Mercury – Thunderbolt Propeller | High-Performance Series | High-Polished Stainless Steel | QS5002X

Overview

There’s a certain confidence that comes from knowing the prop under your boat is built to handle whatever the day throws at you. When you’re running offshore before sunrise or trimming up for a fast run back to the marina, you want a propeller that feels steady, predictable, and strong. The Quicksilver Thunderbolt has that reassuring feel—the kind that tells you the power you’re pushing is being translated cleanly into thrust. It’s the difference between hoping your boat will respond and knowing it will.

Key Features

• Three-blade stainless steel propeller engineered for high horsepower performance
• High-polished stainless finish for strength, corrosion resistance, and smooth flow
• Large 15.75-inch diameter with a 15-inch pitch
• Right-hand rotation design suitable for a wide range of Mercury power setups
• Heavy-duty blade geometry built for quick hole shots and strong mid-range acceleration
• Compatible with appropriate Quicksilver hub systems (refer to hub selection chart)

Engine & Boat Compatibility

• Ideal for Mercury V6 outboard engines
• Works exceptionally well on offshore fishing boats
• A strong match for sterndrive-powered vee-bottom sport boats
• Performs reliably on cruisers, race boats, and multi-purpose high-horsepower setups
• Designed for boaters who demand top-tier performance in heavy seas or fast water

Performance & Practical Benefits

The Thunderbolt propeller delivers a kind of performance you can feel from the moment you push the throttle. Its large diameter helps the boat climb onto plane faster, giving you a clean, confident launch. Once you’re running, the blades grip the water with a tight, smooth hold, keeping the boat steady even when conditions start to shift. That secure bite is something every experienced boater appreciates—it reduces slip, tightens handling, and makes your steering inputs feel connected.

At cruising speeds, the Thunderbolt’s stainless construction shines. It stays efficient, resists flex, and keeps fuel consumption predictable. You may find the boat runs flatter, holds its speed more easily, and feels more composed in turns. For offshore anglers or sport boaters who often run in mixed conditions, that consistency goes a long way in keeping the ride enjoyable and safe.

Maintenance is simple. Stainless steel stands up to corrosion, sand, and debris, allowing this propeller to stay true season after season.

Why Buy OEM

Choosing a genuine Mercury Marine part means choosing parts built for real-world boating—where loads change constantly, water conditions are unpredictable, and reliability is everything. Aftermarket propellers might look similar, but they rarely match the Thunderbolt’s engineering, consistency, or long-term durability. With an OEM propeller like the QS5002X, you’re getting proven performance, precise fitment, and a design trusted by thousands of high-horsepower boaters. It’s the smart choice for anyone who wants a prop they won’t have to second-guess.

FAQ

Q1: Which engines does the Thunderbolt propeller fit?

It’s designed for Mercury V6 outboard engines and many high-horsepower sterndrive applications.

Q2: What makes it different from aftermarket stainless propellers?

Its blade geometry, stainless construction, and Mercury-tested performance deliver more reliable thrust and better endurance over time.

Q3: How do I know if this pitch and diameter are right for my boat?

Match your current prop specs or consult your owner’s manual or dealer to confirm ideal pitch and diameter.

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

Yes—the stainless construction is built to handle harsh saltwater conditions just as well as freshwater.

Q5: Is installation straightforward?

Most boaters can install it with basic tools, as long as the correct hub kit is used.