Elmer, you must have experience with heavy duty engines to be aware of any need for pre lube or concerned about "dry starts".
One of the great features of the SBC, in my opinion, is the bottom end design including the lube system.
The oil pump submerged in the oil supply and a filter that will not drain back to the sump helps assure quick pressurization of the system and a proper viscosity of oil for the bearing clearances keeps the bearings well lubed until the pressure supply arrives.
If you think the system goes dry at shutdown, just spend some time working under an engine with the pan removed to roll in or inspect the bearings.You'll soon be hunting for a raincoat and goggles.
These engines with reasonable care will run 300,000 miles and have healthy bearings when you open them up and very seldom is the oil pump greatly worn.I like to do autopsy on an engine when dismantling for OH or repair.The wear patterns can tell you a lot about the operating conditions and needs.
Diesels many times start under load and need pre lube for good bearing life but the automobile driver can be more considerate of cold start conditions.
Just my 2 cents worth.
