Ambassadeurs are tricky reels to cast with some satisfaction.
You use a light weight then switch to a heavier weight. First cast, new weight, and if you are not careful, you overspool on the cast and backlash.
You use a heavy weight and switch to a lighter one. First cast, you throw harder and "force it" Line does not go where you want it to and you have a backlash.
If you put the anti-backlash on too much, you get no distance. To get the distance you want, you loosen it right off and cast easily, but then, have to worry about a backlash.
I have found numerous things to cause backlashes and usually get at least one a year.
Some tips:
-Use Mono if you get a lot. Usually heavier mono as well. It is easier to get it out.
-Once you see you have a backlash, never try to pull the line and pull the backlash out. You just cinch up the knots tighter.
-Avoid using a scissors to work the line/knots out. If you use a long darning hook for rubber worms and keep it with you, use that to slowly pick the line. If you have no needle, look at using a fish hook.
-Always roll the backlash backwards first, rather than rolling it ahead. Once it rolls backwards and stops, begin to wiggle the line and start to work it free. once done, pull the line ahead slowly and not too tightly. Once you hit the second knot in the backlash, roll it backwards once again and start the process over again.
-Sometimes, if worse comes to worse and you are desperate, cut the line at the swivel, pull the float off, and force the line back through the guide. Once this is done, force the freed line back through the knots in the backlash.
Hope this helps out,
Dano