mix-y match-y merckx-y?
 

Hi good people,
I have a Merckx CX criterium frame from 1987. I've built it up over the years with a mix of stuff. My main issue is that I'm not in love with the components. Gears don't play nicely all the time, will slip gears -- especially when I crank/step on it. Blah. It's friction on the downtube. Also:

It has an italian BB.
I have an older Campy GS group on the bike.
I also have a set of Xero-Lites with the Shimano freehub.
On the freehub is a Sram 8 speed cassette.
Chain is a KTM.

So, there it is. Anyone have any suggestions for cleaning things up a bit? Maybe starting on the less-expensive side?

Thank you.

try a new chain and a new cassette.

cool...
 

hi, bikeman...
thanks for the suggestions. from what i can tell (im about a level 0.1 bike mechanic), you can't put a campy cassette on a shimano freehub -- unless im wrong. what other kinds of options would i have for putting on the freehub? and do you have a chain recommendation?

Thanks.