Stuck shower handle screw (not the set screw)

[dabrakeman]

I have a dripping shower and because there are no access panels behind the tiled shower I would like to try to get the cartridge out of the single handle valve and replace it. The set screw (there are actually two of them) on the handle comes out fine but behind the cap on the handle there is a Philips head screw that also prevents the handle from coming all the way off. Unfortunately I could not get this screw out and started damaging the head in the process (tried PB blaster and rubber under the screwdriver etc...). Before damaging it further I called a plumber and they destroyed the head the rest of the way (see photo) and said there was nothing else they could do. Said because they didn't know what brand the shower valve was even if they could get the screw out and handle off there was no guarantee they could replace the valve and then we would have no shower until someone busted out a whole bunch of tile to put a whole new assembly in. So, that is where I stand with a bucket on the floor of the shower.

Is there a recommended tool to try to get this out (like an easyout) or should I just try to drill it out? Possibly even take a hacksaw and cut the stem if the cartridge is going to be replaced anyway?

Is there are typical location that a brand name is usually put on a shower faucet? Nothing visible anywhere from the outside.

 

[James Henry]

https://www.homedepot.com/p/RYOBI-Spiral-Screw-Extractor-Set-5-Piece-A96SE51/205469301

 

[Sponsor]

 

[Mr tee]

Assuming the screw is brass, I would just drill it until the head pops off.

 

[James Henry]

Assuming the screw is brass, I would just drill it until the head pops off.

Yea, you could do that too. I don't know why I even try, somebody else always has a better idea.

 

[dabrakeman]

Thank you. I will first try drilling it out. Still concerned I may not be able to identify the make of the faucet in order to get the right cartridge.

 

[dabrakeman]

Anyone able to identify the make of the faucet from the pictures. I know it is a longshot.

 

[dabrakeman]

Actually I have been doing alot of web searching and I think I identified the brand and model.

The faucet appears to be a Danze D502757RB which would be a discontinued version of the current Danze Opulence D502857BRT.

Does anyone have any idea whether a cartridge would still be available for this?