The LPE not connecting? Might be an idea to post your system details here:
Connection Problems ... after trying out
http://www.gnutellaforums.com/connec...-you-post.html
Edit: Oops at least that applies to jmccwill. Upon re-reading, I didn't realise it was a different member who had specified an issue.
In general, LimeWire Pirate Edition will do what you wish it to.
Whilst it's still possible to use the older LW versions, you will need to do various things to help it connect.
There are also older clients not mentioned by Birdy you could use, however, some have not been updated for a few years to cater for newer issues.