Big Block distributor/ oil pump rotation direction?

Something I've found helpful, either B/RB or SB. Start with the filter off, and a hose attached to the sender port. I use a hose rigged with an air quick connect that matches my compression gauge. Crank and watch the filter port with a pan under. You should only have to crank maybe 1-2 seconds and get oil out the filter mount. This relieves head pressure and aids the pump to prime. Then pre-fill the filter and install, and point your sender hose somewhere safe, and crank until you get oil there. Then you can install the gauge, and as noted above^^ turn the engine so the cam oil holes feed the top end. The drill should bog pretty heavy when pumping oil.

Be aware that if you simply use a hex shaft you can chew up the distributor drive bushing.