1996-2005 Suzuki DF40, DF50 Four Stroke Outboard Service Manual, Page 267Get this manual
LOWER UNIT 9-14
Make sure that all parts used in assembly are clean and lubricated After assembly, check parts for tightness and smoothness of operation Before final assembly, be absolutely certain that all gear contact, shim adjustments and tolerances are correctFailure to correctly adjust these areas will result in lower unit damage(See the "GEARS SHIMMING AND ADJUSTMENT" section on page 9-23)
SHIFT CAM AND SHIFT ROD Apply Water Resistant Grease to the shift rod guide O-ring 2, and the inside of the dust boot 4Slide complete dust boot and shift rod guide into the drive shaft bearing housing, then secure it with the snap ring 5