I once had a Master Rod Builder (CEO Monteque Rod Company) explain to me that with the less expensive bamboo rods of the day the reels (Showed me with a Pflueger Medalist) had a way to add split shot into the center of the reel to balance the outfit.

I had asked him why one of the rods I had built was so top heavy, after his explanation I rebuilt the rod with lighter and fewer guides. It cast beautifully after being rebuilt correctly.

The suggestions above are very sound, go for it!