Beanzer, you know I use to run 4000s all the time, and usually bought through PBK because of the great price they typically offered the 4000 for. I stopped buying from PBK about 2 years ago for the following reasons.
At one point, I contacted the US Conti rep. who suggested that a pair of tires I returned for warranty replacement had been stored for some excessively long period of time out doors exposed to the elements. I think there is a reason PBK makes Conti 4000s available at the price they do, and as an experienced QC person, you can probably guess. BTW, I stopped using Conti tires altogether about a year ago because the side walls abrade so easily, including the 4 Seasons which are promoted as a touring tire.