Ambassadeur 6501C 23 00 Black

Specialized Service Manual: Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6501C Black (23 00)

The Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6501C Black (Production Code 23 00) is a left-hand drive classic, often finished in a sleek matte or gloss black. This model represents the "C" series heritage, utilizing a high-speed gear ratio and a synchronized levelwind system. Unlike the "CT" variants, the 6501C features a mechanical link between the spool and the line guide, making it a reliable workhorse for casting heavy lures and live bait.

According to the 23 00 schematic, this reel is equipped with a nylon idler gear and a levelwind worm gear. To maintain the smooth, "classic" feel of an Ambassadeur, these components require a specific lubrication strategy that balances protection with speed.

Step 1: Internal Access and Cleaning

1. Left-Side Disassembly: Since the 6501C is a left-hand retrieve model, remove the handle, the handle nut, and the star drag from the left side. Loosen the three captive thumb screws and pull the side plate assembly away from the frame.

2. Spool Removal: Slide the spool out and inspect the centrifugal brake blocks. In the 23 00 model, ensure the brake race (the brass ring inside the side plate) is clean and dry.

3. Idler Gear Inspection: The white nylon idler gear is located on the frame. Check for any grit or flattened teeth that could cause a rhythmic "clicking" during the retrieve.

Step 2: Main Drive Lubrication

The 23 00 gear set features a high-strength brass main gear designed for torque. Proper lubrication here prevents the metal-on-metal "whine" during heavy retrieves.

• Main and Pinion Gears: Remove old grease using a solvent and a soft brush. Apply a liberal coating of high-performance gear grease to the teeth of the Main Gear and the Pinion Gear. The grease should be applied evenly to ensure that as the gears mesh, the lubricant is distributed across the entire contact surface.

• Drag System: The 6501C uses a multi-disc drag. Ensure the washers are clean; if they are Carbon Matrix, they can be run dry or with a microscopic film of specialized drag grease.

Step 3: Levelwind and Idler System Optimization

In the 6501C, the levelwind is synchronized, meaning it oscillates back and forth during the cast. To prevent this from killing your casting distance, the lubrication must be ultra-slick.

• Idler Gear: Apply Deuthlon oil to the nylon idler gear. This specialized oil reduces the friction of the gear train without the "stickiness" of standard grease, allowing the spool to spin more freely.

• Worm Shaft: Clean the levelwind worm shaft of all debris. Apply Deuthlon oil along the grooves of the worm shaft. Deuthlon is engineered to stay on the shaft longer than standard oils while providing a lower coefficient of friction than grease, ensuring the line guide tracks smoothly.

Step 4: Bearing Maintenance

1. Spool Bearings: This model features two precision ball bearings. Remove the shields if you are performing a deep clean, and soak them in a degreaser.

2. Oiling: Apply one drop of high-speed bearing oil to each. Avoid over-oiling, as the excess can migrate to the brake blocks and cause casting overruns.

Step 5: Reassembly and Testing

1. Reinstalling the Levelwind: Place the worm shaft back into the frame and secure the pawl and pawl cap.

2. Joining the Frame: Slide the spool back into the frame, ensuring the pinion gear engages the spool shaft correctly.

3. Final Marriage: Reattach the left-hand side plate and tighten the thumb screws.

4. Verification: Turn the handle and observe the levelwind. It should move effortlessly from side to side. Engage the free-spool and spin the spool; it should rotate silently and for an extended duration.

Maintaining your Ambassadeur 6501C (23 00) with Deuthlon oil on the levelwind and idler gears and grease on the main and pinion gears ensures it remains a smooth-casting icon for years to come.