HIGHLINER TCL85-26 TRAILER

Description

We have the Highliner TCL85-26 trailer for sale, a carpeted bunk boat trailer built for boats from 23 to 26 feet with a carrying capacity of 8,500 lb. It is a tandem axle trailer with Hydrostar electric over hydraulic disc brakes, and it comes with a jack and LED lights as standard. It is new, priced at $18,297.00, and we ship worldwide.

This page explains which boats the TCL85-26 fits, how to check that your boat is within capacity, what the tandem axle and Hydrostar electric over hydraulic disc brakes setup means for towing, how it compares with nearby Highliner models, plus loading, towing and maintenance tips.

Highliner TCL85-26 trailer for sale: Specifications

Which Boats Fit the Highliner TCL85-26?

The TCL85-26 is sized for boats from 23 to 26 feet long, which typically covers large centre consoles, cuddy cabins, walkarounds and offshore fishing boats. Length alone is not enough to decide, though. Check three things before you buy:

• Total weight. Add the dry weight of the hull, the engine, a full fuel tank (petrol weighs about 6 lb per US gallon), batteries and the gear you normally leave aboard. The total must stay under the 8,500 lb capacity, ideally with a margin.
• Beam. The hull must sit between the fenders. The TCL85-26 has 80 inches between the fenders, so measure your boat’s widest point, including rub rails.
• Hull shape. Carpeted bunks suit most V hulls and flat bottom aluminium boats. Bunks can be adjusted to support your hull evenly.

If you are unsure, send us the boat’s make, model, length and weight and we will confirm the fit.

Carpeted Bunks

Bunk trailers support the boat along long, padded boards instead of rollers. The carpet protects the hull from scratches and spreads the load over a large area, which is gentler on fibreglass and aluminium hulls during long tows. Bunks also hold the boat steady on the road. At the ramp, wetting the carpet lets the boat slide on and off smoothly.

Why a Tandem Axle?

The TCL85-26 uses a tandem axle, meaning two axles and four wheels. Spreading the load over two axles gives a smoother, more stable tow, better braking and more margin if a tyre fails, because the trailer can still be controlled on three wheels. Tandem axle trailers also track straighter at highway speeds and handle crosswinds better, which matters with a boat of 23 to 26 feet.

Hydrostar Electric Over Hydraulic Disc Brakes

The TCL85-26 uses Hydrostar electric over hydraulic disc brakes. An electric signal from a brake controller in your tow vehicle drives a hydraulic actuator that applies the disc brakes. That gives smooth, strong, proportional braking that you can adjust from the driver’s seat, and it works in reverse without the lockout problems some surge systems have on steep ramps. Your tow vehicle needs a compatible brake controller and wiring. Disc brakes resist water and heat well, which suits boat trailers that are regularly submerged.

Highliner TCL85-26 vs Nearby Trailers

Choose the trailer whose capacity comfortably exceeds your boat’s fully loaded weight. If you are close to the limit, step up to the next model.

Loading and Launching Tips

1. Adjust the bunks so the hull sits centred and level, with the keel supported.
2. Back the trailer in until the bunks are about two thirds submerged.
3. Drive or winch the boat on slowly, keeping it centred between the fenders.
4. Attach the winch strap and a safety chain to the bow eye.
5. Secure the transom with tie down straps before leaving the ramp.
6. Raise the outboard to trailering position and support it if required.

Pre Tow Checklist

• Coupler locked and safety chains crossed under the tongue.
• Jack raised and stowed.
• LED lights tested: running, brake and indicators.
• Tyres at the correct pressure for a 15 in trailer wheel.
• Wheel nuts tight and bearings greased.
• Boat secured at the bow and transom.
• Loose gear stowed inside the boat.

Maintenance

• Rinse the whole trailer with fresh water after every salt water launch, including brakes, springs and the frame.
• Grease wheel bearings regularly, and repack them once a season.
• Check tyres for cracks and wear, including the spare.
• Inspect bunk carpet and replace it when worn.
• Check lights and wiring connectors for corrosion.
• Keep the winch and strap in good condition.

Matching Outboards

Boats in the 23 to 26 ft range often run engines like our Suzuki 225 HP, Mercury 250 HP and Yamaha 350 HP outboards. Remember to include the engine weight in your total load. Browse the full shop for more.

FAQ: Highliner TCL85-26 trailer for sale

What size boat fits the TCL85-26?

Boats from 23 to 26 ft, within the 8,500 lb capacity and 80 in between the fenders.

Does it have brakes?

Hydrostar electric over hydraulic disc brakes.

What is included?

A jack and LED lights.

Is it new?

Yes.

Do you ship the Highliner TCL85-26 trailer for sale worldwide?

Yes. Trailers ship as freight. Tell us your country and nearest city for a quote.

Buy the Highliner TCL85-26 trailer for sale From Us

NJ Marines Outboard Engines is based in Fresno, California, and supplies boats, trailers and outboards worldwide. Call or WhatsApp +1 209 690 5983, see our about page, or use our contact page. Please read our terms and conditions and refund and return policy. For more on the brand, visit the Highliner trailers website.

Browse more boat trailers or see all our outboard engines for sale.