Overheated and bang

A colleague of mine with an identical 1998 Disco 1 V8 recently went bang. Spoke to the mechanic and apparently needs new radiator hoses, radiator and then the engine needs checking. He reckons its pretty serious and it is presently being turned into a sand dune in the scrap yard.

If prevention is better than cure what parts do you suggest needs to be inspected on my V8? Water pump, radiator hoses/clips? Anything else?

That's a shame, but unless your colleagues disco radiator and hoses are damaged or faulty in someway (blocked), why replace them ?.
No need to replace your water pump unless it's leaking or making a noise indicating a faulty bearing or impeller and for the other stuff what I say above applies.
The important item is your viscous fan being fully functional, therefore being able to cool the radiator without any issues.

http://www.pcworld.co.uk/gbuk/tv-dv...es-2-0-headphones-raspberry-10141308-pdt.html

check rad gets hot all over when engines up to temp,check hoses get hot

Its a personal choice really.
If you are keeping it and have the cash then replace them.
I did the same with my last 300TDi just because I didn't want problems.
Cost around £200 in parts to fit a new rad, stat, pump, header tank and all the hoses but I was doing the belt at the same time so everything was coming off anyway.

Thanks guys! I had the belt done last year but didn't think of any other replacements. Knowing me I'll be full of indecision until I'm forced to act .....

I decided to get the work done (re-condition the radiator, hoses, pump and fan) and also reupholster the front two seats. Including labour around £350 using genuine LR parts - apparently. I was persuaded by a D2 owner who had a similar 'blow up' with his coolant system, and my colleague's car which is now a wreck; the bonnet is warped, with possible engine damage. I don't want that to happen when I'm far from home.

Also selling an ancient Disco is difficult and I'll probably have to sell it for less than its true value as a vehicle.

Your thoughts are welcome!