To my mind the rack pre-load via the spring loaded plastic part gives the most noticeable improvement to steering feel. Before doing this its important to disassemble all associated parts by removing large locknut, hollow threaded part, spring and slotted plastic part that bears on rack, all of which can be done in situ. The latter can expand with grease within rack and not allow free movement within hollow part which prohibits the sprung pre-load from working. If necessary the plastic can be lightly sanded down, just enough to provide free moving fit within and against spring.
Correct adjustment of pre-load makes the steering less lively if previously was set too loose. Mine had no noticeable play prior to adjustment but steering was noticeably calmer afterwards.
