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The consensus is that they're all pretty well similar strength wise. The major difference is the late model blocks with an F4TE casting number are roller cam equipped or compatible.
Early blocks (1969-70) are .023" lower deck height according to Ford. Also, 1969-74 blocks have more material around the main bearing webs which might be a little stronger.
All engines are 28 oz-in unbalance.
The 97 F-250 5.8's should roller cam, installed. Otherwise, the roller blocks started showing up in (mid) 93.
Not having the extra material around the main bearings isn't an issue unless it's going to be an all out race motor. Even then, I wouldn't sweat it; there are quite a few rigs that are running low 11's and 10's in the 1/4, with the later blocks.
There's nothing wrong with running a flat tappet cam either. Other than the cam, the valve-trane will dictate the RPM range
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