bent ambasador reel handle

Question
Just got an almost new Ambassador 5501C3 at a garage sale. Handle is bent out by the swivel "finger extension" I'm unsure as to the best way to straighten.

Can you give me some advice?

Thanks!!

Jim Hancock

Answer
Hi there Jim! Thanks for the question!
 Great find at the garage sale. My first baitcaster was a 5500c I bought with my saved allowance from "The Outhouse" mailorder catalogue that advertised in Bassmaster in the early 70's...I still have it today and occaisionally fish with it...the drags and gears are still as smooth as silk.
 As for staightening the handle...it's a 50/50 proposition. The matrix of the factory handle is not too brittle but the willingness of it to straighten out will depend on the fatigue of the metal that is bent. ABU parts are available for the 5501C-3, so if you break it or just want a factory replacement, any parts dealer can get one for you. If you don't have a favorite shop near you, try Bass Pro Shops reel repair...they're a bit pricey but provide decent service. If it were my reel, I'd just pick up a Hawg Handle from the accessories section of Cabela's or Bass Pro Shops and slap that on her...they're about 8 bucks and VERY smooth.
 OK, Ready! Grab a pair of large channel locks and gently grasp the bent part...bend it SLOWLY and as gently as possible...use a soft cloth on it to prevent damaging it further (this will make it harder to "feel" while you're bending it so be CAREFUL!)...that's the best I can do for ya...DID IT BREAK?...I sure hope not. If it is straight now  but runs roughly, the bearing surface under the finger grip is damaged and you'll be better off getting ahold of a Hog Handle anyway. They are also twin handled for quicker response to hook setting. ( I'm using them on every ABU I have...2500's, 1500's, 521 XLT's, and my 4600c's as well)...
  Jim, I hope that is of some help...if it did break, the BPS catalogue number is 28-392-650-02 and the frame is black. (they may be available in the same color as the housing on your reel but the parts department would have to check on it for you)...
  Le'me know how things "turn" out for you...and send me a pic of the first fish you catch on it!
  Best of fishing to you- Mark Rimmer- AllExperts.com
[email protected]