I have come across several threads concerning GP CA hinge failure. I had some fail myself, but they didn't pull out, they broke straight across like they had been cut with a knife. I then went through all my planes looking for bad hinges but found no more. I will be sure and inspect all my hinges closer and more freqently from now on. Luckily I didn't lose a plane. If you seal the hinge gap, this will give a little added protection, perhaps enough to get it safely on the ground. Sorry to hear it!