From the monthly EAA newsletter. This kind of explains the whole dataplate thing quite clearly. It is really the paper trail that defines an aircraft, not a pice of stamped aluminum frequently called a data plate. The regs even allow you to make a duplicate data plate for one that has been lost, destroyed or become illegible.
http://www.eaa.org/ehotline/issues/120427.htmlQ&A: I plan to buy a "basket case" 1947 Commonwealth Sky Ranger that has no paperwork, including the title or data plate. Will the FAA help me track down the necessary paperwork to get the plane legal?
Answer: Without the data plate and paperwork, such as registration, airworthiness certificate, and logs, you're facing an uphill battle to recertify this aircraft. Your best option may be to use this project for parts to restore a different aircraft that is more complete.
To register it you will have to prove ownership through bills of sale to the last registered owner, or some other means as specified by this document. Once registered, it will have to be inspected to ensure that it conforms to the type certificate, unless you have the airworthiness certificate. This is extensive, and expensive, since every part must be inspected to ensure that it is the exact part specified on the TC.You should contact your local FSDO to discuss the inspection requirements before proceeding.
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