PowerPlusParts got back to me to let me know that this is considered a “wear and tear” item that commonly breaks. This is for a Commercial string trimmer. I use it only at home and only used it 4 or 5 times at most for a couple hours each time. They told me the part they sold me was not defective. So, if you are using this in a commercial setting, every day, you should be prepared to break one of these $35 heads EVERY WEEK, if not several times a week. I just cannot believe Ego would manufacture a part that breaks so easily. If the little metal part regularly falls off causing the trimmer head to fly off at a high velocity, they should provide replacement parts or consider a redesign. I have to continue to purchase this part since I’ve spent over $1000 on a tool, charger, and batteries.