Oops forgot to hit post....many hours ago.
Your ok with a few 18g as the distribution points can be added and averaged above the 16g value. You lose about 1.2v at 3.5a 40' witth 16g.
0.7v lost at 3.5a /40'/14g.
0.4v lost with 12g.(common household extension cord gauge)
5a at 40' calls for 12gauge per awg chart I just peaked at.
I think the DCS maximum amp ability should be matched by your wire gauge. I think Barry said staying at 14g for a max was best for command signals on the rails.
The max amp suggested by awg guidelines on 16g is 3.7a as a power delivery line. I think the Z-1k and DCS might be able to deliver 4a or more (? manuals say) ...anyhow, that's why I keep thinking you are a bit light on gauge.
I think my DT&I had a two position e-unit too.
Watch the Kings e-unit drum turns and is clean. Also look at it's stance. The pawl relies on being plumb or slightly leaned so the pawl always rests on the drum. Otherwise the pawl hook may miss the teeth as it pulls the coil plungers in... maybe a broken tooth allowing a mis-position that takes an extra cycle to overcome.
