[Long Haired Git]

Yes, they collect air bubbles just as good anywhere in the loop.
However putting a res between the pump's outlet and the first highly restrictive peice in the loop will definately make a difference. Tested at OCAU for bad results - it adds restriction and also will be more prone to linking. Res's belong just before pumps to reduce the NPSH, with as thick and short a tube as you can get away with.

Next, to "working against you".
What I meant was that if the coolant is colder than ambient, then as it travels along the long pipes the ambient temp air around those pipes will be warming the coolant up. So, insulation or thick walled tubing is better than mega-thin-walled tubing, and insulation around the pipes is better still. That is, if you care....