Think I've found my own answer. The tool I used to run the oil pump is just a shaft that goes on the end of the oil pump shaft. Without the distributer installed, or tool that simulates having it installed, the oil pressure is vented to the outside and does not get to the right oil galley. Sound reasonable?

72 Sierra Grande - Maych

Forget about "do it right the first time". Do it wrong the first time to learn how, then do it right the second time.