Have you thought about picking up a Cobra reman rack like Summit offers?
https://www.summitracing.com/parts/a...odel/svt-cobra
Or jump on Summit Racing and search for "2004 FORD MUSTANG Cardone Remanufactured Rack and Pinion Units 22-2000"
You get the firmer feel and a a better overall unit. The prices are bad either. The housing should be stamped with the ZM code ensuring it is an actual Cobra rack.