Hi rsl-dixie-
I'm a new guy to so let me know if I'm off my rocker- I was always taught that before you start an engine that has been sitting a long time, it's wise to pull the distributor and run the oil pump manually. I use a 3/8" OAK dowel trimmed down to a fat blade, and drive it with an electric drill. For me the pump spun real easy at first until it primed, then with the lid off the oil filter I could see when the oil started to circulate. I put the lid back on, and the rocker cover off, and waited until oil started coming out of the rockers before I start the engine up. Seems to me if you did the same you could feel how the oil pump is running, and tell if you have a blockage somewhere. Anyway, a newbie's $.02 worth.
-Warren
