95 Accord EX. Bought a new mast and am following install instructions at www.antennamastsrus.com. The old antenna won't retract and when I removed it, I saw that the plastic cord was broken. So I have to open the drum assembly to remove the remaining plastic cord and re-grease before installing. I am now removing the entire assembly: took out the trunk panels, the screw that holds the antenna assembly, the black antenna cable and the gray power connector.

What is that clear plastic hose firmly connected to the base of the assembly? It's about 1/4-inch in diameter and about 4 inches long. It's the one thing left that's keeping me from taking out the power antenna assembly. It's tough to just yank out and I'm afraid I might damage it or the larger black hose it seems to be attached to at the other end.

Any suggestionis will be greatly appreciated. Thanks!