Shop Podtronics regulator rectifiers and battery eliminators for classic Triumph, Norton and BSA motorcycles at The Bonneville Shop. Our selection includes 12-volt single-phase charging modules, higher-output 16A/200W options and a three-phase regulator/rectifier rated for systems up to 240W. Choose the unit that matches your alternator type, output and electrical configuration.
A compatible Podtronics regulator/rectifier combines the functions of the original separate rectifier and Zener diode in one solid-state module. The capacitor-equipped battery-eliminator version is a separate option; do not assume that every Podtronics unit allows operation without a battery. Compare the products below, explore our regulators and rectifiers, or read our solid-state regulator guide and video before selecting a replacement.
Table of Contents
Choosing the Correct Podtronics Regulator Rectifier
The correct Podtronics unit depends on the charging system fitted to your motorcycle—not simply whether the tank says Triumph, Norton or BSA. Identify the alternator’s phase configuration, output rating, system voltage and earth polarity before ordering.
The Bonneville Shop’s Podtronics collection currently includes four different options. They serve different charging requirements and should not be treated as interchangeable.
| Option | Part number | Main selection distinction |
| 12V single-phase 120W regulator/rectifier | TBS-4034 T | Listed for the 10A/120W single-phase stator application; not for the listed 16A high-output stator. |
| 16A/200W regulator/rectifier | TBS-4035 | Higher-output single-phase option without the battery-eliminator capacitor. |
| 16A/200W battery eliminator | TBS-4030 | Single-phase regulator/rectifier with a built-in capacitor. |
| Three-phase regulator/rectifier | TBS-4034AT | Listed for three-phase charging systems up to 240W. |
Use these distinctions to narrow your selection, then read the complete product description and instructions.
What Does a Podtronics Regulator Rectifier Replace?
A regulator/rectifier combines two charging-system functions: rectification converts alternator output from alternating current to direct current, while regulation controls the charging voltage. On a compatible classic British motorcycle, a Podtronics module replaces the separate rectifier and Zener diode arrangement.
This simplifies the charging-component layout, but it does not repair an unsuitable alternator, damaged wiring or an incorrectly configured electrical system. Treat the module as one part of the charging system rather than a substitute for identifying the original fault.
For related components and alternative replacement options, browse our regulator and rectifier collection and Lucas electrical parts.
Single-Phase and Three-Phase Podtronics Units
Match the regulator/rectifier to the alternator configuration. Our single-phase options and three-phase TBS-4034AT are separate products with different applications. The archived Podtronics instruction sheets also distinguish early three-wire single-phase alternators from three-wire three-phase systems. Wire count alone is therefore not enough to identify the correct module.
If you are unsure which system is fitted, identify the stator by its part number and specifications before purchasing. This is particularly important on motorcycles that have already received electrical modifications.
Explore the Lucas electrical collection for related alternator components, and consult the archived Podtronics installation sheets for background on the different module configurations. The archived sheets are supporting references; use the instructions supplied with your actual unit for installation.
Matching Alternator Output to the Charging Module
Your regulator/rectifier must suit the alternator’s output. The 120W listing specifically states that it is intended for the 10A single-phase stator application and is not compatible with the listed 16A high-output stator. The 200W single-phase options address the higher-output application.
A higher module rating is not, by itself, a reason to buy that unit. First confirm the alternator type, system requirements and whether you need a built-in capacitor.
For model-specific electrical components, browse:
- Triumph electrical parts.
- Norton electrical parts.
- BSA electrical parts.
- Universal electrical parts.
“Universal” is a collection label, not a promise that every component fits every motorcycle.
Podtronics Battery Eliminators and Built-In Capacitors
TBS-4030 is the capacitor-equipped 16A/200W battery-eliminator option in this collection. TBS-4035 is the corresponding regulator/rectifier option without the battery-eliminator capacitor. These are different configurations, even though their listed output ratings are similar.
The battery-eliminator listing describes use with or without a battery. However, batteryless operation should be evaluated against the complete motorcycle setup, including ignition requirements and the intended use. Do not assume that fitting a capacitor-equipped module guarantees batteryless starting with every ignition system.t
If battery elimination is your goal, confirm compatibility before ordering rather than selecting a unit on wattage alone.
Positive-Earth and Negative-Earth Installation
The Podtronics instruction sheets describe positive-earth and negative-earth installations, and your three-phase listing states that instructions for both arrangements are included. The electrical connections differ according to polarity; incorrect polarity can damage the regulator.
Follow the instructions supplied with the specific unit. Do not copy a wiring arrangement from another motorcycle without checking its polarity, alternator type and modifications.
Mounting is also important. The archived instructions specify a location with free airflow for cooling rather than an enclosed space. See link for more information.
Using Podtronics in a 6-Volt to 12-Volt Conversion
Certain suitable early alternator systems can be incorporated into a 12-volt conversion using the appropriate Podtronics unit, but the conversion involves more than changing the charging module. Other components must be reviewed for the new system voltage.
Read our guide to converting a 6-volt British motorcycle to 12 volts before buying conversion parts. It discusses charging equipment and auxiliary components such as bulbs, horns, batteries and ignition-related requirements.
For wiring-related replacements, explore our classic British motorcycle wiring harnesses and Lucas versus alternative wiring harness guide.
Technical References and Related Collections
Use these resources to plan a compatible charging-system repair or upgrade:
- Regulators and rectifiers — compare available charging modules.
- Solid-state regulator guide and video — supporting technical information.
- 6-volt to 12-volt conversion guide — review the wider conversion requirements.
- Classic British motorcycle technical blog — additional maintenance and repair articles.
- Supplier brands — explore other replacement-parts suppliers.
- Archived Podtronics instruction sheets — historical installation references.
- Lucas Classic motorcycle information — background on the related Lucas classic motorcycle electrical range.bsaunitsingles+6
Need help selecting a unit? Contact The Bonneville Shop at orders@thebonnevilleshop.com or 720-570-7884. Include the motorcycle model and year, stator part number, electrical-system polarity and details of any ignition or charging modifications.
Podtronics FAQ
What is a Podtronics regulator rectifier?
A Podtronics regulator/rectifier is a solid-state charging module that combines rectification and voltage regulation. On a compatible classic British motorcycle, it replaces the separate rectifier and Zener diode. Select the version that matches the alternator configuration and output.
Which Podtronics products does The Bonneville Shop sell?
Our collection currently includes a 120W single-phase regulator/rectifier, a 16A/200W single-phase regulator/rectifier, a capacitor-equipped 16A/200W battery eliminator and a three-phase regulator/rectifier rated for systems up to 240W. Check the product grid for the current selection.
Will Podtronics fit my Triumph, Norton or BSA motorcycle?
Compatibility depends on the motorcycle’s charging system, not its make alone. Confirm the alternator type, output, operating voltage and electrical-system polarity. Previous-owner modifications can also change which replacement is appropriate. Our listings identify different single-phase and three-phase applications.
Does every Podtronics regulator rectifier eliminate the battery?
No. The battery-eliminator version has a built-in capacitor and is a separate option. TBS-4030 is listed as the battery eliminator; TBS-4035 is the regulator/rectifier version without that capacitor.
What is the difference between TBS-4030 and TBS-4035?
Both are listed as 16A/200W single-phase charging options, but TBS-4030 includes a built-in capacitor and is described as a battery eliminator. TBS-4035 does not include the battery-eliminator capacitor. Choose according to the electrical setup and intended use.
Can the 120W Podtronics unit be used with a 16A high-output stator?
Not with the 16A high-output stator application identified in our 120W listing. That listing specifies the 10A/120W single-phase application and directs buyers to the 200W options for the listed 16A stator.
How do I know whether I need a single-phase or three-phase unit?
Identify the stator using its part number and specifications. Do not rely only on the number of wires: the Podtronics instruction sheets distinguish early three-wire single-phase alternators from three-wire three-phase systems. Match the module to the actual alternator configuration.
Can Podtronics work with positive-earth and negative-earth systems?
The referenced Podtronics instructions describe both arrangements, and our three-phase listing includes instructions for positive- and negative-ground systems. Follow the instructions for your selected unit because the polarity connections differ and incorrect wiring can damage the module.
Can I keep a battery when using the Podtronics battery eliminator?
Yes. The TBS-4030 listing states that a battery can still be connected. Its built-in capacitor provides the battery-eliminator function, but the complete ignition and electrical arrangement should be checked before relying on batteryless operation.
Can Podtronics be used for a 6-volt to 12-volt conversion?
Certain suitable early alternator systems can use the appropriate Podtronics module as part of a 12-volt conversion. Other components must also be reviewed for voltage compatibility. Read our 6-volt to 12-volt conversion guide before planning the change.
Where should a Podtronics regulator rectifier be mounted?
The archived Podtronics instructions specify a location with free airflow for cooling and warn against enclosed mounting. Follow the installation guidance supplied with your unit and account for the motorcycle’s actual mounting layout.
Where can I find Podtronics wiring information or help choosing a unit?
Start with the instructions supplied with your product. The archived Podtronics instruction sheets provide supporting background for different configurations. You can also read our solid-state regulator guide or contact orders@thebonnevilleshop.com with your motorcycle and charging-system details.