Converting Campagnolo Ergos

My options as I see them - replace the rear mech and block with 9 speed bits, or convert the 9 speed ergos to 8 speed.

Anyone done the latter, and have advice?

I've not done this myself, but a friend attempted it and it went horribly wrong. The internal spring in the Ergo lever is almost impossible to fit and you have to change this. He tried and tried and tried but could never it to work again.

I'd go 9 speed if I were you.