Here is what I use for V8 engines, the cooling fans are A/C condenser fans I came across, it takes a lot of air to cool a rebuilt V8. For just a test run, hook up a garden hose to the lower radiator hose and run the top hose out away from you. Adjust the flow rate so the temperature stays warm, not to hot or to cold. Also hook up some sort of muffler out away from where you are working, you need to hear the engine and what it's doing, with open exhaust you will never hear trouble till it quits. Oil pressure gauge and temp gauge would be helpful, my stand has a tachometer, oil, temp, voltage for points, and voltage for electronic ignition. I also use an electric fuel pump to prime the system and to run the motors but a mechanical pump will also work.
I use three switches, 1, is ignition ( simple on/off battery voltage to ignition ) 2, fuel pump on and off, 3, push button for starter ( battery voltage to { S } terminal on the starter solenoid )
And three switches on the radiator cooling system, one for each fan.
Basic stuff, Have a good know to work carburetor with fuel in it, Have a cooling system, Have a good know to work ignition system ( distributor ) with good wires and plugs. Have a fully charged battery, generator and or alternator if possible ( they run better with full voltage ), Have a working exhaust system.
Basic wiring,
Battery to starter just as if it was in the truck. No need for key switch, a simple push button works or some mechanical way to use foot stomp button on starter. Distributor wire to ( - ) terminal of coil. Battery wire or resistor wire to ( + ) side of coil. To shut down engine, you will need to pull this wire off, or switch off with toggle switch. Wire can come of battery, or starter.
