Did you purchase it from a dealer? If so, take it back for a new head. There are supposed to be a spring loaded pawl in each hole to hold the line in, sounds like they are missing from your head. I have never seen this from the factory, possibly they robbed the parts to repair a customer unit

Echo Trimmer and Rapid Loader Head,what is this echo trimmer is this safe to use?

Here is a link that might be useful: Rapid Tooling

You should return it and get the SRM210 instead!!!

Curve shaft is very hard on the back and also the rapid loader head is not convient. Get the SRM210 with tap advanced head. It is going to be more comfortable, easier to use. It is about $50 more but you won't regret it!! Important is better for your back particular if you are tall. With good care, either one will last many many years for non commercial, what is $50 divid to 20 years?

I am fairly tall and have an older GT2000 curved shaft I am very happy with. The straight shaft trimmers do offer more reach but I do not need it.

I guess I like the long shaft. I am only 5'6", I had a hard time using the Troy Bilt with shorter shaft. I never realize this until I bought my Honda, day and night difference.

Regardless keeping the GT200 or not, change to the tap advance head. Just $50 more you can get the long straight shaft with better head. That is a true commercial trimmer.