John,
I sure wouldn't think any additional disassembly would be required just because the hydraulic lifter weren't pumped up.
With a crankcase full of oil, a charged battery and all plugs removed, spinning the motor for half a minute should get everything where it belongs. For some reason, I think the lifters actually have to move in their bores to fill properly (?).
After installing the engine, you can find TDC, install the distributor, do a okie time and your ready for lift off
Stuart