Thanks for all the great advice. I always start any plugs, nuts or bolts with my fingers to make sure it's not cross threaded. But now the threads in the tranny pan are rough or chewed up so I can't get many turns by finger anymore. I did get the plug to seal but it took 21 ft-lbs to get it there. I think the next time I change oil I will chase the threads and put in a new plug. This winter I will take the shocks off and lift the bike so I have a good sight line and put in a Timesert. Then with all steel threads it should be easy to get the plug started straight. The sure is a lot of helpful people here and different advice that's available in a few short hours. Thanks again.