Would it be possible to switch the 52-42 with 53-39 chainrings from an ultegra double? I know a DA front mech would be required for proper shifting , but would the chainrings work?? thanks

I have the Ultegra triple and I just swapped out the 52 for a 48 and the 42 for a 38. The rings were made by Salsa. They don't differentiate between double or triple use, but use the terms inner and outer to differentiate. My new chair rings shift perfectly well. My only regret was to not get the TA rings. The TAs are much better looking. As long as the chain rings are for 130bcd, 5 arm cranks, you should have no problems. :)

It's certainly possible, but be aware that a 39T inner ring from a double will have no ramps or pins to aid the shift from the little ring to the middle, so if the shifting isn't great, that's probably why.

A DA triple 39 is not compatible with Ultegra triple. The TA triple rings are very nice. You can get them at sheldonbrown.com.

Believe you'd be better off with a TA Alize 39 ring, ramped and pinned to run with a triple. I'd leave the 52 on it. The DA 9-speed triple derailleur may be better but you could try it with your old derailleur. I think you can get the TA ring directly from http://www.peterwhitecycles.com.

Al

A DA triple 39 is not compatible with Ultegra triple. The TA triple rings are very nice. You can get them at sheldonbrown.com.
In what way(s) is the DA ring incompatable with an Ultegra crank? - TF

In what way(s) is the DA ring incompatable with an Ultegra crank? - TF

It has to do with the way the granny 30 is attached, haven't worked on it myself.