I would be very interested know of ANY differences between the two frames so I can be prepared to make any necessary modifications before I get too deep into the project!

The replacement galvanized frames on Rovers North have two different part numbers, 99-02 is PLQ133 and 03-04 is PLQ134, so there has to be some difference but no one has been able to tell me what it is.

I bought this used frame from Mike at Tarheel Rover Parts and he said they are all exactly the same, 99-04. He makes his living tearing apart old rovers and runs a rover club so I assume he knows his stuff. Does anyone know for sure???

 

You'll have to swap panhard rods to the earlier style, the panhard rod mount on the chassis is the difference.

 

Awesome, thanks for the info!!

So is it your opinion that the frame thickness is the same between all model years?

 

It's my understanding that they're the same, but they could be different. The difference is really between D1 & D2

 

Just to clarify, you're saying I will need to get an 03-04 style panhard bar to match the 03-04 frame, correct?

I'm going to add a lift at the same time so I was going to get an adjustable one anyway. I just want to make sure I get the right one. Thanks!

 

Correct, different length. Get the 03-04 adjustable

 

Link to frame article:

JE Robison Service - Bosch Car Service Specialists ? the blog: Frame Rust in Land Rover Discovery II models - an Achilles' heel?

Some of the comments below it discuss the 03-04 frames vs earlier D2 frames...

 

Just skimmed the the article and my take is all D2 frames are the same thickness.

Did I miss something?

 

I like this project. It’s difficult when people put your personal interests in dollar amounts.
I have the same issue and for the past year I have been thinking about doing the exact same thing. I know I could easily buy a cheap 04 Disco and swap some things out but I think being able to get a new frame as well as redo EVERYTHING under the body would make the Disco last a long time. And I plan on having this Disco for a long time.
At the end of the day you will never be able to explain your personal passions and interests to others.
It would be like explaining why you are a fanatic about a certain sports team.

Post some pics. I plan on doing this soon.

 

I knew there had to be more people out there as crazy as me!