One possibility on this CTD issue is a DirectX problem.  I get the same (more or less) CTD problem in EQ as AH, and others in EQ have an issue with CTD.  I know Verant is working on that problem also, and have released a couple patches to help fix it.
Just a thought.  I don't get many so I posted it quickly.
Nah.  Microcrud would never release buggy software.  What am I saying!?