Last time I did that there was a cascade from the timing bush. With the cover on, the oilpump cavity rapidly fills with oil, so the bush is pretty well immersed on the pump side. But of course, my motor has a bit of lift on that bush, but still runs fine. Prepare for a bit of a mess!!
Swarfy
Additional. If the motor is "dry", the big ends need all the oil they can get. Priming the crank from the PRV cavity is another trick. Ted's suggestion (later post) is a good plan, but under the circumstances a greased gasket on the timing cover may be worth a sacrifice rather than risking a poor oil flow to the crank from the bush in the absence of the cover. Primary chain can have a dose from the oilcan, but again cover on will keep the oil off you and the rest of your valuables.
