Carl - Welcome to the Bullnose Forum.

While we specialize in the Bullnose trucks, meaning 1980 - 86 versions, we do know a bit about the earlier ones. For instance, I have a friend that comes over frequently with his '78 F150 w/a 351M, which is the little brother to your 400. We've done quite a bit of work on it, so I do have some experience with them.
Speaking of the 351M, it is part of the 335 Series of Ford's engines, and that is my favorite series. The engines are lighter than a 460, but the 400 has slightly more stroke than the 460 so puts out considerable torque. In fact, the 400 for Dad's truck puts out 500 ft-lbs at a relatively low RPM, which is perfect for a truck. And, those engines are "underdogs". But, in the right hands they can really shine.
Gary, AKA "Gary fellow":
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Dad's: '81 F150 Ranger XLT 4x4: Down for restomod: Full-roller "stroked 351M" w/Trick Flow heads & intake, EEC-V SEFI/E4OD/3.50 gears w/Kevlar clutches
Blue: 2015 F150 Platinum 4x4 SuperCrew wearing Blue Jeans & sporting a 3.5L EB & Max Tow
Big Blue: 1985 F250HD 4x4: 460/ZF5/3.55's, D60 w/Ox locker & 10.25 Sterling/Trutrac, Blue Top & Borgeson, & EEC-V MAF/SEFI