Classen sa 25 aerator tine replacement

[Edwards saw service]

Ok guys here's my story. We received a classen SA 25 stand on aerator to service. The customer wanted all 36 tines replaced with new ones. My first time doing this ever. I had one hell of a time getting the new tines into place do that the hole will line up to put the bolt back through. Now the tines are held into place by these plates that can open up wide to get the new tine into place but once you get to the second one the plate is kinda not open wide enough to get the tine in place. 5 hours yesterday and 2 hours today to complete the tine replacement. Is there another more efficient way to do this?? By the way I did all of this work on board the machine. I did not remove the entire assembly from the unit. Any help greatly appreciated.
Sincerely Still new and learning mechanic.

Edwards Saw Service in Glen Mills PA