I have a similar problem to the one from Ray Adams' post below with a Mitchell reel. I am trying to mount a Mitchell 300 to a 16 mm Fugi graphite seat. Just the ends of the reel feet are being held in the hoods. Is it possible to remove the graphite mounted within the hoods to get some extra room? This may not be advisable due to the thinness of the hood metal. The seat is already mounted to the rod and the foregrip is in place. I hate to take it all apart to change to a larger seat. I may have to grind down the foot on the Mitchell to fit. Any suggestions or guidance will be appreciated.

Bill

I think the hoods are there to provide a more secure hold on the reel foot and to prevent galvanic corrosion between the differing metals of the reel foot and reel seat hood.

I know the insert on the threaded portion will come out, but I am not sure the other end can, it is around the body of the reelseat.

I myself would grind the feet to fit.Less work and it will not hurt the holding power of the seat or reel..

What happens if you decide to buy a new reel with shorter feet ???

Bill - willierods.com

I agree that grinding the feet is the way to go.

I have had to grind feet on the Pflueger Medalist fly reels in years past in order to get them to fit some of the better quality reel seats. It's a simple process that does no harm.