Chrysler Repair: 1996 sebring lxi- hesitation/misfire?, chrysler sebring, wd 40

Question
i have a 1996 Chrysler Sebring LXi 2.5L V6. It has been running/idling rough and had the MIL light on. I was getting code P1297. I replaced the MAP sensor and the MIL light went off and now there is no codes. It is still running rough. When you accelerate it has hesitation before there is any throttle response. i have checked and replaced the front three spark plugs and am getting spark on those three. I would like to know what else to check before going through the hassle of working on the rear spark plugs. There is also a clicking/ticking coming from the rear passenger side of the engine compartment. I don't think it is shifting into 3rd gear but I'm not sure if that's because it is lacking performance from the engine to get to the speed to shift.

Answer
Hi Cole,
I would be inclined to check the egr valve to be sure that it is closing tightly via the spring-action. Use some WD-40 on the stem where it enters the body of the valve and then move it back and forth with the tip of a screwdriver inserted into the slot in the stem.
If the trans isn't shifting out of 2nd gear then you have the trans in limp-in mode, and that should have a code in the trans controller.
Roland