Recently replaced the timing cover and oil pump on my v10. Had to find another motor with a good cover and pump in it. Does anyone know if and how I need to prime the pump before trying to start the engine?

I have a similar proble to the original post from ten years ago lol. Picked up a 2001 dodge ram 2500 v10. I had it parked for a while doing rockers cab corners etc. started it up and oil pressure was at zero check gauges on, then it kicked up to normal after about 30 seconds During this time there’s also a slight knock/lifters tick. After it warms up there’s no noises and my pressure is right around 40. I checked my oil dip stick and I have safe line oil wasn’t the best but it was full. Looked around and the oil pressure sending unit on the oil filter was broken off And if I pushed it in I’d get different oil pressure readings. So I got a new sending unit I’m hoping that and an oil change will fix the cold start knock I was hearing.. should I check my oil pump as well? screws backing out seems to be common here. I can’t find much info on it, how to rebuild it or what it really looks like.
i did also order a new oil pan mine is starting to seap oil so I will have to look around down there as well. I’m not sure what I’m really looking for besides crud in the draw tube(id like to upgrade to the bigger pump/tube screen if I could find one). I have had it parked since I noticed this was going on so I’m hoping whatever damage is minimal. I’m not really a mechanic I’m more of a body guy. Thanks in advance for any feedback