Incredible engine there on ebay, but you want to talk about a lower level of reliability! The SOHC can live up to fix or repair daily. But very cool!
I have not heard much in the way of failures in SBF. Every engine fails in some way eventually. Take that back, I have seen what seems to be a higher rate in the Ford crate motors. Which I would not buy any ways. Don't break them in and no warrenty, fa get about it!
My thoughts:
Don't go wild with the stroker. Don't buy from a builder that doesn't have a spotless reputation. Don't push the engine to get the power you want, build a bigger engine (build an engine that will easily make the amount of power you want)! Don't buy the motor unless the builder broke it in on a dyno. Don't run without proper fuel,
oil and ignition systems (don't forget the rev limiter). Don't expect a 500 HP motor to last as long as a 300 HP motor (all else being equal, you stress it more, it will not last as long).
I really don't think that any one of the big threes old iron is more reliable than the other. Like the bearing spining. Usually a simptom of some other problem.
Still love the Cleveland though!
Rick