[pvsurfer]

The drain of our stall-shower is badly clogged (I suspect with lots of hair). 80 oz. of Drano could not clear it. I then wanted to snake it out but I can't get the drain cover off as the 2 screws are frozen to the point that I've stripped the heads trying to unscrew them! Please help me out.

[hkstroud]

Drill out screw heads. Start with small drill bit, about 1/8". Drill all the way through the screw. Then increase drill bit size slightly, enlarging the hole in the screw. This will be your pilot hole for drilling out the screw later. Finally drill out the head of the screw only. Clear drain. Get new screws (stainless steal). Drill out old screws to fit new screws, probably about #12. Retap drain for new screws.

Biggest problem will be centering the drill bit in the old screw. The smaller the bit you start with the closer you will come to centering. Try to drill straight down.

[pvsurfer]

I really appreciate your reply. When drilling-out the screws should I use the drill's reverse action? Once that's done, what type and size of snake/auger should I buy for a stall-shower drain?

Another thought. Since about 2 inches of water accumulates on the shower floor, what do you think about using a toilet plunger on the drain?

Thanks!

[hkstroud]

You can certainly try the toilet plunger. When plunging, work the plunger rapidly and remember the pulling action does more than the pushing.

Don't know how you can use the reverse of a drill unless you have left handed drill bits and that would not have any advantage.

Key thing would be to use what is left of the screw head to center the drill bit in the screw head. Start with small bit and light pressure to get a start. Since it is highly unlikely that you will get the bit centered exactly you may have to drill an oversize hole and then use a larger screw.

[ma0641]

After a hole or two, you can try a screw extractor.

[pvsurfer]

Hey guys, thanks for those tips - as you can tell I'm not very 'handy' (but willing to learn)!

One thing that's been left unanswered: What type and size of snake or auger do you recommend to unclog my stall-shower drain?

[Milo Dolezal]

For shower drain, you should use 5/16" or 3/8" cable. Go all length of the snake. Repeat several times. Flush with lots of hot water

Milo

[pvsurfer]

Thanks for the advice Milo. How long of a cable do I need? - and should I get a drum (spinning) auger that can be connected to a drill?

It would really help if you could recommend a particular model for me to buy (considering that I'm just an occasional user).