How do you prime the oil pump?
Here's another suggestion. Overfill the motor with way too much oil so that it has to reach the level of the pump. Loosen the oil filter to relieve any obstacle to the oil. Head pressure should force oil to the pump. Disarm the fuel pump or ignition and crank the motor for a bit. Drain as much oil as you overfilled and then try it. This should keep you from having to remove anything from the motor. Bill