Convert 8sp index Campy DT shifters to friction?

[TronnyJenkins]

I'm pretty positive these don't have the "lift-and-twist" method of index or friction selection. I've played around with them for quite awhile and could only end up with index shifting (if you want to call it that).

Is there a way to replace some bits inside and end up with friction only?

More or less these (http://velobase.com/ViewComponent.aspx?ID=51E5F420-3059-4696-89AA-5178120FC337&Enum=104).

[oliver1850]

The linked Syncro 2 rear shifter can be switched to friction. The later 8/9 shifter (8 speed linked below) with the little cable tension adjuster has no friction mode.

http://velobase.com/ViewComponent.aspx?ID=B48AADA9-BFAB-4996-BC5D-B2BE53F7BE59&Enum=104&AbsPos=34

The obvious difference is the knurled ring. If your shifter has one it is friction capable, lacking one it's index only. When switching modes you have to rotate the knurled ring 90 degrees from the index position. Sometimes when switching you rotate too far and the tabs on the knurled ring miss the target grooves on the barrel below, and it ends up back in index mode when you tighten the screw.

I've never tried swapping the Syncro 2 bits to an 8 speed lever but it might be possible. Problem is you would probably have to buy a complete Syncro 2 lever to get all the required bits. In that case you might just as well use it complete. The cable adjuster is of little use in friction mode.

Syncro 2 is not the greatest shifter in friction mode. If you're building a dedicated friction setup, Campagnolo Doppler, Simplex retrofriction, SunTour Powershifters, and Shimano Light Action (SL-A400) are all better shifters.