I could and I have considered it. Get an EDIS 8 module, some wiring, a transmission controller, and 4bbl intake (or go Mustang EFI) and I could probably get it on the road quicker. But... I could also save a lot of money, do the same amount of work (maybe less), and use the perfectly capable system that I already have. The latter wins i I can get it done. Considering that I've got about $375 total (after scrapping carcass) into the Explorer donor, I think it's worth a shot. If it works, that's a of money that I can put into other parts of the truck. If it doesn't, I'm only out the time it took to try.
Issue with the wiring is procrastination. I'm using the Explorer's EFI system in an 80s model Ranger, so I need to make the engine harness standalone, already got PATS handled. Prior to last month I had no place to really spread out the wiring and start working on it. Studying wire diagrams with nothing to put my hands on doesn't work too well for me. Now I've got a little work shop to spread the harness out in, just need to finish up some other projects so I can get started on it.
You are correct, it is possible to adapt a 4bbl intake to MPFI. In fact their are several MPFI intakes sold that are exactly that. I figured that people, such as your self, who are up to the challenge of adapting an intake would know what's up and just ignore that statement. It is not in every one's capability to do the job at home and hiring out the work can be cost prohibitive. Even if they think they have the drill bit for the job, don't mean that they have the capability to get it set up right. If the injector angles aren't right and properly aligned with the runner and intake port, you might as well be running a carb or TBI unit.