The vehicle does not respond to gas pedal when I need to get across a street or pull into traffic. Once I've started moving it's not a problem. Took it to dealer who said that cables are corroded, that I need a new cables and wires as wellas a new battery.
Dealer also said that this would cure dimming of reading and dome lights whenever I brake!
With that diagnosis, I took the vehicle to a mechanic I trust. He examined the van and insists there's nothing wrong with the cables or the battery. He says: "If you give them money and they'll fix it, go ahead, but I don't see anything there." Now, this was the same mechanic who replaced a crankshaft sensor (I know it's not the full name of the thing) supposedly to fix the hesitation-no gas problem. So he figures he did his best based on the info the computer gave him.
BTW, the hesitation is also when the van is in reverse and I'm backing out.
Please help.

Hello,
Sounds similar to an issue I was having with my 2000 Astro. When I would give it the gas quickly to take off fast it would just fall on its nose. If I took off slowly and gradually got up to speed then it appeared almost normal. I changed the fuel filter which helped considerably and then the Mass Air sensor. Do not have the issue anymore.