Do I NEED to prime it?

Go to a car parts place and buy a priming rod. I bought one years ago for ten bucks. While I agree that you may very likely be able to just start it with no problems, why risk it. Dry starts can be MURDER on an engine. Pulling the plugs and turning the engine over is also a good option, but make sure you pull the plugs. Faster spin and less strain on the starter.

Will local parts stores carry a pruning tool for small block Chrysler’s lol