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Keep in mind small or big block don't apply to the Ford engines, they go by series. For reliablity the fe series like 332 thru 428 and 385 series 370, 429, and 460 are both excellent. The 385 series has some advantages though like power capability, aftermarket high parts available and factory fuel injection cause they were built untill 1997 in pickups. 460 is my pick. And you can increase stroke very easy for big power.