You know, it's kinda funny how things change. I remember when having an ambassedeur was the tops. I have over 15 of them, ranging from an old 5000 (not an A or C, but just a 5000) up to a 7000 and all sorts inbetween. But, I too have noticed that the ones that I have problems with are the 5500 C3 series that are 5 years old or less. Between not disengaging right to drags. I lost a very nice winterrun on the Hoh river earlier this year because my reel malfunctioned. Luckily I had my trusty old spares with me. I have an old 5000c (blue frame high speed retrieve) on an old fenwick 85c that saved the day on the next drift. I don't know if it's the new age production or what, but all my old ABU/Garcia baitcasters are as good as day I bought/inherited them. The new reels by Shimano and such are nice, but I like my old companion the Ambassedeur on my rods. Just call me old fashioned, but I enjoy them, but yes, the new generation aren't quite up to par. So, any of you with older ABU/garcia's, black framed 5500, send em my way...hint hint.......just kidding. I hope ABU straightens up soon, I'd hate to have to switch over to another reel...tight lines........

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