I will be installing an engine that has sat for about a year. Should I somehow prime the oil system before starting (or maybe just disconnect the injectors and let the starter spin the engine for 15 or 20 seconds without firing)? I could also pour oil on the rockers/valve springs by removing the valve covers. Suggestions?

 

Just start it and let it idle, as long as it has sat with oil in it it will be fine.
If it was dry then yes, you will need to prime it.
Remove the oil filter and using a oil can squirt oil into the ports on the filter mating surface, this will put oil directly into the oil pump.
Replace filter, start her up and let her idle.
You are going to want to change the oil and filter again after about 500 miles or so to get any condensation and junk out of the engine.

 

stupid question but did you turn the engine by hand to tell if its still good?

 

Pull your fuel pump relay before turning the key on. Then let the starter spin it. That is the easiest way to prime it.