I've got a question for you Aeroplan experts out there.

I am Aeroplan Prestige. Flying on 13 July HKG - YYZ on a full Y fare ticket. Flying in to HKG on a CX flight from MAA which will allow me to check bags all the way through to YYZ from MAA. I'm trying to upgrade using an SWU and have been told that there are only 6 seats available in business which are being held for sale. No upgrades using certs allowed at this point. So my question is :

1) Am I better off checking bags only to HKG and then going to the check in desk physically at HKG to allow for maximum chance of upgrade clearance? I am on the waitlist now but given that I am a lowly P will certainly not be first on the waitlist for the upgrade unless the class of travel also counts (full Y). Does reaching the check in desk before anyone else help? I should be there by 11:30/11:45 a clear 4 hours before the flight.

2) Will I have a better chance of upgrade on the YVR flight with connection to YYZ? That seems more open right now though my arrival of 10:55 am and flight departure time to YVR (12:45 pm) is cutting it a bit tight. I shoudld still be able to get to the checkin desks by 11:30 or 11:45 which would be an hour prior to departure of the YVR flight.

3) Any other advice on how to increase chances of the upgrade clearing? I'd rather be on the direct flight but would take the flight via YVR if I can get the upgrade cleared on that one.....not looking forward to 15 hours in the back especially since I can't even get seats in economy assigned right now. AC reservations says that all seats in the back that can be pre-assigned have been, and I need to get my seat at the airport!

HELP!