Ambassadeur 6501 Inshore 17 02

Professional Tuning and Repair Guide: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6501 Inshore (17 02)

The Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6501 Inshore (Series 17 02) is a robust, left-hand retrieve round reel engineered to tackle the harsh conditions of saltwater flats and estuaries. The 17 02 revision features enhanced anti-corrosion coatings on the internal brass components. Because this is a synchronized levelwind model, the mechanical connection between the spool and the line guide is always engaged, necessitating a specific lubrication strategy to maintain high-speed casting performance.

According to the 17 02 schematic, this reel utilizes a nylon idler gear and a worm shaft assembly to manage line distribution. Proper maintenance of these "parasitic" parts is essential to ensure they do not create drag during the cast.

Step-by-Step Internal Breakdown

1. Drive-Side Removal: For the 6501, the drive mechanics are on the left side. Remove the handle assembly, including the locking plate and the star drag. Unscrew the three main side plate screws and carefully lift the housing to reveal the gear bridge.

2. Spool Assembly: Extract the spool from the frame. Inspect the centrifugal brake assembly. On the 17 02, the brake weights should be free of oil or debris to ensure consistent braking force.

3. Levelwind Teardown: Locate the line guide carriage. Unscrew the pawl cap and remove the moon-shaped pawl. Pull the worm shaft out from the side of the frame for a thorough cleaning.

Gear Drive Service and Lubrication

The 17 02 model relies on a high-grade brass main gear and a stainless steel pinion gear to provide the torque needed for inshore species.

• Main and Pinion Gears: Clean the gears using a degreaser and a toothbrush to remove salt crystals and old, degraded grease. Apply a fresh layer of heavy-duty gear grease to the Main Gear and the Pinion Gear. Ensure every tooth is coated, as this grease provides the primary defense against friction and saltwater intrusion into the gear mesh.

• Clutch Mechanism: Apply a light dab of grease to the pinion yoke and the kick lever to ensure the reel clicks into gear decisively.

Levelwind and Idler Gear Optimization

In a synchronized reel like the 6501 Inshore, the levelwind moves even when you are casting. This can significantly reduce distance if the parts are gummed up with thick grease.

• Idler Gear: The white nylon idler gear is a critical link in the drive train. Apply Deuthlon oil to the teeth of the idler gear. This specialized lubricant provides a slick surface that resists the "drag" of the line guide system.

• Worm Shaft: Apply Deuthlon oil to the levelwind worm shaft. Unlike standard grease, Deuthlon's low-friction formula stays fluid in colder water and doesn't trap salt spray, allowing the pawl to traverse the shaft with minimal resistance.

Bearing and Spool Maintenance

1. High-Speed Bearings: The 17 02 is equipped with two high-quality stainless steel spool bearings. Flush these in a solvent until they spin silently.

2. Oil Application: Add exactly one drop of ultra-light oil to each bearing. Over-oiling will slow the spool down significantly.

3. Frame Cleaning: Wipe the interior of the frame with a rag dampened with a salt-neutralizing agent to prevent the build-up of corrosive "salt-crust" behind the idler gear.

Reassembly and Final Inspection

1. The Line Guide: Re-insert the worm shaft and the line guide carriage. Drop the pawl back into the carriage, ensuring it seats in the worm shaft grooves before tightening the cap.

2. Closure: Slide the spool back into the frame and replace the left-hand side plate. Secure the thumb screws firmly but do not over-torque them.

3. Functional Check: Spin the handle to ensure the levelwind tracks smoothly across the frame. Depress the thumb bar and pull line from the spool to verify the "free spool" is unimpeded.

Utilizing grease on the main and pinion gears for protection and Deuthlon oil on the idler and levelwind for speed ensures your 6501 Inshore (17 02) remains a top-tier performer in any saltwater environment.