I had a custom 331 stroker built by a reputable local builder when I lived in Wyoming. Unfortunately I moved out of state before my FFR build was complete and I could put any miles on the engine. Long story short: after I got the car finished and put 4900 miles on it, I'd experienced several problems including a broken rocker stud on the Edelbrock heads, and head gasket leaks and
oil pan drips. Then two years ago the 331 started making really ugly sounds and bearing metal ended up in the
oil filter. I replaced the 331 with a 345-horse Ford Racing crate 302.
After almost two years and over 4000 miles on the crate engine I've had zero problems. It may not be quite as powerful as the 331, but it doesn't use or leak any fluids or make any unusual sounds.