96 Conversion
I am not all that familiar with the newer versions of the Explorer, I do know that the Mountaineer version came with a V8 and the parts should work. All of the part needed can be purchased from Ford and available for replacement as needed. Maybe find a wreched Mountaineer and get all of the parts at once along with the engine and all of the front pulleys and brackets, they fit closer than the Stang versions of the 5.0.
When doing the swap look at the weight of the engines, how much more or less than the stock engine is the replacement. If too much difference in weight and if you intend to add heavier bumper, winch, etc, look into either stock height springs with a higher spring rate or a lift to compensate for the extra weight. Of course if the weight is less than stock then leave well enough alone, unless you want a lift.
Good Luck, sounds like you know where you want to go, now go there...