2002/2003 Johnson SN/ST 2 Stroke 3.5, 6 8 HP Outboards Service Manual, PN 5005466, Page 37Get this manual
INSTALLATION AND PREDELIVERY SAFETY INFORMATION
SAFETY INFORMATION
Before working on any part of the outboard, first read the SAFETY section at the end of this manual
Refer to the boat manufacturer's certification label rating or to ABYC Standards to determine the maximum horsepower capacity for boats without certification labeling
WARNING
Outboards must not exceed the maximum horsepower indicated on the boat's capacity plateSuch overpowering can cause loss of controlContact the boat's manufacturer if the boat lacks capacity plateBoats designed for remote-steered engines might be overpowered by tillersteered outboard of the maximum rated horsepowerAsk the boat manufacturer if you are unsure about the boat's suitabilityIncorrectly matched boat and engine transom heights can cause boat instability and loss of controlRefer to TRANSOM HEIGHT AND SHAFT LENGTHPrevent lateral movement and possible engine loss by using the mounting hardware supplied or hardware of sufficient size, strength, and qualityRefer to OUTBOARD MOUNTINGA mounting surface that is damaged or too thin to support the outboard while underway might fail during operation, causing loss of controlBe sure the boat's transom or mounting bracket is structurally sound and between 12 in(38 mm) and 14 in(57 mm) in thickness