Midweek seems to be NO issues using any "at check in" upgrade vouchers from SFO-LHR, however pick the wrong day when folks are transiting back and forth to trade shows and you're out of luck.
Also the 744 is the better bet than the 777 on the SFO-LHR-SFO routes for an upgrade. Last 3 flights had at least 5 open C class seats.