Changing shower faucet help

[jumpyg]

Hi, I've got a 22-year-old Moen Chateau shower valve. My guess is that if I want to install a new faucet set, I'd have to open up the wall, cut out the old valve, and solder in a new one. Is there any way to avoid all of that?

Also, how do you change the tub spout? What's involved?

It would be a big help if I knew the exact model number of the Moen, but I don't see any numbers, and Moen has made a TON of shower sets with the Chateau name. To me, it looks similar to the 2353 model, but I doubt it has the Posi-temp control, as it is over 20 years old. Do they put model numbers on the back of the escrutcheon plate or somewhere else? The front of the escrutcheon says "Standyne" or "tandyne," but that means nothing to me.

Another option for me may be to change the escrutchen plate, handle, and cartridge. I'd also like to change put in a new spout, which I imagine might not require soldering. I'm not good at soldering and don't have the money to pay a pro (too many projects going on right now).

By the way, are you supposed to caulk around the spout and escutcheon plate? The previous owner did, but I'm not sure it's required.

Thanks for any help!