1999 EE Johnson Outboards 25, 35 3-Cylinder Service Manual, Page 197Get this manual
[] 26Install new plastic keeper and the lower shift rod nut onto the lower shift rod Apply OMC Triple-Guard grease to threads of lower shift rodInstall the shift rod into gearcase through the water intake opening and engage the shifter yokeThread the shift rod into the shifter yoke until the rod bottoms in the yoke[] 27Slide the retainer plate down the propeller shaft and into the gearcase with tab facing down28Using OMC Retaining Ring Pliers, PI 331045, install the retaining ring into groove in gearcase with sharp outside edge facing aftThe retaining ring is under extreme pressure during installation Wear safety glasses and proceed with care to avoid unsnapping the ring from the pliersLook inside the gearcase and make sure that the ring is seated in groove rn &