I opened up the set of new king pins that I bought and found the wear surface on the pins to be in what I think is unsatisfactory condition. I'd expect them to be smooth and bright. At first I though they just had a protective coating on them, but it didn't come clean in the parts washer. I then tried to brighten it up with some emery cloth, but the whole surface appears pitted. Just to be clear, I'm talking about the upper and lower parts of the pin that ride inside the bushing, as well as the tapered end that mounts to the lower knuckle.
I thought I'd check with all of you before I send them back. Any thoughts? Sorry I can't include a picture - left my camera at the other house.