Certifying a restored experimental aircraft

[GLS]

Fortunately, we have all builder info, pictures of the build, inspections, etc. We also have letter to FAA from original builder about de-registering because of an expensive AD on the engine. There is no data plate but we, and the FAA, have a complete paper trail on the aircraft.
So, I guess this means we call the FAA.
Thanks

[FlyingRon]

Airworthiness certificates do not expire. Unless the previous owner did something explicit to do something to turn it in it is still valid.
If you're just putting it back together, you probably need do NOTHING. You will, of course, need to have a condition inspection by an A&P as it is certainly probably out of "annual."

The biggest issues are: do you have (or can you get replaced) the airworthiness certificate.
do you have (or can you get replaced) the approved operating limitations.

If you make changes, you'll most likely need to INFORM the FAA but that's it.

To get an amateur built experimental certificate you only need to show it was built for recreation or education. You do not need to have been the one who did it.

[GLS]

Thanks for the very informative reply. We're in contact with the builder and wel should be able to resurect the required documents.
Again, thanks for the info.
Gary