Just in the process of converting an XT chainset,760 I think, from triple to double but can’t seem to find a 36 tooth ring that shimano say is compatible with my chain set.
So, a.- are shimano being finickey and any ring of the same bcd will work
b.- if not can I use one of the rings Middleburn sell as a middle for triples, as an outer?

Like what I have? Yes, a 36t middleburn ring in 104mm BCD will work a treat. Assuming you use it in the middle position.

Thanks, that is just what I had in mind!

Using one as a single ring on my ss used it as the outer on a double no trouble at all.

Somewhere in my head i have a memory rattling around that the xt middle ring has its own offset and if you use a middleburn etc they sit to close to the xt outer ring. So if your not using a xt outer youve got no problems.

I’ve been doing so for years. Works a treat, even with a bashring.