Tub Stem Identification Help

[AAProps]

This is probably a shot in the dark, however I'm hoping someone might be able to help identify this stem. I recently purchased a home where the previous owner attempted to work on the bathtub plumbing. I assume they didn't know what they were doing and twisted the ends off both stems when trying to remove/repair.

I couldn't locate the broken ends - I assume they were thrown away. Unfortunately there are no identification markings on the piece I have left, and I can't count splines. I also don't know how long the broken piece was.

Here's what I know:

The diameter of the stem is 7/16" at the point it was broken off.
The stem measures 1 1/4" from the tip to the bottom of the threads.
This is from an older house and the plumbing looks original (circa 1940s-1950s) and is a standard 2 knob with tub spout (no shower diverter). I am also missing all the other finishing pieces that goes with it (knobs, tubes, flanges, etc) so I will need a complete rebuild kit.
The closest I've found from scouring the internet is a crane repcal:
http://www.faucetpartsplus.com/product_p/416031.htm or an old wolverine, but I'm not 100% certain and hate to spend $30 each if I'm not sure.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B8EcCGEn7Fjla3NHNjZZejhHMGFPUkFEc1Q4cjhOU2FWM1BV/view?usp=sharing

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B8EcCGEn7FjlQjhmWGtQMHBxdEdMb2dUa0h2Yjk4a3hQbzNn/view?usp=sharing

The local plumbing supplies were stumped and recommended that I rip it all out and start over as it would be cheaper and easier. I don't doubt that the new parts would be cheaper, but I really want to try to preserve the old tile work unless it is an absolute last resort. I also can not access the back side for work (another bathroom & tub on the other side of the wall). Is this a hopeless cause? Any and all help is greatly appreciated!

 

[Asktom]

I think it is Repcal, one of two. Lasco's part numbers are S-1143 (pre-WW2) or S-1144. The stems are interchangeable, but the bonnet nut is just a hair larger on the S-1143. It could have a non-removable seat, a press in seat (Lasco X-19) or, remotely possible, a threaded seat (Lasco X-10).

Look down the hole the stem comes out of, if you see a round hole at the bottom then the seat was machined into the body of the seat and won't come out. Slide the blade of a screwdriver along the ridge surrounding the hole, if it feels rough you are up a creek - it will tear up washers and leak. Sometimes people try to grind the surface smooth, but it rarely works. Once upon a time there was a tool that would thread the inside of the hole and very flat seats were available. The seats are still available, but finding a plumber who has the tool and is willing to use it will be problematic.

If you look and see a round hole with screwdriver slots on the sides or a hex opening then the seat comes out. It will probably be a pressed in seat although like I said it could be the threaded one I mentioned, or even one of those replacement ones that fit where the body was tapped.

If you are good to go so far and can get the packing nut out of the bonnet, you could use either of the stems I mentioned, but might have to put the new packing nut and packing washer in the old bonnet. If they are messed up all you can do is buy and try.

The stem assemblies are also available from companies other than the one I mentioned.

If this is a 3-valve tub and shower, post a picture of the center diverter stem.

If you made it this far the trim is easy. Repcal is long gone and the replacement stem assemblies are made to work with widely available Price Pfister trim kits (renamed Pfister so as not to be confused with baby stuff).

 

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[Smooky]

Brand: Crane-Repcal
https://www.homefixitparts.com/plumbing/P5-02-877.php?part=P5-02-877&dept=Plumbing