Ok so its not the client, i've tested my .mac account connectivity on Adium X too, heres the lowdown:
Default configuration for iChat .mac Protocol
Port forwarding set on router for port 5190
Expired .mac account (should still be able to use iChat though)
The fact is : i've never been able to use iChat :/ I tried connecting and it would sit there attempting to connect and eventually time out, on any client. I'm sure of my password because i can connect to the .Mac website with it. I've tried on all my computers and no avail. What's happening?