I just got off the phone w/ tier 3, I have a tech coming out fri. , I keep telling them the damn drop is bad, I have moles like mad, and I'm sure they have at least chewed my line. He did several ping tests, and the tests varied from 16 Ms- 300 Ms, and all between. I also know there may be , ( still ) a laser misfire at the head end)
Although I have been going through this for four years, and had cards in the node replaced several times, the drop from the local port replaced three times, and a dozen or so visits , I have hugh hopes this time.
One note for former adelphia customers, or those in an area that was previously owned by them, they didn't take care of there hardware, so some of that stuff leaves a bit to be desired. BIG problem that wont likely be solved soon.
Call constantly, tell them what is going on, be professional, don't cuss or yell, don't threaten them, just be persistent. It's all you can do.