I've always been a huge fan of the '81-'91 brake plate used in the Ambassadeur. Simple, effective, the clutch never hangs, and it makes a satisfying clang when the reel is put in gear. These were used in the first Ultracast models like the 4500C, 4500C3, 5000, 5000 Sprint, 6500C, and 6500C3. This was a transitional period for Abu Garcia as they migrated from the Classic style to the more contemporary Ultracast design. No idea why they didn't keep it. They could've added a taller driveshaft post to accommodate a roller bearing, but here we are.
Compare that to the newer style which uses leaf springs to manage the pinion yoke and is a more complex design. The clutch on these can hang every so often, but the older design to me is perfection. Both are great, but I feel the older design wins from functionality and reliability standpoints.
Posted by redmeansdistortion