Originally Posted by
EnDLeSs_27
Downtube friction shifters all have pretty much the same capabilities except for cable pull ratio (neglecting the obvious mechanical stuff like plastic versus metal parts). The lever bends the cable around a circle, call it a drum. The amount of cable pull for a given lever pull depends on the diameter of the drum. Bigger drum, more cable pull, faster derailleur movement. The original maker made it to match their derailleurs. The result of the "perfect match" is about lever effort, lack of lever slip, and how far the lever pulls to get you all your shifts. One (in my opinion) really nice-feeling set up is the much-maligned Campagnolo Nuovo Record. It just seemed to feel right, at least to my hand.
But, as long as you can get ENOUGH cable pull, ease of lever travel, and lack of slip, essentially any friction levers will work with any derailleur.
I don't think anyone has ever made a compatibility guide for this matching adventure.