CONVENTIONAL REEL INSTRUCTION MANUAL
a. Congratulations
b. Pictures of Components
c. Family Info
d. How to Fill the Spool with Line
e. Drag Adjustment
f. Removing the Sideplate
g. Reel Function
h. Maintenance
i. Warranty Information
Drag Star
Line Guide
Handle
Spool
Nut Retainer Screw
Frame
Spool Tension Knob(s)
Handle
Knob(s)
Push Button/Thumb
Bar
Centrifugal Brake SYS
(select models)
Thumb Screws
Line Out Alarm (select
models)
Handle Nut
Nut Retainer
A. CONGRATULATIONS:
Thank you for purchasing one of the world’s most advanced conventional reels. The
combination of lightweight materials, durability and precision engineering makes Abu Garcia®
THE choice for serious anglers around the globe. These reels are widely used by pros on the
tournament circuit, guides, record seeking experts and anglers who demand the very best from
their equipment. Rely on Abu Garcia® quality and dependability to keep the fun in fishing.
The following guide will explain how to get the most out of your new ambassadeur conventional
reel. Each element is described by its name and function. Some features are not found on every
reel model. Read these instructions carefully before using your reel to ensure a proper
understanding of its operation.
B. COMPONENTS:
Include:
C. AMBASSADEUR FAMILY OF CONVENTIONAL REELS:
Packed with tradition, the ambassadeur series of conventional reels offers time tested
performance and durability. The family includes Alphamar LC, Big Game, 7000i C3, 7000i C3
CT MAG HS, and 7000i.
D. HOW TO FILL THE SPOOL WITH LINE
All ambassadeur conventional reels are designed for monofilament, braid and fluorocarbon lines.
Personal preference and fishing conditions will determine line selection. Begin by passing the
line through the guide located on the front of the reel. Secure the line to the reel using the arbor
knot. Control the filler spool by inserting a pencil into the spool hub. While maintaining tension
on the line with your fingers, wind the reel handle and continue to fill with line to approximately
1/16” (1.5 mm) below the top of the reel spool for best results. Do not overfill. (CLICK HERE to
learn how to tie the arbor knot in this video)
Braided Line
Some anglers prefer to add a monofilament backing to the reel spool before attaching braided
line. This helps reduce line slip. Using the above instructions, fill the spool with enough
monofilament line to cover the spool. Tie the tag end of the monofilament backing to the
braided line using a uni-to-uni knot, Albright knot or equivalent. Continue to fill the spool with
braid to approximately 1/16” (1.5 mm) inside the upper lip of the spool. Do not overfill.
(CLICK HERE to learn how to tie the uni-to-uni knot in this video)
E. DRAG ADJUSTMENT
Ambassader conventional reels deliver 12 to 27 lbs of smooth and reliable drag tension
depending on model. Control the amount of drag by turning the adjustment star inside the reel
handle. Rotate the star clockwise (right) to increase drag or counterclockwise (left) to decrease
drag. For best results the drag should be adjusted to approximately one-third of the breaking test
of the line being used. This can be accomplished by tying the line to a spring scale for precise
adjustment. Make sure the reel is first mounted on a rod and the line has been run though the rod
guides before tying to the scale. The drag should always release before the line reaches its
breaking point. Factors such as line type, technique and fishing conditions may require
adjustment to these recommendations. Any drag setting above half of the line strength risks line
breakage.
If a spring scale is unavailable, tie the line to a secure point. With the rod tip up (about a 45
degree vertical angle), apply pressure by turning the handle. Gradually tighten the drag star.
When the line reaches its breaking point, loosen the adjustment star ¼ turn.
F. REMOVING THE SIDEPLATE
Ambassadeur conventional reels (except Alphamar LC) are equipped with a removable handle
sideplate that allows access to the spool and gears. To open the sideplate, turn the 3 thumb
screws counterclockwise until completely loosened. Gently pull on the handle sideplate until it
separates from the frame of the reel.
G. REEL FUNCTION
How to Adjust the Spool Tension Knob: With the rod-reel-line-lure properly assembled, place
the tip of the thumb on the line to hold the spool. Disengage the spool by putting the eccentric
lever into the “off” position. Allow the lure to drop to the ground. If the lure does not fall when
the thumb bar is depressed, turn the spool tension knob (located on the handle sideplate)
counterclockwise to reduce tension on the spool. If the lure falls to the ground and the spool
continues to rotate, the mechanical brake is too loose. Adjust accordingly.
How to Use the Palm Side Tension Knob: (Big Game, 7000i C3, 7000i C3 CT MAG HS, 7000i
models) Some conventional reels are equipped with an additional spool tension knob located on
the palm sideplate. This feature adds an extra level of casting control that can be adjusted before
or during a cast. To use this function, adjust the handle tension knob first as previously
described. After the handle tension knob has been set, use the palm side tension knob to fine
tune the spool speed.
How to Use the Syncro Drag (Alphamar LC Syncro reels only): To engage the syncro drag,
crank the handle 1/3 of a turn in a counterclockwise direction. With the handle in this position,
drag is instantly decreased by 50%. This feature is especially useful when using downriggers or
trolling as it allows the bait to be deployed without having to disengage the reel. Once lures are
in the desired position, crank the handle forward to resume normal operation. (CLICK HERE to
learn more about the syncro function in this video)
- Basic Casting Technique -
a) Slide the eccentric lever into the free spool position. While keeping the tip of the thumb on
the spool to control the lure, hold the rod and reel so that that handle is pointing upward.
b) Holding the rod and reel in front of the body, bring the rod backward so the tip reaches a
point above and behind the shoulder. To cast, bring the rod back in front of the body in a single
motion without stopping
c) Release the thumb from the spool as the rod is brought forward so that the lure is launched
slightly upward and outward toward your target. As the lure approaches the water surface stop
the spool with your thumb. If you don’t stop the spool as the lure hits the water, the spool will
continue to rotate causing a backlash (a.k.a bird’s nest)
(insert picture)
- Line Out Alarm (select models) –
The line out alarm switch engages an audible alarm to alert the angler that the line is moving
from the spool. It is most useful when trolling or still fishing. The line out alarm must be
disengaged when casting and should also be released when retrieving line or fighting fish.
H. MAINTENANCE
As with any precision product, your conventional reel will require regular maintenance. Gently
rinse the reel with fresh water, wipe it dry and lubricate according to the accompanying diagram
(picture of oil and grease points). To keep your reel working at peak efficiency, clean and
lubricate after each use. At least once a season your reel should be disassembled for a thorough
cleaning and re-lubrication. Refer to the exploded parts view supplied with your reel. Reel
maintenance kits can be purchased at your local tackle store and include everything you need to
properly service your reel. If you do not wish to perform this work yourself any nearby Abu
Garcia Service Center is fully qualified to do this for you.
I. LIMITED WARRANTY
ONE YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY
(FOR USA AND CANADA ONLY)
This "limited warranty" has been drafted to comply with the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Federal
Trade Commission Improvement Act which is effective for goods manufactured on or after
December 31, 1976. For the period indicated, Abu Garcia will, at its option, repair or replace and
return the covered items found to be defective in material or workmanship at no charge except
for shipping cost. Abu Garcia will have no other obligation and will not be liable for incidental
or consequential damages. Abu Garcia makes no implied warranty of merchantability or fitness
for any period beyond the stated duration of each Limited Warranty. This Warranty does not
cover damage by addition or alteration of the product, accidental damage or loss, abuse, failure
to provide reasonable and necessary maintenance or normal expected wear. Damage that is
determined to be of this nature will be repaired at consumer's expense. This Warranty does not
extend to products which are put to commercial or rental use.
This Warranty extends only to the original purchaser of the reel, and does not give any rights to
any other person. Some states do not allow exclusions of incidental or consequential damages or
limitations of the duration implied warranties, so the above exclusion and limitation may not
apply to you. This Warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may have other rights which
vary from state to state. Do not send cash or checks to cover the cost of repair for products on
which the Limited Warranty period has expired. Abu Garcia's Authorized Repair Centers will
notify you of the amount due, including handling and shipping charges. Wholesalers and dealers
(unless an Abu Garcia Authorized Center) are not authorized to make in-warranty repairs or
adjustments on behalf of Abu Garcia. The terms of the Warranty cannot be changed except in
writing by an officer of Abu Garcia. Abu Garcia rods or reels requiring warranty repair
should NOT be returned to the store of purchase.
For information on where to send your products for service, Click Here.
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