Ken, did you get this figured out?
Not especially about your pickles though recently, when we had a book promotion, the author said:
Angi Schneider said, " The food above the liquid line will probably discolor quicker than the food below the line. As long as the jar is still at least halfway full, it is safe to use. I just put these at the front of the pantry to use first. If a jar isn't at least half full, then put it in the refrigerator and use first.
I hope this helps.