My 2000 Disco II has a cracked block, my 1996 Disco a smashed front end. I'm told I can't swap the engines but can I put the top end (heads, intake, ignition) of the Disco II on the 96's short block and use in the Disco II?

 

Yes, shouldn't be a problem.

 

Ditto, same engine different engine management.

 

you might want to check your state emissions laws. I believe in some states you can't swap in an engine older than the vehicle.

 

Most states don't allow you to swap in a complete engine older than your vehicle because of emissions laws. Just swapping the block would be legal. The heads and engine management are the important parts when it comes to emissions.