Friction or index?
Friction - even though contemporary Shimano MTB triple FDs are specced for 42 or 44 tooth max chainrings they will shift 48. Deore, SLX, Deore LX (recently discontinued here in the States as far as I can tell) and XT should work fine.
Index - For best results seek out a similar vintage FD so the profile of the chainrings and inner/outer cage plates match up. The pull ratio of the shifter for your given crankset is also a limiting factor.
You could also try moving the FD up a bit more than the sticker recommends. Not optimal, but functional.