Just submerge the end into the hot water (not boiling so you can touch the hose after you take it out of the water). Then the vinyl hose end will become easy to bend. You'll be able to bend it get the suction/blower connector off.
If you need to buy the part - you can find it here www.goodvac.com (go to Kirby vacuum > parts > (chose your model) > Attachment Set
Good Luck,
Rocky
Rocky, June 2009