I have a similar problem. But I can connect all the time, with a little persistence. Try a different browser, and keep hitting a link over and over. It feels like having to "prime a pump". Once it starts, it keeps going just fine, at least for a few hours, as long as I keep using it.

Thanks for the help.  I ran an anti-virus scan on the computer and came up with a virus. But the only way I can really fix it seems to be to disconnect the AOL instant messenger.