I would hope a builder would hold a warranty it only help the engine out. Ablock big block fords come with the soft plugs taped. Check it out it doesnt cost much and makes a better foundation.
I wonder what, if any, effect sleeving would have on the rigidity/strength of the block?
Doug herbert has a nice block fill I have used a bunch of times with good results. Moroso also makes a good product.
Thats nice 90% of an great engine rebuild is the machine shop, you want to take it to a good machine shop some one who does performance. It will be worth the drive.
I wonder what, if any, effect sleeving would have on the rigidity/strength of the block?
When I asked about this a few years ago when I was going to do a fully build I was told it would stiffen/strengthen it up a good amount. The issue is making sure the sleeving it done correctly. If its a good job its all positives from what I was told; if its done poor not some much. I would think if its a quality machine shop it would be gtg.
I would think, proper sleeving, partial fill, bedplate and you have a 7.3 block about as good as it gets.
Tarm,
Can you Daily drive on a Partial fill?