Shimano 2303 FD - chainring compatibility
I am currently setting up Shimano 2303 STI shifters (i.e. 3X8) on my old French Gitane touring bike. I have the rear shifting working using a Deore RD and an 8 speed cassette. However, the old Huret FD doesn’t work (no surprise) and I need an index FD that works with the STI. I was thinking of getting the Shimano 2303 front derailleur, simple and cheap. My chainrings are Stronglight 50/45/30T. But the 2303 FD specs state a minimum 10 tooth difference between the large and middle chainring. (I figure it has to do with the contours in the sides the derailleur cage that assist shifting) My Stronglight set up has a 5T difference (50-45). Will I need to replace my 45T chainring with a 40T or smaller chainring? Or will the 50/45/30T set work but maybe not as well as with the specified chainring sizes? The chainrings are 86 BCD, which are available, but not very common.
Thanks