i've packed oil pumps with vaseline several times with no ill effect. the vaseline breaks down with motor oil very easily. if this is a new rebuild i suggest running the pump until the oil pressure gauge gets a small reading. this will help with the dry start. i'm hoping there's cam lube on the bump stick, and the engine was assembled with oils as much as possible. i usually crank the engine with the plugs out so it will get the oil moving into all them nooks and crannies. if the lifters are hydraulic didja think to soak them in tranny oil all night?
good luck with the new mill. nothin' like the sound of a engine comin' back to life.
