OK to pull ECU Q trouble code while running?

[sandor]

My 94 Q intermittently shows the "check engine" light. (Vehicle still runs fine.) Once it comes on it stays lit until the engine is restarted. Some days it won't come on at all. The FSM says I shouldn't pull ECU code while it's running-but if I turn it off the code is lost and it only shows a "55". Is it OK to pull ECU and initiate code while it's running?

Thanks!

Sandor

[elwesso]

I dont thikn it would matter, but the code is stored in there for a long time so I dont really see any reason to have the car running.....

You may be actually clearing the codes without knowing it!!!

You just want to make sure you dont clear the codes before you go to check them.....

[sandor]

Yea, If I turn the car off I do loose the code. I wasn't sure if it would hurt the ECU to pull the code with the engine running. I don't have access to a consult...

[elwesso]

Thats weird... I get a CEL from my still impending EGR problem (and now intermittant!!) and I always get my code 32 even if it hasnt been run for a few days...

Something sounds a little goofy.... I dont know for sure if it matters or not... I suppose you could leave the ECU out for a few days, and as soon as the CEL comes on just pull over and check the codes......

Even if a CEL comes on/turns off, it should still stay in the memory..

[sandor]

I guess the memory erases when the ignition is turned on and the ECU tests the systems. I tried to pull the trouble code with the car running today--it won't flash at all. When I turn the car off and the ignition back on, I get the same "55" (which the FSM says is no problem found) Is there any other way to pull the code with it running? I hate to go to autozone, but they might be able to help.

Any other ideas?

[elwesso]

Go get a consult test..... It could be your ECU is messed up...

Maybe find one with a known good ECU and see if it does the same thing... THe backup memory must be messed up or something...