Some of us are on facebook as well, but there are far more inexperienced owners/keyboard warriors there. I would recommend using facebook for photos, used parts, club meetups, and get together organization. This forum is the absolute best technical resource there is for a D2. Although I have a degree in engineering, ten years ago when I got my first D2 I knew very little about the idiosyncrasies of the model and sought information via both search and posting up questions when necessary. This is the place for expert advice.

Now, to your issue. I can definitively state that the ECU and BCU are matched and must be swapped together. The cluster is optional but will flash the odometer if it is not swapped with the BCU. The fourth component is the IDM integrated in the interior fusebox, it can be swapped with the ECU/BCU if you want it to start instantly, or you can re-match the idm/fusebox to the ECU/BCU by turning the key to the on position for 15-20 minutes. I keep several spare ECU/BCU/cluster on hand for testing as well as backup spares. Although failures are rare they do happen.

 

I concur absolutely. The Facebook Rover forums are a cesspool.

The responses I see there are very often reflexive replies borne of individual experiences, not supported by evidence (or worse).

Rarely do I see anyone ask diagnostic questions; they simply leap to conclusions. (No, not every instance of the flashing M&S lights means the expensive XYZ switch needs to be replaced. There are 14 faults that can trigger the flashing M&S lights. The XYZ is the cause only rarely, and its failure more often manifests itself differently. Read my sig line.)

A couple other Rover forums used to be good too, but they have faded for whatever reasons (may they RIP). They just don't get the traffic they once did. This forum is the clear survivor.

 

The door handle is back gloss vs standard matte Disco 2 99-04. The key works in ignition but you can even get the key into driver door lock… not even a 1/16” of the key. I believe the door handle came off maybe another type of Rover. They look similar, but if it is a Disco II door handle then the lock itself is not.

But I’m going another route now with the advice of a Rover mechanic and I’m transferring my trans / gearbox / shaft from this one (2000) to my parts vehicle (2001) which it’s key works the door locks, ignition, and has better interior. It was just missing the sunroofs which he has both for me and the gearbox was bad on it. The engine is fine in the 2001. I initially bought it as a parts because all the leather seats and dash in pristine condition.

I appreciate your help though!