No, I didn't. In fact, I've never done that with any engine specifically although I've opened some engines before running just out of curiosity. I've never found anything inside. The Novel felt fine. I didn't realize they were known for having any issues until I posted here last night and as I said I did the turning it over bit months ago. I'm sure it's fine and I will open it before running.
I did make a bit of an effort a little bit ago and it won't budge. Any suggestions? I don't have any tools specifically for this and can't find anything that fit's snuggly that doesn't pop right back out.