Well, this is common around here, I have the same problem, but, here I have some clues:

* I have a program called naviscope that blocks ads, of course that he has an built in firewall or something like it (using ip 127.0.0.1 and port:81)
* I am connecting with one of those lazy internet providers (the free ones), called Tutopia (sound funny the first time), but what I got usually are timeout problems, now, I don't know if it is the same thing, usually using the mirc I have the same problem, but trying at 1 or 2 am it solves the problem.

mmm nothing else, ooo, I have a 56 k modem, so, I guess is it all.

By the way, do you know any other servers closer to souht america?
Thanxs