I just finished replacing the hose on a Kenmore Progressive canister vacuum. I used a pair of channel lock pliers and squeezed the connection pipe in the handle (not the jaws of the pliers). Position the handle at the top and bottom of the pipe and squeeze. This will cause the outer sleeve to flex and bow out at the sides. I was able to release the snaps by working on one side than the other. When re-assembling, just make sure everythin is lined up and snap it back together.
Rick Angiel, August 2005
