Priming Help

[FCC]

I purchased a priming tool which is simply a long hex bar.  I removed the distributor and see the slot that the distributor shaft sits into. There is a rotor or something inside around the slot but not sure if this needs to be removed to use the priming tool.  I heard of people simply using a screw driver.  Are they just using the slot that the distributor shaft sits into?  Any tips?  Thanks.

[anlauto]

You have to remove the distributor drive gear to get your hex shaft into the oil pump.

[hemiken]

Using a large flat blade screwdriver, insert it in to the distributor drive that you can see in the hole, now turn the drive gear by hand, you will only be able to turn one way and as you turn the drive gear will start to come up away from the camshaft, it will probably drop down again when you try grabbing it, i use a coat hanger or a similar wire that has a bit of strength to it, bend a hook on the end of the wire to help extract the drive out of the way, now you will be good to go, remember that the pump on a Big Block rotates differently to that of a small block, depending on what you have will determine what way to prime the oil pump with your priming tool and drill.

[FCC]

Awesome information!  Very detailed instructions.  Thank you so much!

[hemiken]

You are more than welcome

[Finoke]

Also, if you are priming after a new build. Make sure you get oil up to the rockers on each head. Turn the engine slowly with with a breaker bar and socket on the crank bolt while you prime.

Dont be worried if you have a hard time finding the sweet spot in getting oil to each head. The cam oil passage is very small so you need to be directly on it to see good oil flow to each head when priming with a drill. 

[mopar jack]

When using the hex bar try to keep it centered so that it doesn't contact the distributer drive bushing in the block. Maybe put a little tape around the hex shaft where it would touch the bushing.

Jack

[FCC]

Thanks again for everyone's help.  I finally primed the motor!