Well the issue sounds dead on to be alignment...how secure do you feel about the competancy of the shop doing the alignment? Out of all the Rack and pinions i have replaced (was a mechanic) most of the time they were due to leaks or very hard steering. The rack and pinion only works on a lower pressure from the pump...it cant jerk the wheel from you....there is no way possible. For the pulling you can check your brakes...a hung up caliper can cause the pulling.

Are you getting a 4 wheel alignment? That could cause your issues as well!

Terry

96 Eagle talon ESI
Star Stage II - Boost/oil/EGT gauges

97 Eclipse
Greddy header/evo exhaust - Stage 2 6 puck Sprung hub MIBA clutch - Shortened shifter - Koni Yellows w/eibach prokit - Stillen Fr/Rr swaybars - ceramic intake - DEI Keyless entry alarm - Niche 17" Shoks

Waiting to be installed: Apexi AFC, HKS EVC IV, ceramic intake, 450 Turbo injectors, SFMU/return line, GSX Front brakes (need rotors)