It's one off and a number I know employ that method. Along with some grease in the pump,most times.

WP

 

Just fire it up. Oil pressure will pop right up, pushrods might rattle a bit as the lifters pump up but no harm done.

 

I would do the spark plugs out and crank till you have oil pressure method. I haven't done a Harley engine yet, but I do this on my Land Rover engines. I don't think there's a downside to this method.

 

i’m ready to do a startup but want to do this right. Is there anything I need to do to prevent the fuel injection from pumping any fuel? The gas tank is still 99% drained so I’m assuming not much would get through but want to make sure there’s nothing I need to disconnect to prevent it from attempting to pump fuel.
The spark plugs are still out, but I just would like to get some oil moving before I do an actual start. I gather you can just fire it up without doing this, but it seems like it’s a good thing to get some lubrication first.

 

Pull the ecu or fuel pump fuse.

Or,

Jump from the solenoid control to the post positive terminal on the noid.

 

Great! thank you.
How long should I expect the extra tapping noises to subside after I start up?

 

The only oil you have lost is what drained from the cam chest when you pulled the cover. Oil will start moving as soon as you hit "Start" and pressure will pop straight up. Lifters may have lost some prime during the shutdown and may rattle for a bit while the lifters pump up; maybe a minute or so, maybe less depending on lifter bleed down. I understand being the first time and fear of doing something wrong but, believe me, starting up without the extra step of spinning the motor with plugs out to "get some oil moving" is not necessary. I also understand it's your bike so do whatever floats your boat.

 

If the lifter has air in it, it can take a few minutes. I've heard hear that some had to take it for a ride but I'd be concerned with that. The way I pre bleed the lifters with a vacuum pump, they don't rattle..

 

I ran it for for less than a minute then let it set for a while. When I came back and started it up the noise was gone, so it worked out really well.
I took it for a very short ride and everything seems to be working fine. Thanks to everyone for the help on this forum!

 

Ok fellas, Im getting ready to do my 2002 88. I'll re-read, and end up asking all the same questions.

thanks in advance.