I've seen oil pressure show up from just cranking on a mechanical gauge that I installed on the last build. I just put oil in the pan and topped off the oil filter. Prior to starting I disconnected the engine coils and fuel pump relay. I started seeing presssure on the third or fourth attempt of turning the engine over. Now on the 01 which had an electronic gauge I was not seeing the pressure show up on the electronic gauge but it came up instantly once I took the chance and went ahead and lit the cylinders. Both engines were assembled with Ultra Slick Assembly Lube and generous amounts of Marvel's Mystery oil. Why? Because I like the smell and call me superstitious but there's some magic inside that clear red bottle.

 

Yes , with a mechanical gauge after about 45 seconds of cranking i usually see the needle flicker, after that its “go time”……..and knowing i used quality assembly lube just lets you rest a bit easier when its time to light the fire…..as for the junkyard motors that some of you folks are scared to let the smoke out on….well thats just the chance you take i guess…..im not that guy…all my motors get torn down completely and always get new flat tops because dished pistons are for pussies…..and since your in there you might as well put new bearings all around…..i find building these motors very theraputic and i can sleep better knowing i left no stone un-turned……knock on wood ive yet to have any quality control/manufacture defects/or just bad luck…..always take your time and double check all of your work…..good luck to whomever finds themselves in this situation just do your doo dillagence and research research research…..if your still not 100% sure