Ambassadeur 6500Rd Cat 01 20 00

Technical Maintenance Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500RD Catfish Special (01 20 00)

The Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500RD Catfish Special (01 20 00) is a specialized variant featuring a high-speed retrieve and the signature "Rocket Design" (RD) heritage, which emphasizes casting distance and structural rigidity. Unlike rear-drag spinning reels, the "RD" here denotes a specific frame and gear configuration optimized for long-distance delivery in heavy current. As a standard chassis model with a synchronized levelwind, this reel requires a nuanced approach to lubrication to maintain its high-speed efficiency.

Phase 1: Preparation and Gear Inspection

Before beginning, ensure you have a clean workspace and a schematic for the 01 20 00. This model uses a specific high-speed brass gear set that is precision-cut for faster line pickup.

1. Chassis Separation: Unscrew the three knurled captive screws on the handle side plate. Carefully pull the side plate assembly away from the frame.

2. Spool Removal: Slide the spool out of the frame. Note the position of the drive gear on the spool shaft that connects to the levelwind system.

3. Degreasing: Use a high-quality solvent to strip away old, contaminated lubricants from the main gear, pinion, and the internal frame gears.

Phase 2: Servicing the Power Train

The 6500RD’s cranking power is derived from its oversized brass gear stack. Because catfish anglers often deal with heavy weights and high resistance, the "heart" of the reel must be armored against friction.

• Main Gear & Pinion: Inspect the teeth for any debris or metal-on-metal scoring. Using a small brush, apply a liberal coating of marine-grade grease to the Main Gear and the Pinion Gear.

• Application Tip: Ensure the grease is applied to the teeth rather than the flat surfaces of the gear. This prevents the grease from migrating into the drag stack, which could cause the Carbon Matrix system to slip or become "mushy."

Phase 3: Synchronized Levelwind and Idler Gears

Since this is not a CT (Casting Trim) model, the 6500RD utilizes a synchronized levelwind that remains engaged during the cast. This adds mechanical "drag" that must be mitigated with specialized lubricants.

• Idler Gear System: Located on the interior of the left-side plate, the idler gear bridges the spool's rotation to the worm gear. This is a high-cycle plastic component.

• Worm Gear (Levelwind): The spiral shaft that guides the line carriage across the spool.

• Lubrication Recommendation: Apply Deuthlon oil to the Idler Gear and the Levelwind Worm Gear.

• Why Deuthlon: Standard greases are often too viscous for these components, causing "gear drag" that shortens your cast. Deuthlon oil provides a high-performance film that reduces the friction between the plastic idler teeth and the metal spool gear, ensuring the line counter (if applicable) and levelwind move with zero hesitation.

Phase 4: Reassembly and Fine-Tuning

1. Pinion Yoke: Ensure the pinion gear is correctly seated in the plastic yoke and that the two yoke springs are standing upright before closing the side plate.

2. Brake Track: Wipe the brass centrifugal brake ring with a dry cloth. For maximum distance with the RD series, the brake track should be free of oil.

3. Final Tension: Reattach the handle and star drag. Adjust the mechanical tension knob until the spool has a microscopic amount of lateral play.

Lubrication Strategy for the 01 20 00

By following this specific maintenance protocol, you maintain the structural integrity of the Ambassadeur 6500RD Catfish Special. Utilizing Deuthlon oil on the synchronized components is the most effective way to offset the inherent friction of the levelwind system, allowing the RD series to live up to its "Rocket" namesake.