windows stop working and the fan dies. put it in park and it sounds like a bad flywheel starting. it makes that sound till you shut it off. then it starts fine and everything works. it's done this 6 times in the last 8 months. any ideas?

 

Your ignition switch is sticking in the start position.
When you start the engine all electrics shut off and the starter engages.
Next time it happens do not turn it off, instead wiggle the ignition key.

 

I would spray it good with CRC contact cleaner or WD40 or even PB Blaster.

 

Funny the title describes most rovers except he left out leaks.

 

vehicle starts fine, no noise when running then notice that nothing electrical is working, then an aweful grinding noise occurs when I put it in park, I turn it off, start it back up, everything works fine. ????

P.S.
It does leak:}

BTW 96 disco 1

 

Spike told you what it was, why all the question marks?

 

The grinding noise is the starter trying to engage the ring gear. Sooooo... you can deal with the switch and maybe the starter.... or plan on separating the engine and tranny and dealing with a ring gear that has been to the dentist.

 

Some people are just a little slow at times, then the light begins to flicker little.....

"Stupid is as Stupid does."

 

when you said the starter was sticking I thought you meant that aweful noise you hear if you keep the key turned after it has started. Your saying it will stick, not make a sound for a while, but the longer it is on it will start to grind? Will we need a new starter?

 

The next time it happens giggle the key in the ignition.
If the noise goes away you need a new ignition switch.
Report back after you try this and let us know if giggling the key fixes it or not.
I am betting it does.