Yamaha’s TORS, (or T.O.R.S) stands for “Throttle OverRide System” and it is a safety feature on Yamaha powersport vehicles like ATVs and snowmobiles. This unit is designed to stop the machine in the event of a throttle or carburetor malfunction. If you would like to find out more about this unique system, you are in the right place.
We at PowerSportsGuide have compiled all you need to know about this unit into this Yamaha TORS review!
What is the Yamaha TORS System?
Because of their different designs, the TORS system is slightly different on Yamaha snowmobiles and ATVs.
Let’s see the official descriptions by the manufacturer!
TORS System on Yamaha Snowmobiles
The Yamaha snowmobile owner’s manuals characterize the TORS system as follows:
“Throttle override system (T.O.R.S.)
If the carburetor or throttle cable should malfunction during operation, the T.O.R.S. will operate when the throttle lever is released.
The T.O.R.S. is designed to interrupt the ignition and keep the engine revolution between 2,800 and 3,000 r/min if the carburetor fails to return to idle when the lever is released.
WARNING!
- If the T.O.R.S. is activated, make sure that the cause of the malfunction has been corrected and that the engine can be operated without a problem before restarting the engine.
- Be sure to use the specific spark plug cap. Otherwise, the T.O.R.S. will not work properly.”
TORS on Yamaha ATVs
In contrast, the TORS system on Yamaha ATVs works differently:
“Throttle OverRide System
If during operation, the carburetor or the throttle cable should malfunction and will not close fully, take your thumb off the throttle lever. The Throttle OverRide System immediately cuts off the ignition.
WARNING!
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Continuing to ride the ATV after the Throttle OverRide System (T.O.R.S.) has stopped the
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
Riding with malfunction increases the chance for an accident and injury.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
Make sure that the cause of the malfunction is corrected before restarting the engine. You should have the ATV inspected by a Yamaha dealer.”
Sources: Official Yamaha Owner’s Manuals
What does this mean exactly?
Simply put, if you ride a powersport vehicle, there’s always a risk that the throttle cable will not close properly, and that the vehicle could go for a “ghost ride” – with or without you.
As you might assume, this issue could be dangerous in many ways because of these machines’ high speed!
This is when TORS comes into play to automatically stop the vehicle.
Are you wondering how the Yamaha TORS system works exactly? Keep reading!
How Does Yamaha’s TORS Work?
Based on the official owner’s manuals, the TORS system works differently on snowmobiles than it does on ATVs. On snowmobiles, the TORS restricts the engine and keeps the revolutions within a specific range in case of a throttle cable/carb malfunction. Within this range, the clutches can’t engage, which cuts the power from the drivetrain and finally stops the vehicle. Should the same situations occur on Yamaha ATVs, the TORS simply cuts off the ignition, which stops the engine.
Are you wondering where you can find this mysterious unit?
The TORS is integrated into the CDI unit and also contains a series of electrical switches.
Some of these switches can be found on top of the carb(s), while another switch is located inside the throttle perch. The latter is activated by the throttle lever itself.
When you hit the throttle lever, the system detects that you want to accelerate and let the engine run.
But if you release the throttle lever and the cable gets stuck, TORS will detect the malfunction and activate.
If the vehicle is equipped with a parking brake, it also has a switch that works with the system. TORS prevents the engine from revving up, which keeps the machine in place if the parking brake is on.
Yamaha TORS Problems
Just like any other system, TORS can also go wrong in many ways. Unfortunately, TORS problems are pretty common issues on 2-stroke Yamaha snowmobiles and ATVs.
TORS malfunctions can cause the engine to misfire, spit, run rough, or even stall at lower RPMs. Since on ATVs, the system is designed to cut off the ignition, the spark plug will not spark at all in the event of a TORS system error.
In the worst-case scenario, a defective TORS system prevents the engine from starting, leaving you stranded in the middle of nowhere.
Another common complaint against the Yamaha TORS system is that its sensor sits in a heavy metal unit on top of the carb. Due to its size and weight, this unit is often called a “TORS brick.”
This brick is prone to vibrating loose, which can let dirt or debris into the engine. This is a serious concern, especially on ATVs, which go through a lot of mud and dirt.
Should You Bypass the TORS on your Yamaha?
As you might assume, TORS malfunctions cause a lot of headaches for Yamaha snowmobile and ATV owners. Therefore, it is not surprising that many riders simply bypass the TORS system on their vehicle. If you are also considering bypassing the TORS on your sled or ATV, it is highly recommended that you not do it for safety reasons.
The TORS system is designed to keep you safe in case of a malfunction, so defeating it can lead to dangerous situations. Let’s face it, bypassing a safety system is never a good idea!
Instead, you should follow the manufacturer’s instructions in such cases. According to the official owner’s manual:
“The T.O.R.S. is an important safety device; in the case of a malfunction, take the snowmobile to a Yamaha dealer immediately for repair.”
What is a TORS Eliminator Kit?
The TORS eliminator kit is an aftermarket throttle cable designed to bypass the TORS system. Besides the cable, the kit contains an idle screw kit and a replacement carburetor cap.
The manufacturer recommends this kit for owners and mechanics who want to diagnose or work on their engines. Keep in mind that this kit can only be used on a closed course!
Conclusion – What Does TORS Mean on a Snowmobile?
The Yamaha TORS (Throttle Override System) is a safety system designed to stop the vehicle in case of a throttle cable or carburetor malfunction. The TORS is incorporated into the main CDI unit and utilizes a series of switches installed in the throttle perch, carb(s), and the parking brake (if featured).
If TORS activates on a snowmobile, it keeps the engine revolutions within a specific range where the clutch can’t engage. On ATVs, the system completely cuts off the ignition.
Although TORS malfunctions can be frustrating, it’s highly recommended that they not be bypassed. This safety system is there for a good reason.
If you do your research, you can find many stories about bypassed TORS systems that eventually ended badly!
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