CD4017 Decade Counter Based LED Flasher Question
You can't connect 2 outputs together.  When 1 output is high, the other will be pulling it low.  This will explain why you are getting a low voltage on the outputs.  You could use 2 diodes to connect 2 outputs together, but you will then need a pull down resistor on the transistor base.

i would have thought you would be better just using the first 5 outputs and then connecting the 6th to the reset pin.