Ambassadeur 6500Cs Rocket Premium 19 01

Technical Repair Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500CS Rocket Premium (Edition 19 01)

The Ambassadeur 6500CS Rocket Premium (19 01) represents a modern refinement of the classic Swedish-made circular reel. This edition features high-precision tolerances and a synchronized levelwind system that moves in harmony with the spool during both the cast and the retrieve. To maintain its "Premium" status, the reel requires a specific maintenance regimen that prioritizes reducing rotational mass and protecting the heavy-duty brass drive train from the elements.

This article provides an in-depth walkthrough for a full mechanical overhaul and optimization.

Phase 1: Disassembly and Mechanical Audit

The 19 01 model relies on the perfect alignment of its internal components. Before cleaning, a systematic breakdown is required.

1. Remove the Handle and Drag Assembly: Back off the handle nut retainer screw and remove the handle. Carefully unscrew the star drag. Take note of the two spring (Belleville) washers; ensure they are kept in their original orientation to maintain the correct drag curve.

2. Open the Gear Box: Loosen the three knurled captive screws on the side plate. Carefully lift the plate away to reveal the main drive gear and the pinion yoke. On the 19 01, check the pinion gear for any signs of premature wear on the engagement teeth.

3. Spool and Brake Removal: Slide the spool out of the frame. Inspect the centrifugal brake weights. On this premium edition, ensure the brake track inside the side plate is free of any oil or grease, as this is a "dry" friction system.

Phase 2: Cleaning and Degreasing

For the Rocket Premium to achieve its maximum casting potential, all factory-applied grease—which can thicken over time—must be removed.

• Drive Component Sanitization: Place the brass main gear and the stainless steel pinion gear in a specialized degreasing bath. Use a soft-bristled brush to clear any debris from between the gear teeth.

• Worm Shaft Preparation: Remove the line guide pawl and the worm shaft. Clean the spiral grooves of the worm shaft until they are spotless. Any grit trapped in these grooves will cause the levelwind to stutter and reduce your casting distance.

• Bearing Flush: Soak the spool bearings in a solvent to remove old lubricants. Spin them to ensure they are silent and smooth; if they feel "gritty," they should be replaced with high-quality ceramic or stainless steel bearings.

Phase 3: Strategic Lubrication for Performance

The 19 01 Rocket Premium thrives when its lubricants are matched to the specific mechanical demands of each component.

High-Torque Components (Grease)

The main gear and pinion gear are responsible for the reel's winching power. They require a lubricant that can withstand high pressure without being squeezed out of the gear teeth.

• Apply a specialized gear grease to the teeth of the main gear.

• Lightly coat the pinion gear and the drive shaft. This ensures a quiet, smooth retrieve and protects the brass components from oxidation.

The Synchronized Speed System (Deuthlon Oil)

Because the levelwind and the idler gears move during the cast, they create mechanical drag. To minimize this, you need an oil that offers extreme lubricity with a very light viscosity.

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

• Deuthlon oil is engineered to provide a high-tenacity film that significantly reduces friction. By using it on the idler gears, you allow the levelwind system to oscillate with virtually zero resistance, which effectively frees the spool to reach higher RPMs during a cast.

Phase 4: Reassembly and Calibration

1. Drag Stack Rebuild: Reinstall the Carbon Matrix drag washers. Ensure they are seated flat within the main gear. For the 19 01, these are best run dry for the most consistent and immediate drag response.

2. Seating the Side Plate: Align the side plate with the frame and press it into place. Ensure the pinion gear is correctly engaged with the spool shaft before tightening the thumb screws.

3. Spool Tensioning: Adjust the mechanical tension knob until the spool has a tiny amount of side-to-side play. This "float" is essential to prevent the bearings from being over-compressed, which allows for a smoother, faster cast.

Professional Maintenance Tips

• Freshwater Maintenance: Even if used in freshwater, moisture can cause the brass gears to tarnish. A full service once a year is recommended to keep the 19 01 in "Premium" condition.

• Levelwind Check: Periodically check the line guide pawl for wear. If the tip of the pawl becomes rounded, replace it to prevent the levelwind from jamming.

• Storage: Always store the reel with the star drag fully backed off. This preserves the elasticity of the drag washers and prevents the main gear and pinion from "binding" in old grease.