I have a 97 xj I feel like it's only when I really get on it or I'm in the woods it will randomly run like garbage and my check engine light will come on it will clear out and run better s minute or two later and my check engine light will turn off. I've done distributor cap and plugs and wires what would you do next? I'm not even sure if I'm posting on the right ****

 

My wife's 03 Rubicon did this. Might want to check the catalytic converter isn't clogged.
IR sensor reading pre-cat and post-cat. I think there's supposed to be no more than 10-15 deg. F difference.
Google will help with the temp drop diff. My wife's TJ was like 90 deg difference so it was apparent the cat had no flow.
Hope it's not that, It was nearly $1k in parts to fix.

 

Have you actually checked for code(s) ?
It's trying to tell you something...

 

This. The first step for diagnosing any vehicle with a check engine light is always the same. Pull the codes. While OBDII isn't always straight forward to interpret, it is quite good at pointing you to the offending circuit/system for further diagnosis and troubleshooting.

You'll need either a code reader or a scan tool to pull codes. Some parts stores will also pull the codes for you for free.

Post the EXACT code(s) here, not just a description, for additional comment.