Match the pump to rack. That way, no guessing. No substitute for homework.
Hearsay is ok for perspective. Responses may lead to tips, tricks.

If changing pumps, use unknown pump as core return. Save oem for parts, ref.
Mixing and matching to save money gets unknown outcome forever. More work too.
Match and be sure. Trust rebuilders. They miss every now and then.
Think positive. Play the odds. Hard to out engineer the engineers or pros.

Rock Auto lists several racks for 88 tbird 2.3t. AZ is pretty good ref on this too. Others no.
One 88 t-bird rack listed is Cardone 22-207, performance suspension.

2015, installed a reman 22207 rack and pump in my 79.
Target year 1983 Mustang 15:1 sport/performance suspension rack, to upgrade from 79 TRW 20:1.
Rack and pump from AZ. Desired local purchase in case of problems. Good prices.
Rack: Duralast 6439. Yellow paint stamp on rack says 22207. It is 2.25-2.5 turns lock to lock.
Duralast 6199 pump. The pump match for the 15:1 sport rack.
New 79 outer tie rod ends. Matched to year of car.
New hoses. New rack bushings were included with rack.
Air in system was not an issue. If any, bled out using normal procedure.
Working fine. Absolutely no leaks or any noises.
No hisses, moans, whatsoever all weather temps from day one.