Yamaha 6 battery to 3 battery

[projectcart1]

I have purchased a G16E 36volt about 1999 as a project cart for my grandkids.
I see there are 6 batteries which I assume are 6 volt. Can I install 3 12volt batteries and they serve the same purpose and anyone know how the wiring would go? Are the batteries any special type for this cart or a good battery from Auto Zone etc?
Many thanks,
Jack

[gornoman]

Electrically, 36 volts is 36 volts, but in reality you want six 6v golf cart batteries for their range and length of useful service. Three 12v deep cycle batteries will not last very long in a golf cart.

[scottyb]

Welcome to BGW, pj1.
You can, it will produce the required voltage (3x12=36v) but you will not get the amperage needed to sustain operation.
Special golf cart batteries have thick lead plates and lots of them, they are designed to hold lots of amperage and give it up long and slow.
12v starting batteries have fewer thinner plates and are designed to give a fast discharge for cranking and then get an immediate recharge (when the engine starts).

So, yes you can, but performance and battery longevity will not be good.

Sorry G, didn't see your post

[projectcart1]

Thank you, so any recommendations as to where to purchase these batteries from other than local golf cart dealer? save a little money?

[gornoman]

You would probably get a better deal from a local battery distributer/retailer. The Yellow Pages may help. Depends on the level of quality you are looking for. Purchase the highest amp hour rated batteries you can afford for the longest performance life.