Re: 1967 Johnson Sea Horse 40hp LU wiring
That is the electric shift cable for the electramatic (Johnson) or selectric (Evinrude) shift system. The wrapping should rather be a fabric type shield that protects the cable from the hot eshaust in that area.
As the cable goes thru the lower unit and also thru the side of the long exhaust housing, ridges exist on the cable whose purpose is to seal and prevent water from leaking in or lube from leaking out, etc.
I find it best to simply coat those ridges in the lower unit area with grease, OR if corrosion is present that might prevent proper sealing, to use what used to be called OMC Adhesive. Of course Bombardier doesn't call it that anymore but your dealership will have it by whatever Bombardier calls it.
