I took the air conditioner out of my 1997 miata because I don't use it, but the engine check light is on now. Any suggestions?

 

The removal of the air conditioner itself should not cause a CEL. The wire going to the power steering pump or the ones for the crank sensor may. Visit an auto parts store and get them to do a free code check to narrow it down. It may simply be coincidental timing and an unrelated issue.

 

^This. Hard to know based on just the CEL being on. Make sure all wires that are not A/C related are plugged in.