Windows 2000 Server Rename Computer

I have an environment with 1 windows 2k domain controller running Active Directory, and several windows NT 4 BDC’s. When I upgraded the PDC to Win2k it changed the computer name on me. I need to change this back before upgrading further. I have checked into this, and Microsoft says I can remove AD and demote the DC to a Member Server and them rename it, but that if it is the last DC then I will lose all users. Is there some way to do this without losing everything?