Annode / WH plug

I needed a 2 foot pipe on the end of the breaker bar... to get mine to turn.

but I did not tighten it back as much.

Sooner or later you will need to replace the anode. You might as well get it out now, using a bar and Skip's trick to remove it. Once out, the teflon tape works for me, to aid in removel next time, as well as make a good seal.

Jerry

One trick to removing the plug is to tighten it more then take it out

IF your WH doesn't have check valves in the lines:

Pressurize the system with air into the city water connection. Disconnect the air hose, the check valve in the city water inlet will hold the pressure.

Then open the low point cold drain.

Repeat as necessary. The WH will get an air bubble in it and force the water out the cold inlet (if it doesn't have a check valve.)

When draining via low point drains did you open the PRV on water heaater?

Suburban WH? Use a 1 1/16" socket or 27mm socket.
Try to tighten drain plug just a little before trying to remove. You may need a 'cheater bar'

You should remove more frequently and use teflon tape or anti-seize on plug threads

I don't know Terry...I'd do what it takes to get that plug out and make sure.
No need to tell you what a cracked water heater tank will cost you...
Good luck with it.