Fords are the most frustrating engines to work on, but they do respond to mods well. It seems that every bolt on them has to go back in exactly the same hole it came out of, especially on the front cover. And there's always one more bolt that you missed!
"Detroit" balancing is a pain, and there was a starter/ ring gear change in about '82 that can make some very expensive noises if you get the wrong combination of parts.
Once you get 'em figured out, though, they're a pretty good engine. I prefer the 351W, but a 302 will sure rev!