1996 Johnson Evinrude "ED" 40 thru 55 2-Cylinder Service Manual, P/N 507124, Page 197Get this manual
Midsection Adjustment40RW, 40RP, 45, 55 Steering Friction Adjustment
OJ Adjust the steering friction with motor mounted to boat by
loosening or tightening the adjustment handleAdjust the steering friction until slight drag is felt when turning
11 The steering friction should be adjusted so that stable boat
operation is maintained with minimum of operator effortDo not overtighten to allow for "hands off" steering which could result in loss of controlIdle Speed Adjustment
The idle speed adjusting knob is located on the steering handleTurning clockwise on the knob increases idle speed, turning counterclockwise decreases idle speedMake certain that throttle grip is in SLOW position and the motor is at normal operating temperature before making the idle speed adjustmentThrottle Friction Adjustment