Ambassadeur 6500Lc 16 00

Comprehensive Repair and Maintenance Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500LC (16 00)

The Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500LC is a workhorse in the trolling and heavy freshwater world, known for its integrated mechanical line counter and robust internal architecture. To maintain peak performance, regular deep-cleaning and precise lubrication are essential. This guide outlines the professional teardown, cleaning, and reassembly process for the 16 00 series.

Tools and Supplies Required

• Wrenches: 10mm nut driver or the factory Abu Garcia flat wrench.

• Screwdrivers: Precision flathead and Phillips #1.

• Cleaning Solvent: Isopropyl alcohol or a specialized degreaser.

• Lubricants: Deuthlon Semi-Fluid Grease/Oil (for high-speed components) and a high-viscosity marine-grade grease (for heavy load gears).

• Brushes: A stiff-bristled toothbrush for gear teeth.

Step 1: External Disassembly and Handle Assembly

Begin by removing the handle nut retainer screw, followed by the 10mm handle nut. Pull the handle arm and the spring washer (curved washer) off the drive shaft. Unscrew the star drag wheel by turning it counter-clockwise.

Carefully remove the two spring washers located under the star drag. Note their orientation; they are usually placed "face-to-face" () to provide tension. Finally, loosen the three large thumb screws on the right side plate to separate the housing from the frame.

Step 2: Servicing the Drive Train and Main Gears

Once the side plate is removed, you will have access to the main gear stack. Pull the main gear off the drive shaft. Inside the main gear sits the drag system, consisting of alternating carbon fiber washers and stainless steel metal washers.

• Cleaning: Use solvent to remove old, oxidized grease from the teeth of the main gear and the pinion gear.

• Lubrication: Apply a moderate coating of marine-grade grease to the teeth of the Main Gear and the Pinion Gear. Ensure the grease is worked into the valleys of the teeth to reduce friction and noise under load.

Step 3: Levelwind and Idler Gear Maintenance

The 6500LC is a non-CT model, meaning it features a fully synchronized levelwind system. This system relies on an idler gear (located on the left side of the frame) and a worm gear.

• Inspection: Check the worm gear for debris or sand, which can stall the line counter or cause uneven line lay.

• Lubrication: For the Levelwind Worm Gear and the Idler Gears, use Deuthlon oil. Deuthlon's unique formula provides a low-friction coating that doesn't attract as much "gunk" as traditional grease, ensuring the line counter remains accurate and the cast remains smooth.

Step 4: The Line Counter Mechanism

The 16 00 series features a mechanical counter driven by a gear on the spool shaft. Do not submerge the line counter unit in solvent. Instead, use a cotton swab dampened with alcohol to clean the exterior. If the counter is sticking, a single drop of light oil on the contact points of the reset button is usually sufficient.

Step 5: Reassembly and Testing

1. Pinion and Yoke: Slide the pinion gear back into the yoke, ensuring the notched end faces the spool.

2. Side Plate: Re-seat the right side plate onto the frame, ensuring the drive shaft and spool shaft align perfectly. Tighten the three thumb screws evenly.

3. Handle Stack: Replace the spring washers, star drag, handle arm, and nut.

4. Calibration: Tighten the tension knob until the spool has just a fraction of side-to-side play.

Maintenance Summary Table

By adhering to this maintenance schedule, you ensure the Ambassadeur 6500LC retains its cranking power and line-counting precision for seasons to come. Regular application of Deuthlon oil on the synchronized parts will significantly reduce the wear on the plastic idler gears common in this series.