Gouges in my decapper/expander

[layusn1]

So I have about 13,000 cases through my Lee 223 die set. I take the full length size die apart and clean the decapper/expander every 1000 or so cases to make sure it is clean and remove any gunk that might collect at the top of the expander. Lately I have noticed several gauges running up from the top of the expander towards the top of the rod. I doubt they affect anything but should this rod be getting gouged up? Especially with so little use?

 

[benedict1]

Send it back to Lee for a new one--if it's defective they will replace it free.

 

[layusn1]

I don't know if it is defective but it is above the expander plug so it isn't hurting the brass. I'm just not sure where they are coming from or how/why they keep showing up.