If you have an amp meter setup correctly (in series) with the battery, then .002 amps at 17 volts doesn't suprise me. -it mean that the regulator is bad. I'd suspect that you're getting a bit more out of it, -since there was enough power (volts * amps) to warm the old battery to the point of popping the caps.

I agree with the previous post, a set of vice-grips (the 6" hande size) should be able to fit down there and get the screw out.

If you need to drive the vehicle 20 miles or so, that's no problem. Simply remove the electrical connections from the alternator and wrap electrical tape around them so that they don't short out and cause a disaster. If you've just bought a new battery, after a full charge, I'd feel confident driving 50+ miles on it before I'd get concerned. With all the accessories off, the ignition system only draws about 5 to 10 amps or so. When you put on the brakes, the brake lights will add another 5 to 10 depending on the wattage of the bulbs. 20 miles of city driving with the windows rolled down and the accessories off shouldn't be an issue if you've charged the battery before hand (another vehicle or overnight charger).

-but let me strongly advise against driving the car with a bad alternator or your new battery could suffer the same fate as the old one.

Good luck and God bless,
Fitz Fitzgerald.
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'87 Blue 245, NA 220K