Mountain Biking - Front mechs

I have an Acera front mech and it ain't much good. It can't shift on to the largest ring and if I want to then I have to kick the chain with my foot. This isn't easy. Fortunately I don't use the large ring much. I'm after a new mech but after reading a few web sites I hear that all Shimano front mechs tend to have this problem. Is this true? Can anybody recommend the best front mech with a budget of (unless there is a particularly good one for a bit more) about £20 ($30), Shimano or not?

You need a competent mechanic. I have had a variety of Shimano components and all have shifted fine when properly adjusted. Some just hold adjustment a bit longer than others.

Better yet, pick up a book on bicycle repair and learn to do it yourself. In the long run it will save you money.

*Cough Cough*
I'm the mechanic. I'm aware of how to adjust it, but it's knackered. It's been on my bike for 4 years after all and it's had a fair thrashing. I don't know how long the problems been there but I just never really shift onto the larger ring much. Like I said, if there are no problems with Shimano mechs then I'll probably get one, most likely an XT.
This is just part of my lifes plan to remove all Acera from my bike. I'm a student and I have to watch my budget though.

check your cabel tension, it's easy to overlook. if it's good(by good i mean no slack in the lowest position), then probably get a new deraileur.

Cable tensions fine, I need a new derailleur.
Am I getting an XT then? If it's crap I'm gonna blame you lot and send you the bill.

You shouldn't have any problems with the XT or any other Shimano FD.

xt should be spanky :D

xt's fine. i only pay 50CDN too if i want one..

I have an XT. It works great.

Another question. I've got a 7 spd cassette. If I get a 9 spd I'll need a new chain won't I? Hope not cos I only just bought one but it sounds like I will.

A 9-speed chain will NOT work on a 7-speed cassette or vice-versa.

The 9-speed derailleur will work, but if you can get a close-out on a left-over 7 or 8 speed, I'd suggest doing so.

What size do you need? In other words, what seat tube diameter is required? Top pull or Bottom pull?....etc.

I've got a brand new XT 8-speed for a steel frame (28.6 diameter I think!) That I'll sell you cheap!

L8R

Thanks, but I'm not getting it yet. Can't afford it for a few months yet, thats if I ever do. I'm hoping to upgrade a lot of bits on my bike.