Not unless they are the "Probuckers". Any others are pure junk.
I assume you mean $40 for the pair. If they are used, I think even that is too much to pay. There are MANY really good pups available (even new) for that price.
I would say don't waste your money if you want to "upgrade" an existing guitar.
Yeah, I can't imagine a scenario where that $40 isn't put toward something better. While Epi pickups aren't terrible, those are one of the types that people most certainly upgrade.