The reaction of Cp'2Th(CH3)2 (Cp' = eta-5-(CH3)5C5) with HN(n)Bu3+B(C6F5)4- yields the crystallo-graphically characterized, cationic thorium alkyl Cp'2ThCH3+B(C6F5)4-. The B(C6F5)4- anion is weakly coordinated, the NMR spectroscopic parameters are similar to those of Cp'2Th(CH3)2 adsorbed on dehydroxylated alumina, and the complex is a highly active catalyst for ethylene polymerization and 1-hexene hydrogenation.