1988 Johnson/Evinrude "CC" 40 thru 55 Models Service Manual, Page 58Get this manual
Submerged Engines Engine Dropped Overboard (Not Running) If engine is recovered from water immediately, it must be serviced within three hoursSee Prolonged Submersion If engine cannot be started or serviced immediately, it should be resubmerged in fresh water to avoid exposure to the atmosphereMake arrangements to have it serviced with the least possible delayOnce the outboard is exposed to air, both fresh and salt water will start etching the highly polished bearing surfaces of the crankshaft, connecting rods, and bearingsThe engine must be serviced within three hours of recovery to avoid costly repairs Proceed as follows: 1Remove engine cover and rinse powerhead with fresh water2 Disconnect the connector between power pack(s) and charge coilDisconnect spark plug leads and remove spark plugsI Note
I To remove or tWistpull off or push on with slight .Ieads, counterclockwise