I would go the route of installing a voltage reducer. I installed a 48-12 V reducer on mine for all 12 V accessories, e.g., lights, etc. From my reading on the subject it is best to install a 48-12V reducer instead of a 16-12V reducer so you draw equally from all batteries in the pack. Drawing from just two batteries could impact the life of those two batteries.
It is not clear what you mean by too much play in steering.
- The cart pulls?
- The cart is hard to keep on a straight line, i.e., it pulls one way or another, most noticeable over bumps?
- You have to turn the steering wheel a long way to get the wheels to turn?
If it were me I would first check the alignment:
- Tires, are they worn in a manner than would affect steering?
- Toe, front tires should be toed in slightly (1/4 inch)
- Camber, front tires camber should be same on both sides.
If the play in the steering wheel is excessive, I would have someone turn wheel slowly while I was under cart watching for loose components.
Have fun.
/* No expert here, so caveat user */