So,
Had my 53 TD5 disco (non ace, no diff lock) front end up to carry out a PAS box and Fuel pressure reg change (not the reason for the post, however now also waiting for a replacement drag link before I drop it).

Both parts fitted, fuel line purged, so asked a friendly passing neighbour to start the engine for me to check the fuel leak was sorted before replacing engine covers.
Said neighbour helpfully leans in turns key...
Clunk clatter from somewhere underneath, front wheels turning off ground. Silly sod had left it in gear, quick underpants change for me! Very lucky that it stayed where it was.

So, now I think that the clunk clatter was something giving way along the trans to back wheels, hence my question-

Where and what should I be checking first?

not necessarily any issue they can clatter if started in gear a higher gear especially

jamesmartin said:

not necessarily any issue they can clatter if started in gear a higher gear especially

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And drive to front axle only, with rear still on ground?

275 Rigby said:

And drive to front axle only, with rear still on ground?

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or with all 4 wheels off,take it for a drive and see how it is

In my mind, the back wheels were on the ground, the front off the ground therefore the centre diff would have sent all power to the front (path of least resistance) and both wheels were free therefore they just spun so shouldn’t have been any damage.... I’m guessing g the clink was just the slack in the transmission being taken up?

Ty gents,
I hope you are both correct. If island 4x4 ever deliver my parts I can get it on the ground and check!!