Mercury – Black Max 3-Blade Extra Cup Aluminum Propeller | 12.5" Diameter x 8" Pitch | Right-Hand Rotation | 3 Blades | Aluminum | Glossy Phantom Black Finish | 42738CP1

Overview

There’s a reason so many boaters swear by the Mercury Black Max propeller—it’s dependable, smooth, and built to take on whatever the water throws at you. The Black Max 3-Blade Extra Cup Aluminum Propeller brings that same reliability but adds a little more bite, giving your boat the extra lift and control it needs—especially for pontoons or heavier setups. It’s not flashy, but it’s steady and confident, the kind of prop that makes every trip feel effortless. Whether you’re idling through a quiet marina or cruising open water with friends, you’ll feel that balance of strength, grip, and trust that keeps you coming back to Mercury.

Key Features

• Diameter and Pitch: 12.5" Diameter x 8" Pitch

• Rotation: Right-Hand

• Blade Count: 3 Blades

• Material: Patented Mercalloy Aluminum Alloy for strength and flexibility

• Finish: Glossy Phantom Black Enamel to resist corrosion and wear

• Hub System: Includes Flo-Torq Reflex Hub Kit 835257K12 for drivetrain protection

• Design Details: Extra Cup (XC) blade geometry for added lift and improved handling on pontoons and heavier boats

Engine & Boat Compatibility

• Fits Mercury and Mariner 25–30hp FourStroke BigFoot/Command Thrust outboards

• Compatible with 30hp TwoStroke and 30hp FourStroke (2005 and earlier) engines

• Works with 40–60hp FourStroke models

• Ideal for pontoons, fishing boats, small runabouts, and utility boats needing strong push, steady lift, and smooth maneuvering

Performance Benefits

You’ll notice right away how this prop grips the water—it’s firm, predictable, and ready to go when you are. The extra cup design gives your boat more lift and bite in the turns, making it a great match for pontoon setups or boats that carry extra weight. It planes quickly, accelerates evenly, and holds its grip when you need that extra bit of thrust in rough or shifting water.

At cruising speeds, it stays composed and quiet, keeping your ride comfortable and balanced even during longer runs. Mercury’s Mercalloy aluminum gives it the perfect mix of toughness and forgiveness—strong enough to handle real-world conditions yet flexible enough to absorb the shock of a small impact.

The included Flo-Torq Reflex Hub Kit protects your drivetrain by softening vibration and cushioning against sudden jolts. Maintenance is a breeze—just rinse it after use and it’s ready for the next trip. And with Mercury’s Phantom Black enamel finish, you get more than a good-looking prop—it stays sharp, sleek, and corrosion-resistant, whether you’re running saltwater bays or freshwater lakes.

Why is this prop is a strong choice vs. alternatives?

• Mercury OEM Quality: Designed and manufactured by Mercury for perfect fit and dependable performance.

• Reliable and Easy to Maintain: Simple upkeep with solid, lasting resilience.

• Cost-Effective Alternative: Delivers strong performance without the higher cost of stainless steel props.

• Versatile Fit: Works across multiple small to mid-size outboards, ideal for pontoons and general-purpose boats.

• Proven Dependability: Trusted by boaters for smooth operation, strong lift, and reliable handling trip after trip.

FAQ

Q1: Which Mercury engines does the Black Max 3-Blade Extra Cup Aluminum Propeller fit?

It fits Mercury and Mariner 25–30hp FourStroke BigFoot/Command Thrust, 30hp TwoStroke, 30hp FourStroke (2005 and earlier), and 40–60hp FourStroke outboards.

Q2: What makes this propeller different from other Mercury options?

This model features the Extra Cup (XC) blade design, which adds more lift and grip—perfect for pontoons or boats that need better traction in the water. It also includes the Flo-Torq Reflex Hub Kit for smoother operation and drivetrain protection.

Q3: How do I know if this pitch or size is right for my boat?

If your boat runs a 25–60 horsepower outboard and you’re looking for strong lift, smooth cruising, and extra control, the 12.5" x 8" pitch Extra Cup design is a solid choice. Check your owner’s manual or local dealer to confirm compatibility.

Q4: Can this prop be used in both saltwater and freshwater?

Yes. The Phantom Black enamel coating offers reliable corrosion protection for both salt and freshwater environments.

Q5: What hub system does it use?

It includes Mercury’s Flo-Torq Reflex Hub Kit 835257K12, which absorbs vibration and helps safeguard your drivetrain from minor impact damage.