Trouble with Moen shower handle removal

[ehrx]

Hi there, I'm new to this forum. I'm trying to replace my Moen shower handle and trim kit, but when I removed the handle by loosening the set screw, this is what I see underneath. This piece (looks like brass?) has a Phillips head screw in the center, but turning it with a screwdriver just turns the water on/off. When I turn it VERY hard counter-clockwise, I can't get it to go past a certain point. I tried pulling it straight out, but it won't budge.

Did this part break off from inside the handle, or is it something else? Help please! Thank you.

 

[Twowaxhack]

It’s held on by the Phillips head screw you’re turning.

Pull toward you as you unscrew it. It’s probably stripped.

 

[ehrx]

Thank you! I will try that.

 

[Homedude123]

Try wd40 on the screw

 

[RickFlorida]

When these are old, I've had to destroy it to remove it. But you don't have to destroy the valve, just the trim sometimes. You can then remove the broken/stripped screw from the valve with a good pair of pliers and then just buy new trim kit.

 

[TomFOhio]

Hold onto that brass piece tight when you turn the screw