Here are the facts: last night, replaced steering pump with refurb, [didn't replace O-rings], started car, turned wheel back and forth, added fluid [not Honda "approved", foamed over reservoir for a while, wheel hard to turn. Let sit overnight, foam subsided, still hard to turn.

Assistance immensely appreciated.

 

I'll reply to my own question. DON'T EVER NOT USE HONDA FLUID!!!Anyone that says they're all the same are wrong. I got fed up and had the dealer replace all my fluid with the Honda fluid. All is now perfect!

 

well there you go... glad it worked out for you

 

I used to sell auto parts, Honda/Acura has its own fluid for a reason. Trust Honda Engineering.