Choosing a DAKA Lift, Canopy or Lift Part
DAKA lifts are stationary. The lift sits on legs on the lake bottom and a winch raises the boat on cables. That makes the bottom and water depth just as important as the boat.
Picking a vertical lift
- Capacity. DAKA lifts run from 1,600 to 8,000 lb. Size to the loaded boat weight, with fuel and gear.
- Width. Most KDV models have a 120 in. inside width, with smaller 84 in. and 96 in. lifts for narrow boats.
- Lift height and depth. DAKA lists lift heights up to about 61 in., plus up to 30 in. of leg adjustment. Measure water depth where the lift will sit.
- Bunks. Many lifts are sold without bunks so you can pick aluminum, aluminum/vinyl, carpeted or pontoon bunks.
Browse capacities in vertical boat and pontoon lifts.
Canopies
Canopy length and lift width both matter. DAKA canopies come in lengths from 13 to 32 ft. For a replacement cover, DAKA's guidance is to measure the outside length and inside width of the lower canopy rail. Standard canopies have 34 in. sides. Maverick canopies have extra-deep 46 in. sides, and the Maverick Pro adds a remote-controlled entry door for tower boats.
Power
A manual crank wheel is standard. DAKA electric drives in 12V, 24V and 110V can replace it, and solar panel and battery tray kits keep DC winches charged. See electric winches and power.
Common mistakes
- Putting a stationary lift on a soft, mucky bottom where a floating lift would do better.
- Ordering a canopy cover by boat length instead of measuring the frame.
- Forgetting bunks when the lift listing says no bunks.
Cables, pulleys, legs and footpads are in DAKA lift parts. For help sizing a lift to your boat and shoreline, call 618-294-6905.
DAKA Lifts & Canopies FAQ
What is a stationary boat lift?
A stationary lift stands on adjustable legs on the lake bottom and raises the boat with a winch and cables. DAKA's vertical lifts are marine-grade aluminum with stainless steel cables, bushings and bolts. They suit shallower water with a firm bottom, while floating lifts handle deep water or soft bottoms.
What capacities do DAKA boat lifts come in?
DAKA vertical lifts run from 1,600 to 8,000 lb. The KDV series covers 2,500 to 6,000 lb on a 120 in. inside width, and extra long and hydraulic models reach 8,000 lb. DAKA also makes a 1,400 lb aluminum PWC lift. Size the lift above your boat's loaded weight.
How do I measure for a replacement canopy cover?
DAKA's fit guidance is to measure the outside length and inside width of the lower canopy rail on your frame. Covers are listed by length in feet and width in inches, such as 24 ft x 120 in. Covers for older DAKA lifts with 108 in. and 115 in. widths are listed separately.
Can I add an electric motor to a DAKA hand-crank lift?
Yes. DAKA electric winch drives replace the manual crank wheel on DAKA lifts and come in 12V, 24V and 110V versions, with remote control options. Solar panel and battery tray kits are available to keep DC drives charged where there is no power at the dock.
Does Blue Ridge deliver and install DAKA lifts?
Yes. Blue Ridge Boat Docks installs DAKA lifts and canopies across its Midwest service area. You can pick up free at the Marion, IL shop, use local delivery ($100 within 50 driving miles, $200 within 100), choose delivery with installation, or get freight quoted after ordering.
