Well, after trying 3 or 4 front derailleurs, I finally found one that works like it was made for this application. A trusty 1989 Shimano FD-M732. Only modification is that I am running the cable on the outside of the bolt rather than on the inside and over that little ramp thingy as originally intended.

More info can be found her describing this feat of engineering genius:
VeloBase.com - Component: Shimano FD-M732, Deore XT