I downloaded Clam Client 1.4.17 for OSX.  I've noticed that at random blocks it stalls for very long periods of time.  I'm currently at block 338xxx (13 Feb 2015).  I've noticed that restarting the client speeds up the process quit a bit.  I'm wondering if adding nodes (is there a list of nodes available) would be helpful and if using the console or if adding a .config file in Application Support would be appropriate. 

I've been downloading the chain for about 18 hours and am on block 338xxx with 36 weeks left.  Does this seems about right?

I have between 8 - 14 connections at any given time and have a reliable connection 20 Mbps +