1997 Johnson Evinrude "EU" 40 thru 55 2-Cylinder Service Manual, P/N 507265, Page 35Get this manual
11 9If the engine is removed from boat, examine all hardware
you loosened or removed from the motor and its steering, throttle, and shift systemsReplace damaged or missing parts with genuine OMC parts, or equivalentThese fasteners are made of special materials to resist weakening and rusting Do not substitute these fasteners with nuts and bolts which look the sameUsing the wrong nuts and bolts may result in sudden unexpected loss of engine control10Inspect the entire boat steering system for damage due to corrosion, aging, lack of maintenance, or abuseInspect mechanical steering cables for deterioration or cracksInspect hydraulic steering models for fluid leaks or other external signs of problemsFollow equipment manufacturer's maintenance and lubrication recommendations when servicing the steering system11Remove battery and check its condition, water level, and charge Store in cool, dry place, out of direct sunlightCheck the water level and charge periodically during storageRefer to Section for battery maintenance information 12If equipped, service the boat fuel filter following instructions on canisterClean and inspect VRO oil reservoir and VRO pickup filterReplace filter if it is damaged or contaminated