Don't see how cleaning could have anything to do with this particular problem, but yes, I did clean it.
Since the original post, the gun has been sent back to Benelli for repair and returned to me. The problem still exists, but it is MUCH better. In addition, I was having problems with shells getting hung on the magazine tube seat and not dropping down to the shell catch. I can see where they did some grinding in an attempt to smooth out the mag tube seat, but shells are still getting hung. Shipping the gun back today.....AGAIN!
I really like this gun, but this is ridiculous!