You can remove the old foam and replace with cork tape without removing the reel seat.
My previous post was "overkill." I really only intended on commenting on how to remove old flex-coat and the use of acetone. I guess I got carried away
Three-fourths of the Earth's surface is water, and one-fourth is land. It is quite clear that the good Lord intended us to spend triple the amount of time fishing as taking care of the lawn.