I have a 300 watt Malibu transformer to run 4 step lights on a patio. the wires from the step lights go through conduit under patio and all come out under some steps at the house. So I have 4 sets of wires coming together at one spot. The Malibu transformer has connection for just one wire on the bottom. Did I get the wrong transformer or do I splice the wires together into on before attaching to transformer. The directions also say to make sure the 1st fixture is at least 10 ft away,does that mean the line splice or physical fixture?

check what you have running from the transformer
if it uses more than 280 watts the transformer is overheating and throwing the reset button

Intermatic/ Malibu series lights are available 44 watt, 88 watt, 100 watt, 121 watt, 200 watt, 300 watt, 600 watt, 900 watt.
http://waterheatertimer.org/Malibu-power-pack-stopped-working.html

None of the other brands sells 500 watt either.
Kichler sells 300 and 600 and 900Watts
Paradise does not have 500 watt
Malibu brand does not carry 500 watt
Portfolio does not carry 500 watt

If you need further help, I’m available over the phone at https://www.6ya.com/expert/gene_9f0ef4df2f9897e7

1) Copy following link for installing and troubleshooting power pack
http://waterheatertimer.org/Malibu-power-pack-stopped-working.html

2) Test outlet for power.
Temporarily run extension cord from another outlet.
Connect wires to terminals a and b ... make sure no insulation is under screw plate.
44 watt power pack will operate 44 watts of low-voltage lights (12Volt).
If 300 watts of lights are installed on line, then lights probably will not light up.

If you need further help, I’m available over the phone at https://www.6ya.com/expert/gene_9f0ef4df2f9897e7

16 gauge wire is fine.
Check if wire gets hot.
Make sure bulb wattage matches 300Watt output of transformer.
If you have less than 300Watts, then bulbs will burn out faster and transformer will burn out.
Replace bulbs as soon as they burn out.
Open following link for troubleshoot and tips:
http://waterheatertimer.org/Malibu-power-pack-stopped-working.html

Since it is uncommon for a power supply to vary, it is more likely there is a variable drain on the system, such as a nick in the insulation, variably grounding depending on soil moisture.

I would suggest isolating most of the circuit, and only plugging in one light at first, and then adding more until you find a change.

The other way to do it would be with an inductive ammeter or audible pick up, and trace the circuit, detecting a drop in current or sound right after the drain.

im looking for that same answer too ...

The following might apply to your situation, or not.
Malibu recommends matching wattage of bulbs to wattage of power pack.
In your case, you have 181 watts on 300 Watt power pack.
Based on other folks questions to fixya, this condition can burn out the power pack.
Has your power pack overheated and been damaged?
I don't know, but it might be a good suspect.
http://www.malibulights.com/guides_support/low_voltage_planning_guide/select_your_power_pack

For more information on Intermatic/Malibu power packs showing troubleshoot steps, replacement trippers, useful links, warranties and tips:
http://www.fixya.com/support/r8391011-power_pack_not_working

Hello yes you can the Important thing to remember here is not to exceed the wattage that the transformer puts out.

Add up the wattage of each bulb that you are running and ensure that you do not exceed 300 watts.

for example a 300 watt transformer could drive
a. 10 - 30 watt bulbs
b. 20 - 15 watt bulbs
c 75 - 4 watt bulbs

Its also ok to mix bulb wattage for example I use 10 watt bulbs in the fixtures in the front of the house but also power 4 20watt spotlights from the same transformer.

Hope that helps

Yes, using a larger wire will help, as will using more than one run. If you want too, you can leave the 16 gauge wire in place, then run the new 12 gauge wire and transfer most of the lights to the new run.

The fewer lights on a run, the less dimming will occur, so put more lights on the 12 gauge run.

Also, the longer the run, the more dimming will occur.
You may want to reconsider the location of the transformer, if possible. In your case, it would be better to locate the transformer in the middle of the current run, and just split the run in half to make a run in each direction. Of course, that depends if you have a 120 volt outlet available in that area.

sir, you have a voltage drop problem. you make no mention of what wire size you are running to the fixtures or what the voltage is required. I need to know the wire size you have and the voltage required to run the lamps to come to any decision to repair your problem. write me back at [email protected] and we'll see what we can do.