I have a 2000 Xj, all stock. Out of the blue the check engine light started flashing, and it will buck. If its cold, it runs fine. Once it warms up it begins this all over again. Ideas please......

 

have the code read at a parts store like autozone. then post up what code it is.

 

A flashing check engine light means the catalytic converter is in danger of being destroyed. Don't drive around with a flashing check engine light.

 

can i hollow out?

 

NO!!!!!

 

It is flashing because the engine is misfiring. You need the exact trouble code to find out why, which can be for any number of reasons. Gutting the cat is pointless here as you will still have the misfire, so forget gutting the cat. I would not recommend it anyway as the dust it creates is very bad for you. It is also very time consuming, and in my experience typically results in a loss of low end torque to some degree. You need codes in order to figure this out. If this just started the cat may be ok, but dont keep driving it with a flashing CEL or the cat will go bad.


If you plan on keeping it for a long time, i suggest buying a scanner if you have not already as having to drive to the local auto parts store is not always an option. The Actron cp9670 is a good one.

 

As others have mentioned, a "flashing" CEL indicates a serious misfire, which if not resolved immediately, will trash your catalytic converter.

The strategy for any CEL is always the same. Retrieve codes, research them and post the exact codes here, determine root cause, and resolve.

 

Talk of modifying emissions equipment is against federal law, and the site's rules. Please refrain from discussing it from this point. Thank you.

 

As others have stated above, you have a misfire, which means the fuel in one or more cylinders isn't igniting. Raw fuel will quickly degrade the exhaust catalyst , hence why the ECU is programmed to get your attention right away by a flashing CEL when it detects more than just a random misfire.

It's most likely due to a problem with your ignition system, probably something like a bad coil pack. It could also be a bad sensor (crankshaft position sensor?). The first step is to get it scanned either with your own tool (inexpensive ones are available online) or by your local auto parts store.