HVAC vacuum reservoir connector broke...

[EB4X]

Hey gang,
So upon removing my passenger wheel well for other project one of the lines going to the HVAC vacuum reservoir ( aka mini alien planet replica) got broke...
Questions, being it broke close to end / unit, can I safely strip back some of the rubber sheathing to expose another 1/4" so I have some more "tube" to put a coupler over (coffee stirrer stick...yeah..you read that right!) I'm guessing it's too brittle and will just crumble...hoping someone else had this happen and their outcome / custom fix..... ... SEE PIC.
Also, it doesn't want to detach / unplug from the ball so hoping for some feedback on that as well...

 

[BrooklynBay]

The auto parts stores sell rubber adapters in the Motormite section.

 

[EB4X]

The auto parts stores sell rubber adapters in the Motormite section.

Thanks... on other inquiry -- in case my local parts store doesn't have them in stock and have to re-use for now.... is it best to use small screwdriver to pry or do they just turn and pop out?

 

[BrooklynBay]

You could remove the broken piece of plastic with a needle nose pliers.

 

[EB4X]

You could remove the broken piece of plastic with a needle nose pliers.

Just talked to auto parts guy....you're correct...they have all the parts - due to manufacturers going universal (for most part) on these....and no special technique to remove....just some soapy water on them and pry and wriggle.