Experimental Exhibition - missing data plate

[montauk1989]

I've got an opportunity to buy an old de Havilland Chipmunk, English version. I used to own one but had to sell it a few years ago. They are wonderful planes to fly. I have a lot of spare parts including a spare Gipsy Major. This plane, for reasons that no one can explain, has no data plate and the logs are missing. It's in the experimental exhibition category.

I've been searching for a straight answer on the data plate question. I'd like to restore it but without a data plate, can I register it and fly it?

Thanks
Dave

[Cvairwerks]

First thing that I would do is order the FAA file on the aircraft. Assuming a good file and the a/c hasn't been destroyed on paper, then talk to a DAR that is versed in warbirds. I would do it all before making the purchase, or make it contingent on being able to clean up the paperwork and make it legal.

[John Dupre]

First thing that I would do is order the FAA file on the aircraft. Assuming a good file and the a/c hasn't been destroyed on paper, then talk to a DAR that is versed in warbirds. I would do it all before making the purchase, or make it contingent on being able to clean up the paperwork and make it legal.

This is very good advice. I would add is there an official heir to de-Havilland that might be able to issue you a replacement data plate? They would probably want ensure the same things Cvairwerks has mentioned. I understand that some British aircraft have the serial or construction number mounted on a plate on the main spar or center section. If true that ought to establish the true identity of the airframe.

[bdk]

You can make a replacement data plate.

Just make sure you have a complete trail for the bill of sale from the last time it was FAA registered.

Assuming this is all being done in the US...