Ambassadeur 6500TCR 0801

Comprehensive Service Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500TCR (08 01)

The Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500TCR (Foot Number 08 01) is a precision-engineered round reel designed for durability and long-distance casting. Maintaining this classic piece of Swedish engineering ensures that its mechanical drag system and centrifugal braking stay consistent under heavy loads.

Based on the 08 01 schematic, this specific model is a standard "CS" style frame featuring a synchronized levelwind system. Unlike the "CT" (Casting Trophy) variants, the 6500TCR utilizes a full suite of idler gears and a levelwind assembly to manage line lay.

Tools and Supplies Required

To perform a professional-grade teardown, gather the following:

• Wrenches: 10mm nut driver for the handle nut.

• Screwdrivers: Precision flathead and Phillips head.

• Cleaning Solvent: Degreaser or isopropyl alcohol.

• Lubricants: Deuthlon Semi-Fluid Grease/Oil (for high-speed parts) and high-viscosity gear grease.

Step 1: External Disassembly

1. Handle Assembly: Remove the handle nut locking screw, followed by the 10mm handle nut. Slide off the handle, the spring washer (drag star tensioner), and the star drag wheel.

2. Side Plate Removal: Loosen the three captive thumb screws on the right side plate (handle side). Gently pull the side plate away from the frame.

3. Spool Extraction: Slide the spool out of the frame. Note the centrifugal brake weights on the spool spindle; ensure these do not fall off and get lost.

Step 2: Servicing the Drive Train

The heart of the 6500TCR is the brass main gear and the pinion gear. Over time, salt and grit can compromise the tooth profile.

1. Cleaning: Remove the drive shaft and main gear. Clean all old, oxidized factory grease using a soft brush and solvent.

2. Grease Application: Apply a liberal coating of high-quality gear grease to the teeth of the Main Gear and the Pinion Gear. This cushions the gears under load and prevents "gear feel" during the retrieve.

3. Drag Stack: Inspect the Carbon Matrix washers. They should be dry or very lightly skimmed with specialized drag grease.

Step 3: Levelwind and Idler Gear Maintenance

Because the 6500TCR is not a CT model, it relies on a series of nylon idler gears to synchronize the spool with the line guide.

1. Idler Gear: Locate the white nylon idler gear on the inside of the left side plate. Remove any debris from the teeth.

2. Levelwind Worm Shaft: Unscrew the worm shaft cover and remove the pawl from the line carriage.

3. Deuthlon Recommendation: For maximum smoothness and reduced casting friction, apply Deuthlon oil to the levelwind worm shaft and the idler gear teeth. Deuthlon's formula is specifically engineered to reduce the "drag" created by the synchronized levelwind during a cast.

Step 4: Bearing and Spool Shaft Lubrication

The 6500TCR features high-performance stainless steel bearings.

1. Bearing Flush: Remove the bearings from the spool and the side plate. Soak them in solvent to remove old oil.

2. Lubrication: Add one drop of high-speed bearing oil to each. Do not over-lubricate, as excess oil can migrate to the brake blocks and kill your casting distance.

Step 5: Reassembly and Testing

1. Slide the spool back into the frame, ensuring the pinion gear engages correctly.

2. Reattach the right side plate and tighten the thumb screws evenly.

3. Replace the star drag, handle, and locking nut.

4. Function Check: Engage the free spool to ensure the levelwind moves fluidly across the frame. Spin the handle to check for any gear mesh noise.

By using Deuthlon oil on the levelwind components and a dedicated grease on the main drive gears, you optimize the 6500TCR for both longevity and elite casting performance.