Chrysler Repair: 2.5 V-6: hesitates on accelerating from a stop, butterfly valve, wd 40

Question
Hello, I tried to ask this yesterday but it looks like it didn't go through so please forgive me if this is a repeat.  On my Convertible JXI 2.5L I am having problems when I step on the accelerator from a stopped position...when I press down on the gas it starts to go but slowly and sometimes there is a hesitation or like a pause before it goes....It seems fine though on the highway and at higher speeds.  I don't think it is the spark plugs because it remains the same in rainy conditions but I was thinking a timing chain or the ERG valve which is what I am betting now, but I want to get an expert's advice, this is driving me crazy.  Thanks for your help.  Dave H.

Answer
Hi David,
I would try two simple maintenance jobs:
First check the egr valve stem for freedom of movement. You will find in along the pipe from the front exhaust manifold that runs back to the intake thottle area. Between the valve body and the round vacuum actuator on its top there is a flanged area with a valve stem inside that has a circumferential slot into which you can insert the tip of a screwdriver. Lever the valve up and down, against spring action which tries to close it. Check that the spring causes it to seat firmly in the closed position. If it seems to drag then spray some WD-40 on the stem where it enter the valve body in order to free up the action.
Second, remove the fat air intake rubber hose at the throttle body and clean the butterfly valve plate on both sides and the throat of the throttle body and the air by-pass channel, using a solvent. Crud at this valve may also cause hesitation and idle problems.
You might also check for any loose vacuum hose attachments which might be leaning out the mixture, using the underhood hose diagram as a roadmap.
Good luck on correcting this situation.
Roland