Look up...look WAY up... there you will see the search bar... and then after 30 seconds of that, you will come up with the answers in threads like this:
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums//showthread.php?t=273017
And links to thread on other forums like this:
http://www.race-dezert.com/forum/showthread.php/36319-D44-TTB-Pivot-Spacing?highlight=pivot spacing
And links to products like this:
http://www.autofab.com/mdl_44_ranger.htm
Just search a little... all the questions have been answered! (and tell your buddy he was right... it just takes a lot of money...)
And if you don't feel like clicking my links... just read this post by 4x4junkie:
"As for the D44, I have done it. It most certainly is possible to bolt the D44 straight into your axle pivot brackets, but a few mods are required elsewhere to complete the installation.
You'll need to move your coil buckets out off the frame an inch or two, and modify your radius arms and/or their mounts some (this assuming you'll be keeping it full width).
No mods are required to the crossmember or brackets (distance between the diff housing and the beam pivot is the same as on the D35).
There is a 2" difference in the lateral spacing of the axle brackets between the F-150/Bronco and the Explorer. If you bolt the D44 axle straight in, you'll need to shorten the passengerside shaft(s) a total of 1.5" or so. IMO, I think a better way is to lengthen each beam 1" instead. This will keep the axle from turning out 2" narrower after putting it in. "