S
Spydeyrch
Ok... so one more obvious thing. I actually went through this same issue with my Solo.
The Echo Solo has two rings: one that actually screws, and another that slides freely over the seat. Make sure that both rings are slid down to the butt, so that the ring with threads doesn't actually touch the reel. On my solo, the top ring sticks a little bit if it gets slid all the way up to the top.
This might not be the case for you, but just a though. Good luck. Either way, the shop should be able to set you right.
This might sound kinda "hatchett", but you might be able to fix it by just firmly wiggling the front reel foot into the tight hood with some firm pressure. I have built quite a few rods and sometimes the hoods are just a little tight. Most reel foot hoods are aluminum and while it might seem like a "garage shop" fix, sometimes forcing the reel foot will spread the hood and then it will work fine forever. If the hood/seat is heavy gauge machined you will not be able to "force fit" the reel foot. If the hood/seat is stamped aluminum of average gauge it will flex and bend a few .000" to fit your reel.
Use common sense if you try to "force fit" the hood and if it is taking way to much force then you probably shouldn't persist.
Good luck.
Randy
Did you try any other reel to see if they fit properly on this rod?
Sounds like your new reel wasn't made right.
I've owned a number of these exact reels - the Sierra 5/6 - never had an issue with them fitting on any of my rods - have used them on Cortlands, WW Grigg, Wright & McGill, Cabela's, and Lamiglas without issue. The reel foot is plastic, so it's possible yougot a poorly cast piece, something just doesn't sound right about your reel, or the reel seat on your rod is off.