just finished a fresh engine build and passed it through a 5 hr idle break in before changing the motor oil. took it for a drive and the pressure line on the PS pump started leaking, but i didn't find it yet. added Honda PS fluid, drove it again and found the leak in the pressure hose. up to this point there wasn't a peep out of the power steering system. replaced the hose, topped off the fluid and drove 12 miles. added more fluid and now i have this loud weird vacuum sound comming from the power steering system.
as i gradually turn the wheel the noise decreases until it's gone, but raises in pitch as it quiets. as soon as i stop turning the wheel, the noise comes back.
also, my power steering only works for a few minutes when i start the car (driving or parked makes no difference), but the noise remains. I've been checking the fluid level each time i drive it and it's not moving.

 

check to make sure you have the speed sensor correctly installed flush with the trans. You will notice it has two lines on it.they go to rack and pinion. The faster the sensor spins the lest assist you get in power steering. Also make sure your pressure hose is tight enough. it can suck air at rack causing noise.

 

i felt adventurous tonight so i jacked up the car and started it. the vacuum noise seemed to be comming from the passenger side area. i pulled the speed sensor and dropped a new o-ring on it. i also checked the inlet into the control unit from the pressure hose. the fluid level isn't dropping. started it again and slid under. the noise has lessened quite a bit. when i dropped the car back on the ground, the noise increased and seemed to eminate from under the air box. either the control unit, plastic 3way connector, speed sensor, or the rack itself. if i have time tomorrow, i'll plug the hose on the speed sensor and see what happens, and swap out the control unit. at this point, i doubt the PS pump is an issue.
any ideas on quick tests or checks to run? with my luck, it'll probably be the rack leaking internally.

 

You are using Honda Power steering fluid right. Thats good to hear your trying. Are you still having trouble with the operation of the power steering? Odd symtem I admit Im a bit baffled assuming the pump is ok. Can you put your hand on the rack an feel a vibration consistent with what your hearing?

 

solved. the valve in the control unit was stuck not allowing air to purge out of the rack; hence the weird vacuum sound. i can't find actual honda fluid around here, but i have some equivalent stuff from kragen.

 

As long as the fluid says "FOR HONDA". Anything that says "For ALL car makes" won't be good.