Anybody have any tricks on how to remove the chrome "nut" on the housing? Helms recommends a Honda sanctioned tool but I was wondering how you guys managed to get it off. I think I may have to replace my mast. Thanks!

 

use a penny or pliers or something.

 

Get some thin needle-nose pliars, cover the ends in a shop cloth or paper towel to stop scratching and gently but firmly place the ends in the recesses and twist

 

When I purchased a new antenna it came with the tool you need. The antenna wasn't OEM, it was from ebay.

Thin needle nose pliers will work fine as well, just make sure you protect the paint around the antenna because the pliers may slip off the grooves.