Cheap line will do that. You might try removing the springs and pawls, they may be clogged with grass.

This started right out of the box - first time I tried to use it. You would think Echo would provide decent line. Guess I'll try some other/better brand.

Thanks

If this is virtually new get the dealer to exchange this head for the more conventional type or buy one. I think the head you have is a good idea but in practice is more trouble than it is worth. The advantage is that you don't have to wind line around a spool (always a pain) but unless you are doing this every other day it is not that problematic.