Expiration Dates

[HAZEL BAYERS]

Does anyone have a rule-of-thumb on how far after an expiration date you can use canned goods.  I was cleaning out my cabinets and found some REALLY old that I tossed, but others, i.e. Dole Pineapple Juice dated 9/2012, I'm not sure about.  Then I have home canned jars of pickles that are maybe 8 years old, in my basement - lids are still tight, they look fine, no bulging.  Someone told me because they're in vinegar, they're still good.