[HotZ28]

I got an idea! Take the car to Jiffy Lube for an oil change and go sit down in the waiting room. In a few minutes, one of the Techs will come in to inform you that the pan plug is stripped. You can politely reply; "how could that be possible, I always get my oil changed at Jiffy Lube"! I would be worth it just to see their response!

Seriously, if the plug is that tight, the threads may be stripped in the oil pan. If so, if you ever get the plug out, it may pull the threads from the pan with it. Did you try channel lock pliers, or vise grips? Vise grips would work better, however you may need a cheater bar with them. If the bolt ever moves, turn it back & forth several times while loosening. Sometimes this will save the threads. You will need a new drain plug for sure. Get one at any auto parts store before you remove the plug!

As far as synthetic oil in an older engine that has never used synthetic oil before, I would be hesitant to use it. It seems to soften the seals that are old & hardened and may cause valve stem leaks. I had to replace the valve stem seals on my 92 Ultra for the very same reason! We also have had some reports of front & rear main seals leaks caused from using synthetic in an older engine. You be the judge!