This is going to sound like an ass backwards fix, but does anyone know if I can just use that long surly brake hanger to work with my top pull front derailleur?

Assuming it'll clamp on in the appropriate place, i.e. on your seat tube somewhere, I can't think of any reason why it shouldn't.

yeah.. it should fit. I just didnt know if the horizontal sway from where it is mounted would have any effect on the "precision" while holding it in gear.

thanks

Having googled it, I assume you're talking about this? If so, I doubt it'll mess with the derailleur enough for you to notice. The actuation ratio (the ratio between the distance the cable moves and the distance the derailleur cage moves) may change ever so slightly, but not enough to be noticeable.

yes! That is it! And yes..that is the answer I was looking for. Thanks!

Glad I could help. Also, I wouldn't consider this "an ass backwards fix", it's rather a clever idea.

I agree! Smart idea. the only thing I might consider doing is somehow anchoring the bottom of the bracket so that there is very little deflection when shifting but the tension should be enough to mitigate any ghost shifting. I'm just picky.