My srm 230 locked up while running. Is this a common problem with echo?

If the engine has locked up, it is usually due to either overheating, or lack of lubrication. The SRM series of trimmers requires a 40:1 fuel mix. If you were not using 3.5 ounces of 2 cycle oil per gallon of fuel, then most likely the engine locked up due to a lack of lubrication. To determine the cause, remove the muffler from the engine and visually inspect the cylinder. If there is scoring and scratches on the muffler side, then it has overheated. If the scoring is on the carb side, then it is a lack of lubrication. Overheating is usually caused by a lean condition. That means too much air, and not enough fuel in the cylinder. A lean condition is frequently caused by the carb being out of adjustment. Most manufacturers recommend to rebuild/overhaul the carb every 50 hours for low level units and every 125 hours for mid-level units and every 300 hours for commercial units. The SRM230 would be considered a mid-level unit. See the emissions label on your unit to confirm. Echo is a very good quality manufacturer. In my shop, I perform maintenance on many Echo units. I typically recommend a tune up to my customers every other year. I hope this has been helpful.