Bulb burned out in pendant light -- removed bulb and tried to insert replacement -- prongs would not fit in -- tried to reinsert the old bulb and that wouldn't go in either -- what could be wrong?

Gail

The G8 20watt Halogens are a real pain to replace. Due to the heat, the pin bases oxidize and it is very hard to replace. You might be able to use some dielectric grease on the pins, very, very light coat. Do not handle the bulb or get grease on the bulb.