96 Maxima antenna mast replacement

Can someone explain how to remove what's left of my '96 Maxima antenna? The antenna came apart between the bottom and next higher telescoping sections, so the top portion essentially motored it's way off the car. I've removed the nut, but can't seem to get the bottom section out. The replacement mast has a spring-loaded clip that will compress as it's inserted, then expand to hold it in place. Is it safe to "pull" the old section out, or am I looking at dealer labor to finish the job? Thanx.

You could try to unbolt the motor and work it out that way.

Try this link for instructs on the whole thing.

http://www.carstereohelp.org/DoItYourselfRepair/NissanPwrAnt.htm