I crashed my 2000 Disco II and am rebuilding the front end. I have to replace basically everything from the Radiator Core Support forward, including the steel brace that runs between the two aluminum front impact absorbers and those absorbers.

Rather than going back stock, I am considering a bumper/bull bar option as a possibility. The problem becomes one of aesthetic preference...

I really like the look of the ARB Sahara Bar
http://store.arbusa.com/Assets/Produ.../3932020_A.jpg

as opposed to the ARB Deluxe Bar for the 2000 Model year.
http://store.arbusa.com/Assets/Produ.../3432060_A.jpg

I'm pretty sure that the grill is shorter on the 2003 and that the headlight trim panels are thinner allowing the bumper to effectively sit just a bit higher and closer to the headlights. I've also considered installing lights from a 2003 to upgrade the front end a little more.

What I'm not sure of is the Radiator Core Support. I know that the headlights openings in the core support are different between the 2000 and the 2003, but I'm not sure about the way that the Radiator Core Support mounts to the frame and body components. On the 2000, the Core Support is tac welded to the fenders in a couple of places.

I'm wondering if, since I am replacing everything from the core support forward, can I install a 2003/04 Core Support, 2003/04 headlights, 2003/04 Grill, 2003/04 headlight trim panels and then install an ARB Sahara Bull Bar for a 2003/04 without making modifications to frame and fender attachment points?

My other option is to just return everything to stock and install an HLC Fabrications Winch Bumper with an A-Bar
http://hlcfab.com/images/products/la...h%20Bumper.jpg

I will be in this Rover for the long haul after making these repairs. I will keep if forever at this point, so the additional capabilities offered by the increase in approach angle and the addition of a winch will prove beneficial in the future.

Thoughts? Anyone else done something similar?

Jeff