2005 SO Johnson 4 Stroke 9.9-15HP Outboards Service Manual, Page 247Get this manual
If weakened, parts could fail later on the water, when not expected
U.SCOAST GUARD
CAPACITY INFORMATION MAX HP MAX PERSONS MAX WEIGHT
If boat plate shows Use only or smaller
When rigging or fixing any boat, if transom looks weak, tell the ownerIf transom is curved, outboard may come looseMount on flat surface onlyUse shims to make surface flat
Use bolts, nuts, and washers supplied with outboardThey are usually special, and will not rust or weaken