Now to figure if I
need a new rod, or convert one of the existing bunch.

Tsk, tsk.
You know the rules. New reels require new rods.

As I tell my wife, the reel seat on that old rod has conformed to the shape of
the reel foot of the reel that is now on it. The reel foot on the new reel
will not properly seat on that rod because it is shaped different and will
become loose and might fall off. Therefore, I will need a new rod for the new
reel.

Brad Coovert
Tournament Director, Greenfield Bassmasters
http://www.greenfieldbassmasters.com
Esox Rods - Hand Made In The USA
"For The Toughest Fishing Around"