49,
I understand what P.J. was saying, but the crux of the issue is this; oversize kingpins are used when the axle eye, which isn't bushed, becomes oblong and worn. This is reamed oversize to fit the new pin diameter. This is done on the truck, or off the truck...it does take special equipment. After all this is addressed, the bushings are installed in the spindle and machined to fit. I sort of thought the bushings supplied with a new kit were actually pre-sized for the pin and didn't need to be reamed or honed, but I am not sure. Any spindle work is easily taken to the gararge or to a machine shop.
I'm sure I'll catch holy hell for this statement, but I have reduced the size of a worn axle eye by installing a kingpin, heating the eye, and gently "re-forging" it around the pin...with a BFH I might add. I did this after it was suggested to me by a crusty old front end man..I think he died in a wreck when his front axle busted!!
Anyway 49, that's my take on the situation..what say Ye?
Stuart.
