1988 Johnson/Evinrude "CC" 40 thru 55 Models Service Manual, Page 54Get this manual
Preseason Service 1Check gearcase lubrication If leakage is evident, gearcase seals may need attention Check lubricant level in power trimtilt reservoirSee Lubrication, this section2Apply light coating of OMC Triple -Guard grease to the ribbed portion of the spark plug ceramics and the opening of the spark plug covers Connect spark plug leadsMake sure spark plug boots are not cracked or torn
3Check water level in battery, then charge When the battery is charged, the acid solution inside the battery gives off hydrogen gas which can explode if ignited by spark or open flameIf hydrogen gas is not able to leave the battery (vents are clogged), the battery itself may explode Therefore, when charging batteries, make sure that battery is vented to atmosphere and lots of fresh air is in the areaMake sure no sparks or flames are presentDo not short across battery terminals to check battery conditionInstall and connect battery
4 Reconnect charge coil connector5 When engine is reattached to the boat's transommake sure the steering, shift, and throttle systems are attached to the engine using the special locknuts, lockbolts and any other special fasteners stored with the engine earlierFollow the manufacturer's installation instructions! If control systems are attached to the engine using the wrong fasteners or assembled carelessly, sudden unexpected loss of engine control may result