I sent my hoppers in for RMA got them back and they were randomly incinerating a load, and now that they're back in RMA they are questioning the marks from using pliers on my backend to turn the temp dial, and the one hopper I have with an off kilter temp dial, it was that way when I got it.
I have arthritis in my hands and I find the temp dial a devil to turn. I've had my hoppers die in between RMA's and turning the temp dial repeatedly has brought them back to life several times. My hands can't take it. I hope they aren't going to say I damaged them.
They once enquired about my blue front end, I accidentally turned it purple and then bronze with PBW.
I think they were just interested to see something different and wanted to know about it/what to do with it.
They sent it back to me after I explained what happened, though nothing was wrong with it beyond aesthetics.
In your case, depending on if there's a problem beyond appearance, they should easily be able to fix it for you. There's a good chance you'll get it back still scuffed, as the parts (depending on damage) should still be reusable.
If they have to replace the back-end it might be trickier to resolve, they do sell seperate back-ends, I'm pretty sure in a worst case it won't be too costly.
How bad was the damage?
I'd suggest trying a silicone hose section stretched over the dial (could be difficult to install, but once on it helps leverage and grip slightly).
Alternatively, you could possibly cover the pliers to reduce any scuffing.
Considering the internals of the back-end, I'd guess you'd be fine and it shouldn't have caused permanent issues, but the circuitry contained within might have been compromised.
If that's all, they'll make sure it wasn't damaged in transit or by their technicians, fix it and send it back to you.