I don't think there was ever a pressure issue with the 98s that they converted to 7.62Nato (these rifles were designated "FR8"). This was done to serve the function as a training rifle for the CETME. The sights and front metalwork of the FR8 were identical to the CETME so they looked and felt about the same, and used the same bayonet. Once proficient (enough) with the FR8s they were let loose on the CETMEs.

FN made 7.62Nato and 30/06 98s in the 1950s for Columbia (and others?) and they were otherwise the same technology and materials as the previous 98s. Like I posted earlier, I'm not aware of any 98s that had pressure concerns.

The model 98 was "the" rifle action used by most military forces around the world for 50 years - that's pretty impressive I think. Makes for an interesting hobby - there are many variations to collect (I started too late, unfortunatley).

A must have would be Robert Ball's "Mauser Military Rifles of the World" - I have a copy but need to read it again. It gives the history and variations as well as experimental rifle versions. Still, beside the point for this thread really.