Im getting close to starting my engine for the first time.So I was wondering if theres a certain tool i would need to prime the engine? Do I just turn the oil pump drive shaft??

 

You will need a 5/16 socket 1/4 drive and an extenion and a drill. I use an 1/2 drill and run it backwards. Be sure to have the filter on and to oil hole where the oil sender goes pluged. I use a brass fitting screwed in the sender spot and a small oil gauge on it. I get 50 pounds with the drill running and have someone turn the engine over with the starter. Lube's all the parts.

Gene

 

Instead of plugging the oil pressure port, I hook up a gauge, that way you will know if you have sufficient oil pressure. As Gene stated, you want 50 or so on the drill. I usually do this with the valve covers off and I stop when I see oil at all of the rockers. Also, be very careful that the socket does not fall off. I use a deep (longer) socket.

 

is it okay to just unplug the distributor and turn it over with the starter to prime the oil pump?

 

Not in my opinion, especially on a fresh rebuild. It hakes a while even on the drill to get oil everywhere. It is easy, only takes a few minutes, and is better. I prime them initially on the stand so if there is an issue I can address it before I bolt the engine in the car. Then, I hit it again right before start up.

 

Before I owned 6 drills that all go in reverse, I would use a 1/2 drive speeder T reduced to the 5/16'ths, that I would hand crank for 10 minutes.
Good workout. It really needs to be done.
Move the oil first, then turn the engine 2-3 rotations. Remember, the cam needs to be broken in at 2000+ rpm's for 15-20 minutes.
Do it correctly.
Jim

 

thankx for the info guys!

 

Thanks for all the help. Seems alot easier then I was thinking.