Hi all,
I was re-caulking the shower and cracked the lip on the lip of the drain. When I went to buy a replacement, the thread patterns have changed (only been 8 years since it was installed). I originally installed a Solvent Weld Shower Base Drain with Receptor Base. The base has circular threads with a v cut out on each side, and the insert had the actual normal threading in it. Everything I can find in town (ACE, Menards etc.) is reversed, with the actual threading on the base, and the circle with v-cuts on the insert. This will be a monster to replace if I have to cut the pipe and section out the base, then use maybe the Plub-Rite Wingtite to fix. The shower is in the master bathroom, and my wife and I have been using the Kid's bathroom to shower for quite a while.

Couple of things:
1. No brand marks on current insert.
2. No access to under shower without going through ceiling below, removing shower etc.
3. I'm not a plumber, but did all the plumbing when we built our house 8 years ago, so I have some experience. (read 2 books and everything has worked fine to date, even installed recirculating hot water for instant hot water throughout the house.)
4. Shower drain base and insert are PVP, this might have been a mistake in retrospect.

If I call a plumber, is there a chance they can find the right insert, or should I go the Wingtite replacement route? Thoughts?

I am sure reasonably experienced plumber in your area will be able to get you the right cover. There must be many other showers in your area and they need parts as well. But in any case: it is not such a big deal to cut through the ceiling and replace it - especially for somebody like you, who has some knowledge of construction ( only one problem: wives don't like to cut through the ceiling... :-D )