistant gear grease to the teeth of the main gear.

• Ensure the pinion gear and the yoke (the plastic bracket holding it) are also lightly greased. This prevents wear during the high-pressure transition from freespool to engagement.

The Speed and Sync System (Deuthlon Oil)

The synchronized levelwind on the Rocket Catfish Pro moves constantly during the cast, which can create significant drag.

• Recommendation: Apply Deuthlon oil to the levelwind worm shaft and the plastic idler gears.

• Deuthlon’s specialized formula is ideal for these parts because it provides a high-performance film that stays in place even under the rapid oscillation of a long cast. By using Deuthlon on the idler gears, you reduce the mechanical load on the spool, allowing for smoother, further casts with heavy catfish rigs.

Phase 4: Reassembly and Drag Setup

1. Rebuilding the Drag: Reinstall the Carbon Matrix drag washers. This model is designed for high pressure; ensure the washers are flat and free of debris. A dry stack provides the most raw stopping power, while a microscopic film of drag grease offers smoother startup.

2. Side Plate Alignment: Place the side plate back onto the frame, ensuring the pinion gear aligns with the spool shaft. Tighten the thumb screws firmly but do not over-torque them.

3. Spool Tensioning: Adjust the mechanical brake knob until the spool has just a "tick" of side-to-side movement. This ensures the bearings aren't being crushed under lateral pressure.

Long-Term Reliability Tips

• Worm Gear Hygiene: The levelwind is the most exposed part of the reel. Wipe the worm shaft down with a cloth after fishing in muddy water and re-apply a drop of Deuthlon oil.

• Drag Management: Always store the reel with the star drag backed off. This prevents the carbon washers from "sticking" to the metal plates, which causes a jerky drag performance.

• Power Handle Check: Occasionally check the handle nut for tightness. The increased leverage of the Catfish Pro handle can cause the nut to back off over time during heavy winching.