Tried that but still had the same problem.
I also noticed increased load and memory usage and had to revert back to the original settings.
Could there be some max connections limit in CENTOS?
If found these links which although are way over the limit I need they might give me some idea. I will read through them and see if I can find any tips.
http://www.stdlib.net/~colmmacc/Apac...esentation.pdf
http://www.stdlib.net/~colmmacc/Apac...he-handout.pdf
Cheers