Yes, there is something else that is causing the sputtering. Could still be a vac leak. I don't see any reason to close the gap that much on a stock car. Sure it works, but there is still an underlaying cause that requires a small gap.
Give the EGR tube a look (the accordian looking tube) and spray around there for leaks as well. Often the tube will crack in between one of the accordian bends and not be visable, which would create a leak.